Nestled in the Satpura hills of Madhya Pradesh, Madhai is a verdant gateway to Satpura Tiger Reserve with lush forests, rivers, and rich wildlife. Travelers here can blend adventure and relaxation: guided safaris and canoe rides await by day, while eco-lodges and resorts offer modern comforts by night. Many of the best resorts in Madhai provide luxurious riverside cottages or family-friendly villas right in the jungle, so you can unwind in comfort after a day of exploration. Whether you’re a family with children or a solo nature enthusiast, these resorts in Madhai offer unique activities and amenities that make your wildlife trip both exciting and restful.
Denwa Backwater Escape
Denwa Backwater Escape is a top wildlife resort in Madhai, operated by Pugdundee Safaris. It is described as an eco-luxury resort “nestled in the densely forested land of Madhai, along the backwaters of the meandering Denwa River”. Spread over 10 acres of forest, Denwa Backwater Escape features eight spacious cottages and two treehouses with large verandahs overlooking the river and Pachmarhi hills. The lodge is designed in a contemporary safari style using local materials and is entirely single-use-plastic-free, blending comfort with environmental mindfulness. You can enjoy luxury safari furniture and local art in your suite while sipping your morning coffee on a private deck with amazing jungle views. For adventure, the resort arranges jeep safaris, night drives, and canoe rides on the Denwa – and you might spot tigers, deer or bison right from the lodge grounds.
- Eco-Luxury Stay: Sturdy forest cottages and treehouses with verandahs provide panoramic river and forest views.
- Wildlife & Activities: On-site naturalists lead wildlife walks, jeep safaris, night safaris, and canoe rides on the river. Guests often see deer, monkeys and 300+ bird species in the sanctuary.
- Sustainable Design: The resort is built from stone, wood and recycled materials. It’s plastic-free and decorated with local crafts, reflecting an authentic jungle ambiance.
- Comfort & Dining: Meals are served on a river-facing deck. Despite the remote setting, guests enjoy high-quality food and hot showers after a day of adventure.
Parijat Lake Resort by GoldMark
Parijat Lake Resort (managed by GoldMark Hotels) is another standout retreat on the banks of the Denwa River in Madhai. As one review notes, it “offers a serene escape” with fun amenities like an arcade and game room. This resort has an outdoor swimming pool where families can relax, and on-site boat rentals and sailboats let you explore the calm river waters. Adventure seekers will appreciate the boating and canoeing opportunities here, while children enjoy the pool and game room. The lush riverside gardens and firepit area are perfect for evening bonfires under the stars. Guests often highlight the friendly service and peaceful setting.
- Pools & Boating: Features a large outdoor pool, plus sailboats and canoes for river excursions. Boating on the Denwa is a popular activity.
- Family-Friendly Amenities: Includes an arcade/game room, playground, and conference facilities – great for family fun and group events.
- Riverside Location: Situated right by the river, most rooms have garden or water views. Sunsets and birdwatching from the terrace are highlights.
- Comfortable Rooms: Air-conditioned suites with premium beds and verandahs make for a relaxing stay. Guests enjoy the mix of leisure (spa/pool) and natural activities.
Madhai Riverside Lodge
The (soon-to-be-renovated) Madhai Riverside Lodge sits just minutes from Satpura’sMadhai entry gate. This lodge is praised for its “beautiful riverside location and spacious, clean rooms, perfect for a peaceful getaway”. It offers air-conditioned cottages with river views – for example, luxury rooms have large glass windows facing the Denwa River. Guests loved the lodge’s calm ambiance and attentive staff. The property includes a swimming pool, restaurant, bonfire area and jungle safari tours, blending relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re lazing by the pool or taking an early-morning safari into the tiger reserve, Madhai Riverside provides a serene base.
- Scenic Setting: Nestled on the Denwa’s banks, with green lawns and pathways along the river. It’s quieter than the core park lodges, giving a restful stay.
- Modern Cottages: AC rooms and cottages with private balconies. Many rooms offer sweeping river views (some as large as 300 sqft). The clean, comfy rooms make it feel like a true riverside resort.
- Facilities: The lodge has a swimming pool, bonfire area and a small outdoor grill. It also arranges guided jungle safaris and jeep drives into Satpura for wildlife spotting.
- Guest Reviews: Visitors repeatedly praise the courteous staff and good food, calling it a great spot for nature lovers and families seeking peace.
MPT Bison Resort, Madhai
MPT (Madhya Pradesh Tourism) Bison Resort is a government-run lodge right at the Satpura Tiger Reserve gate in Madhai. It boasts a stunning location on the banks of the Tawa Reservoir. Guests say it offers “breathtaking” views of the lake and hills, making it ideal for nature lovers and photographers. The resort has comfortable rooms and a lovely garden overlooking the water. Because it’s budget-friendly, it’s very popular with families and groups. Staff here cookhomestyle meals, and travelers appreciate the “friendly, attentive” service and the easy access to evening safaris into the park.
- Lakefront Setting: Rooms face the Tawa Dam lake, perfect for sunrise/sunset watching. The tranquil waters attract many birds, so it’s great for birdwatching.
- Near Satpura Gate: Just a short walk from the Madhai safari entry gate, making morning and evening wildlife drives very convenient.
- Value & Comfort: Mid-range pricing with AC rooms. Guests highlight the tasty, homely food and cozy ambiance – “a perfect retreat for families and friends alike”.
- Basic Amenities: On-site restaurant, outdoor seating by the lawn, and even a small lakeside boat ride option. It’s more rustic than private resorts, but offers an authentic forest lodge experience.
The Madhai Resort
The Madhai Resort (also known as the BijaKheri resort) is a small family-owned lodge at the edge of the Satpura reserve. With just 8 rooms, it delivers personalized hospitality and a quiet atmosphere. According to reviews, you can “experience the serene beauty and rich biodiversity of Madhai in style and relaxation” here. The resort’s cottages have clean wood furnishings and balconies overlooking the woods. It offers guided forest safaris, nature walks and barbecue dinners. Guests frequently mention the warm staff and delicious local cuisine. This spot is well-suited to couples or small families who want an affordable stay right by the park, enjoying both comfort and easy safari access.
- Quiet Forest Lodge: Tucked on the Mohar foothills, with forest and sunset views from each room. The peaceful surroundings make it feel like a private jungle camp.
- Cozy Rooms: Air-conditioned with en-suite bathrooms. Rooms include refreshments and seating areas; some even have deck chairs outside.
- Local Flavors: On-site dining serves tribal MP specialties and Indian cuisine. Campfire dinners and breakfast are popular features.
- Customized Adventures: The lodge arranges guided jeeps for tiger and wildlife safaris, as well as treks and bird-watching. It caters to those who want both nature thrills and homely comfort.
Conclusion
In Madhai, accommodation ranges from luxurious riverfront cottages to charming eco-lodges. Each resort offers its own blend of adventure and comfort: whether it’s spotting wildlife from your veranda at Denwa Backwater Escape, boating on the Denwa at Parijat, or enjoying a bonfire after a jungle safari at Madhai Riverside Lodge. As one review puts it, these properties help you “experience the serene beauty and rich biodiversity of Madhai in style”. Families will find kid-friendly pools and games (like at Parijat), while solo and luxury travelers can relax in private pools or treehouses (as at Denwa) – all with opportunities for guided safaris. Ultimately, the resorts in Madhai ensure an unforgettable mix of wilderness adventure and modern comfort, making Madhya Pradesh’s Satpura region a unique getaway for every traveler.
