Off the normal tourist trail, Chambal Safari Lodge is a charming owner-run eco retreat which offers warm hospitality, relaxation and a fascinating insight into the wildlife and cultural of rural India. Whether it’s exploring ancient temples, heading in to the local village or searching out wildlife in the National Chambal Sanctuary, Ram Pratap & Anu and their expert team of guides really bring this beautiful part of India to life!

“With little more than a dream and the boundless optimism of the foolhardy, my wife Anu and I decided to give up the security of our professional careers and return to our ancestral farms, and commence work on our most challenging endeavor to date – to create sustainable and self-sustaining projects, that would lead to an improvement in the lives of the local populace, whilst building support for the natural beauty and resources of the valley”. 

Ram Pratap & Anu, Owners, Chambal Safari Lodge

Located 70kms from Agra in the woodlands of the Chambal Valley lies Chambal Safari Lodge, a family owned country retreat that was originally built in the 1890s as a residence during the family’s bi-annual cattle fairs. After falling into disrepair, the estate has been lovingly resorted by Ram Pratap and Anu who now welcome guests to their eco lodge with the aim of showcasing the unique biodiversity and distinctive cultural heritage of the Chambal Valley.

The homely accommodation at the lodge consists of 6 rooms split between the original main house (or Mela Kothi), guests wings and resorted stables, all with warm interiors furnished with traditional period features which really show off the charm of this heritage property. Dotted around the house in the estate grounds you then have 8 cottages, including 2 family cottages, complete with verandahs opening onto the farms or the woodland with relaxing deck-chairs and Indian charpoys.

Working tirelessly behind the scenes on numerous conservation and community projects to protect the valley, guests are treated to a fantastic variety of activities that show off the wildlife, cultural, landscapes and architecture of this fascinating region.  For wildlife lovers, a huge highlight is boat, walking and camel safaris into the National Chambal Sanctuary, an area that covers a 400km stretch of the Chambal River, boasts an impressive 330 bird species, provides protection to the endangered Gharial and is one of the last surviving habitats of the Gangetic River Dolphin.

When guests are not busy on safari or exploring ancient fort & temple complexes, they can take a relaxed walk or bike ride into the local villages to get an authentic insight into rural India. Alternatively grab a book in the cosy lounge, take to a hammock in the gardens and let the friendly Chambal team look after you!