Totally Wild

New Idea’s Rachelle Mackintosh Explores The Indian Forests That Inspired The Jungle Book

Arriving at Nagpur Airport in central India, it’s hard to imagine the wilderness that inspired Rudyard Kipling to write The Jungle Book is just a couple of hours’ drive away. But as you leave the urban sprawl, the scenery becomes a patchwork of farmlands, villages and soon, teak forests, as you reach the borders of Pench National Park. Here, near the park’s entrance gate at Turia, you will find Baghvan Wilderness Lodge – a Taj Hotels jungle retreat with a luxurious twist.

SWEET RETREAT

Nestled in dense jungle alongside a dry riverbed, Baghvan offers every possible creature comfort while seamlessly blending into the wilderness. The main guest area includes a stylish swimming pool, atmospheric dining deck and comfortable lounge areas, and the 12 bungalows each feature private jungle courtyards, outdoor rain showers, and machans – breezy outdoor mezzanines with comfortable day beds. It’s the perfect spot to read a book between safari drives, or roll out the supplied yoga mat for a stretching session.