River tern Lodge

Chikmagalur is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and its lush mountains. The River Tern Lodge, which is tucked away in the Western Ghats, gets its name from a nearby island that, during the nesting season, draws hordes of river terns. It is situated in the Chikmagalur district on a hillside at the edge of the Bhadra reservoir, close to Lakkavali, and just a short distance from the northern edge of the Bhadra Tiger Reserve. Chikmagalur, which previously served as a princess' dowry, still exudes the allure of a location chosen by a king's favourite daughter for her dowry. Among all of this, there is the ideal location to create a brand-new connection with nature.

This experience is about relaxation and tranquillity, with the gentle ripples of the river's backwaters serving as a quiet background score. From the first beginning, The River Tern Lodge is enjoyable! Four kilometres separate the Lodge from the Bhadra Tiger Reserve. During an evening jeep safari, you may see leopards, tigers, gaurs, elephants, crocodiles, deer, wild boars, monitor lizards, and other animals. Over 200 species of birds make these woodlands home, including the Grey Junglefowl, White-rumped Shama, Racket-tailed Drongo, Malabar pied hornbill, Brown Fish Owl, Grey-headed Fish Eagle, Osprey, White-bellied Sea Eagle, River Terns (January to June), Serpent Eagle, Crested Hawk Eagle, etc. The River Tern Lodge also offers trips to the Sakkrebyle Elephant Camp and the Tyverekoppa Lion and Tiger Safari. Would you like to take a little dip in the water? Along with kayaking and boating, the camp includes swimming facilities. All water-based activities are under the supervision of qualified professionals and follow strict safety regulations. Come to the Gol Ghar, the camp's communal dining area, for a satisfying meal to cap off a successful day. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food is available at the buffet.

The ideal hideaway is River Tern Lodge, where guests can take part in adventure activities while on vacation.

 

Best Time to Visit River Tern Lodge

The River Tern Lodge is a pleasant place to visit throughout the year. However, June To September is the best time to experience the Sanctuary as it is lush and green from the monsoon season. Summer months (March – May) might be a little warm.

 

Wildlife in River Tern Lodge

Birds such the Grey junglefowl, Red spurfowl, Painted bush quail, Emerald dove, Southern green imperial pigeon, Great black woodpecker, Malabar parakeet, and Hill myna, to name a few, can be found in abundance in the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. While among the reptiles, Monitor lizards are also frequently seen, as are Marsh crocodiles, which are typically located in the upstream sections of the Bhadra River. At the Bhadra Reservoir, sightings of the Common and Smooth Indian otters are common. Gaur are unquestionably Bhadra's pride, and they are frequently seen. Additionally, leopards are extremely frequent, especially in the Lakkavalli region. Recently, the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary was included in "Project Tiger." This is an ideal tiger habitat although it is rare to see one! Wild dog tracks are also found all over the area. Elephants occur in all parts of the sanctuary and seem to migrate locally between Muthodi and Lakkavalli. Other mammals found in the area are common Palm civet, Stripe necked mongoose, Sloth bear, Large brown flying squirrel, Sambar, Spotted deer and the Wild boar.

 

Accommodation in River Tern Lodge

Ten twin-bed rooms with warm furnishings are currently available at the River Tern Lodge. There are five cottages and five log cabins, all of which provide absolute privacy and tranquillity. Every accommodation offers a balcony with a view of the serene waters of the Bhadra Reservoir, not to mention the breathtaking sunset over the backwaters. It was deliberately determined not to have TVs in the rooms so that guests could enjoy nature.

 

Activities at River Tern Lodge

Aside from thrilling vehicle tours into the Bhadra Tiger Reserve Animals Sanctuary, which is just 4 km from the resort, where you may see wildlife, there are also water-based activities like sailing, kayaking, water cycles, water trampolines, and pleasure fishing available. The Bhadra Reservoir's backwaters offer excellent chances for boat tours that allow visitors to see a variety of species. Guided trekking, island camping, bird watching, mountain biking, kid-friendly rock climbing, and stargazing are among more activities. The River Tern Lodge also offers trips to the Tyverekoppa Lion and Tiger Safari and the Sakkrebyle Elephant Camp.

In addition to the cosy lodging, the Gol Ghar, a circular, open-to-the-sides gazebo, serves as the guests' dining area and offers a remarkable sense of closeness to nature. For those who are interested, the resort also shows nature documentaries in the evenings. The Lodge has all necessary water sport equipment and instructors who follow strict safety protocols.

 

Cuisine at River Tern Lodge

A delicious spread of South and North Indian dishes, buffet style is served at the Ghol ghar. A choice of both Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian is available.

 

How to Reach River Tern Lodge

By Road: The nearest city is Shimoga, and plenty of buses are available to Lakkavalli, which is the town or village nearest to the lodge. 

By train: The nearest railway station is at Shimoga, which is well connected to Bangalore.

By Air: The nearest Airport is at Mangalore.