Dudhiya
OVERVIEW
An Offbeat Experience
Situated inside the untamed wilderness of Rukhad in Pench Tiger Reserve, Dudhiya offers an extraordinary escape for nature enthusiasts, adventurers and those seeking a restorative retreat.
Surrounded by the Dudhiya nursery on one side, tranquil lake on the other amidst thick canopy of trees, it is a private retreat in the heart of Indian jungle. The nearby nursery maintained by forest department acts as a way of conserving the multitude of flora endemic to the region. You can choose to take a leisurely stroll through the nursery as you interact with the locals who work there.
Find solace and comfort in our spacious and meticulously appointed accommodation. The private deck provides a front row seat to the spectacle of the nature wonders. Choose from a range of experiences designed to bring out the best that Indian wildlife has to offer.
Why We Love It
Unforgettable Wildlife Experiences
Finest safari experiences tailored to your need
Nature’s Haven
Discover the untamed beauty of the forest
Dudhiya Nursery
Explore the rich and rare flora of the nearby nursery
Alfresco Culinary Experiences
Shared meals with your loved ones under open skies
ROOMS
Serenity in the Wild
At Jungle Camps, we believe that a comfortable and inviting accommodation is an essential part of your journey. The two spacious cottages are a perfect blend of style, space and serenity which ensure that your stay is nothing short of exceptional.
The rooms are meticulously designed to provide an unparalleled level of comfort. Large windows flood the space with abundant natural light. Step outside onto your private deck, a personal sanctuary where you can immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the wilderness. You may even catch glimpses of wildlife passing by.
There’s a small seating area inside the room which invites you to relax with a good book as you sip your tea or coffee. After a day of activities, sink into the soft spacious beds and experience a restful night’s sleep. Let the soothing ambiance and utmost comfort of Dudhiya envelope you, making it a perfect wildlife getaway.
GALLERY
Step Into Dudhiya
Sit back & relax
Top Reasons to Visit
Setting
Escape the ordinary
Leave the mundane and experience an unparalleled closeness to nature at our wildlife resort. Nestled in the heart of untouched landscapes, we offer an immersive retreat that brings you intimately in touch with the natural world. Celebrate the most precious connections with your friends or family surrounded by nothing but pristine nature.
Exquisite Experiences
Celebrate the big moments
With every endeavour, we strive to craft extraordinary experiences for our guests. Embark on unforgettable wildlife experiences led by our knowledgeable guides. From exhilarating tiger safaris to guided nature trails, witness the wildlife in all its glory. Visit the nearby village of Seoni, Mowgli’s village, as featured in the famous Jungle Book or simply plan an excursion to Sukhata, a forest rest-house built in 1903. At night, embark on the night safari or use our telescope to marvel at the unpolluted sky as you search for the constellation of your sun sign. Reach out to our in-house team of ravel and safari experts to personalise an itinerary for you.
firepit
Unparalleled Biodiversity
Rukhad, a part of Pench National Forest is a haven of extraordinary biodiversity. Explore the dense forests, the innumerable lakes and the grasslands that provide a habitat for a diverse range of species. From the mighty tiger to the elusive leopard, Rukhad boasts a healthy population of the big cats. Encounter a dazzling array of bird species, reptiles and mammals during your jeep safaris.
Unwind & Rejuvenate
Celebrate the big moments
Allow the tranquillity of the surroundings to wash away the pressures of everyday life. The lodge surrounded by greenery offers a space for introspection and rejuvenation. Take leisurely strolls along nature trails, breathe in the fresh air and feel the gentle warmth of the sun on your skin. Unwind with a good book, capture awe-inspiring moments with your camera or simply immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature, letting go of stress and embracing the beauty that surrounds you.
ESSENTIALS
The Need to Knows
DUDHIYA / Dudhiya Cottages
REGIONS
Getting There
Rukhad Jungle Camp Hilltop Lodge is approx 1½ hours from Hoedspruit Eastgate airport. It can be accessed via a rental car.
Directions from Hoedspruit Airport
As you exit the Airport, turn left for Timbavati Game Reserve onto Argyle Road. Continue until you reach the Enkhulu control gate of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. Please note that continuous cell phone reception ends here.
Aim to arrive by 2.30pm, if possible so that you have ample time to settle in before the game drive. If you are going to be late due to unforeseen circumstances, please let us know on (015) 793-9021.
