“A rural haven located just outside bustling Agra. Rooms and cottages are decorated with antique furniture and bright textiles set against white washed walls. An array of historical sights and wildlife areas nearby make this a great choice for families and groups. A charming stay.”

Hotel review

Owned and run by kind local landowners Ram Pratap and Anu Dhillon Singh, Chambal Safari Lodge is centred on its old hunting lodge – Mela Kothi – and makes a cultured and homely base for spotting crocodiles and freshwater dolphins on the Chambal River and for birdwatching, nature walks and village visits. As well as the comfortable, spacious bedrooms in Mela Kothi itself and cottages dotted about the verdant grounds, the generous and excellent buffets at every meal, normally eaten at tables strewn about the lawn, make this a nigh-on perfect place to relax in a lovely countryside setting. The resident naturalist makes walks on the estate and leisurely boat rides on the river come alive; camel and jeep safaris can also be arranged, and visits to the enigmatic Bateshwar Temples and Holipura, a village of beautiful if decaying havelis (grand homes) are highlights.

Fiona Duncan
Fiona Duncan Review published: 26/02/2024

Recommended for

  • Back to Nature

    • The Chambal Valley is teaming with wildlife best explored with the hotel's expert naturalists.
  • Local exploring

    • Located just an 1.5 hour drive from India's mighty Taj Mahal.
  • Sights nearby

    • Visit the striking Bateshwar Temples, an ancient settlement situated on the Yamuna river.
  • Birdwatching

    • Spot a wide variety of birds at the nearby wetland of Sarus Crane Conservation Reserve.
  • Safari

    • Search for the Gangetic river dolphins on the Chambal River.
  • Traditional

  • Full of character

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Quiet

  • Charming

  • Wildlife Area

  • Child friendly

  • Restaurant

Facilities

  • Rooms

    14 rooms in this hotel
  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Library

  • Bar

  • Parking

  • Wifi

  • Air conditioning

  • Sitting Room

  • Child friendly

  • Garden

  • Restaurant

Activities

  • Sights nearby

    • Visit the striking Bateshwar Temples, an ancient settlement situated on the Yamuna river.
  • Birdwatching

    • Spot a wide variety of birds at the nearby wetland of Sarus Crane Conservation Reserve.
  • Safari

    • Search for the Gangetic river dolphins on the Chambal River.
  • Wildlife Area

Map & Location

Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZGL-5LS4m8

See what they say

Why do people love staying in your hotel? An oasis of calm after the busy-ness of the cities and tourist attractions. A place to decompress and relax. Guests love the laid-back, easy-going vibe, the large open spaces, the home-like comforts, and of course the delicious food and warm hospitality!
What is there to do in the area? Several safaris and excursions designed to help visitors explore beyond the brochure, gaining a very real and authentic experience of rural India. The highlights usually are the River Safari in the National Chambal Sanctuary, and a visit to the Bateshwar Temples & Holipura Heritage village. We also offer complimentary guided nature walks, and bicycle rides through the surrounding countryside. 
What kind of breakfast do you offer? All the staples of a full English breakfast as well as some local dishes. Mainly organic and locally sourced. Cereals, home-made porridge, fresh seasonal fruits, homemade fresh breads - multigrain, sourdough & sandwich breads, muffins, tea-cakes, organic preserves, eggs to order, bacon & sausages, fresh-ground coffee, selection of teas, fresh seasonal juice etc.
Do you offer other meals? And can you recommend good places to eat out locally? We offer lunch & dinner, a mix of Indian and continental dishes. All our baking is in-house and we are happy to cater for any special requests or requirements.
Which are your most popular room types, and why? The rooms and cottages are scattered around the extensive grounds, all individually decorated with views across the grounds & fields, and are equally popular.
What facilities do you have for children and can you fit extra beds in your rooms ? Yes, we can fit rollaway extra beds in the larger luxury rooms.
What message would you like to give The Hotel Guru readers? Welcome to our home

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