Experience Authentic Indian Hospitality at The Sarai at Toria
A Picturesque Riverside Retreat Near a Tiger Reserve in India
The Sarai at Toria nestles on a picturesque riverside location near Khajuraho and the Panna Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh. This uniquely designed accommodation features eight rooms and is surrounded by captivating history and natural beauty. If you’re a nature enthusiast, you’ll surely enjoy your time here.
What distinguishes the Sarai at Toria is not just the physical space but the experiential journey it presents. The cuisine, crafted with care and reminiscent of home-cooked delights, unfolds a culinary narrative. The simplicity of life in Madhya Pradesh adds to its charm. Whether you're interested in historical sites, wildlife sanctuaries or cultural experiences, your stay at the Sarai offers you a diverse and authentic travel experience.
Unique Activities
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho Temples
The UNESCO World Heritage site of Khajuraho encompasses a collection of intricately carved sandstone temples, each boasting a rich history spanning over a millennium. Regarded as some of India's best-preserved antiquities, these temples are renowned not only for their sensuous art but also for providing a captivating glimpse into everyday life.
Beyond their exquisite artistry, the temples unfold a mesmerising narrative of life in ancient times. Each intricately carved surface tells a story of potters, farmers, musicians and the timeless beauty of women engaged in self-grooming. It's a journey back in time that not only celebrates sensuous art but also offers a profound connection to the essence of everyday existence.
Visiting Khajuraho is an inspiring pilgrimage into the heart of Indian history and a thought-provoking experience that you’ll never forget. Additionally, you’ll also love visiting the archaeological site of Nachna-Kuthara in the historic state of Madhya Pradesh.
Indulge in Immersive Bird Walks
Engaging in bird walks offers more than just a visual feast; it provides a chance to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature, fostering a deeper connection with the environment. The diversity of the grassland, forest and riverine habitats around the Sarai serves as a magnet for a wide array of bird species.
Whether you're strolling around the property, walking along the riverbank or exploring hedge-lined paths through nearby agricultural fields towards Toria village, you’ll be delighted by the abundance of avian wonders in every direction.
In this peaceful setting, seize the opportunity to witness the graceful presence of pied kingfishers, the vibrant hues of black-rumped flameback, the beauty of the purple sunbird and the distinctive profile of the Asian openbill, among other captivating bird species.
Dining
Relish Authentic Indian Cuisine
The food, prepared with care and resembling home-cooked delights, becomes a culinary journey at the Sarai. The connection to authentic Indian flavours is not just a promise but a genuine commitment, with recipes passed down from family and friends, creating a taste that lingers in your memory.
At the Sarai, the kitchen is a testament to the art of cooking, featuring fresh, homemade dishes derived from Raghu and Joanna's favourite recipes. The menu is a harmonious blend of the delicate spices inherent in Indian cuisine, complemented by garden-fresh salads and continental fare. When you’re here, don’t forget to taste their sweet and sour tomato curry and the sirka chicken, a chicken dish with a dominant vinegar flavour.
Sustainability Story
The genesis of The Sarai at Toria springs from the collaborative vision of Dr. Raghu Chundawat, a Madhya Pradesh native and accomplished conservation biologist, and Joanna Van Gruisen, a wildlife photographer, writer and conservationist from the United Kingdom. With a shared passion for wildlife and conservation, this husband-wife duo has crafted a haven that harmonises comfort and indulgence with environmental and social responsibility.
Their commitment is to conscientiously manage their operations, ensuring environmental sustainability and positive social impact. The local staff, hailing from the nearby communities, not only provides exceptional service but also shares invaluable insights into the surrounding area and customs. They take pride in contributing to the local economy and fostering development in an agricultural region with limited employment opportunities.
Discover More Immersive Experiences at The Sarai at Toria
Affiliate Partner
Postcard Travel Club is an inclusive community of conscious travellers, travel designers, storytellers, and others who are shaping the future of travel.