Few things compare to the experience of winter in the jungles of India. The weather is uncharacteristically pleasant, the animals are active yet peaceful, glad for the respite from the heat, and the wilderness sports splendid shades of greens and browns. The best part is that you have a range of lodges and national reserves to choose from, however, the choices can get overwhelming at times. So, to ease your burden and make sure you have the best winter wildlife experience, we asked our travel experts to pick their top lodges ideal for a winter holiday in India. Here are their choices:

Rann Riders

Rann Riders is an ethnically designed eco-resort, set among wetlands and agricultural fields, in Little Rann of Kutch, Gujarat. Located three hours away from Ahmedabad, the resort is an ideal base for exploring the wildlife and culture of the Surendranagar District. Rann Riders offers jeep, horse, and camel safaris in the Little Rann of Kutch, a birdwatching paradise, and the habitat of the endangered Indian wild ass. Stay here in traditionally designed, air-conditioned cottages with en suite facilities.

Wild Mahseer

Wild Mahseer is a luxurious oasis set amidst the Addabarie Tea Estate, established by the British Assam Tea Company in 1864, in Assam. Wild Mahseer’s lush grounds, colonial-style architecture, and range of activities make it a great getaway from the routine of everyday life. Witness Assam’s breath-taking pristine scenery, discover its rare and abundant wildlife, meet its eclectic mix of people, and savour its flavourful multi-cultural cuisine at Wild Mahseer. Accommodation is in luxury cottages with private verandahs and gardens for you to relax and enjoy the freshest brews of local tea. You can explore Kaziranga and Nameri National Parks, go dolphin watching, tour the tea factory, enjoy elephant rides, or simply spend some quiet time with nature at Wild Mahseer.

Set amidst a coffee estate in Coorg, Machaan is conveniently located fifteen minutes away from Nagarhole National Park. It offers luxurious cottages that feature tranquil views of an open stretch of water body active with bird life. Dining at the Machaan is quite an experience as you enjoy splendid views across the sprawling coffee estate and feast on scrumptious local cuisine. From the Machaan you can easily go on safaris into Nagarhole and Wayanad National Parks, visit Madikeri town, see Abbey Falls, go fishing on the Kaveri River, or just sit back, relax, and enjoy heady locally brewed coffees.

Meriyanda Nature Lodge

Meriyanda Nature Lodge is also located in the pristine surroundings of Coorg, like the Machaan. However, it is placed in a completely different area of Coorg and rather than focusing on wildlife safaris, Meriyanda encourages you to indulge in relaxing amidst nature. While staying at the lodge, choose between tree house-like cottages on stilts and ultra-luxurious one or two-bedroom villas, each offering exceptional views and privacy. Rejuvenate with an Ayurvedic massage, spot bird life from your cottage, have a picnic by the falls or the riverside, enjoy local cuisine, and get cosy by the bonfire at night. Stay at Meriyanda for some well-deserved rest and relaxation.