After the gate you continue on the tar road for approximately 37km. Please ensure that you keep to the speed limit (50km/hour) and do not get out of your car. On the way you will see the turnoff for Rukhad Jungle Camp River Lodge. Do NOT turn in here.
You will later cross a low water bridge just before the entrance to Ingwelala game lodge. After another 800 meters, you will see the Rukhad Jungle Camp Hilltop sign on your right.
Turn right onto a gravel track. Follow the Rukhad Jungle Camp Hilltop Lodge paw print signs on the trees/side of road all the way to the lodge (for approximately 10km). Please keep a careful lookout for all signs, as the elephants sometimes knock them.
Please do not rely on your GPS after Hoedspruit. Their directions are incorrect and this could mean a two-hour detour.
Timing
From Johannesburg Airport – ± 6½ to 7 hours’ drive (505km)
From Kruger Airport – 3½ + hours (210km)
From Hazyview – 3 hours (160km via the R40)
Directions from Johannesburg to Rukhad Jungle Camp Hilltop Lodge (± 6½ – 7 hour drive)
The most direct route is via N4 then Dullstroom to Lydenburg and Ohrigstad and onto Hoedspruit. However some people prefer to take the northern route via Polokwane and Tzaneen as there are fewer potholes. See Downloadable Directions.
From Johannesburg take the N12 to Witbank (Emalahleni) and continue on the N4 towards Nelspruit. (From Pretoria, take the N4 to Witbank). Follow the N4 and turn left to Belfast (Off ramp R33/R540). Once in Belfast, turn right into Voortrekker Street and continue straight on the R540 to Dullstroom.
Drive straight through Dullstroom and continue to Lydenburg (name change to Mashishing) on the R540. At the T-junction turn left into Lydenburg (Mashishing) into Viljoen Street (R36). Turn left again into Voortrekker Street. Turn right into De Clercq Street and follow the R36 through Ohrigstad. After the Abel Erasmus pass, the R36 turns left to Tzaneen. Do not turn left here. Instead continue straight on the R527 to Hoedspruit.
In Hoedspruit, continue straight. After the bridge crossing the railway line, turn right at the four way stop and continue south on the R40 for another 6.4km. Turn left onto the D1909 (Argyle Road). The sign says Timbavati/Eastgate Airport road. Then follow the Hoedspruit directions to the Lodge.
Directions from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport or Hazyview
KMIA – 3½ hours (210km) * Hazyview – Allow 2½ to 3 hours (160km)
The most direct route from Kruger Intl Airport is via the R40 thorough White River and Hazyview. Similarly if you are staying in or near Hazyview, the R40 north is the direct route. Just 6.5km south of Hoedspruit. You turn right onto the Timbavati/Eastgate Airport road. Allow 1½ hours to get from Hazyview to the Timbavati turnoff. Then another hour to get to the Lodge. Once on the Timbavati Road, you immediately pass the Eastgate Airport. Then follow the Hoedspruit directions to the Lodge.
Alternative Panorama route if staying at a Hazyview Lodge:
The R40 is a difficult road given the number of slow trucks and cars as well as many pedestrians. It takes longer than you would expect.
So if you have time, we recommend enjoying a tour of the Panorama route via the Blyde River canyon. Note that this is a longer route (255km from Hazyview to your lodge or 4 hours driving). En route you can stop off at the Bournes Luck potholes, Gods Window and the Three Rondavels
TIP: It takes approx 3 hours to get to Hilltop Lodge from the Three Rondavels viewpoint. So don’t leave the Three Rondavels later than 11.30am. Assuming you spend 1½ hours at the various stopping off points, we recommend leaving your lodge by 8 to 8.30am latest.
Key Tips for a Memorable Stay inside the Forest
In Room Facilities
- 2 private cottages
- Spacious accommodation (400 sq.ft. built up area) with an option of king size or twin beds along with an additional single bed
- En-suite bathroom: W/C, Shower cabinet, wash basin and 24 hour hot & cold water facility
- En-suite powder room: W/C, wash basis and 24 hour hot & cold water facility
- Complimentary organic toiletries. Hair dryer is available on request.
- Sit out verandah/ patio
- 24 hour Power backup
- Air conditioner
- Electronic safe for storing valuables
- Heaters for the winters
- Seated area – inside
- Tea & coffee making facilities
- Small refrigerator for room
- Insect repellent
- Complimentary WiFi outside the forest in nearby Bison Retreat
- Laundry service on request
- 24 hour front desk
Jungle Camps
Rukhad Jungle Camp