Tipai Forest Villa: Luxury Resort Pick of the Week
- kgm
- May 22
- 10 min read
Location: Tehsil Kelapur Gondwakdi, Adilabad Highway Yavatmal, India
Tucked away in the untamed beauty of central India, Tipai Forest Villa is redefining what it means to escape into the wild—without compromising on comfort or conscience. Located on the edge of the Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary in Maharashtra, this luxury eco-retreat offers an immersive experience that seamlessly blends raw nature, sophisticated design, and heartfelt hospitality.
At Tipai, sustainability isn’t an afterthought—it’s the foundation. With just a handful of thoughtfully designed villas built into the forested hillside, guests are invited to engage with nature in its purest form. There are no flashy distractions—only handcrafted spaces that open to jungle canopies, the calls of distant birds, and the occasional roar of a tiger echoing from the sanctuary nearby.
Founded by Keyur Joshi, the resort embodies a bold vision: to offer a place where luxury meets purpose-driven living, where every detail—down to the locally sourced wood and zero-waste kitchen—tells a story of restoration, not disruption.
More than a retreat, Tipai is a movement toward a more meaningful way of travel. It’s no surprise that it’s fast becoming one of India’s most celebrated destinations for those who seek adventure, awareness, and tranquility—all in one unforgettable stay.
Table of Contents
Legacy and Vision (Owners)
Tipai Forest Villa is the visionary project of Keyur Joshi, co-founder of MakeMyTrip and a pioneer in India’s travel landscape. With Tipai, Joshi channels his passion for slow, conscious travel into a sanctuary that harmonizes luxury with ecological stewardship and local empowerment.
As the flagship property of Wildlife Luxuries, Tipai stands for a new generation of Indian hospitality—one that puts place before profit, and purpose at the heart of every guest experience. From employing local artisans and staff to minimizing environmental impact through low-footprint construction and regenerative practices, every element of Tipai reflects Joshi’s dedication to sustainability, cultural authenticity, and deep nature immersion.
Rather than creating just another wilderness resort, Joshi’s vision is to cultivate a model where tourism gives back more than it takes, setting a bold precedent for what luxury in India can—and should—look like.
Architectural Brilliance and Design Philosophy
The architecture of Tipai Forest Villa is a powerful expression of harmony between human habitat and natural environment. Designed to blend seamlessly into the forested slopes of Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, the resort’s layout reflects a deep respect for the land’s contours, biodiversity, and cultural identity. Rather than clearing space for development, the villas are carefully integrated into the landscape, preserving existing trees and natural rock formations.
The design uses locally sourced, reclaimed materials—such as laterite stone, teakwood, and mud plaster—to reduce environmental impact while celebrating the vernacular architecture of rural Maharashtra. Open floor plans, large, shaded verandas, and plunge pools face the forest canopy, inviting the outdoors in while maintaining comfort and privacy.
Inspired by traditional tribal dwellings, each villa is handcrafted with a minimalist ethos and a tactile richness that connects guests with their surroundings. Natural ventilation, low-energy lighting, and passive cooling strategies reduce dependence on artificial systems, making sustainability a lived experience, not just a feature.
Tipai’s architecture is not just eco-sensitive—it is eco-celebratory, offering a bold vision of how luxury design can coexist with wilderness, amplify local culture, and invite guests into an authentic relationship with nature.
Accommodations and Amenities
Tipai Forest Villa offers a rare kind of wilderness luxury—where the architecture whispers rather than shouts, and each space is built to respect the rhythms of nature. The accommodations are designed to bring the forest to your doorstep while enveloping you in eco-conscious comfort.
Private Villas with Immersive Views
Each villa is nestled discreetly along the forest edge, offering uninterrupted views of Tipeshwar’s dense canopy.
Guests enjoy private plunge pools, open-air decks, and outdoor rain showers, ideal for soaking in the stillness and sounds of the jungle.
The floor-to-ceiling openings dissolve the boundary between shelter and wild, allowing natural light, birdsong, and cool breezes to flow freely.
