Reni Pani Jungle Lodge
Reni Pani Jungle Lodge, Raini Pani, Madhya Pradesh, India
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The Venue
The Satpura National Park, located in central India and adjacent to Tadoba, Pench and Kanha, is renowned for its diverse landscape featuring the Tawa reservoir, rocky hills, vegetation, and river habitats. The park offers various experiences such as walking and canoeing, which allow for better engagement with the wildlife, and the focus of lodges is not solely on tigers but on the jungle in its entirety. The quality of the wildlife experience is enhanced by the knowledge and expertise of naturalists trained under the watchful eyes of experts. Reni Pani Jungle Lodge, situated in the heart of the jungle and a short distance from the Tawa Reservoir, provides a unique and isolated experience for visitors. Satpura, particularly in the vicinity of the riverside and Madhai village, has seen the growth of several lodges and a thriving village, largely due to increased tourist activity.
Who is hosting?
Aly Rashid has nurtured a passion for wildlife and wilderness since his childhood, which led him to establish and operate Reni Pani Jungle Lodge alongside his family. As a trained naturalist and ornithologist, his strong connection with Satpura has motivated him to safeguard and preserve wildlife in the region. His commitment to this cause is evident through his efforts such as conducting camera trap studies in the surrounding areas of the park, organizing wildlife awareness programs at local schools, and actively participating in wildlife census studies at the Reserve.
Aesthetics & Philosophy
Located at the main entrance of the national park, this sophisticated lodge offers a wildlife-focused experience. The property features stylish and spacious cottages that blend seamlessly with the diverse landscape, including grasslands, seasonal nullah, and a lush tree cover, all thoughtfully designed to complement the surroundings. The abundance of Reni trees, which are indigenous to this area, provides a conducive environment for a diverse range of wildlife, including animals, insects, reptiles, and birds. The cheerful central area of the lodge, known as the Gol Ghar, houses the lounge, library, bar, and dining spaces. The lodge prides itself on its discerning approach to hospitality and service, with a strong emphasis on activities that allow guests to explore the Satpura Jungle.
Accommodation
Reni Pani Jungle Lodge provides 16 cottages and luxury tents for accommodation. The cottages, namely Nallah, Forest, and Hill Units, have been constructed with local materials and feature viewing decks and large bay windows. The luxury tents offer a unique jungle experience, allowing guests to observe wildlife up close in a natural environment. The tents are well-equipped with modern amenities and feature attached bathrooms and decks.
The main dining area, bar, and lounge at Reni Pani Jungle Lodge is the Gol Ghar, which boasts a central fireplace. The lodge follows the farm-to-table concept, similar to its sister hotels, and serves a multi-cuisine menu that exudes freshness. Guests may also arrange for meals in other dining venues.
Experiences
Aly Rashid, the lodge manager and an avid birder, leads a team of naturalists who are regularly trained under his supervision. Reni Pani Jungle Lodge offers pre-designed wildlife experiences that vary depending on what wildlife is being sighted and the guests' interests. These experiences may include walking tours, which provide insights into the park's smaller mammals, insects, and trees, as well as its interesting ecology. Canoeing in the reservoir is an excellent opportunity for birding, viewing crocodiles, and observing other animals grazing or basking on the river's banks. Reni Pani also offers exclusive night drives in the buffer area and camping options inside the national park's buffer zone as part of the "Satpura under the canvas" concept.
Reni Pani Jungle Lodge is an ideal destination for nature lovers looking for an opportunity to explore the unhindered wilderness. The Lodge is perfect for introducing children (and adults) to the magic of forests. It remains open from October to June but is closed during the monsoon season (July to September).
Conscious Travel
According to Aly Rashid, the owner of Reni Pani Jungle Lodge, the lodge premises have undergone a rewilding process over the past 15 years and have now become an important wildlife corridor. To promote low-impact activities, they have created guided walking, canoeing, camping, and cycling opportunities led by locals. The lodge has also formed partnerships with the local community by employing them and providing cultural activities such as pottery and visits to their homes. Most of the lodge's staff is recruited from neighboring villages. Reni Pani has taken responsibility for the village school outside the lodge by providing infrastructure support. In addition, the lodge has supported the Satpura park management in reintroducing the critically endangered Hard Ground Barasingha in the Satpura landscape. The lodge is committed to supporting the conservation initiatives of the forest department and pledges a significant portion of its annual CSR funds to the Satpura park management.
