Pench Tree Lodge

Pench Tree Lodge sits on 40 acres of private forest on the quieter Karmajhiri side of Pench Tiger Reserve, the landscape that inspired Kipling's Jungle Book. Six treehouses, built from local Sal wood and raised on stilts among the Mahua trees, come with four-poster beds and private decks looking into the canopy. Ten ground-level cottages offer the same forest views if you'd rather stay closer to earth. An outdoor pool, library and lounge sit at the heart of the property, alongside an organic kitchen garden and fruit orchard.

Head out on jeep safari for tiger, leopard and dhole, or take a quieter route with a guided nature walk or cycling trip through the surrounding farmland. Photograph wildlife from the Kipling Hide, or book a wellness treatment made with natural ingredients after a day on safari. Visit the tribal hamlet of Sarahiri and its weekly haat market, and finish the day with a farm dinner cooked in traditional clay ovens under the stars.