Meenakshi happens to be the resident elephant of Orange County, and although she may be a different breed than those other creatures from Orange County that exist on Bravo, it is here at this boutique eco-retreat in Southern India where bathing Meenakshi is one of the many wildlife encounters you can experience at Orange County Resort. Bordered on two sides by the Kibini River, Orange County Kibini is a unique world class luxury resort built in traditional tribal village style with palm thatched lodges. This wildlife haven in the Kadu Kuruba tribe heartland provides jungle adventures, India’s ancient healing secrets inside their Ayurvedic Spa, two restaurants that appeal to your inner-foodie, and a scenic reading lounge.
The resort’s stunning position close to two national parks- Nagarhole and Bandipur- translates into outstanding wildlife experiences and fascinating encounters with nature, as this is home to India’s most endangered species- including the world’s largest congregation of Asiatic elephants. Elephant rides, coracle rides down the river, tribal dance and jeep safari’s that head into the parks to glimpse the occasional leopard or elusive Bengal tiger are available to guests. The lodges are a mix of chic ethnic furnishings and traditional craftsmanship that include a private pool or outdoor jacuzzi, and even if you don’t dip into the infinity pool with sweeping panoramic vistas, Meenakshi can cool you down in one enormous splash with her trunk. Whether a honeymoon destination or family vacation, the spirit of land philosophy is present amidst the excellent amenities and top notch hospitality. I think Meenakshi would make a far better character on Bravo’s Orange County by the way…just saying. www.slh.com/hotels/orange-county-kabini/
