Aesthetics & Philosophy

Sarai at Toria, a charming boutique hotel, showcases a harmonious blend of meticulous craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and an ecological perspective, perfectly integrating with its natural surroundings. The enchanting mud cottages, inspired by local village architecture, seamlessly merge with the lush forest backdrop and the swaying grass in the foreground, creating a serene ambiance. The hotel's vision goes beyond providing a delightful experience to guests—it aims to inspire local communities by showcasing the benefits of indigenous architectural practices.

Nestled within 11 acres of breathtaking land, Sarai offers an array of dining options that cater to every palate. Picture yourself enjoying a leisurely breakfast by the tranquil river, savoring a delightful lunch under the shade of a magnificent Ficus tree, or indulging in a romantic candlelit dinner beneath a star-studded sky. The open-air pavilion, adorned with stone, wood, and tile, serves as a versatile space for both dining and lounging, providing panoramic views of the river. Strategically placed hammocks, daybeds, and benches invite nature enthusiasts to relax and immerse themselves in the captivating surroundings.

Accommodation

The traditional mud cottages at Sarai at Toria pay homage to local architecture, featuring sturdy mud walls and roofs crafted from tin and grass. Step inside these spacious abodes, and you'll discover well-lit rooms with high ceilings that offer a cool and inviting atmosphere. The attached bathrooms, almost as generously sized as the rooms themselves, boast smooth mineral oxide-finished floors. With solid and uncomplicated furniture, extra-comfortable mattresses, cozy duvets, and tastefully adorned Indian fabrics, the living spaces exude warmth and comfort. Your favorite spot will likely be the sit-out area, where you can bask in the gentle rays of the winter sun or observe the mesmerizing dance of fireflies at night, providing the perfect nook to curl up with a book or enjoy a rejuvenating nap.

The accommodation options at Sarai at Toria include four standalone classic cottages, thoughtfully designed to eliminate the need for excessive heating or cooling. With their high ceilings and thick mud walls, these cottages naturally maintain a cool interior during warmer months and a warm ambiance during cooler periods. While the external temperatures may fluctuate by 10–15 degrees, the difference inside will only be a mere one or two degrees throughout. Additionally, four other cottages feature mezzanine spaces connected by a machan, offering picturesque views. Two of these overlook the blooming grass and serene river in front, while the other two provide glimpses of the enchanting forest behind. The mezzanine spaces are equipped with staircases leading to a child's bed, making them ideal for extended families or friends traveling together. If needed, additional beds can be accommodated on the ground floor, and smaller cots are available for younger children.

When it comes to dining, Sarai at Toria ensures a delightful culinary experience. The pavilion serves as the central dining area, where all meals and beverages are expertly prepared and served. The menu features Raghu's favorite home recipes, blending regional flavors with Continental influences, and offers a variety of salads made from locally sourced ingredients. Furthermore, the well-equipped kitchen produces freshly baked breads, croissants, and pastries, adding an extra touch of delight to your dining experience.

Experience

In addition to thrilling safaris into Panna National Park and visits to the renowned temples of Khajuraho, Sarai at Toria offers a thoughtfully curated selection of excursions that promise captivating experiences. One such excursion is a scenic walk from Rajgarh, an impressive castle located a short drive from Sarai, to Taparian village, where you can meander through picturesque farms and plantations of Ber, a native Indian and Malaysian fruit affectionately known as the "poor man's apple." Another highlight includes trips to the historic Ajaygarh fort, offering a glimpse into the region's rich past. The diverse habitats of grasslands, forests, and riverbanks attract a plethora of bird species, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts to indulge in their passion. Whether exploring the property, strolling along the riverside, or venturing through hedgerow-lined paths amidst agricultural fields to nearby Toria village, the region promises a remarkable diversity of birdlife at every turn. Experienced naturalist guides, trained by Raghu and Joanna, can accompany these excursions, providing valuable insights into the flora and fauna of the area.

Sarai at Toria caters to a wide range of interests and is particularly appealing to history enthusiasts, thanks to its proximity to historical sites like Khajuraho, Ajaygarh, and Kalinjar. Wildlife lovers will find the allure of Panna National Park irresistible. Moreover, the retreat is an excellent choice for families seeking to introduce their children to the wonders of nature, with its expansive open spaces and opportunities to chase butterflies and spot various bird species.

Please note that Sarai at Toria operates from October to mid-April, and it remains closed from mid-April to the end of September, allowing for a rejuvenating break during the monsoon season.

Conscious Travel

Joanna and Raghu, having resided and worked in the region for almost two decades, have dedicated themselves to conservation and community engagement. Their extensive research on tiger ecology in Panna Tiger Reserve led them to expand their efforts to include conservation activities with local communities. At Sarai at Toria, they have implemented numerous sustainable practices, such as eliminating single-use plastic, ensuring safe garbage disposal, promoting water conservation through recycling and clean-up drives, and prioritizing energy efficiency with a solar power unit. They also emphasize the preservation of nature and biological diversity, engaging the local community by employing local staff and sharing knowledge about the area. Their vision of light footprint tourism, heritage preservation, and supporting local initiatives truly reflects their commitment to the region.

Sarai at Toria stands as a shining example of coexistence with nature, where the fusion of comfort and sustainability is achieved through locally sourced materials and architectural styles. Organic and locally sourced produce form the basis of their menu, and they actively support the local school and non-profit organizations. Their dedication extends to environmental education projects in schools near the Panna Tiger Reserve. With a heartfelt human touch and a passion for preserving the region's heritage, Joanna and Raghu have created a haven in the Korners of India that harmoniously combines eco-consciousness, community involvement, and an authentic cultural experience.