The Oberoi Group has announced the opening of The Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort, Bandhavgarh in one of India’s most renowned wildlife destinations…
Designed to reflect its natural surroundings, The Oberoi Vindhyavilas draws inspiration from the spirit of the Vindhya mountain ranges, the architectural traditions and artistic heritage of central India, and the tribal cultures that have thrived here for centuries.
Image credit: Oberoi Hotels and Resorts / Amit Mehra
A highlight of the design is the striking entrance door – handcrafted by local artisans and carved with tribal motifs, setting the tone for the immersive experience. Push past this grand wooden door, hand-chiselled by Gond artisans, one of the two predominant indigenous communities in the region, and guests arrive at a soaring lounge and bar, bathed in natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows and lined with pale local Katni stone. The space is warm and welcoming, much like a beautiful appointed luxury home.
Interiors are adorned with vivid Gond artworks, paying tribute to the indigenous communities whose cultural legacy shapes the spirit of Bandhavgarh. The architectural language of the resort draws from local craftsmanship and traditional materials, creating a destination that pays homage to the land and its people, particularly the Gond and Baiga tribes, whose heritage is intricately woven into the region’s cultural fabric.
Image credit: Oberoi Hotels and Resorts / Amit Mehra
Set across a lush 21-acre forested expanse, The Oberoi Vindhyavilas features 19 exquisitely appointed luxury tents and two expansive Luxury Villas with private pools, offering guests unparalleled privacy and a deep connection with nature. The interiors of the luxury tents are accentuated with tribal-inspired details and the tented canopies adorned with intricate motifs, evoking the rustic elegance of the land, brought to life through Oberoi’s signature lens of understated luxury.
Thoughtfully curated design touches root the experience in place, from vivid Gond art murals in the bath area to lifelike interpretations of local wildlife, hand-painted by renowned Bandhavgarh artist Rakesh Prajapati. Sliding doors open onto a private floating deck and expansive private garden, where fountain grass and frangipani bloom under a flowering kachnar tree, creating the perfect setting to savour a morning cup of tea accompanied by the gentle symphony of birdsongs.
Image credit: Oberoi Hotels and Resorts / Amit Mehra
At the heart of the resort lies a distinctive culinary journey, led by Executive Chef Sachin Kumar, who trained with the Royal Kitchen of Nagod, bringing with him a profound understanding of the region’s time-honoured culinary traditions. The Dining Room pays homage to the bounty of central India, showcasing heirloom recipes and Madhya Pradesh’s signature culinary styles. Local ingredients take centre stage, elevated through thoughtful techniques and presentation.
Meals are thoughtfully curated across a variety of settings – high tea under a canopy or a bonfire at the Tree Court, grills and barbecues by the lake at The Bush Kitchen, or intimate dining in the warm, wood-lined interiors of the restaurant. The Bush Dining experience, set under a starlit sky by the lake, offers a magical al fresco setting, evoking the romance of wilderness feasting. A culinary highlight is the Royal Baghelkhand dinner – a regal dining experience that draws inspiration from the traditions of the erstwhile Baghel kingdom, offering guests a rich immersion into the flavours and heritage of the land.
Image credit: Oberoi Hotels and Resorts / Amit Mehra
Guests can embark on expertly guided game drives with expert naturalists trained by acclaimed Ratna Singh, offering opportunities to encounter tigers, leopards, sloth bears, elephants and over 250 species of birds in their natural habitat. The park’s rising tiger population underscores the success of conservation efforts, making every safari an exhilarating experience.
Mr. Arjun Oberoi, Executive Chairman, The Oberoi Group, commented, “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.”
Image credit: Oberoi Hotels and Resorts / Amit Mehra
Mr. Vikram Oberoi, Chief Executive Office, The Oberoi Group, added, “India’s national parks are among the country’s most extraordinary natural treasures and we are delighted to introduce the Oberoi experience to Central India. The Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort has been meticulously designed to offer an unparalleled blend of luxury and authenticity, allowing guests to connect deeply with the region’s rich biodiversity. With an unwavering commitment to personalised and intuitive service, sustainability, and immersive experiences, we look forward to setting a new benchmark in wildlife hospitality.”
Guests seeking wellness and serenity can unwind at the soon-to-be-launched Spa, featuring nature-inspired therapies, outdoor yoga sessions, and guided meditation, creating moments of calm in the lap of wilderness. From exhilarating wildlife safaris to soulful cultural encounters and rejuvenating wellness offerings, The Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort invites travellers to discover a world where luxury meets the wilderness, and every moment is infused with purpose, beauty, and unforgettable storytelling.
Main image credit: Oberoi Hotels and Resorts / Amit Mehra
