Diphlu River Lodge, Kaziranga

The cottages overlook the river

Diphlu River Lodge opened in January 2008, providing much-needed top-class accommodation at Kaziranga National Park.

The position of the lodge is second to none; only the boundary river separates its extensive grounds from the National Park itself, and the jungle views are exceptional.

There are currently just 4 individual cottages and 4 semi-detached cottages. Made of bamboo and thatch, the air-conditioned cottages are built on stilts above the ground. A further 4 rooms are being built bringing the total capacity to 24 guests.

All cottages sleep 2 and have been beautifully designed to make full use of local materials and artefacts and blend in with the stunning natural surroundings. All are well-appointed and charmingly furnished with individual interiors. Each has a seating area with comfortable cane furniture, a writing desk, mini-bar, safe, small fridge and tea/coffee machine as well as top-quality beds and mattresses. The very spacious separate cottages have a wide folding glass door opening onto a thatched verandah with cane day bed and inviting chairs, and overlook the Diphlu River and National Park, while at the rear a deck with sun loungers looks across farmland. The semi-detached cottages all have equally attractive large balconies from which to savour the magical surroundings in the open air. All shower bathrooms are ensuite with a roomy dressing area and fitted wardrobe.

High above the river is the 'Machan' or jungle platform (pictured left). This has air-conditioned sitting and dining areas opening onto a large verandah with high thatch ceiling and bamboo floor. Guests can congregate here to swap the day's jungle stories over a drink or a delicious meal, sink onto sofas with a book from the library, relax by the fireplace on chilly winter evenings, enjoy an al fresco breakfast on the verandah after returning from early morning safari, watch for birds or scan the opposite bank for wild animals.

Further along the river bank a jetty will enable guests to embark on river trips in dugout canoes, from which they can look out for otters and for buffalo, deer or rhino grazing on the far bank. This riverbank area is also perfect for the barbecues and camp fires that the lodge arranges - or as just another idyllic spot for a sundowner while watching the vivid colours of sunset across the river.

Daily jeep and elephant safaris are available, and you will have the services of resident trained naturalists in this birdwatchers' paradise. Also offered are village visits, river walks and walks through tea gardens.

SAFETY AND SECURITY
The walkways at the Lodge have low-level lighting to guide guests to their room, along with a security escort if required, and all guests are given a torch to use. Since the surface of the walkways is unevenly woven bamboo, please make sure you bring sensible shoes. In the Park naturalists are trained in animal behaviour, first aid and outdoor emergencies. There is a doctor available on call.