Biophilic, Sustainable Interiors
Interiors feature natural materials like reclaimed wood, handmade textiles, and locally sourced stone.
The design embraces biophilic principles, with soft earth tones, minimal barriers, and curated handcrafted décor.
Low-impact furnishings and passive cooling techniques ensure that comfort comes without environmental compromise.
Thoughtful Shared Spaces
A serene wellness center for yoga, meditation, and holistic therapies.
The chemical-free bio pool, surrounded by forest views, invites natural relaxation.
A library and lounge offer contemplative corners for reading or connecting.
The resort’s organic kitchen garden supplies fresh herbs and produce daily for Tipai’s plant-forward dining experiences.
At Tipai, the amenities don’t overpower—they invite you to slow down, breathe deeper, and live closer to the land.
Personalized Experiences
At Resort, every experience is curated to foster deeper connection—to the land, local culture, and self. This isn’t a place for rigid itineraries or flashy excursions. Instead, Tipai invites you into quiet adventures and intentional moments that awaken all senses.
Wildlife Encounters
Located on the edge of Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, the resort offers private guided safaris, where guests may spot tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and over 150 species of birds.
Nature walks with trained naturalists allow for slow, mindful immersion in the surrounding ecosystem.
Cultural Immersion
Participate in tribal storytelling sessions, local craft demonstrations, and visits to nearby Gond and Kolam villages to witness centuries-old traditions still alive today.
Learn about indigenous foraging practices, seasonal rituals, and traditional ways of living in sync with the land.
Wellness and Inner Journey
Rejuvenate with sunrise meditation, forest bathing, or personalized Ayurvedic therapies at the wellness center.
Stargazing, sound healing, and reflective journaling spaces allow for moments of solitude and insight.
Hands-on Sustainability
Guests can join chefs in the organic kitchen garden, learn composting methods, or explore how the resort minimizes its environmental footprint through zero-waste operations and local sourcing.
Tipai doesn’t entertain—it transforms. These curated, heartfelt experiences offer a return not just to nature, but to what truly matters.
Gastronomic Journeys (Food and Dining)
Dining at Tipai Forest Villa is a soulful expression of place, crafted with care, consciousness, and creativity. Rooted in a plant-forward, hyper-local philosophy, the resort’s culinary ethos is guided by zero-waste principles, seasonal produce, and ingredients sourced from its organic farm and nearby tribal communities.
Guests are invited to indulge in a range of immersive dining experiences—from forest picnics and private bush dinners to open-fire cooking under the stars, each thoughtfully designed to evoke a deeper connection to nature and local culture.
Three Signature Dining Venues:
Perch: An all-day dining space with a rotating menu of regional Indian cuisine. Designed with organic textures and weaver bird–inspired lighting, it offers fresh, farm-sourced meals in a nest-like setting.
Wadi: A tranquil garden-side restaurant offering hands-on culinary sessions like wood-fired pizza making, surrounded by Tipai’s lush, fragrant landscape.
Palaash: A fine dining experience curated by Chef Amninder Sandhu, featuring a seven-course degustation menu using traditional techniques and indigenous ingredients, served amid a grove of Palaash trees.
At Tipai, every meal is more than nourishment—it’s a conscious celebration of the land, the people, and the wild heart of Maharashtra.
Spa and Wellness
Wellness at Aaste the Spa Tipai is not confined to a spa menu—it’s woven into every moment of your stay. Inspired by Ayurveda, tribal healing, and forest energy, the resort’s wellness philosophy is rooted in deep listening—to the land, to the body, and to inner stillness.
Forest-Integrated Toja Spa
Nestled beneath a canopy of ancient trees, the Toja Spa offers personalized rituals using wild herbs, indigenous oils, and natural clays. Treatments range from deep tissue massages to Abhyanga and Shirodhara therapies, all delivered in semi-open sanctuaries that echo with birdsong and the rustle of leaves.
