Baghvan – Pench
Baghvan is aptly named after one of India’s iconic symbols, the Bengal tiger (bagh – tiger and van – forest). Pronounced ‘baaghvun’, this enchanting lodge is located on the edge of Pench National Park, a dry deciduous forest of predominantly teak trees and meandering jungle streams. A mere ten-minute drive to the park’s entrance takes our guests deep into the heart of the Indian jungle.
Baghvan has 12 charming stand alone suites alongside a picturesque nullah (dry riverbed), surrounded by the shaded canopies of beautiful forest trees. Each spacious suite has a distinctive contemporary bungalow feel and an ambience resembling the 1950s. Cool pale cream cement screed floors against the contrasting hues of copper and pale turquoise has a much desired tranquil effect. Follow the stairs to the alluringly beautiful machan (a covered jungle rooftop platform) complete with mosquito net, overhead fan and hookah pipes and discover an ideal place to enjoy the romance of the jungle either by day or by night with an unforgettable sleepout. Delicate Parsi tiles, woven hyacinth furniture, high ceilings, deep welcoming sofas and giant ebony chests grace the elegant guest areas.
Breakfasts and lunches are served on a sweeping shaded deck surrounding the beautiful swimming pool and overlooking the nullah, a favoured route of the Pench tigers. Sunset is celebrated with cocktails under a huge Banyan tree whilst watching a giant flying squirrel perform breathtaking aerobatics.
About Pench National Park…
One of Central India’s lesser known reserves, Pench National Park is situated in the Seoni and Chhindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh.
Dominated by hills, forests and valleys, this national park derives its name from the Pench River, which meanders its way through the entire stretch of the 757 km² park. The river runs from north to south, dividing the park into almost equal western and eastern halves – the well forested areas of Chhindwara and Seoni districts respectively. Kala Pahar, the park’s highest hill, reaches 650 m above sea level.
A typical Central Indian teak jungle, Pench supports a rich variety of wildlife, including the tiger, leopard, wild dog, gaur, sambar, chital and brilliant birdlife. The Park’s open habitat not only lends well to wildlife viewing, but it also offers striking views of the area’s sheer beauty. This national park received international recognition from Rudyard Kipling’s classic tale, the Jungle Book.
