Sterling Expands Wilderness Footprint with New Resort in Bandhavgarh
The 26-key retreat in Madhya Pradesh strengthens Sterling's wilderness portfolio, combining wildlife experiences, regional heritage and destination-led hospitality.
By SOH Edit Team
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited (SHRL) has expanded its wilderness portfolio with the opening of Sterling Bandhavgarh in Madhya Pradesh, strengthening its presence across Central India's wildlife destinations. The launch forms part of the company’s strategy to develop wilderness tourism as a distinct leisure category, with resorts spanning 15 wildlife landscapes across India.
The addition of Bandhavgarh, one of India's prominent tiger habitats, reflects Sterling's focus on creating destination-led experiences that extend beyond conventional wildlife safaris to include local culture, heritage and cuisine.
A Wilderness Retreat in Bandhavgarh
Located in Tala village, approximately 2.5 km from the Tala Gate of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, the resort features 26 rooms across four categories—Machan Suites, Courtyard Rooms with Balconies, Safari Tents with Private Sit-outs and Forest Rooms.
The property offers private outdoor spaces, a swimming pool and landscaped gardens, catering to travellers seeking a combination of wildlife exploration and leisure. The resort's dining venue, The Sal, highlights the culinary heritage of Baghelkhand through regional preparations such as Birra ki Roti, Saal Patta Murgh, Baans Mein Pakaya Chawal and Kumhde ki Kheer.
Experiences including Jungle Thali and Gaon ki Rasoi introduce guests to local ingredients and traditional cooking practices, while outdoor dining and bonfire evenings complement the wilderness setting.
Beyond tiger safaris, guests can explore the region through birdwatching, nature trails, cycling and village walks. Historical attractions, including Bandhavgarh Fort and Shesh Shaiya, add a cultural dimension to the destination.
Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited.
Strengthening a Destination-Led Hospitality Strategy
Commenting on the expansion, Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, emphasised the company's ambition to position wildlife holidays beyond individual safari experiences. "We are not simply adding destinations to our wilderness portfolio. We are giving travellers more reasons to discover India's forests—and more reasons to return."
Pranav Sharma, Owner, Mahalaxmi Commercial Service Pvt Ltd, highlighted the continuation of the company's partnership with Sterling following its association at Kanha, citing the brand's operational expertise and destination-focused approach.
With an existing presence in Kanha, Sterling sees an opportunity to develop combined Bandhavgarh–Kanha itineraries, allowing travellers to experience two distinct wildlife landscapes within a single journey.
The opening further strengthens Sterling's strategy of connecting wildlife destinations across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Uttarakhand, positioning its wilderness portfolio around longer stays, regional exploration and multi-destination travel experiences.
Property Highlights:
- 26 rooms
- Private outdoor spaces
- Swimming pool
- Landscaped gardens
- The Sai, a dining venue