Mindfulness and Movement
Start your day with guided sunrise yoga, forest bathing, or breathwork sessions overlooking the jungle. Tipai’s instructors also offer sound healing, moon circles, and meditative walks, creating a sacred rhythm of restoration.
Wellness That Resonates
Whether you're detoxing from digital overload or realigning with your inner compass, Tipai’s wellness offerings go beyond pampering—they are invitations to reconnect, recalibrate, and reawaken.
Here, healing is not a luxury—it’s a natural state of being, rediscovered in harmony with the forest.
Top Attractions Near the Resort
While Tipai Forest Villa offers an immersive retreat into nature, the surrounding region of Yavatmal, Maharashtra, is rich with cultural, spiritual, and natural landmarks that enhance the experience.
Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
Just steps from Tipai, this 148 sq km sanctuary is home to approximately 15 tigers, along with leopards, sloth bears, and over 150 bird species. Its relatively low tourist traffic offers a more intimate wildlife experience.
Painganga Wildlife Sanctuary
Approximately 150 km from Yavatmal, this sanctuary spans 325 sq km along the Painganga River. It's renowned for its teak forests and diverse fauna, including leopards, nilgai, and a variety of bird species.
Sahastrakund Waterfall
Located on the boundary of Yavatmal and Nanded districts, this picturesque waterfall on the Painganga River is especially captivating during the monsoon season. The area also features temples like Panchamukhi Mahadev and Ram Temple.
Shree Chintamani Ganesh Temple, Kalamb
Situated in Kalamb, this temple is one of the 21 sacred Ganesh temples in India. It's a significant spiritual site, attracting devotees seeking blessings and tranquility.
Lower Pus Dam
A serene spot for picnics and relaxation, this dam offers scenic views and a peaceful environment, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Exploring these attractions provides guests with a deeper understanding of the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage, complementing the serene experience at Tipai Forest Villa.
Things You Need to Know
Planning a stay at Tipai Forest Villa means preparing for a mindful, nature-first experience that is both luxurious and grounded. Here are a few essential tips to make the most of your retreat:
Best Time to Visit: October to March offers pleasant weather and optimal wildlife sightings. Monsoon season (June–September) brings lush greenery and fewer visitors but may limit outdoor activities.
What to Pack: Lightweight, breathable clothing; a light jacket for cool evenings; insect repellent; sunscreen; reusable water bottles; and comfortable hiking shoes for forest treks.
Connectivity: Expect limited mobile reception—consider it a digital detox. Wi-Fi is available but intentionally minimal to encourage disconnection.
Cultural Etiquette: Respect tribal customs and privacy during village visits. When visiting temples or attending blessings, modest attire is appreciated.
Tipai is best enjoyed when you come with an open mind and a slow heart—ready to unplug, explore, and truly connect with the rhythms of nature.
Awards and Commitment to Sustainability
Tipai Forest Villa isn’t just a luxurious escape—it’s a pioneer of regenerative hospitality in India. Recognized for its low-impact architecture and eco-centric philosophy, the resort has gained praise from sustainability-focused travel platforms and conscious travelers alike.
Sustainable Architecture: Built using reclaimed wood, rammed earth, and lime plaster, the villas are designed to harmonize with the forest while reducing carbon impact.
Zero-Waste Initiatives: From composting and greywater recycling to avoiding single-use plastics, Tipai walks the talk on waste reduction.
Community Partnerships: The resort collaborates with local Gond and Kolam tribes, supporting traditional art forms, hiring locally, and offering craft workshops for guests.
Forest Conservation Efforts: Tipai works closely with conservationists and the Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary on reforestation projects and wildlife monitoring.
While not yet laden with formal awards, Tipai Forest Villa’s greatest accolade may be its role as a blueprint for conscious luxury in India’s wild heart.
Best Time to Visit
Tipai Forest Villa offers unique experiences throughout the year, each season revealing a different facet of the surrounding jungle:
October to March – Cool & Comfortable
Pleasant daytime temperatures and crisp evenings.
