From Jungle to Gentle Luxury: Tracking the Evoluion of Wildlife Tourism

By Anil Agarwala, Thathastu Resorts

From the age of six, my fascinaion with India’s wilderness has taken me deep into
forests, across grasslands, and face-to-face with nature in its purest form. Over the past 55 years, I’ve watched wildlife tourism in India evolve from humble beginnings into a sophisticated industry. My early visits – especially to Kanha National Park – were marked by rustic charm, raw adventure, and a simplicity that today feels almost nostalgic. What was once an untamed frontier has now transformed into a more structured and luxurious experience, replacing the changing ethos of how we connect with the wild.

The Early Days: 1976 to 1998

During the late 20th century, our trips to wildlife destinations were a blend of excitement and logistical
challenges. Reaching the destination itself was a herculean task, given the road conditions of those times and the travel in vehicles of the era with very limited features and facilities. The journey to the destination would take much more time and energy. Guidance on directions and suggestions of good roads was obtained from local people that we met en route, and we had no other option than to trust and follow the advice received.

We would pack essential supplies, including vegetables, cooking oil, bread, butter, jam, medicines, and an array of spices. The responsibility of cooking, especially for children, often fell to interested members of our group, while the elders would bring along their preferred liquor and accompaniments.

Accommodations were basic, and fussy travellers would carry bed sheets, pillows, and towels to ensure a
semblance of comfort. Communication was a significant hurdle; if we needed to contact the resort, we had to book a trunk call through the local telephone exchange – a concept that may seem archaic to today’s tech-savvy travellers.

Wildlife tourism was sill in its infancy, with only a handful of tourists venturing into the jungles. This scarcity made each experience feel unique and personal, creaing memories that are hard to replicate in today’s more commercialized environment. Air condiioning and generators were virtually non-existent, and aircooled rooms, introduced around 1995, were considered premium. With irregular electric supply, we would be forced to have Kandil (lantern)-lit dinners and activities. The stars, which were much more brightly visible then than today, used to be our guiding lights on the evening walks we undertook.

The dark forest would be lit up with the almost synchronized movements of lashing fireflies, and it would be truly a sight to behold. Hot water was a rare commodity, provided through wood-fired boilers, and the food, cooked on t traditional wood-fir ed Bhatis/Chulhas (stoves), had a distinctive flavour reminiscent of roadside dhabas.

Television sets were generally discouraged in wildlife resorts, as the focus was on immersing oneself in nature rather than being distracted by modern entertainment. Our safaris were often conducted in private cars, such as the iconic Ambassador, while jeeps were a coveted option among fellow travellers. Fuel stations were few and far between, prompting us to carry extra fuel in 30-litre jars to ensure we could explore the wilderness without disruption. Very few then had the luxury of owning a camera, and those who owned one of those film-roll based cameras could never be sure that the images they thought they had captured were good enough – something that could only be ascertained after the photo was developed and printed

The Modern Era: 21st Century

Fast forward to the 21st century, and the landscape of wildlife tourism has undergone a dramatic transformation. Today, travelling to the destination has become much easier , with better roads and infrastructure, GPS navigation, and better-performing vehicles. Ultra-luxury resorts are commonplace at nearly all wildlife destinations, catering to a diverse clientele. It is estimated that around 35 – 40% of guests now visit these resorts purely for leisure and recreation, with little to no interest in wildlife or safaris. For many, simply being close to nature is a sufficient draw.

The remaining 15 – 20% of guests often travel in groups, where only a fraction may be genuinely interested in wildlife experiences. The modern wildlife resort is a far cry from its predecessors, boasting an array of amenities designed to enhance comfort and convenience. Heated swimming pools, luxurious spas, multi-cuisine restaurants, and air-conditioned rooms with lavish bathrooms have become standard offerings.

Today’s wildlife resorts are equipped with modern communication facilities, including EPABX systems and contactable mobile numbers, ensuring that guests can stay connected even in remote locations. Indoor and outdoor games, libraries, and conference facilities have also become common, catering to a wide range of interests and needs.

Most importantly, the standards of hygiene and hospitality have significantly improved. Well-trained staff, equipped kitchens, spotless linens, and immaculate housekeeping have elevated wildlife resorts to a level that competes with the best in the world. The emphasis on good hygiene practices and standard operating procedures (SOPs) has become paramount, especially in the wake of global health concerns.

Conclusion

The evolution of wildlife tourism facilities from the 20th century to the 21st century is a testament to the changing preferences and expectations of travellers. While the charm of the early days – characterized by simplicity and adventure – will always hold a special place in my heart, the modern amenities and improved standards of service have made wildlife tourism more accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience. Indeed, wildlife tourism, along with its facilities, infrastructure, and culture, has come a long way, replacing not only advancements in hospitality but also a growing appreciation for the natural world. As we continue to explore the s e magnificent landscapes, it is essential to balance luxury with sustainability, ensuring that future generations can experience the wonders of wildlife just as we have.