5 Top Resorts in Kabini (Toehold’s Recommendation)

The verdant haven of Kabini thrives with an abundance of flora and fauna. One of the few National Reserves that is open for 365 days a year, Kabini is a year-round attraction for people from far and wide. Having led in numerous Photography Tours to Kabini, Toehold knows Kabini better than most. In this blog, we leverage this in-depth knowledge to bring you the five top resorts in Kabini. Many regulars choose one of these as the best place to stay in Kabini usually.

What does Top Resorts in Kabini or best place to stay in Kabini mean?

Most of these terms like Top, best, outstanding are subjective and opinionated. For someone, a lavish room with a view is the definition of what a top resort means. For some others, being amidst the wilderness and having exceptional services may be what it takes to call it the best place to stay. For backpackers and students, budget is a consideration, while for wildlife enthusiasts a great safari experience is all that matters. So without knowing what you are looking for, here we list our top recommendations for guests of all kinds to stay in Kabini. These resorts are selected for specific plus points we are used to.

If you are like any of the above personas except being a budget traveller, you may consider these five options. Talk to us to know about budget stay options in Kabini if you do not wish to break the bank.

1. Evolve Back

Luxurious and tranquil are the first words that jump to mind at the thought of this Evolve Back property. EB’s ‘Spirit of the Land’ philosophy comes to life and truly expresses itself in this gorgeous resort set amidst the serene environs of Kabini.

Modelled after the tribal villages, the ambience of the resort is a perfect mixture of contemporary and rustic beauty. Based on their budget and needs, guests can choose varying types of accommodations. Nestled in the lap of nature and luxury, your stay at Evolve Back will leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.

2. The Serai Resorts, Kabini

Set on the banks of the Kabini river and sprawling over 70 acres of land, the Serai Resorts are nothing short of magical. Using only 10 acres and leaving the remaining 60 acres of land for the wildlife to freely roam about, a stay at Serai is truly being one among nature.

With accommodations ranging from luxury villas to cottages, it is the perfect place to luxuriate away from the hubbub of city living. Offering a wide range of resort activities and amenities, Serai is worth every penny you spend on your next wildlife centric vacation.

3. Kaav Safari Resort

Situated on the southern fringes of Nagarhole National Park, Kaav Resort provides luxury lodges accommodation. Providing a superior homestay experience for wildlife and nature enthusiasts, the Kaav Safari Resort is the best weekend getaway one could ask for.

The resort boasts of rooms with private decks, a common lounge, viewing decks and alfresco dining among other facilities. Kabini hosts over 300 species of birds and Kaav offers bird watching as an activity, making it the best place for bird watchers, photographers and ornithologists.

4. Kabini River Lodges

Named one of the five best wildlife resorts in the world by British Tatter’s Travel Guide, Kabini River Lodges is the first eco-tourism venture launched by Jungle Lodges and Tourism and Forest Departments of the Government of Karnataka.

Situated on the southern fringes of Nagarhole National Park, these Lodges provide a phenomenal view of backwaters of Kabini River. The Kabini River Lodge is also our accommodation of choice for our Verdant Haven Wildlife Photography Tour and The Panther’s Paradise, Wildlife Photography Tour.

5. The Bison Resort

The Bison Resort is the first of its kind in India, providing boutique tented camp stay. Your stay here is sure to be serene and tranquil during the day and exciting and stimulating during the nights. Overlooking the lush green forests, the Bison has achieved the perfect combination of the ideal wildlife experience and comfortable living.

Taking the rustic surroundings of the forest into consideration, the Bison achieves the perfect symphony between the outside world and the interiors and outer surroundings of the tent, making it very aesthetically pleasing to the eye. A stay at the Bison is the perfect holiday for all wildlife and nature enthusiasts alike.

Wake up to the intoxicating smell of the earth and to the sounds of chirping birds. Holiday amongst the lush green forests and wildlife of Kabini and give your city-wearied eyes a rest at any of the resorts mentioned above. Click here if you want us to book your dream wildlife vacation to this charming forest.

Conclusion – What’s the best place to stay depends on what’s your purpose of going to Kabini.

Kabini has accommodation options ranging from 8,000 Indian Rupees per person per night to around 25,000 Indian Rupees per couple per night. While most lodges charge for a room and have meals and activities like safari as extras, the Government of Karnataka run Jungle Lodges & Resorts who own the Kabini River Lodge, are in-charge of the Safari organisation here in this part of Nagarahole National Park. Depending on what is your purpose of travel, we recommend you choose a lodge based on budget, activities, safari access and permits.

Tip: If Safari is your primary reason to go to Kabini, we highly recommend the Jungle Lodges and Resorts as they have exclusive rights to run jeep safaris, while guests of other lodges are accommodated in canters (Bus) on a safari. If you are a photographer who is coming to Kabini to explore the wildlife and photograph them, then we have two recommendations for you:

1: Talk to us and take our help in orchestrating your travel experience through our Custom Tour services.

2: Stay at JLR and please spend more than two-three nights at the Kabini River Lodge.

We know Kabini like the back of our hand. We think it may be a great idea to chat with one of us to get an insider perspective.