Panna National Park

Taj Pashan Garh consists of twelve stone cottages clustered around a hilltop with fantastic views over Panna National Park and a nearby watering hole frequented by antelope, and surrounded by 200 acres of jungle wilderness. The luxury stone cottages are situated along a picturesque stream, each offering a private verandah with stunning views of the lush tropical forest and nearby waterhole. Each individual cottage showcases leather furniture made in Delhi, with massive black and white photo canvasses of the dramatic Panna landscapes. The guest areas celebrate traditional Haveli, or private mansion design, with a spacious central courtyard. The interiors are a contemporary mix of chocolate linens, block-printed black silks, celadon cottons and cotton lace chandeliers. The resort also offers a spa, infinity pool, library, safari shop, and of course the superb Indian fine dining one would expect from a Taj property, and served on an outdoor deck, on a lakeside bullock cart, or in the privacy of guests’ rooms.

Sleep like royalty when you stay at the Mohan Niwas Palace. This authentic palace, which formerly belonged to the royal family, has been partially renovated and turned into a hotel for guests who wish to experience a slice of royal luxury. This historic property is conveniently located nearby two historic sites, the Ranakpur Jain temples and Kumbalgarh Fort. The Ranakpur-Kumbhalgarh forest reserve presents guests with the opportunity to go on leopard safaris and look for these elusive big cats in their wild native home amongst the Aravalli hills. The sanctuary is also home to other endangered species including the wold, jackal, jungle cat, sloth bear, and more.

Run by a conservation biologist and his wife, a wildlife photographer, Sarai at Toria is a beautiful, small eco-lodge located in the unspoiled countryside above the River Ken, a tributary of the famous Yamuna River. Consisting of six lodges built from and insulated with local materials, and using sustainable energy, the Sarai’s rooms feature a rustic elegance, with locally-sourced wooden furniture, tasteful interior design, and plush, comfortable beds. Meals are cooked by the owner himself and served in a communal, open-air dining room with views of the nearby River Ken. Access is via the airport and railroad station at Khajuraho or Panna Town, both of which are half an hour away.