Escape to Paradise: Dubare Elephant Camp's Jungle Lodges Await!
Jungle Bliss or Tourist Traumatized? My Honest Take on Dubare Elephant Camp's Jungle Lodges
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the chai on Dubare Elephant Camp's "Escape to Paradise" Jungle Lodges. Forget sanitized brochure copy – I’m giving you the real deal, the good, the questionable, and the "wish I'd known before I went." This won't be pretty, but it will be honest. And hopefully, it'll help you decide if this jungle jaunt is worth your precious vacation time (and money).
First Impressions: The Good… and the Gritty
Landing in Dubare, you're hit with that familiar humid air – good sign for a jungle, right? The "escape" starts with a rickety (but charming) drive to the lodges. Accessibility, I'll be straight with you, is a mixed bag. The main areas, like the restaurant and reception, are okay, maybe a slight slope here and there. But the lodges themselves? Forget it if you need serious wheelchair access. Think rough terrain, uneven paths, and a whole lotta stairs. (Accessibility: Mixed - limited for wheelchair users). (Facilities for disabled guests: Limited)
The initial vibe screams "rustic luxury" – think wooden cabins nestled amongst the trees. The lodges are… well, let’s call them "charming." They weren't exactly spotless but they weren't filthy either, somewhere in between. They're equipped with pretty much the essentials -- air conditioning (thank GOD!), a decent shower, and a balcony to soak in the jungle sounds. (Available in all rooms: Air conditioning, Wi-Fi [free], and honestly, those little things are a lifesaver. No one wants to be sweating like a pig in a blanket in their room!) They even have a little seating area, perfect for nursing a cold Kingfisher after a long day getting sweaty.
The Elephant in the Room (Pun Intended): The Elephant Camp Itself
Here's the big draw, the reason you're likely considering this place: the elephants. Honestly, the interaction is incredible. The mahouts (elephant keepers) are AMAZING, so knowledgeable and genuinely caring for these majestic creatures. Bathing the elephants, feeding them… it's truly a magical experience. Just prepare for a LOT of mud. And maybe a slight whiff of, well, you know. But it's a small price to pay for seeing these magnificent animals up close and personal. (Things to do: This is the BIG draw - Elephant interaction, is an absolute must-do, which is what this resort is all about.)
Food, Glorious Food… Or Not?
Okay, let’s talk about the grub. The main restaurant is where you'll do most of your dining. It's a buffet situation, which, while convenient, can get a little… predictable. (Dining: Buffet in restaurant). They have a good mix of Indian and international cuisine. (Dining: Asian cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant). The Asian options were generally good, the Indian were… well, some hits, some misses. (Dining: Vegetarian restaurant, A la carte in restaurant, Breakfast service, Western cuisine in restaurant). The breakfast buffet was decent, omelets made to order were a treat. I made my fair share of breakfasts and lunches, because the Indian food was not made to my tastes. (Dining: Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast takeaway service)
Now, the room service… that was a different story. (Dining: Room service [24-hour]). 24-hour service sounded great in theory, until I tried ordering a midnight snack and got the equivalent of a shrug over the phone. The service was not up to the standards. (Services and conveniences: Facilities for disabled guests, Concierge)
Honestly, don't come for the Michelin-star dining. Come for the experience and the incredible elephants.
Relaxation and Rejuvenation or "Where's the Spa, Dude?"
The lodge isn't exactly a spa haven. They have a basic massage service. (Ways to relax: Massage), But don’t expect a full-blown spa day with all the bells and whistles. This isn't a spot for pampering, the kind of place where women get a body scrub, body wrap, the sauna, or a steam room. If you're looking for a lot of downtime and relaxation, maybe this isn't your perfect getaway. (Ways to relax: Spa/sauna, Pool with view, Sauna, Spa, Steamroom).
They do have a decent outdoor swimming pool. (Swimming pool: Swimming pool [outdoor]) And you can chill on your balcony with a book and a cold drink, listening to the jungle noises. Which, to be fair, is pretty darn relaxing. (Things to do: Poolside bar),
Cleanliness and Safety: The COVID Concerns
This is where I was genuinely impressed. Dubare Lodge takes the whole COVID thing seriously. They had hand sanitizers EVERYWHERE, staff were masked up, and they were constantly cleaning common areas. (Cleanliness and safety: Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer,) They also do the room sanitization between stays. (Cleanliness and safety: Rooms sanitized between stays).
