Madhya Pradesh, a large state in central India, retains landmarks from eras throughout Indian history. Begun in the 10th century, it’s Hindu and Jain temples at Khajuraho are renowned for their carvings of erotic scenes, most prominently Kandariya Mahadeva, a temple with more than 800 sculptures. Forsyth Lodge at Satpura National Park (Madhya Pradesh, India) near 1.5 hours from Pipariya is a wonderfully stylish and comfortable lodge situated in about a kilometer from the northern edge of the Tawa Dam.

Beautiful, unspolit Satpura National Park is one of the least-visited tiger parks in India. The park is a rugged terrain of sandstone peaks, narrow gorges, ravines, and dense forest. The tiger, leopard and panther are elusive, but with (and the help of the resident naturalist), you will find them. With patience, you will also see wild dogs, wolf & sloth bear, sambar, giant flying squirrel, and countless eagles. There are also rock shelters and ancient paintings to explore. Simple but elegant eco-lodge, Forsyth is the only top-notch park pad. Set in 44 acres, its 12 airy dwellings, some with terraces and day-beds are constructed from sustainable by canoe, elephant or jeep. And unlike other parks in India, this still feels like new found land.

Simple, wholesome, home cooked meals are just what you need. You cannot plan on jungle safaris if you are stuffed with greasy and rich meals. The chefs are well trained, and will happily cater to any requests from guests.

Forsyth Lodge is heaven for nature-loving kids. On the safaris, naturalists go to great lengths to keep children interested, regaling them with fun factoids about the local flora and fauna. There’s even a 3-day ‘Junior Rangers Programme’ that teaches children how to handle equipments such as binoculars and telescopes, how to track animals, and how to identify various species by using field guides and making sketches. Kids also get tips on nature photography.

Ø Several walks from the lodge including a lakeside walk, picnics and a stroll through the local villages

Ø Bonfire in the evenings to sit and chat and drink around

Very well designed, with an eco-friendly look equally comfortable with all modern facilities & amenities in place, the distinction lies with the machaan cottages having a terrace with a double bed and canopy. There are two variations in accommodation at Forsyth Lodge, the AC cottages and AC cottages with Machaan. 

Each cottage is well spacious, well maintained with the best of fixtures. Rooms are comforting; with few of them have machaan terraces. As you enter the room, you are welcomed by a beautiful message that talks about wilderness. Interiors are very artistic and remind you “welcome to jungle”. Their walls are made from packed straw, mud and cow dung (as is the local building style) and painted with wild animals and flowers, giving them a whimsical touch. Cottages have private balconies, wherein you can sip your morning coffee, read your favorite book overlooking the great jungle. Air conditioning, Fan, Mosquito net, Terrace Bathrobes, Toiletries, and Hairdryer, etc. are available. Every small thing kept there is well thought.

The best time to visit is from November to February, when days are sunny and nights chilly, though visitors also enjoy October, March and even April. Like most places in central India, Satpura National Park gets uncomfortably hot in the summer so the property is closed annually from July to mid-October

Ø A small unheated swimming pool (operational from October 09)

Ø Shop selling excellent bits and pieces and clothes

Ø Resident naturalists

Ø Organic vegetable patch

Ø Night vision binoculars

Ø Internet

Ø Laundry

Ø Library

Forsyth Lodge is located on the outer edge of Satpura National Park in Madhya Pradesh. It’s a 3.5-hour drive south of Bhopal in the centre of India. Nearest Railway Station – Pipariya (45 km)
Nearest Airport – Bhopal (162 km)