Stay at this Jungle Lodge in Chikmagalur, Karnataka

It was our second wedding anniversary and we didn't have time for a vacation. Instead, we we were looking for a short weekend getaway from Bangalore. After lot of debate, we decided to spend the weekend at the River Tern Jungle lodges in Chikmagalur district, about 5 hour drive from Bangalore. This was a last-minute plan and we were really lucky that we found accommodation here. Otherwise, I recommend you make your reservations well ahead (here). I was naturally very excited as I'm huge fan of road trips. We started from Bangalore early in the morning by 6:00 AM as the check-in at the resorts was 12:00 PM. We blindly followed Google maps and it got us there. The drive after crossing Sira Taluk was very scenic as we drove past the hills and fields.

Scenic drive from Bangalore to the River Tern Lodges

The Jungle cottages at River Tern are located on an island on the Bhadra river, adjacent to the Bhadra Tiger reserve. River Tern is one of the several Jungle Lodges and Resorts maintained by the Govt. of Karnataka. As we reached the property, we were greeted by the manager and we were accompanied by an assistant to our cottage after the check-in process. Our cottage is about 5-10 minute walk from the reception through mud route in the forest and we had to cross a bridge as well. I was very excited to get to the cottage.

River Tern Jungle Lodges, located on an island on the Bhadra River.

Once we entered the cottage, I was in total awe of the stunning river view from the bedroom. The cottage was huge and well equipped with all necessary amenities, including the air conditioning. The bedroom opens to a huge balcony sit out area offering river view! All meals were included in our package. We had a sumptuous lunch and rested for a while in the cottage. For the evening, a jeep safari in the jungle has been arranged for all the guests. This is also part of the package!!

Stunning view from our cottage.

Walk in the jungle within the property

After evening tea, we were all set for the Jungle safari. We were accompanied by a driver, a guide and two other guests staying at the property. Both the driver and the guide were very knowledgable about the wildlife and experts in spotting them! There were not many guests as it was off-season (October). The resort offers discounted price during monsoon months. Anyway, we were very lucky that it didn't rain during our safari. But unfortunately we couldn't spot many animals except for deers, black bucks. We were lucky to have spotted few birds of different species and many peacocks. The drive in the forest was very calming and relaxing. After 2 hours at the end of our safari, it started pouring and we got back to our cottages. After dinner, we dozed off to sleep. We had to wake up early for a 2-hour boat safari on the river the next morning. I need not mention that this was also included in our package!! How cool is that!

All set for the jungle safari!!

Waking up to this view! It really felt like a dream!

We were informed that they might suspend the boat safari and take us on a jeep safari in case it rains heavily for safety reasons. I was really praying for good weather and the sun to show up! We woke up to some drizzle but we were lucky that the boat safari was on! This is one experience in a lifetime. Again we were accompanied by the same staff on the boat safari as well, who helped us spot many birds on small islands, deers and even crocodiles in the water. As it was October, the fall colours on these islands were really spectacular!! We were just lost in the beauty of mother nature and had the best time!

Boat safari at the River Tern Jungle Lodges. Best experience so far!

After the boat safari, we thanked the staff for assisting us. We had really good breakfast. I'm a fan of the food served at Jungle Lodges. They offer a simple menu but have lot of healthy options included, often reminds me of the home-cooked food. After breakfast, we spent some time kayaking in the waters. All the guests are free to use kayaks for unlimited amount of time. We could spend only half an hour as we had to check out by 11:00 AM. The Jungle Lodges usually do not have a spa but River Tern had one. I was curious to know the quality of the service so I made a spa appointment after check out. And I must say this was the only disappointment I had through out my stay. I would really not recommend the spa services here. Apart from that, we had a really amazing stay and I would definitely go back some day!

Kayaking on the Bhadra river

Our one night stay at the River Tern Lodges costed us INR 8000 for two adults. The cost includes all food, guided jeep safari and boat safari, usage of water sport equipment and all taxes. I honestly felt this was worth every single penny! I highly recommend River Tern Lodges for people at all ages. Families with kids should definitely visit this place. After thanking all the staff, we headed back to Bangalore by noon. On the way back, we had time to visit the famous Jain Temple at Shravanabelagola. The drive through Hassan district was really pleasant and very scenic. It was raining but stopped when we just reached the temple before closing time. The temple is located on a hill and we have to climb several steps to reach. The Gomateshwara Statue at this temple is the tallest monolithic statue carved out of single block of granite. Definitely worth a visit! By late night, we returned home with our hearts filled with beautiful memories! :)

Many scenic spots along the drive through Hassan district. View from top of the hill at Shravanabelagola Temple and the Gomateshwara statue standing tall!

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