Aranya Nivas | Thekkady
KTDC Aranya Nivas is a jungle lodge operated by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation, situated within the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady, Kerala. Its prime location on the banks of the Periyar Lake offers guests direct access to the wildlife sanctuary and its popular boat safari. The resort is known for being an ideal base for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and eco-tourists.
Location and surroundings
- Inside the reserve: As one of the few properties located inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve,
Aranya Nivas
provides a unique and immersive experience with the surrounding jungle environment.
- Proximity to the lake: The resort's adjacency to the serene Periyar Lake is one of its most significant advantages, as the boating point for wildlife viewing is nearby.
- Scenic environment: The resort is set in a calm, natural landscape, perfect for those seeking tranquility.
Accommodation and facilities
- Room types: The resort offers various room types, including Standard Double Rooms, Premium Rooms, and suites, some with "Jungle View" options.
- Amenities: Standard facilities include:
- A casual restaurant serving tasty food.
- An outdoor swimming pool.
- A children's play area.
- Indoor games like badminton, table tennis, and carrom.
- A beer parlour (lounge).
- A spa/Ayurveda center.
- Other services:
Aranya Nivas
also offers a range of services for convenience, including:
- Tour and ticket assistance.
- Free self-parking.
- Free Wi-Fi in public spaces.
- Laundry services.
- Car hire.
- Airport transfer upon request.
Guest experience and reviews
- Wildlife access: A key highlight for guests is the convenient access to the reserve's activities. Visitors can take the boat ride on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife at close quarters.
- Service and maintenance: Many guests describe the staff as cooperative and the rooms as neatly maintained. Despite some parts of the building being older, visitors often find the rooms and washrooms clean.
- Immersive experience: The primary draw for most visitors is the opportunity to stay inside the forest, which offers a unique and memorable experience.
Booking information
- Operator: The resort is run by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC), a government-owned enterprise.
- Advance booking: As a popular destination, advance booking for the hotel and park activities like the boat safari is recommended.
- Check-in time: A note on booking sites specifies that check-in is mandatory before 5 PM for some jungle view rooms, which is important for guests to note
