Book Accommodation at Vanghat for Your Jim Corbett Trip

Planning to go for a wildlife trip to the renowned Jim Corbett National Park in the peak season? The usual scenario of overcrowding, especially in the resorts often results in disappointment. Jim Corbett National Park is an all-time favourite wildlife haven for nature and wildlife lovers. This a place where serenity and wilderness blend perfectly. This is the place which has several stories of man-eating tigers attached to it, and of course the legend of the famous hunter-turned conservationist – Jim Edward Corbett, after the park was renamed from Hailey National Park. Coming to looking for tranquillity, it is quite a job in Jim Corbett National Park. But this blog has got you covered! Keep reading to know more.

Seeking Solace at Jim Corbett? Go for Vanghat

Amidst the popular tourist-stuffed Corbett hotels, Vanghat emerges as a tranquil haven for true nature enthusiasts. With the aim to provide a one-of-a-kind of wildlife experience, Vanghat was constructed on a remote bank of the Western Ramganga River, deep within the Kalagarh Tiger Reserve division of Corbett Tiger Reserve. The name “Vanghat” combines two Hindi words – Van (forest) and Ghat (valley), perfectly capturing its untouched natural surroundings. Established in 2006, the lodge was created with a vision to preserve the area’s pristine beauty and protect it from the storm of overdevelopment. Rather than appealing to mass tourism, Vanghat invites a selected crowd of conservationists, wildlife lovers, and advocates of sustainable living, ensuring that its serene environment remains undisturbed.

The Setting of Vanghat and its Accommodation

Surrounded by stunning landscapes and teeming with diverse wildlife, Vanghat is a beautifully crafted retreat that seamlessly blends into its natural environment. The lodge features nine unique cottages, including four mud-and-thatch cottages and five stone cottages, each thoughtfully dedicated to a specific group of wildlife. These cottages are named and painted to reflect their themes, adding a distinctive charm to each space.

The mud cottages naturally regulate temperature, acting as eco-friendly air conditioners, while the stone cottages, designed by skilled local artisans, are elevated to offer breathtaking birdwatching opportunities right from your balcony. Raised off the ground to allow reptiles and other wildlife to move freely beneath, all cottages are designed with sustainability in mind. They are equipped with energy-efficient fans instead of air conditioning, provide RO-filtered water instead of plastic bottles, and use organic, biodegradable toiletries, ensuring a minimal ecological footprint while offering a comfortable stay.

• Stone Cottage

Built by skilled local stonemasons, the stone cottages at Vanghat reflect the traditional Himalayan style of architecture. Thick stone walls, bound with clay, provide excellent insulation, keeping the interiors cozy in winter and cool during summer. Raised at a perfect height, the cottages also offer the added bonus of birdwatching right from your balcony. To combine tradition with modern comfort, the roofs are made of metal sheets with insulated ceilings, ensuring a pleasant stay year-round.

• Mud Cottage

Built using locally sourced clay, savannah thatch, and wood, Vanghat’s cottages are inspired by the traditional Vangujjar tribal style, designed to blend seamlessly with the environment while keeping the interiors naturally cool. Each cottage has a unique identity, named and decorated to represent a specific group of wildlife. A spacious veranda wraps around three sides of the cottage, offering a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy views of the grounds. The surrounding area has been thoughtfully planted with bird-attracting flora, making it a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife lovers alike.

• Dining 

The chef at Vanghat is skilled in preparing delicious local dishes, as well as a variety of Indian, Tibetan, and continental meals. Using mostly locally sourced ingredients, the meals are both healthy and full of flavour. One of the highlights of Vanghat is the dining area, which also features a small collection of books. Whether you’re in the mood for Jim Corbett’s stories on a lazy afternoon or want to explore birding and mammal encyclopaedias, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while you dine.

• Matchan 

The Machan, a wooden watchtower, is located with the stunning Shivalik Mountain Range as its backdrop. Nestled in a quiet spot, it offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the forest surrounding Vanghat, with a clear sight of the salt lick and waterhole. Spending a day here in peaceful solitude gives you the chance to spot a variety of animals and birds, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the majestic Bengal Tiger.