About
A story rooted in nature.
Ratapani Range Retreat is more than a destination — it is the culmination of a journey spanning over four decades.
The Journey
Three lives of one piece of land.
The story began in 1982, when Lt. Colonel Lawrence Paul established an herb farm here. Today, the land has embraced its third transformation.
- 1982
The Herb Farm
Lt. Colonel Lawrence Paul established an herb farm on this land, recognising the region's abundance of medicinal plants and its ideal natural environment.
- The Years After
The Goat Farm
As the years passed, the property evolved into a thriving goat farm, where generations of animals flourished amidst the rocky hills and dense forests.
- Today
The Third Transformation
Ratapani Range Retreat was created as an extension of our own home — a peaceful sanctuary where guests can disconnect from city life and reconnect with nature.
Where We Are
Beside the forests of Ratapani.
Located near Mandwa Rampura, Sultanpur Cross Roads in the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh, the retreat enjoys an enviable location beside the forests of the Ratapani Tiger Reserve.
Guests experience a rare combination of wilderness, comfort and warm hospitality while remaining close to some of India's most celebrated heritage destinations, including Bhimbetka, Bhojpur and Sanchi.
Nature first. Hospitality always.
Our Mission
To help guests slow down, breathe deeply and create lasting memories — through jungle safaris, bird watching, boating, fishing and authentic local cuisine, each experience thoughtfully designed around the forest.
Our Vision
To welcome guests to experience the wilderness as it was meant to be — untouched, timeless and unforgettable — while leaving the land better than we found it.
Nature
The forest was here first. Every decision on the estate begins with what the land can carry.
Hospitality
Guests are received the way we receive family — personally, without scripts or formality.
Sustainability
Local sourcing, minimal footprint and respect for the reserve's rules, always.
Guest Voices
What our guests remember.
An oasis of hospitality amidst the jungle
“We stayed for two peaceful days at the resort, enjoying the beauty of nature, the good food and the company of our host. Our five year old son was thrilled by the experience of driving in an open Jeep and by the sights of an early morning safari. The stay provided the ideal complement to our previous visit to the Bhimbetka caves, resulting in a perfect blend of culture and nature.”
A writer's paradise
“Quaint. Undisturbed. Delightfully set amid rare flora and fauna. A great place to enjoy nature in a meditative sort of silence. Tasty home cooked meals are served with warmth and care, with ingredients freshly procured from the owner's farm. Jungle safari, treks, photography, good food, reading, bonfire, writing or painting — travellers seeking television, DJ or shopping, please avoid.”
What an exciting place
“The magic started at the entrance — a long drive in jeeps brings you to another world, a place apart. The place is so authentic and quiet, the rooms comfortable with open fires, and I especially liked the outdoor showers. In the evening we gathered around a large bonfire, and were entertained by a group of local villagers who came out of the dark and performed amazing dancing that enthralled us.”
Peaceful
“Very nice place to stay if you want to experience some nature. The staff are super friendly, they cook excellent food and the place is very nicely decorated. The nature around it is interesting and you'll see many birds and other animals. It can get very cold at night in the winter months, so do bring warm clothes.”
Away from it all, for a wonderful experience
“It started on the road, where we left our driver and got into a jeep — the only way to reach the retreat. After two kilometres on bumpy roads we arrived. The rooms are very big, the terrace very spacious, and ours had a lovely sight over the surroundings. We had good food, plenty of jeep safaris in the jungle and walks around small villages. We loved the staff, who were very helpful.”
An unforgettable experience
“Ratapani was such a memorable experience for me. It was filled with wonderful people, exciting new sights and an amazing atmosphere of adventure. The rooms were lovely and comfortable and the food was exquisite. This wonderful place was filled with so many surprises. All in all an amazing place that I cannot wait to return to.”
Nearby Heritage
History within driving distance.
Bhimbetka Rock Shelters
Bhojpur Temple
Sanchi Stupa
Raisen Fort