They also have a doctor can come to you. (Cleanliness and safety: Doctor/nurse on call). They offer contactless check-in/out, and you get a whole safety package and the hotel staff is trained in safety protocols. (Cleanliness and safety: Check-in/out [express], Staff trained in safety protocol, Contactless check-in/out). Makes you feel good when you're traveling.
The WiFi Woes… or Wi-Fi Wins?
Okay, so "Escape to Paradise" doesn't mean "Escape from the Internet." They have Wi-Fi! (Internet: Internet access – wireless, Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!) And it mostly works! It wasn't blazing fast, mind you – think more "glacial pace" than "lightning quick" – but it was enough to check emails, upload some photos, and annoy my friends with my jungle adventures. (Internet: Internet services, Wi-Fi in public areas).
The Extras (or the Bits and Bobbles):
- Services and Conveniences: They do offer laundry service (thank you, laundry gods!), and currency exchange, and a gift shop. (Services and conveniences: Laundry service, Currency exchange, Gift/souvenir shop).
- For the Kids: This place SEEMS to be family-friendly. (For the kids: Family/child friendly, Babysitting service). I saw a few families with kids, but there aren't a ton of dedicated kids' facilities.
- Getting Around: Car parking is free. (Getting around: Car park [free of charge], Valet parking). They also offer airport transfer. (Getting around: Airport transfer, Taxi service).
The "Meh" Moments:
- The Mosquitos: Bring the bug spray. Seriously. You'll need it.
- The "Lost in Translation" Moments: Sometimes, communication with the staff was a little… challenging. Be patient and, if possible, learn a few basic phrases in the local language.
- The Lack of Nightlife: This isn’t a party destination. Embrace the early nights and the symphony of jungle sounds.
My Verdict: Jungle Lodge, or Not?
Okay, so here's the honest truth: Dubare Jungle Lodges isn't perfect. But is it worth it? Absolutely. The elephant experience alone is worth the trip. It's a chance to connect with nature, disconnect from the daily grind, and experience something truly unforgettable.
And now, the offer!
Escape to Paradise: Your Exclusive Jungle Adventure Awaits!
Book your stay at Dubare Elephant Camp's Jungle Lodges before [Date] and get:
- A complimentary bottle of wine to enjoy on your balcony, overlooking the lush jungle. (Dining: Bottle of water, Complimentary tea, Free bottled water)
- A 10% discount on all spa treatments.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi access, so you can share your incredible elephant selfies with the world!
But wait, there's more!
Plus, you'll be supporting sustainable tourism, helping to protect these magnificent elephants and their natural habitat.
So ditch the daily grind, say goodbye to the city, and say hello to the adventure of a lifetime. Book your escape today!
[Link to Booking Website]
Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience the magic of Dubare Elephant Camp!
My Final Thoughts: I went to paradise once, I'll go again.
**Escape to Royalty: Hotel Hanuwant Palace, New Delhi's Hidden Gem**
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're not doing a pristine, perfectly packaged travel brochure here. This is Dubare Elephant Camp, Coorg, unfiltered. Brace yourselves, it's gonna be a wild ride.
Dubare Diaries: Elephant Encounters and Existential Ramblings (Coorg, India - Oh My!)
Day 1: Arrival, Anticipation, and the Inevitable Mosquito
Morning (Lost and Found): We landed in Bangalore, which, if you're a spatial orientation champion, is nowhere near Coorg. Cue the frantic taxi haggling (always a good start, right?). Finally, we're blasting through the Karnataka countryside in a beat-up Ambassador, the smell of jasmine and diesel fuel a heady mix. I swear, the driver was playing some sort of polka-infused Indian opera. It was… something.
Afternoon (Bumpy Ride & First Impressions): The drive itself was a lesson in endurance. The roads? Let's call them "suggestions" of actual paved surfaces. But then… BAM! We hit the gateway to Coorg. Lush, green hills, that intoxicating coffee aroma hanging heavy in the air. Okay, I get why people rave about this place.
Late Afternoon (Jungle Lodges - OMG!): We finally arrived at the Jungle Lodges – Dubare Elephant Camp. Honestly, the first thought was, "Did they build this in the middle of the jungle?" Then I saw the river, the elephant, and the charmingly rustic cottages, and I was sold. The check-in was a delightful chaos of paperwork, curious monkeys eyeing our bags (note to self: hide the snacks!), and that inescapable feeling of being slightly out of your element.
