Location: ~300 Kms from Bangalore
Bangalore -> Tumakuru -> Arsikere -> Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (Via NH73)
Bangalore -> Kunigal-> Channarayapatna -> Arsikere -> Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (Via NH75)
Approximate Cost in INR: Tent Package – INR 7500-8000/- per person, inclusive of all food and activities.
Availability: 8 Log huts & 15 Cottages Check in: 1.00 PM, Check Out – 10.30 AM
Latest Information & Booking : https://www.junglelodges.com/resort/river-tern-lodge/
Seeking a tranquil escape? Look no further than River Tern Lodge, a hidden gem nestled amidst breath-taking landscapes, just a 6.5 hours drive from Bangalore. This idyllic retreat offers a perfect blend of luxury and nature, making it a haven for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
Indulge in JLR’s signature hospitality, from delectable cuisine to a variety of outdoor activities. Explore the serene waters through boating in the reservoir, embark on a thrilling safari in Bhadra Tiger Reserve, or kayak / swim through tranquil backwaters.
The Plan
We planned a weekend getaway during the first week of September 2024 with my sister-in-law and husband, who were visiting from Scotland. Seeking a new destination near Bangalore, our research led us to The River Tern Lodge, a premier JLR property. While not the ideal season for spotting wildlife or the eponymous river terns, it was the perfect time to experience the lush greenery, full reservoir and tranquil ambiance of the lodge.
To optimize our time, we aimed to depart early from Bangalore to check into the lodge by 1 PM. As avid admirers of Hoysala architecture, we were eager to visit the Chandramouleswara Temple in Arasikere, if time allowed. We considered three possible routes, ultimately opting for the Tumakuru route.
The Visit
We departed from Bangalore around 6 AM and arrived at the lodge by 1 PM. While we couldn’t visit the Hoysala temple as initially planned, we were content to be immersed in the pristine environment of Bhadra Reserve.
Similar to other Jungle Lodges in Karnataka, River Tern Lodge follows a structured itinerary, ensuring a seamless experience without the need for additional planning. After a smooth check-in, we were directed to our cottage on an island, accessible via a charming hanging bridge. The log huts, located near the dining area, or “Gol Ghar,” offered another accommodation option.
Following a short rest, we indulged in a sumptuous lunch featuring a diverse array of dishes to cater to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian palates. Our afternoon was dedicated to a safari to the tiger reserve, scheduled for 3:30 PM. After a refreshing tea and snack break, we embarked on our safari adventure in open jeeps.
The safari, which lasted for about three hours, was a thrilling experience. While we were unable to spot a leopard or tiger, we were fortunate to encounter a variety of other wildlife, including Malabar squirrels, langurs, owls, serpentine eagles, monitor lizards, bison, and spotted deer. It was an incredible opportunity to immerse ourselves in the heart of the tiger reserve.
After the safari, we freshened up and returned to the Gol Ghar for the next set of activities. We began with an informative wildlife movie that provided insights into the concept of River Tern Lodge and the history of Bhadra. As the evening progressed, we gathered around a cozy campfire, enjoying drinks and freshly prepared snacks. The day concluded with a delicious dinner at the Gol Ghar. Despite a long and eventful day, we retired to our cottages, feeling content and ready for the next day’s adventures.