Tanhau

We stumbled upon Tanhau while searching for a serene getaway, and thanks to Atul of Untravel we couldn't be happier with our decision to spend a few days immersed in nature's embrace. Tanhau truly lives up to its promise of being tucked away in the wilderness, far removed from the chaos of city life. The tranquility here is unmatched, with nothing but the sounds of nature to keep you company. Even in this remote paradise, Sunando and his incredible team ensure an exceptional experience. The rooms are immaculate and cozy, the food is mouthwatering, and the service is impeccable. A heartfelt thanks to Sunando for sharing your beautiful haven with us – it’s an experience we’ll cherish forever.

Tanhau is clearly a wildlife get-away from the hustle and bustle of endless hotels, resorts, an assortment of shops, wayside tea-stalls and dhabas on the Dhangarhi-Dhikala road in Corbett Tiger Reserve. It’s a place to savour the calm, enjoy the wholesome fare, and if you are daring even venture down the steep densely forested slopes. The two ribbons of Kosi and Ramganga rivers can be seen snaking down below as one walks ***** the single jeep track. The lone forest guard at the somewhat neglected forest chowky will be happy to accompany Tanhau’s bird guide, who will take you down to the spot where Jim Corbett shot the Mohan man-eater. In fact, Sunando Sen, owner of Tanhau has marked all the spots in Jim Corbett’s quest to kill this man-eater. The single track that leads to Tanhau is also used by predators and prey alike and it is very likely that as you slumber in your cosy cottage a tiger or a leopard would have padded softly past in the very early hours of the morning. In fact, on one late evening drive, Wolfie (one of the 6 resident dogs) suddenly barked in the four-wheel drive. He had spotted a leopard. This was confirmed by the scat at the same spot the next morning. An evening chat with Sunando will excite you with tales of tiger movements in and around Corbett. He also keeps chickens and there is a resident pair of Changeable Hawk-eagles ready to pounce on them. And they do when they get an opportunity. A birding stroll will take you through the local village, and their residents will instantly offer their simple hospitality with a chai. A water source attracts lots of birds, and during the monsoon even elephants climb up to drink.

Tanhau is one of the most scenic home-stays that my partner and I have had the pleasure of staying at! Special shout out to Umaid ji, Subhash bhaiyya and Bhagat bhaiyya for making our stay memorable with their accommodating nature and supreme care to the smallest details. Great food, amazing array of delicious snacks and soul-satisfying chai! All our cravings were met. Picnic by the Kosi river is highly recommended! The drive is stunning and Subhash bhaiyya ensures that you get a private spot by the river. Please picture enjoying a steaming hot plate of biryani, basking in the warm sun with your legs dipped in the cool waters of the Kosi. Bliss! Tip for fellow travellers: Plan for a minimum of three nights as it takes a while to acclimatise to the sheer beauty of the place :) I can’t possibly conclude the review without mentioning the best bit - the six doggos at the property - I have left a piece of my heart with Wolfie, Mojo, Shrek, Karma, Shai and Bolt! Dollar is another cutie who does cameos at Tanhau! Morning walks with them are highly highly recommended! Big thanks to our generous hosts Sunando and Surya for their stellar hospitality! They have truly carved a piece of heaven for themselves and for the guests at Tanhau, and handle a lot of logistical difficulties and multiple invisible challenges that would come in providing such seamless service to guests, with utmost grace. I am already planning my next visit! :)