Evening (Dinner, Darkness, and Demon Mosquitoes): Dinner was a buffet affair, a glorious spread of Indian delicacies and some truly questionable Western options. I, of course, went straight for the biryani. (No regrets!) After the sun dipped below the hills, we were plunged into darkness. And with the darkness, came the mosquitoes. Oh, the mosquitoes! I swear those little devils were the size of fighter jets. I could barely sleep, scratching and swatting through what felt like an eternity.
Quirky Observation: The lodge had these hilarious signs warning about monkeys stealing food. They weren't kidding. I saw one little bandit try to make off with a whole loaf of bread. Pure, unadulterated chaos. I loved it.
Day 2: Elphants, Epiphanies, and Elephantine Awkwardness (Pun Intended)
Morning (The Elephant Washing Ritual – My Moment of Zen?): This was the reason we came. We got to scrub an elephant! This was as messy and hilarious as it sounds, and it was amazing. First thing in the morning, we were shepherded down to the river. These beautiful, gentle giants awaited us. The first touch of the rough, wrinkly skin was… well, it was something else. Scrubbing the elephant with coconut husks and then giving them a bath. I felt a connection, a strange sense of peace amidst all the chaos of life.
- Rambling: The elephant's trunk felt so strong when it wrapped around me, searching for treats. The sheer power and grace of these animals made me question everything! I looked around at the chaos, at the other tourists, and I thought: "We're all just trying to connect, aren't we?" It was weird, almost a religious experience.
Mid-Morning (Elephant Ride – Mostly Fantastic, A Bit Terrifying): After the bathing session, it was time to ride. The ride was a bit nerve-wracking. Up so high, I couldn’t stop thinking about the things I've done and haven't done, the people I should have called. It was spectacular to sway through the jungle as a part of the animal, but I had a moment of sheer, unadulterated, white-knuckle terror when our elephant, a rather large and opinionated matriarch, started veering a little too close to a ravine. The mahout (elephant keeper) gave a low rumble, and she obediently straightened out. Phew!
Lunch (Food coma… again): Another buffet feast, and another food coma. I swear, the food in Coorg is designed to induce instant post-prandial sleep.
Afternoon (River Safari – Mildly Disappointing, Brilliantly Beautiful): The river safari sounded amazing in the brochure, but the reality was a bit… underwhelming. We saw a few birds, a fleeting glimpse of a mongoose, and a lot of calm waters. But, the views? Breathtaking. The jungle’s colours were a vibrant green, and the river reflected the sky above. The peace was glorious.
Evening (Campfire and Stories – Slightly Cheesy, Utterly Charming): The evening concluded with a campfire. It was touristy, a bit cheesy, and utterly charming. We shared stories, told bad jokes, and reveled in the simple pleasure of being together, away from the noise of the city.
Emotional Reaction: I was so ridiculously happy. The elephants, the jungle, the feeling of escape… that was just perfect.
Day 3: Farewell, Freedom, and the Relentless Itch
Morning (One Last Elephant Gaze): We woke early to catch one last glimpse of the camps elephants before we left. I'll miss them.
Late Morning (Departure and Afterthoughts): Saying goodbye to Dubare wasn't easy. The mosquitoes have definitely taken their toll, but it's a small price to pay, I guess.
Rambling & Honesty: This whole trip was messy, imperfect. There were moments of stunning beauty and moments of sheer, unadulterated annoyance. The food was delicious, the roads were awful, and the mosquitoes were evil incarnate. But would I go back? Absolutely. The elephants, the jungle, Coorg itself… it seeped into my soul. It left a mark. And maybe, just maybe, that's the whole point of travel.
Postscript: I'm still scratching, but I wouldn't trade this experience for all the perfectly pristine, mosquito-free resorts in the world. Go. Get yourself lost. Embrace the chaos. And for God's sake, pack some industrial-strength mosquito repellent. You'll thank me later.
Starway Hotel: Your Changzhi Medical College Stay (Luxury Awaits!)
Escape to Paradise: Dubare Elephant Camp - FAQ (Or, My Slightly-Unstable Thoughts on Going)
So, Dubare Elephant Camp. Worth the Hype? I see those Insta pics...
Okay, truth? I'm a sucker for those fluffy Instagram posts myself. Elephants frolicking, crystal-clear water, the whole shebang. Dubare's... well, it's pretty. But, and this is a big but (pun intended, given the elephant situation), it's not all perfectly curated selfies.
Think of it more as a slightly-rough-around-the-edges, authentic-ish experience. Like, yeah, you *will* probably see elephants. Up close and personal. You might even get to scrub one. And for a city slicker like me? That's pretty damn cool. Is it pure paradise? Nah. But is it a solid escape from the concrete jungle? Absolutely. It's got a certain... *charm*. A slightly muddy, mosquito-filled, "what did I just eat?" kind of charm.
