The 7th TOFTigers Wildlife Tourism Awards, organized by TOFTigers in partnership with the Sanctuary Nature Foundation, took place at Bikaner House, New Delhi, on December 6, 2024. This prestigious event celebrated excellence in sustainable and responsible tourism across the Indian subcontinent.
Since its establishment in 2010, the TOFTigers Wildlife Tourism Awards have become a beacon for promoting ethical tourism in India. Over the years, winners have gained significant recognition for their unwavering commitment to environmentally conscious practices, inspiring others in the industry to follow suit. By acknowledging these trailblazers, TOFTigers continues to encourage meaningful contributions to wildlife conservation and environmental preservation.
Among the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the John Wakefield Memorial Award for Eco Lodge of the Year 2023. The award recognized outstanding eco-lodges, each serving as a haven for wildlife enthusiasts visiting parks within the Indian subcontinent.
- Outstanding Pug Rating Lodges
- Quality Pug Rating Lodges
Jim’s Jungle Retreat - Corbett, Uttarakhand
Winner - Outstanding Pug Rating Lodges
Jim's Jungle Retreat is a wildlife lodge located within the Corbett Tiger Reserve, offering a luxurious and eco-conscious experience. The retreat features charming cottages and bungalow-style lodges designed with local materials and historical influences. Guests can enjoy organic farm-to-table dining, birdwatching, safaris, and relaxing spa treatments. With stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including rivers, grasslands, and forests, the retreat provides a perfect blend of comfort, nature, and heritage. It embraces the rich legacy of the region's Raj-era and pastoral Van Gujjars, ensuring an unforgettable stay.
Spice Village CGH Earth Experience Hotels - Periyar, Kerala
Runner up - Outstanding Pug Rating Lodges
Located in Thekkady, Kerala, this eco-friendly resort embraces sustainability and luxury, designed to reflect a tribal village. It prioritizes locally sourced, organic produce through a "50-mile diet" concept. Guests enjoy activities like wildlife safaris, birdwatching, cooking classes, and spice tours. The resort uses solar energy for 75% of its operations and minimizes plastic waste. Its construction integrates local materials, native craftsmanship, and traditional knowledge, ensuring a harmonious relationship with the environment, much like the native communities that have lived sustainably for generations.
Surwahi Social Ecoestate - Kanha, Madhya Pradesh
Winner - Quality Pug Rating Lodges
Surwahi Social Ecoestate, located near Kanha National Park, is a sustainable, community-focused homestay that blends luxury with social responsibility. With a commitment to biodiversity, local culture, and environmental stewardship, the ecoestate creates a haven where sustainability meets comfort. The vision behind Surwahi is to nurture both the land and the people, fostering harmony between nature and community. This project goes beyond real estate—it's about creating a meaningful, eco-conscious way of living.
Kanha Jungle Camp - Kanha, Madhya Pradesh
Runner up - Quality Pug Rating Lodges
Kanha Jungle Camp, located near Mukki Gate in Kanha National Park, emphasizes conservation and community. Set in 40 acres of reforested land, the camp offers luxury cottages crafted with indigenous materials. Guests enjoy immersive safaris, gourmet dining, and unique experiences like evening bonfires. With eco-friendly practices, a local staff, and various activities such as birdwatching and nature trails, the camp provides a sustainable and serene escape in nature’s heart.
Explore the complete list of TOFT winners for 2024 by clicking here.
