Vanghat
Vanghat Lodge, Deema Range, Uttarakhand, India
Vanghat Lodge, situated in the Deema Range of Uttarakhand, India, is a lodging facility surrounded by the wilderness.
The Venue
The forests of Uttarakhand, abundant with pine, teak, and sal trees, remain eerily quiet, with even the birds refraining from their melodious tunes. Suddenly, a thunderous roar echoes through the jungle, signaling the presence of the king of the wilderness. You realize that you have arrived at Corbett, the first national park in India nestled in the Kumaon Mountains.
Corbett National Park is a mesmerizing landscape of towering peaks, verdant forests, and the meandering Ramganga River. It is the oldest national park in India, established to conserve the land that was once the hunting ground of Jim Corbett, a renowned wildlife conservationist. This was also the impetus for Project Tiger, a milestone initiative for the protection of India's national animal. The park covers an area of 502 square kilometers of pristine forest, awaiting exploration.
Nestled within Jim Corbett National Park, Vanghat Lodge exemplifies sustainable tourism, offering a unique opportunity to experience the wilderness on its own terms. It is an ideal destination for those who crave an authentic encounter with nature.
Who is hosting?
Sumantha Ghosh founded Vanghat with a deep-rooted appreciation for the preservation of wildlife in their natural habitats. Recognizing the Ramganga's potential as a prime fishing spot and a haven for sustainable tourism, he envisioned a venture that gives back to the wild. Sumantha's vision for Vanghat goes beyond the typical tiger tourism and instead offers a rustic, welcoming environment for guests to disconnect from the familiar and immerse themselves in the forests of Uttarakhand.
Aesthetics & Philosophy
Vanghat operates on a straightforward philosophy of sustainability and giving back to the land that birthed it. Located on the Ramganga's banks, Vanghat is a remote wilderness escape accessible only via raft or 4x4 vehicle, offering an isolated retreat into nature. Designed with a minimalistic, rustic, and eco-friendly approach, Vanghat welcomes true wildlife enthusiasts. The lodge's core values revolve around community-based and tourism-based conservation, which is evident in every aspect of the property, both inside and outside its premises.
Accommodation
Vanghat offers nine spacious cottages that blend seamlessly with the wilderness, with five made of stone and four built using mud and thatch. Each cabin is designed in the style of typical Pahadi homes, reflecting the local sense, sensibilities, and architecture. The lodge has been thoughtfully designed to minimize its environmental impact, including the dining and research stations.
The cottages are also designed to be wildlife-friendly, elevated on raised platforms to ensure the animals can pass by safely without being disturbed by human activity.
Vanghat's dining philosophy centers around the concept of growing what you eat. All the food served in the lodge's dining area is produced in-house in the organic garden. The in-house chef specializes in preparing Indian and Tibetan cuisine and is happy to accommodate any special dietary requests.
Experiences
The name "Vanghat" translates to "The Valley of the Wild" in Hindi, reflecting the lodge's commitment to preserving and celebrating the natural world. All cottages and common spaces are designed to provide wildlife viewing opportunities, and the property features a Machaan, a high platform that offers a panoramic view of the Shivaliks, perfect for observing wildlife in their natural habitat.
Corbett National Park offers guided safaris led by trained naturalists, providing visitors with a safe opportunity to observe wildlife from a distance. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Vanghat offers world-class angling opportunities, with the chance to catch Golden Mahseer. Additionally, there are countless trekking and wildlife excursions available in the surrounding area.
Vanghat is easily accessible via 4x4 or raft and is suitable for those with reasonable fitness levels. The lodge is open year-round, and its pristine location allows for observing wildlife from the comfort of the property
Conscious Travel
Vanghat was founded on the principles of sustainability and conservation, emphasizing that humans are guests of the forest, not its owners. The lodge seamlessly blends into the natural surroundings, demonstrating how responsible tourism can coexist with a memorable guest experience. The property practices community-based tourism, with the staff consisting of locals who possess in-depth knowledge of the forest and serve as naturalists and guides for walking safaris, birding, and angling.
Sumantha, the founder, has also collaborated with the community by sharing revenue, which has led to an increase in the population of Golden Mahseer in the river. Moreover, Vanghat has undertaken measures to restore the land surrounding the forest, resulting in the return of wildlife to the area. Vanghat also offers programs for children, creating an educational and enlightening experience that fosters conservation and preservation awareness.