Best time for wildlife sightings, forest walks, and outdoor dining.
April to June – Warm & Wild
Hotter days, but increased chances of spotting wildlife near water sources.
Ideal for morning safaris and stargazing under clear skies.
July to September – Monsoon Magic
Lush, emerald landscapes and fewer tourists.
Perfect for those seeking solitude, photography, and the sensory beauty of a rainforest in bloom.
Each season brings its own rhythm. Whether you crave nature’s stillness or adventure’s thrill, Tipai offers a deeply immersive escape year-round.
How to Get There
Reaching Tipai Forest Villa, nestled on the edge of Maharashtra’s Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, is both scenic and straightforward, whether you're traveling by air, rail, or road.
By Air
The nearest airport is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport (NAG) in Nagpur, approximately 170 km away. From there, it's a 2.5 to 3-hour drive to the resort. Nagpur Airport is well-connected with major Indian cities, making it a convenient entry point.
By Train
The closest railway station is Adilabad Railway Station, about 44 km from Tipai. Adilabad is connected to several major cities, including Mumbai and Hyderabad. Alternatively, Nagpur Junction is a significant railhead located approximately 209 km from the sanctuary.
By Road
Tipai is accessible via well-maintained roads:
From Nagpur: Approximately 170 km, a 2.5 to 3-hour drive.
From Hyderabad: Around 350 km, taking about 6 to 7 hours by car.
From Amravati: Roughly 170 km, about a 4-hour drive.
For a seamless journey, Tipai offers private transfers from nearby airports and railway stations. Whether you choose to fly, take the train, or drive, the path to Tipai promises a tranquil transition into the heart of nature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Where is Tipai Forest Villa located?
A: Tipai Forest Villa is situated on the edge of Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary in Yavatmal district, Maharashtra, India. It offers direct access to the sanctuary’s rich biodiversity.
Q: What kind of accommodation is available?
A: Guests can stay in luxurious forest-facing villas featuring private plunge pools, open decks, biophilic interiors, and sustainable furnishings.
Q: How do I get to the resort?
A: The nearest airport is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport (Nagpur), about 2.5–3 hours away by car. Adilabad is the closest railway station (approx. 44 km). Private transfers are available.
Q: Is it family-friendly?
A: Tipai is designed primarily for adult guests and couples seeking serenity and connection with nature. It may not be ideal for young children.
Q: Are safaris included in the stay?
A: Wildlife safaris in Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary are available and can be arranged through the resort but are not typically included in the standard room rate.
Q: What is the best time to visit?
A: October to March is ideal for wildlife viewing. The monsoon (July to September) is perfect for lush landscapes and fewer tourists.
Q: Is there mobile network or Wi-Fi?
A: Wi-Fi is available in common areas, but mobile network coverage is limited—perfect for a digital detox.
Takeaway
Tipai Forest Villa is not just a destination—it’s a conscious escape into the untamed heart of India. Set against the backdrop of Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, this eco-luxury retreat redefines what it means to travel with purpose. From its biophilic design and zero-impact philosophy to immersive wildlife encounters and mindful hospitality, every element is crafted to connect you to nature, community, and self.
Whether you're sipping lemongrass tea on a forest-facing deck, listening to the calls of langurs at dawn, or joining a tribal craft session, Tipai offers a transformative experience. It’s a place where sustainability meets serenity, and luxury never feels out of place.
For those seeking a rare balance of wilderness, comfort, and intention, Tipai Forest Villa is your gateway to India’s most soulful safari experience.
❤️❤️
Forest Villa is a quiet place.
Tucked away in the untamed beauty of central India, Tipai Forest Villa is redefining what it means to escape into the wild—without compromising on comfort or conscience. Located on the edge of the Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary in Maharashtra, this luxury eco-retreat offers an immersive experience that seamlessly blends raw nature, sophisticated design, and heartfelt hospitality.
India❤️
Tipai Forest Villa is more than just a retreat; it's a commitment to sustainable luxury and a testament to harmonious living with nature.