Sterling Holiday Resorts Ltd (SHRL), a leisure and hospitality company, has opened Sterling Bandhavgarh in Madhya Pradesh, expanding its presence across Central India’s wildlife destinations and strengthening its wilderness tourism portfolio.
Located in Tala village, about 2.5 km from the Tala Gate of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, the resort has 26 rooms across four categories.
The opening supports Sterling’s strategy of developing wildlife holidays as a distinct leisure segment, with resorts across 15 wildlife destinations in India.
Resort offers varied accommodation
The property features Machan Suites with private machans and outdoor showers, Courtyard Rooms with balconies, Safari Tents with private sit-outs and Forest Rooms. A swimming pool, gardens and outdoor relaxation spaces provide facilities for guests between excursions.
The resort offers access to the Tala safari zone, while Magadhi and Khitauli zones can also be explored subject to Forest Department permits and regulations. Birdwatching, village walks, nature trails and cycling provide alternatives to safaris.
Heritage adds to wildlife experience
Bandhavgarh combines tiger habitats and diverse landscapes, including sal forests and open meadows, with historical attractions such as Bandhavgarh Fort, ancient caves and the reclining Vishnu at Shesh Shaiya.
“India’s wilderness destinations are far more diverse than the wildlife they are famous for. Every forest has its own landscape, history, culture and cuisine—and therefore a different story to discover. Bandhavgarh is particularly compelling because it brings together one of India’s celebrated tiger habitats with centuries of heritage and the distinctive culture of Baghelkhand,” Sterling Holiday Resorts, Managing Director and CEO, Vikram Lalvani, said.
He said the company aims to create richer family holidays by combining wildlife experiences with local culture and opportunities to connect different forest destinations, including Bandhavgarh and Kanha.
Regional cuisine shapes guest experience
The resort’s restaurant, The Sal, will serve regional preparations such as Birra ki Roti, Saal Patta Murgh, Baans Mein Pakaya Chawal and Kumhde ki Kheer.
The culinary offering also includes a Jungle Thali showcasing Baghelkhand flavours and Gaon ki Rasoi, inspired by local cooking traditions. Outdoor dining and bonfire evenings add to the nature-focused experience.
Partnership expands Central India presence
“Our association with Sterling at Kanha has given us the confidence to extend this partnership to Bandhavgarh. Sterling brings strong operating expertise, brand reach and an understanding of how to create distinctive destination experiences,” Mahalaxmi Commercial Service owner, Pranav Sharma, said.
Sterling sees potential to develop combined Bandhavgarh–Kanha itineraries, allowing travellers to experience different landscapes and wildlife habitats in one holiday.