Escape into Luxury Jungle Camps at Jim’s Jungle Retreat
An Experiential Lodge in Corbett Tiger Reserve
Jim's Jungle Retreat is the only experiential lodge in Corbett Tiger Reserve that practises luxury tourism, keeping a watch on the carbon footprint. The eco-sensitive wildlife lodge was born out of a man's relentless passion to bring people closer to the wilderness.
Inder Akoi was introduced to Kumaon Hills in the 50s. His memorable experiences with the forests and people of Jim Corbett led him to ponder about ways to connect people and jungles.
Today, decades later, the retreat occupies 15 acres of reforested farmland bordered by forest and a riverbed in a quiet corner of Dhela village. It continues to promote the wildlife conservation legacy of Jim Corbett through its various endeavours.
Nature comes alive at Jim's Jungle Retreat — you are likely to sense the omnipotence of the forests here. Eco-sensitive travellers will surely unravel amazing adventures through wildlife expeditions in the depths of these jungles and the untamed natural wilderness.
Unique Activities
Spot Wildlife on a Jeep Safari
Every eco-conscious traveller who craves a rendezvous with nature has opportunities to explore here. The retreat offers seventeen excursions and eight tourism zones as wildlife discovery experiences.
Embark on a four-hour-long Jeep Safari through the hills, streams and dense jungles of the Corbett National Park for exceptional animal encounters.
Imbibe the sights, smells and sounds of wilderness through these adventures. A passionate naturalist with expertise escorts your expeditions, answering all your questions and attending to your every need.
Sign Up for a ‘Better Future’
Be a part of the Young Rangers programme, an initiative that educates eco-conscious travellers on the impact of sustainable wildlife and conservation on our collective future.
Designed for nature’s younger ambassadors, this programme sheds light on the jungle's symbiotic relationships, how the ecosystem works; how to track animal footprints; identify birds, butterflies and mammals; and thrive without disrupting this balance of nature.
Let your kids immerse themselves in the wisdom of the forest ecosystem and discover how we, as stewards, can harmoniously experience, enjoy and safeguard our wilderness. The programme nurtures a profound connection with nature, ensuring its balance endures for generations to come.
Enjoy a Night’s Pause in the Heart of Corbett
The Night Stay in the forest’s embrace is one of the most immersive jungle experiences offered by the lodge. On this overnight sojourn, you’ll hear the forest come alive. Immerse yourself in the jungle's heartbeat by staying in the park lodges. These are more rustic accommodations enhanced with modern comforts.
As the symphony of nocturnal sounds lulls you into restful sleep, awaken to the dawn's vibrant wildlife activity, guided by a knowledgeable naturalist.
Lodging
Experience Eco-Friendly Luxury
Do not be fooled by the humble eco-exteriors of the estate. The interiors reflect vintage colonial-British and Indian contemporary architecture with a hint of minimalist rustic neo-classical charm.
The retreat has six premium Jungle Lodges, eight Jungle Cottages and four Jungle Family Cottages — all with exclusive verandas, two cafes and swimming pools, a Jungle Spa and a Yogashala (yoga space).
Family Cottages are also available. The wildlife-inspired ceramics, cushions, lithographs and motifs — especially the woodpecker and elephant door knobs keep you 'in the jungle'.
To add to an authentic eco-luxury ambience and to encourage a sense of community, there is no room service, television sets or Wi-Fi provided in the housing, except for the common areas. The property also uses solar geysers, rain showers, LED lights and more.
Dining
Make a Reservation with Nature
Two cafés and the poolside at Jim's Jungle Retreat provide a nature-inclusive dining experience.
Gol Ghar, the property's central eating hall, accommodates all guests, encouraging everyone to dine together. Spoil yourself with high tea at the Carpet Sahib café, a local moniker for Jim Corbet.
The menu serves a fresh farm-to-table mix of Continental and Indian cuisine. Do not miss out on their tea and coffee — they come with delicious pakoras, homemade sandwiches or tea cakes. The zucchini muffins, coffee caramel custard and Kamauri mutton curry are recommended eats.
Your dinner is served outside, in the outback of the property, on tables lit by lanterns. Evening beverages and snacks are served around a campfire by the poolside while you watch wildlife documentaries and presentations presided over by resident naturalists.
Meet the People
The founder, Inder Pratap Singh Akoi's exposure to Corbett forests during his formative years made him question the relationship between man and the wild and the impact excess resource misuse had on the forests. He had to find a way to share the knowledge he gained and propagate the idea of wildlife conservation - Jim's Jungle Retreat was thus born.
Inder's son, Daleep Akoi, was initiated into the reserve during family holidays, monthly sabbaticals and angling excursions. Today, Daleep Akoi spearheads the legacy and is responsible for the passion the resort exudes in providing an experience similar to his childhood.
Sustainability Story
Jim's Jungle Retreat prioritises the welfare of the local environment and communities. As an eco-travel destination, it emphasises wildlife conservation through sustainable tourism and eco-friendly practices. The lodge employs 90 percent of local staff. The utilities are eco-friendly: - solar geysers, CFL lamps, rain and wastewater recycling systems, and compost pits to convert garbage into manure, organic detergents and more. Food is grown in an organic nursery, and supplies are sourced locally.
The retreat collaborates with the Forest Department on anti-poaching, afforestation and anti-plastic initiatives and more. It donates food, shelter and clothing to farmers who participate in Operation Monsoon, which protects wild elephants.
Proceeds fund awareness, tiger conservation, local schools and village support programs. The Mahavan Project's reforested farmlands are now home to 100 tree species and 50 native plants.
Discover More Immersive Experiences at Jim's Jungle Retreat
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