Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces Opening Two New Luxury Lodges in India

MUMBAI | Taj Safaris will open two new luxury lodges, Pashan Garh and Banjaar Tola, in winter 2008. Following the success of Mahua Kothi and Baghvan, both new lodges will offer Taj Hotels' legendary hospitality and the expertise of CC Africa's unique and in-depth wildlife experiences.

Banjaar Tola, Kanha National Park

Opening December 2008, Banjaar Tola will consist of two elegant camps, each containing nine tented suites with their own intimate private deck and solar-heated pool overlooking the river. The dramatic tented suites are made with pressed bamboo wall panels, natural bamboo floors, and locally crafted furniture accented with block-printed Madhya Pradesh cottons and silks in tones of delicate saffron and washed green. Conservation efforts at the camps include:

• Each suite is set on raised structures, supporting the tent at only seven points on the ground, allowing natural growth and drainage under all the buildings
• Instead of conventional electrical units, the tents are designed with double layers of canvas with insulation materials and air gaps to keep them cool.
• In winter, hot water for the bathroom will be piped under the insulated bamboo floors.
• The eco-friendly air conditioning system uses a reversible cycle to efficiently deliver both cooling and heating.

Banjaar Tola is located near the southern gate of Kanha National Park, one of India's largest reserves encompassing Sal forests, large bamboo stretches, and lush green meadows. It is prime tiger country and also features 22 animal species, 70 tree species, and over 200 bird species.

Pashan Garh, Panna National Park

Opening November 2008, Pashan Garh will consist of 12 private stone cottages atop a hill, a romantic private sala suspended high above and overlooking the jungle, and Haveli-style guest areas that open into a spacious central courtyard. Drawing inspiration from the dry-packed stone houses of the Panna region, the lodge will have dramatic roofs made from massive slabs of irregularly shaped slate. The interiors will be sleek and sexy with subtle references to the erotic stonework of nearby Khajuraho. Chocolate brown linens, block-printed black silks, celadon cottons, and chandeliers complete the decor.

The sprawling flatlands and deep valleys of Panna National Park are a haven to many of India's endemic species. The thick teak forests, open woods and short grass plains are home to tigers, leopards, wolfs, hyenas, jackals, deer, antelopes, sloth bears, wild boars, and mugger crocodiles.