Rukhad Jungle Camp

I've been to Indian jungles innumerable times. Nothing comes close to the experience we had at Rukhad Jungle Camp. This place is for wildlife enthusiasts looking for an off-beat jungle experience. This is NOT for picnickers. This is NOT a place for partying. This is for people who can stay quiet and enjoy the tranquility of the jungle. Nestled within the enchanting Rukhad buffer zone of Pench National Park. Situated right by a waterhole which is frequented by wild animals. This is closest you'll probably get to experiencing the authentic jungle without disturbing it's residents. We were greeted with alarm calls and tiger roar within an hour of arrival! Plenty of pugmarks around too! The staff drives you to the rooms and leaves you to yourself after briefing you about the place. And then it's you in the wild, literally. You can't step down from the structure (It's dangerous and rightfully not allowed) until they come back to take you for your safari. Food is delicious and delivered to you in the rooms. The rooms are clean, comfortable and powered by solar. We faced no issues with electricity or water. The superstars of the show - Ketan and Zainab. They greeted us outside the Rukhad Gate at the Bison retreat and that's where the experience actually starts. We were told stories of Rukhad, what to expect, the lives of the various tigers around. They are natural story tellers and an amazing team. They were our constant companions through our stay, even coming on safaris with us. The experience wouldn't be nearly as good without their enthusiasm and contagious love for the jungle and the animals. They elevated it all for us in a big way! I absolutely cannot wait to come back to this place. It's by far by favourite jungle property in India, bar none.

First time at RJC and it was great. One of the few properties in India which is truly inside the jungle. We stayed at Jal Mahal. Its shares the boundary with the main highway hence you will hear vehicle noise / horn. But its not disturbing . Because of the water body, you get very good bird activity in the mornings. There are 4 rooms side by side. The room itself is decent. The sitting area is good. You get all basic amenities in the room. Downside is that the room parition wall is brittle as a permanent structure cannot be built due to forest rules. So you will hear voices/noise from the adjacent room if occupied. Packed Dinner and Breakfast is arranged since you are in the jungle hence no ‘restaurant’ to go to. Only Jio works as phone network but dont expect to stream videos etc. Emails, wats app will be accessible. There is no wifi. If you have wildlife experience and like nature then try their second property called Daldali which is deeper in the forest. Phone network is almost mon existent here. Last but not the least, big shout out to Ketan & Zainab who take great care of not only the guests but also of the surroundings. They are super accessible, responsible and have countless stories to narrate. RJC is a must try for avod wildlife lovers. This is a place to enjoy nature and be at peace.

Being located in Jabalpur we have access to various jungles “Rukhad jungle camp” happened because of non availability of reservations in other parks. But trust me it was one of a kind experience staying there. We stayed at “Jal Mahal cottage” .. (two couples ) 1. Location : it is situated in the buffer zone of the jungle. So the experience was thrilling and amazing . Rooms are cozy and clean. And all the required amenities were available. 2. Food : the food came in tiffins from bison retreat. Staff were punctual in making it available for us at the cottage. Food quantity was ample and it tasted good. “ pav bhaji with no fuss” Is a must try. 3. Hospitality : Mr. Ketan and miss Zainab were hospitable. They took good care of us and we enjoyed their tiger stories. 4. Rukhad jungle per se is something I would say “ a hidden gem” for wildlife enthusiasts. We sighted two tigers which was much beyond my expectation . Because the thought of sighting a. tiger in buffer zone made me have zero expectations. Jungle is dense so it has its own distinct charm. 5. Highly recommend the place and would go back definately but this time to stay at daldali.