
East to West: Highlights of the Gangetic Plain
An immersive 2-week urban and rural adventure across the Indo-Gangetic Plain. Step away from the tourist trail and into authentic India.
Set amongst acres of reclaimed woodland close to the Yamuna River, Mela Kothi-Chambal Safari Lodge offers travellers a special chance to experience local Indian life and wildlife.
Between one and two hours drive from the Taj Mahal in the Chambal Valley, this tranquil oasis offers a great base for a range of guided wildlife excursions and walks. We highly recommend the early wake up for a sunrise boat safari to admire local and migratory birds, gharials, muggers and turtles, as well as the possibility for spotting a Gangetic river dolphin. Whilst a visit to the quiet local ghats is a charming insight into local rituals. The owners have made a conscious effort to ensure the property is as eco-friendly as possible and in tune with the surroundings. Exceptional and authentic home-cooked food is served in the restaurant using local and organic produce and the garden's old trees and sprawling bougainvillaea set amongst the restored late 18th-century stable block makes for an idyllic spot to dine in the evenings
Unique and elegantly designed, the 13 rooms and cottages are intimate and filled with many personal touches. Fitted out with antique furniture, bright textiles and whitewashed walls, the traditional style helps to bring the property’s heritage to life. The rooms combine the warmth of local homes with the comfort of modern amenities, while many rooms have verandahs to relax on, spacious bathrooms and sitting areas.
The lodge is quite remote and is the only local dining option so it is best to go for full board. Apart from the amazing food, the Chambal experience is primarily about making the most of a unique, remote location in central, rural India.
Eco/Adventure - This category covers gorgeous lodges in the jungle, comfortable safari camps and dreamy, but simple, beach cabanas. These places defy conventional categorisation: what is communing with nature to one person may be terrifying bugs to another! Many of these places are very comfortable and the service generally of a very high level - but please read the website review carefully and/or talk to us and be sure to have understood what you are letting yourselves in for!
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An immersive 2-week urban and rural adventure across the Indo-Gangetic Plain. Step away from the tourist trail and into authentic India.
Discover birdlife in scenic, rugged landscapes on safaris in national parks, journeys along rivers and walks.
Map centered on Mela Kothi-Chambal Safari Lodge. Zoom out to view other hotels (H) and experiences (E) in the area.
Want to know more? With so much to see and do, planning a holiday to India can feel overwhelming - so our Curious Traveller’s Guide to India makes it that much easier. This is our experts’ edit of experiences and hotels, plus a detailed breakdown of popular regions and advice for first-time visitors.
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