With its idyllic, tranquil location on the banks of the Banjar River, deep in the tiger jungles of central India, the Flame of the Forest is an intimate safari hideaway owned and run by husband and wife team, Karan and Isa. Their warm hospitality, passion for conservation and knowledge of Indian wildlife filters down to their fantastic team and guests are spoilt with an authentic safari experience that focuses on nature, relaxation, food and the great outdoors.

“It’s a rare privilege to be in this mystical wilderness and we shared the same dream, to live in nature in a harmonious way with the local community & the surrounding environment. The Flame of the Forest is entirely constructed with & by the people of the land creating a strong bond with the local community. Through our projects, which include medical camps in the local villages, reforestation programmes and a social enterprise providing training and work for the local women, we have a strong urge to use Flame of the Forest to develop a practical and sustainable approach for a better future. We have only touched the surface of what we can and must strive to achieve.

Karan & Isa, Owners, Flame of the Forest

On the border of Kanha National Park, Flame of the Forest sits on a tranquil stretch of the Banjar River with stunning views across the river to the jungle beyond. Spread across twenty acres of land, with half left to the wild, it provides a perfect natural environment to enjoy this beautiful wilderness and with only 4 safari cottages, a central lounge & dining area and a yoga shala, there is plenty of space for guests to relax or grab a pair of binoculars!

The 4 safari cottages are all river facing with private decks & wonderful outdoor beds called a Machan, which means you can really take advantage of that view and enjoy the odd siesta – it’s also a great spot for sleeping under the stars! The interiors are spacious but positively cosy with comfortable beds facing the river and large bathrooms opening onto inviting al fresco showers.

The main activity at Flame of the Forest is heading into Kanha National Park with Karan and his team of specialist naturalists on exciting morning and afternoon 4×4 jeep safaris. Unsurprising tigers are often top of everyone’s wish list and as one of the finest tiger reserves in India this is no surprise, but the park is home to over 20 mammal species including Sloth bears, Indian wild-dog and the elusive leopard. From the lodge there are also some fantastic activities not be missed which include cycling excursions to the local village, cycling safaris & treks in the buffer zone and joining Isa for a relaxing yoga and meditition session by the river.

After a fantastic day of safari, guests are rewarded with sundowner drinks overlooking the river and a chance to share some stories around the campfire. Sumptuous dinners sourced from the lodge garden and local markets are then served in a variety of locations which include the dining room overlooking the river, round a fire in the bush and even candlelit romantic dinners in the riverbed!