Vanghat is, built on a simple model, to be a sustainable venture and give back to the land of its conception. Situated on the banks of the Ramganga, Vanghat is accessible only by a raft or 4x4 vehicle, making it an isolated getaway into the wild. Inviting true lovers of the wild, Vanghat’s spaces are designed to be minimalistic, green and rustic. Community-based conservation and tourism-based conservation are among Vanghat’s tenets, and this reflects in everything, both inside and outside of the property.   

Vanghat hosts nine spacious cottages amidst the wild. Five of these cottages are constructed with stone, while four are mud and thatch cottages. Designs of each cabin reflect the sense, sensibilities and style of typical Pahadi homes in the region. Every part of the living space at Vanghat is designed to have as little impact on the environment as possible, including the dining and research stations.

The cottages are also wildlife-friendly, standing on raised platforms to allow animals to pass by safely without getting stressed by human activity.

Dining

Vanghat believes in growing what you eat. Everything that goes into the dining at Vanghat is produced in house in the organic garden. The inhouse chef is an expert at preparing Indian and Tibetan fare, and they are more than happy to accommodate any special dietary requests. 

Vanghat means ‘“The valley of the wild’” in Hindi. Everything at Vanghat is motivated by the experience of the wild in its true form. All cottages and common spaces at the property are also designed to be watch-outs for wildlife. Vanghat also has a Machaan, a high platform that offers a 360-degree view of the Shivaliks where one gets to be as close as possible to nature without being intrusive. If you’re lucky, you may just spot a fleeting glimpse of stripes in the wilderness, silently traversing the domain.

For those who want to dive into the jungle, the safari at Corbett provides an excellent opportunity to observe wildlife from a safe distance with the guidance of trained naturalists. An outstanding experience offered by Corbett is; the chance to experience the jungles on elephant-back.

Angling is one of Vanghat’s highlighted experiences. Being one of the prime locations for the world-famous Golden Mahseer, Vanghat is a perfect destination for those aching to use their fishing reels. For those that seek adventure beyond, there are innumerable trekking opportunities and wildlife excursions available around Vanghat. Climbing the machan is also a surreal experience that promises to be as rewarding

Perfect For

Vanghat is accessible by 4x4 as well as a raft and therefore is of easy reach to those with reasonable fitness levels. The salubrious outdoors and setting within the property mean that you can observe wildlife right from the property.

Closed

Vanghat is open all year

Vanghat began with the premise of conservation and sustainability and has reiterated that we are guests of the forest and not the other way round. Ticking all touchstones, Sumantha and Vanghat show the benefits of when tourism is done right without diluting the immersive guest experience. Built to not disturb the fragile environment, it is so well camouflaged that one can’t always tell where the lodge ends and the forest begins.

Vanghat practices community-based tourism with the entire staff belonging to the local area. This brings in their expertise and wisdom of the jungle and its ways. They have also been trained to be the naturalists and guides who take you on walking safaris, birding and angling. Working with the community by setting up a scheme to share revenue, Sumantha has been instrumental in helping increase the Golden Mahseer found in the river here. Efforts were then made to restore the land around the forest, resulting in wildlife returning to the area.

There is an emphasis to facilitate a meaningful learning environment for children. Programs with young children open their minds to the wonders of the jungle and the necessity of conservation and preservation.