KABINIeath your wings

A couple of unusual summer days, middle of May, where the earth was arid, the sun was at its hottest, and we expected Kabini to offer us the quintessential cats sighting!

We reached Kaav Safari Lodge, a place which is a haven for birders and butterfly enthusiasts, like its manager PK. Kabini is for the ardent nature enthusiast. The message is simple, ‘go deep into the jungle or go home!’

Kabini offered an eclectic platter of experiences. First of which were the sudden rains! Absorbing conversations ensued on the flora and fauna, viewing striking landscapes over hot pakodas and tea! It’s always a good idea to eat light and at regular intervals by making quick stopovers at small stalls on the highway.

The forest safari rides had a plethora of wildlife — elephants, sambar deer, spotted deer, barking deer, langurs, Malabar giant squirrel, crested serpent eagle, changeable hawk eagle, turtles, all turning in to say hi! The cats decided to skip it, unfortunately! All that the guides informed us was the well-rehearsed — “The waterholes in the core areas must have filled up. So no animal movement!” Yet, this is among the best places for jungle retreat.

— As told to Pooja Prabhan