The Oberoi Group has announced the opening of The Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort in Bandhavgarh, a high-end retreat located just minutes from Bandhavgarh National Park, one of India’s key wildlife reserves known for its Royal Bengal Tiger population. The resort, spanning 21 acres, blends luxury with local culture and craftsmanship while providing guests with direct access to the region’s biodiversity.
Designed to integrate with its surroundings, The Oberoi Vindhyavilas takes inspiration from the Vindhya mountain ranges, the architecture of central India, and indigenous tribal traditions. The entrance, in fact, features a hand-carved wooden door created by Gond artisans, one of the two primary indigenous communities in the area. The resort’s interiors highlight Gond artwork, while the structures incorporate regional materials such as pale Katni stone.
The resort offers 19 luxury tents and two private villas with pools. The tents feature design elements inspired by the local tribal culture, with hand-painted wildlife motifs and murals by Bandhavgarh artist Rakesh Prajapati. Each accommodation includes a private deck and garden.
The resort’s dining experience is led by Executive Chef Sachin Kumar, who has trained with the Royal Kitchen of Nagod. The menu features heirloom recipes and local ingredients, with options ranging from traditional Indian cuisine to global dishes such as Neapolitan pizzas and grilled seafood. Dining experiences include meals under forest canopies, lakeside barbecues, and the Royal Baghelkhand dinner, inspired by the former Baghel kingdom’s culinary traditions. The resort’s bar serves a curated selection of craft cocktails, regional teas, and wines.
For wildlife enthusiasts, the resort provides guided safaris conducted by naturalists trained under Ratna Singh, offering guests the opportunity to see tigers, leopards, elephants, and over 250 bird species. Cultural experiences include interactions with Sukhiram, a third generation master Gond artist, who provides insights into the intricate storytelling traditions of this indigenous community, visits to Sarmaniya village, and traditional folk performances.
Arjun Oberoi, Executive Chairman, The Oberoi Group, stated, “The opening of The Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort reaffirms our commitment to setting new benchmarks in luxury hospitality. Thoughtfully designed to harmonize with its pristine surroundings, the resort offers an immersive experience that celebrates the rich biodiversity of Bandhavgarh while delivering the exceptional service and elegance that define Oberoi Hotels & Resorts. We are proud to bring our distinctive hospitality to one of India’s most revered wildlife destinations.”
The launch of The Oberoi Vindhyavilas marks the latest addition to the luxury hospitality sector in India, positioning itself as a destination that combines high-end accommodations with regional heritage and conservation efforts.
