KAAV Safari Lodge, Kabini — Hotel in Karnataka

The people at KAAV made our stay very special. The kindness and consideration offered was far greater than our expectations. Staff were continuously providing assistance with anything they could think of, luggage handling, safari guidance, knowledge of the area, laundry service, etc. They provided us with binoculars, water bottles and blankets for our safari trips, without being asked. The manager PK made us feel like welcomed family and our naturalist Venky (Venkatesh) not only offered knowledge of the animals but also shared conversations with us like we were old friends. As examples, Venky offered to go with us for a walk through the village during our late morning down time. Along the way he pointed out all the crops and what they are used for, as well as the names of the birds we saw or heard the calls of. We came across a home with a scrolled design drawn on the ground at the front gate and Venky spoke with the homeowner about it on our behalf, and, after not being able to answer one of our questions about its traditional significance, followed back up with us the next day to report his findings. Along our walk, we were met by PK, the resort manager, who had come to collect us so that we could enjoy lunch prior to our next safari, bringing with him some fresh slices of watermelon with garnish of lime and coriander spice for us to enjoy on our ride back to the lodge. On our last morning we were talking with Venky and another guest about the Meeme tree and our server walked out to the grounds and brought back to us a bouquet of Meeme tree branches so that we could taste the leaf. Examples of outstanding service such as this was extended throughout our stay and was more memorable to us than the wonderful safari or the beautifully and uniquely designed resort. The resort itself couldn't have been more pleasant. It is quite small with only 6 rooms of which 2 are luxury tents. The landscaping was beautifully and thoughtfully planned and well manicured. The buildings and tents are architecturally designed with unique features, expertly constructed, nicely maintained and perfectly clean. The location along the edge of the nature reserve is superb. Overall we couldn't have asked for a more pleasant stay.

Katerina our chef made spectacular dishes ranging from the indian traditional to dietary restricted and was more than happy to give us extra dessert or keep some of our favorites available as a snack later.

If you are looking for personalized service in a small and intimate camp close to the park this is...

Kabini is a perfect getaway from mysore ... it's just about 1.5hr drive and you literally enter the jungle.. The drive- hassle-free. There are signboard in many places and with Google maps it's very easy to find the place. They call you a day before and call you on the day as well to as if you have any queries regarding route etc. Reception- we were warmly welcomed by Sujith who is a naturalist there. He gave us some information regarding safari and the meal timings and you need to do the usual covid protocols.. The stay- since it's bordering the nagarhole forest you get amazing view from the rooms. Rooms are cozy and has all the usual amenities. There is a viewing deck which has a clear view of the forest. Its Serene and peaceful that a great place to have your morning tea/coffee.. Food- delicious and reminds you of homemade food.. the quality of the ingredients are exceptional and the staff there are extremely friendly.. There is a set menu but has a huge variety of veg and nonveg food. We loved the food and enjoyed every meal thoroughly. The safari- we opted for the water safari and spotted tiger cubs.. I have done the cantor safari earlier but was disappointed as we didn't spot anything and the safari costs 2200 per head. But I learnt from sujith that tiger sightings are actually common and they are quiet fearless and are ok with roaming around near safari vehicles... Extra activities- there are a lot of things you can do apart from the safari. They have a beautiful property near the river so early morning coracle ride was my favorite! There is also a night safari by sujith inside kaav. That is mostly looking at all the spider species there.. that was a lot of fun as well.. he also put up a small slideshow of his photography and he gives a lot of insight about the wildlife there.. There are 2 adorable dogs and they are extremely friendly! I actually miss balu even today sometimes. 🤭 Overall experience- its a little on the luxury side but completely worth it. Go there and unwind and you will not be...

Located next to the Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary this is an intimate & quite a special place to stay. There are only 7 rooms in the entire lodge including 2 up market tents, a seperate cottage with its own pool & 4 rooms in the main building. There is also a swimming room.||I was in one of the large tents with a huge bed, timber floors, aircon & and fan as well as a beautiful bath elevated above the huge bedroom. There is a seperate walk in shower & toilet. ||All meals are included cooked by a team of very capable cooks. Lunch and dinner are a variety of Indian dishes served individually. The food was way too plentiful & very delicious. ||The lodge will arrange safaris to the park as well as river safaris and will drive you to the various pick up points. However it is recommended to book your safaris in advance as seats are allocated by lodges & go quickly. ||The property is covered in a canopy of beautiful trees and bamboo. It is located in the countryside so there are no shops & the only activities are the safaris, eating and relaxing. There is wifi fast enough for emails & occasion streaming if you are so inclined. There is definitely no TV. ||The main building with a deck overlooking the park on the third floor & the four guest rooms on the first floor is not very architecturally attractive & doesn’t complement the surroundings, but the guest rooms are lovely. However I would recommend staying in one of the two tents, it’s top end glamping!!||One thing I was disappointed in was the minimal interaction with the host couple. There was no information about the property or what was included & not included, no checking on guests at dinner & not even a goodbye. It was all a bit lazy. At these prices I would have expected far more from them. The rest of the Indian staff were...