As the sun rises over Kanha National Park, the mist dissipates, bringing light to a landscape teeming with life. The calls of peacocks, the mimicry of drongos, and the graceful dives of kingfishers fill the air, while the forest hums with activity. Suddenly, the silence is broken by the alarm calls of deer or langurs, signaling the presence of a predator. This is Kanha, a place where nature takes centre stage and offers a deeply immersive experience that lingers long after leaving.

Kanha’s landscape is a harmonious blend of Sal forests and open grasslands. The majestic Sal trees create a year-round green canopy, while the grasslands, once home to Baiga and Gond tribal villages, now serve as grazing grounds for a variety of prey animals. This balance of open space and dense forest sustains a thriving ecosystem, with the Royal Bengal Tiger reigning as the apex predator. Kanha’s conservation success is evident in the remarkable recovery of the hard-ground Barasingha, a species that was once on the brink of extinction. These deer, alongside leopards, sloth bears, and numerous bird species, symbolize Kanha’s dedication to preserving its unique biodiversity.

Tailored experiences at Kanha for every traveller

Outpost 12 brings Kanha’s wonders to life through curated experiences that cater to all interests.

Safari Adventures: Discover Kanha’s wildlife, from tigers to Bhoorsingh (the mascot of Kanha, the Barasingha), in a custom-designed 4×4 safari vehicle.

Starlit Safaris: Go on night-drives to experience Kanha’s wilderness under a canopy of stars.

Wild Treks and Insights: Explore trails inspired by legendary conservationists and guided by expert naturalists and get an inside peek into Kanha’s teeming universe.

Tribal Encounters: Visit Baiga and Gond villages to learn about their heritage, crafts and way of life.

Local Flavours: Savor regional dishes made with local ingredients, including the Maikaal Thali, Mahua-flower Compote, Millet Superfoods, and Bush Meals bursting with rustic flavors and hyperlocal ingredients.

Nature Wellness: Relax with a forest-inspired spa-soak or a session of mindful forest bathing. Or simply lounge by the Banjar River and practice the art of stillness as the river flows by.

The Banjar River: A Serene Escape

Flowing through the heart of Kanha, the Banjar River offers moments of peace and reflection. As kingfishers dive for fish and the sunset reflects on the water, the river offers a stillness that connects visitors to the essence of Kanha.

Outpost 12, situated near the river, serves as the perfect base for exploring this tranquil environment. Guests can relax and watch the river life unfold, interact with locals, or simply enjoy the natural beauty surrounding them. Here, time seems to slow down, offering a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty and serenity of nature.

Outpost 12: A Sustainable and Intimate Bio-Lodge

Outpost 12 is a retreat thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly with the environment and is built with sustainability in mind. The lodge features solar power, rainwater harvesting, and waste recycling systems, ensuring minimal impact on the natural surroundings. Raised walkways preserve the integrity of the landscape, while the interiors reflect local craftsmanship, making for a truly authentic experience.

With nine rooms, Outpost 12 offers an intimate and personalized stay. Two rooms overlook the river, while the others are nestled in the forest, providing guests with a perfect balance of comfort and nature.

Whether enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings, embarking on safaris, or relaxing with a spa treatment inspired by the forest, every moment at Outpost 12 is a chance to reconnect with nature and yourself.

A Taste of Kanha in Hyperlocal Mode

Guests and experience seekers will love the special Maikal Thali, Meat Lapeta, Mahua & Black Rice Cake, Kutki Millet Kheer, and even bush meals that offer both wild flavours and adventure.

The fresh meat and seasonal vegetables are sourced from micro-farms around the jungle. At the same time, cocktails and home-made ferments are uniquely inspired by the forest and its flora. The breakfast menu includes home-style classics of the region. In summary, it’s a mouthful of the local and regional.

A Life Beyond the Forest

Kanha’s surrounding villages add an authentic charm to the experience. Passing through the village of Tilri, one is greeted by children waving as dust swirls in the air, and the scent of woodsmoke from cooking fires fills the atmosphere. On market days, locals set up colourful stalls under bright tarpaulins, with women carrying firewood and egrets flying overhead, heading home to roost. The rhythm of daily life here, grounded in simplicity, offers a glimpse into the culture and traditions of the region.

The Baiga and Gond tribes, who call Kanha home, share a deep connection with the forest, probably its most ancient. Traditional homes painted in blue and white stand in stark contrast to the earthy landscape. The courtyards, where people gather to share meals and stories, offer a scene that feels almost cinematic, untouched by the plastic waste often seen in rural India, and immaculately clean.

A Lasting Connection to Kanha

The true essence of India’s wilderness can be experienced at Kanha. From the earthy scent of Sal trees to the rich culture of the surrounding villages, every moment spent in Kanha offers a deeper connection to nature. The incredible biodiversity, the peaceful ambiance of the river along with the warmth of the local people, create an unforgettable experience.

At Outpost 12, visitors are invited not just to witness Kanha’s wonders, but to become a part of its story. Whether watching a Royal Bengal Tiger roam the grasslands, enjoying a starlit safari, or simply relaxing by the Banjar River, every moment spent here is an invitation to experience the magic of this unique destination.

Outpost 12 is easily accessible from Nagpur, Jabalpur, and Raipur, making it the ideal starting point for an unforgettable adventure into the heart of India’s wilderness.

Xplorium arranges for cultural and wilderness expeditions with explorers. Explore a day in the life of a naturalist, the Tribal Interpretive Tours or simply a Food foraging tour.

Write to us should you want to experience these unique ed-ventures with Outpost 12.