Tendu Leaf: A quiet retreat by the Ken

In an age dominated by social media, WA notifications and constant streaming of OTT channels, the stillness here comes as a quiet shock. At first, the absence of digital noise feels unfamiliar, like stepping into a world where the usual background noise has been gently erased. But as the silence takes hold, subtler sounds begin to emerge: the chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves and the soft hum of insects rising with the dusk. We are at Tendu Leaf Jungle Resort & Spa, nestled in the heart of Panna Reserve, Madhya Pradesh. Here, there’s no need for pretence or performance – just the rare freedom to simply be.

There’s no grand entrance to the resort. Instead, we’re welcomed by an undisturbed stillness that gently unfolds around us. “The resort is around 500 m from the main gate of Panna Tiger Reserve and 25 km from the Khajuraho Airport. It’s a fully eco-friendly property, built using 80 per cent recycled materials. We’ve made a conscious effort to preserve the natural surroundings, using minimal artificial lighting to avoid disturbing wildlife,” shares Resort Manager Manish Sachan.

The resort features 26 well-designed cottages, divided into three categories: Deluxe Huts, Luxury Huts and Family Huts, each reflecting a unique connection with the forest around. We checked into the Sunbird Room, one of the Deluxe Huts that have been named after birds like mynas, parrots and ducks. With its thatched roof, warm wooden interiors and soft, earthy tones, the room exuded an old-world charm that instantly put me at ease. Large windows opened up to serene forest views, while a shaded sit-out quickly became my favourite spot for morning coffee and quiet reflection.

Inspired by native trees such aspeepal, khajoor andbanyan, the Luxury Huts come with refined touches and a soothing sense of space for those seeking a more indulgent stay. On the other hand, the Family Huts come with more interesting forest-related names like Eagle’s Nest, Heera Panna and Tiger Den, perfect for ones travelling in groups. These offer generous layouts but have the same connect with Nature. However, what I loved most was how each room was conceptualised to invite the outdoors in – wide windows, cool wooden floors and shaded sit-outs keep you connected with the forest at all times.

The resort offers a thoughtfully curated range of activities that ease you into the natural rhythm of the jungle. The soft morning light forces you out of bed early and invites you to explore. “At our core, we are an activity-based experiential resort. It’s not just about checking into a room, it’s about engaging with the landscape and local culture,” says Ravi Mongia, the resort’s Marketing Manager. Step outside and the forest unfolds in every direction. With sunlight piercing through the dense canopy, I chose to begin my day with a leisurely bike ride. Pedalling along winding paths within the resort and through pockets of thick jungle, I moved unhurried and undistracted – surrounded by a peaceful quiet that felt both grounding and restorative.

A swim later in the morning added a refreshing pause before the day warmed up. What stood out most was how every activity was designed to keep one connected to the setting without ever feeling busy or packed. Some other highlighted activities in the resort include fishing sessions at nearby water bodies, on-demand yoga sessions, indoor games, gym and pottery workshops with locals.

Sharing more about the activities at the Resort, Sachan shares, “Guests often describe the experience as peaceful and rejuvenating. From morning walks and cycling to restful sleep and no-wi-fi rooms, everything has been designed to help people disconnect with the outer world and just slow down.”

One can also spend hours at the deck by the Ken River and just watch the water flow. “If you want to experience everything we offer, two nights is the best option as it allows you to disconnect, breathe and absorb Nature’s rhythm,” adds Mongia. Guests can also choose to use electric rickshaws that are available for moving around, and there’s a dedicated conference space for groups or corporate meets.

Celebrations are quiet but meaningful at the resort. “Loud music is a strict no as it disrupts the natural environment and local wildlife. That said, we don’t stop people from celebrating. What happens is quite beautiful. Guests often opt for karaoke sessions, acoustic music or intimate open-air dinners,” says Mongia. Additionally, street lights are intentionally kept dim at night, casting a warmth and quiet glow that lets the forest remain just as it is after dark, unbothered, untouched and full of calm. “Everything has been preserved in its natural state. Only essential pathways have been constructed,” adds Sachan. From the open spaces to the muted colours, everything has been designed to not distract but soothe.

The food is as rooted as the forest. The kitchen draws from regional flavours, with dishes like Bundelkhandi thali, which include Maheri (slow-cooked broken wheat with buttermilk), Baffori (chickpea flour pakoris), Besan ke Aaloo (chickpea flour balls with dried amla), Khopra Pak (grated coconut and cardamom sweet), and Ras Kheer (sugarcane juice and milk dessert)., Amla Murabba, Karela preparations and Aam Panna during summers. Most ingredients come from nearby villages or the resort’s organic farm, run by locals. “We focus on reflecting the essence of Madhya Pradesh through our cuisine. Everything, from the dishes we serve to the ingredients we use, aims to highlight local flavours and culinary heritage,” explains F&B Manager Dinesh Kumar. 

The menu changes with the season. “Our focus is on local procurement and seasonal freshness,” explains Kumar. The kitchen also experiments with fruits and traditional techniques. “We make local wine using fruits found in this region. From the same fruits, we prepare kheer which is delicious and comforting,” he says. Even the staff –chefs, guides and hosts are from around Panna.

As we bid goodbye to Tendu Leaf Jungle Resort & Spa, one must admit that it is not just a place to stay, but a quiet invitation to return to something we miss during our busy city lives. It is this blend of quiet charm, rooted practices and beautiful design that truly sets the resort apart. “It’s a combination of proximity and purpose. Being so close to the airport yet fully immersed in wilderness is something a few properties offer,” Sachan concludes.