MAhout

Perhaps best described as India's first 'non-hotel', Anant Van is a very special place. Aimed at those who possibly already know and love India, the focus is not purely on wildlife but also on its habitat, local villages, re-forestation, conservation and village interaction. The brainchild and cherished dream of host, Dhruv Singh, Anant Van is a singularly different type of hotel. The lodge encompasses the idea of running a small farm and village integration project at the edge of the wildlife park. The project is spread over 23 acres of very pretty but overgrazed and deforested land and the objective is to regenerate the devastated land and bring it back as a thriving eco-system. The grounds of the camp are stunning and comprise of fields which you can wander through and down to the local village which is full of friendly villagers. The views from the main lodge are magnificent and the small watering hole attracts myriad species of birds and animals in the evenings and early mornings. The lodge comprises 2 cottages and 2 tents, overlooking fields or the vegetable garden. They are comfortable but rustic, simple and entirely in keeping with their environment and the eco-friendly focus of the camp. Excellent, comfortable beds and soft linen combine with Dhruv's inimitable good taste, whilst the bathrooms boast 'rain-showers' with and the camp buildings all follow the same basic design with mud plaster on the walls and floors. The main lodge, where everyone gathers each evening to feast on delicious, home-grown vegetarian food and to discuss the day's events, has simple wooden furniture, all made on site.

Rather than just being another luxury camp, Anant Van provides a holistic, educational and spiritually rejuvenating experience. Instead of being a client consuming a regular wildlife tourism experience, this is different and, as a guest, you will be actively involved in the Anant Van effort – a truly rewarding and enlightening experience.

The Walk at Anant Van takes you through a diverse forest trying to reclaim its land and a story of the struggle. It is a work in progress that is determined not only to re-generate the forest but to make it a sanctuary for the rare and fast disappearing indigenous trees and plants of the jungles of central India, one of the last remaining homes of tigers in the wild. It is open to everyone and visiting guests from other camps are welcome. Beginning after the morning game drive, the timing is ideal and here one really has a chance to learn about the local habitat and the constant struggle between developing man and the devastated forest. Situated at the edge of Bandhavgarh tiger reserve and next to a remote tribal village, one takes a guided walk through the botanical sanctuary, the forest nursery, the farms and vegetable garden. After a demonstration of Indian home cooking using fresh vegetables from the garden, enjoy a delicious lunch and a talk on the story so far. Alternatively, it offers a fascinating alternative to the daily afternoon game drive. Along with the walk and a delicious supper, they will also have a chance to witness the evening Arti of an incarnation of Lord Vishnu Narsingh, the half man half lion god. The Arti is under an ancient Mahua tree, lit by lamps and the sound of bells is a memorable way to end the day at Anant Van. The walk offers one a unique opportunity to see life at the edge of the jungle and to learn of the age-old tradition of people and wildlife living together. It fits in perfectly to the daytime itineraries at Bandhavgarh and provides an interesting alternative to game drives. Simply a must for anyone visiting the area.

Bandhavgarh National Park lies in Madhya Pradesh, surrounded by stunning countryside. The area is home to the Vindhyas, a mountain range that cradles Bandhavgarh National Park. The park itself comprises 437 sq. kms. of sal, bamboo and grasslands, teeming with 22 species of mammals and over 250 species of birds. It was formerly the private hunting preserve of the Maharaja of Rewa until it was declared a National Park in 1968. The fort here is spectacular and well worth spending time at – high on a hill and scattered with temples and boasting phenomenal views.

ACCESS: is by air to Khajuraho followed by a 6-7 hour drive or by air to Jabalpur followed by a 4 hour drive. Or travel by train to Umaria or Katni from Delhi, Gwalior or Agra, followed by a 30 minute / 2 hour drive respectively. Alternatively, travel by road from Khajuraho and Kanha or by longer journey from Kawardha.

RESERVATIONS: For reservations please contact your tour operator, your local travel agent, or the hotel direct.

ANANT VAN

Anant Van, Bandhavgarh National Park