The short answer
Forsyth Lodge: what visitors should know first
A good pick if you want a quieter, forest-set lodge with a focus on local food and walks. It is a premium stay, so book ahead and ask about distance from the gate and the stairs in cottages.
History and context
The story behind Forsyth Lodge
Outlook Traveller describes Forsyth Lodge as the first lodge to open in Satpura Tiger Reserve, with 11 cottages on a 44-acre property of which only about a tenth is built on. The lodge's own site describes a main lodge plus cottages such as the Machan and Gondia cottages, so confirm the current room count when you book.
Useful facts
Forsyth Lodge facts at a glance
- Location
- Village Bija Kheri, near Sohagpur
- Stay style
- Mud-and-brick cottages on about 44 acres
- Origins
- Described as the first lodge in Satpura Tiger Reserve
- Best suited to
- Couples, foodies, walkers
- Operator
- Privately owned; the site names Aditi Mody as owner
Why it matters
Why Forsyth Lodge is worth your time
Forsyth Lodge stands out for how it uses its land. Instead of building across a large property, it leaves most of it as forest, which gives guests a sense of staying in the reserve rather than next to it.
The lodge also reflects a growing approach in Satpura of linking tourism to local communities, including through food grown by nearby farmers. For travellers who care about how their stay affects the area, that makes it worth considering.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
A property left as forest
Most of the 44 acres is restored forest, with only a small portion built on.
- 02
Organic local food
Meals use vegetables grown by local farmers, according to Outlook Traveller.
- 03
Walking safaris and canoes
MP Tourism lists walking safaris and Denwa canoeing among the activities.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
The lodge's website describes a main lodge with cottages such as the two-storey Machan Cottage and the Gondia Cottage, set in Village Bija Kheri near Sohagpur. MP Tourism describes it as a lodge on 44 acres of restored forest, with mud-and-brick cottages, walking safaris, Denwa canoeing, solar power and no single-use plastic.
Outlook Traveller, in an article updated in February 2022, describes it as the first lodge to open in the reserve, with cottages on a large property that is largely left as forest, a spa, and meals using organic vegetables grown by local farmers. Dinners may be served on the terrace or in the courtyard.
Book for at least two nights so that you can combine a safari with a walk or a canoe trip. Ask the lodge about transfers to Madhai, meal plans and any seasonal closures, and check the cottage layout if stairs are a concern.
Plan with confidence
Before you book the room.
- Book well ahead for winter and year-end
- Ask for a ground-level cottage if stairs are a problem
- Confirm transfers to Madhai and meal plans
- Check heating for cold winter nights
- Arrange safari permits through the lodge
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Village Bija Kheri, near Sohagpur, close to the Madhai gate
- Time needed
- 2-3 nights
- Best time
- November to February
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The grounds are large and cottages include a two-storey machan option, so ask for a ground-level cottage and a short path to dining. Winter nights are cold, so check heating.
- Tickets and access
- Open to guests only, booked through the lodge. Confirm rooms, rates and what is included. Safari permits are usually arranged by the lodge.
Best for
Plan it with
Book with confidence
Check rates at Forsyth Lodge
Compare room types, cancellation terms and breakfast before you book. Ask for a ground-floor or lift-access room if anyone finds stairs hard.
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Travelling with parents?
The grounds are large and cottages include a two-storey machan option, so ask for a ground-level cottage and a short path to dining. Winter nights are cold, so check heating.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is Forsyth Lodge inside the park?
It is near the reserve, in a village close to Sohagpur, on about 44 acres of restored forest.
What activities does it offer?
Jungle safaris, walking safaris, Denwa canoeing and culinary experiences using organic produce, per its site and MP Tourism.
Is it suitable for older guests?
With planning, yes. Ask for a ground-level cottage and confirm distances to dining and the vehicle drop-off.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