What's the deal with the Jungle Lodges part? Are these actual mud huts? (I can’t handle mud huts after last summer.)
Alright, breathe. No, you *probably* won’t be sleeping in a literal mud hut. Unless something's massively changed since… well, since I was there! (Memory's a bit hazy after the jungle heat, ngl). They're more like... 'rustic-chic' bungalows. Think basic amenities, maybe a slightly wonky air conditioner (fingers crossed!), and the constant feeling that a gecko might decide to join you for breakfast.
I remember my first lodge - the door never *quite* closed right. Which was either a blessing (ventilation!) or a curse (mosquitos, tiny bugs, the general creepiness of the jungle *entering your personal space*). And the bed? Let's just say it wasn't the *most* comfortable sleep I've ever had. But! That's part of the adventure, right? (Tell yourself that, you shivering city mouse!)
What's the Elephant Bathing thing ACTUALLY like? I've seen photos...
Okay, here's the real deal about elephant bathing. It's...messy. Gloriously, wonderfully messy. You’re knee-deep in the river, giving these giant, majestic creatures a scrub down. You’ll be covered in mud, elephant slobber (yes, it happens), and probably a good amount of giggling. At least, *I* was. I felt like a giddy child!
The *smell* though? Well, let's just say it's not *rose petals*. But you quickly get used to it. It’s an experience unlike anything else. Feeling the rough skin of an elephant under your hands, the sheer power of them... it's humbling. Just be prepared to feel a little bit like you need a serious shower afterwards.
Can I ride an elephant? Is it ethical? (I have conflicting feelings.)
This is a BIG one, and it's a minefield, frankly. Dubare used to offer elephant rides, but from what I understand, they've scaled that back significantly. Which... good. I'm not going to lecture you, but the ethical implications of elephant riding are... complex. Research it! *Really* research it. Look beyond the pretty pictures and consider the elephants' well-being.
When I was there (and boy, my memory is fading!), walking alongside them, watching them interact, and especially, just *being* in their presence, felt more meaningful than any ride ever could. Trust me. Spend that time *with* them, not *on* them. Observe. Learn. You'll get a lot more out of the experience.
What should I pack? (Aside from elephant-sized sunscreen.)
Okay, packing advice from someone who probably forgot her toothbrush? (Maybe...) Definitely bring: mosquito repellent (the industrial strength stuff), light, breathable clothing (it's humid!), a good pair of walking shoes (those jungle trails are no joke), and a sun hat.
Oh! And a waterproof bag! (Trust me on this one. That river is tempting and it can get *wet*). Probably a quick-drying towel. A sense of adventure. And a willingness to embrace the chaos. Maybe your own snacks -- the food situation can be...variable.
Is it really 'Escape to Paradise'? Or is it more like... 'Escape to Slightly-Challenging Adventure'?
Honestly? Somewhere in between. It's not a perfect, polished paradise. Far from it. You'll probably encounter a few glitches: the occasional power outage, lukewarm water, a questionable-looking mosquito bite (or ten). The food - well, it depends.
But the elephants? Their gentle giants. The experience of being in the jungle, away from all the noise and the constant demands of modern life? That's pretty close to paradise. Even the imperfections... they somehow add to the charm. It's a raw, real experience. And it's one you won't forget. Even if you do get your toothbrush. Or don't.
Okay, I'm still on the fence. Convince me! What's the ONE thing that made the trip worth it FOR YOU?
Alright, I'll be brutally honest. There were moments. The heat. The bugs. The slightly dubious hygiene situation. The feeling of being *slightly* out of my comfort zone. But… the one thing? It was seeing the elephants.
There was this ONE moment. We were walking beside this HUGE bull elephant. He was just… massive. And beautiful. And he stopped, and his eyes met mine. Not in some cheesy, Disney way. Just… a connection. A shared moment of silence. And I felt... a sense of peace. A sense of something bigger than myself. It sounds a bit woo-woo, I know. But that’s what it was. And I can't put a price on that. That's the memory that's stuck with me. The slightly-muddy, slightly-imperfect memory, and that's the thing that keeps me recommending it. Go. See the elephants. That's all I gotta say. And be ready for mud. Lots of mud.
Can I expect to see other wildlife? (Aside from the mosquitoes, obviously.)
Wildlife? Potentially! ButSnooze And Stay
