Pugdundee Safari- Denwa Backwater Escape

Well trained team kept the rooms and resort super-clean, the chef and kitchen crew served well curated dishes and gave me gluten-free meals, the naturalist was knowledgeable and passionate, and the beautiful waterfront location was teeming with birds. Saw tiger, leopard, sloth bear, gaur, nilgai, sambhar deer, chital, crocodile, jungle cat. Notable birds included asian paradise flycatcher, scarlet minivet, changeable hawk eagle, crested serpent eagle, pied kingfisher in the well-run Satpura national park / tiger reserve.

“In Search of a True Wildlife Experience: Tiger Safari with Pugdundee Safari” During my four-day stay at the Denwa Backwater Tiger Reserve in January, I had an unforgettable experience. The Pugdundee Safari Lodge exceeded expectations, offering breathtaking views of the river. The lodge was beautifully designed, and the restaurant delivered exceptional cuisine that truly impressed. What stood out most was the staff—warm, attentive, and genuinely dedicated to guest satisfaction and, most importantly, the conservation of wildlife. As a solo traveler, I was disappointed that meals could not be taken in my room or on my verandah. However, I accept that this policy was implemented to avoid encouraging the feeding of wildlife by humans. The tiger reserve itself is government-managed, meaning that all visitors must use official vehicles. These are gypsies—uncomfortable jeeps that aren’t the most ideal for long drives—accompanied by both a driver and a game ranger. Typically, two safaris are conducted daily: one early in the morning and another in the afternoon. Each safari assigns different drivers and guides, which contributes to high tipping costs. Some of the guides, however, were less than ideal—more interested in chatting amongst themselves or with guides from other vehicles than engaging with the guests or focusing on the safari. This was not my first safari, but it was my first time in an Indian reserve in over 40 years. I was curious by the naturalist’s explanations regarding “alarm calls”—distress signals made by animals like monkeys or deer when predators such as tigers or leopards are nearby. However, I was taken aback by the chaotic scramble of vehicles that ensued whenever an alarm call was heard. Jeeps revved noisily as they raced to the scene, often resulting in a cluster of vehicles surrounding the animals. At one point, when we spotted a tiger, no fewer than seven vehicles crowded the road, creating a scene of loud excitement that detracted from the serenity of the moment I have no idea what impact that has on these beautiful animals. I’ve always believed that a safari should be a patient, quiet experience—spending hours in peaceful observation, with moments of thrilling excitement punctuating the stillness. Unfortunately, this felt more like a zoo, with vehicles vying for position rather than respecting the animals’ space. I requested my driver to maintain a slow pace, and this allowed us to observe the jungle in a far more tranquil and rewarding way. Despite these challenges, I commend Pugdundee for their efforts to balance guest experiences with the vital work of wildlife conservation. They are certainly navigating a difficult landscape, striving to instill a sense of respect and quiet within the government-run park. All in all, my time in the reserve was a remarkable experience, and Pugdundee did everything in their power to make my visit memorable. Thank you Pugdundee for your hospitality. I also visited Pench prior to this

"5/5 stars! "Just returned from the most incredible stay at Denwa backwater escape satpura! This backwater jungle resort is a hidden gem, surrounded by lush greenery and serene waters. The villas are beautifully designed, spacious and comfortable. The staff is warm, friendly and attentive. Kshitij who is the manager is very humble and helpful. we were travelling with the three kids and they were very considerate of the extra demands we had. The food is delicious and the activities, such as boat cruises and nature walks, are unforgettable. Perfect for nature lovers. Highly recommend!

The hospitality, level of staff engagement ***** with quaint rooms overlooking the backwaters make for a perfect getaway. Each and every person in the property will do everything in their power to make you comfortable. Don’t miss this one!

this was my first trip to India, and the first place i stayed. they staff was great from when i got dropped off to the details in the room and meals all was exceptional, the rooms are big and made you feel comfortable right from the arrival, the game drives and park is a different world, taking a boat across the river from the start makes it an special experience. i did 4 drives and a full day to the other side the full day was differnt and fun, but would fully be for certain ppl as still have to be out of park for the 4 hour break in middle, the drive back turned out to be epic and amazing, as the tigers mom and 3 sub adult cubs are pretty much in the ditch and not moving so we waited with a forestry truck, they called in and said we are not making it back in time for closure, and waited longer, turned dark so got some photos pf tigers in the head lights, foresty called for a boat to pick us up down river and take us home, so did a 40 minute night drive in the core which is not aloud and a 30 minute full moon ride up the river, so a one off experience to just make things that much more amazing, total wildlife for the trip beside never going longer then 30 minutes into a drive before finding something amazing, TIgers 6, Sloth Bears 2, Spotted deer Sambar deer, Bulebull , Indian roller, Crested serpent eagle, scoops owls,Indian Giant squirrel, Leopard 1 cant say enough other then i will be back

We enjoyed our 3 night stay at this lodge with great location and views. Excellent facility with spacious rooms with nice balcony and terrace with good views. Great staff always happy to assist and make our stay comfortable. Excellent safari tours. We took 4 safari excursions and saw tigers, bears, leopard and range of other wildlife. Very good food! Overall 5 star experience. We are from New Zealand and will certainly recommend this lodge to wildlife lovers!