The Winners and Runners Up for 2023
The John Wakefield Memorial Award for Most inspirational Eco lodge of the Year 2023
Outstanding Pug Rating Lodges
JOINT WINNERS: Waghoba Eco Lodge, Tadoba, Maharashtra & Mela Kothi - Chambal Safari Lodge, Chambal, Uttar Pradesh
Waghoba Eco Lodge - Tadoba, Maharashtra
A model of sustainable retreat. Through eco-friendly adobe construction, rainwater harvesting, and rewilding, it champions green architecture and responsible tourism, placing a strong emphasis on wildlife conservation in the buffer zone of Tadoba Tiger Reserve.
Mela Kothi - Chambal Safari Lodge, Uttar Pradesh
Dedicated to sustainability, providing an immersive experience in the region’s natural and cultural heritage. With a commitment to eco-friendly practices, they offer a harmonious blend of environmental stewardship and cultural exploration.
JOINT RUNNERS UP: Barahi Jungle Lodge, Chitwan, Nepal & Banjaar Tola, A Taj Safari, Kanha, Madhya Pradesh
Barahi Jungle Lodge - Chitwan, Nepal
Prioritizes sustainable tourism, embracing eco-friendly practices to minimize the environmental impact. Actively supporting local initiatives, they foster a symbiotic relationship with the community and the diverse biodiversity of Chitwan.
Banjaar Tola, A Taj Safari - Kanha, Madhya Pradesh
Prioritizes sustainable tourism and community involvement. Through eco-friendly practices and local engagement, they strive for a harmonious coexistence, fostering environmental awareness and supporting community well-being.
The John Wakefield Memorial Award for Most inspirational Eco lodge of the Year 2023
Quality PUG rating Lodges
WINNER: Bori Safari Lodge, Bori, Madhya Pradesh
Bori Safari Lodge - Bori, Madhya Pradesh
Dedicated to community and environmental initiatives. With a commitment to sustainable tourism, they actively support local communities, conservation efforts, and eco-friendly practices. Their initiatives aim to enhance the overall well-being of the region, creating a positive impact on both the environment and the local residents.
JOINT RUNNERS UP: Utsav Camp - Sariska, Rajasthan & Heritage Resort - Hampi
Utsav Camp - Sariska, Rajasthan
A sustainable nature retreat adopting a Zero Mile approach to reduce its carbon footprint. Through effective waste management, clean energy practices, and the promotion of indigenous trees for wildlife, the camp is dedicated to environmental conservation and responsible tourism.
Heritage Resort - Hampi
Places a strong emphasis on sustainability. With 80% local staff, organic farming, water recycling, and a zero-food-waste approach, the lodge actively engages guests in naturalist and wildlife initiatives.
The Billy Arjan Singh Memorial Award for Wildlife Guide of the Year 2023
WINNER: Benny Kurian, Kerala
sponsored by
Benny Kurian, Kerala
Stands out as a seasoned wildlife expert and adventure tour leader, with 30 years of experience. His role as a KTTS naturalist trainer contributes to community-based tourism projects.
JOINT RUNNERS UP: Deeksha Kargeti - Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand & Krishna Kumar - Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan
Deeksha Kargeti
A licensed guide in Corbett with a Master’s in English, challenges gender norms. A devoted advocate for women’s empowerment and wildlife preservation, she stands out in her commitment to breaking barriers and fostering positive change.
Krishna Kumar
A Guide since 2004, Krishna Kumar brings insight to small groups exploring India’s parks, emphasizing sustainability and conservation. Certified as a naturalist in 2000, he actively contributes to tiger protection and responsible tourism.
Wildlife Promotion Company Of The Year 2023
WINNER: Soar Excursions, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Soar Excursions, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Led by wildlife biologist Aditya, specializes in birding and wildlife photography tours. Committed to sustainability, they initiated vulture conservation efforts and actively engage in skill development with local communities.
Wildlife Tourism Community Initiative of the Year 2023
WINNER: Anirudh Chaoji - Ran Mangli Foundation, Maharashtra
sponsored by
Anirudh Chaoji - Ran Mangli Foundation, Maharashtra
Anirudh a devoted conservationist, founded his foundation to drive environmental initiatives. Leading projects in wilderness education, community-partnered conservation, habitat restoration, and sustainable practices, his commitment shines through in creating a positive impact on the planet’s biodiversity.
JOINT RUNNERS UP: PashooPakshee - Mumbai, Maharashtra & Unexplored Bastar - Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh
Pashoopakshee - Mumbai, Maharashtra
Offers socially responsible souvenirs at India’s attractions, collaborating with local artisans to promote sustainable livelihoods. Through partnerships with nonprofits and training programs, they actively foster inclusion and support marginalized communities.
Unexplored Bastar - Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh
A Chhattisgarh-based travel startup, places a strong emphasis on sustainable tourism through a community-based approach. Established officially in 2016, it initially began as a Facebook page in 2011 and has since reached great heights.
Wildlife and Tourism Initiative of the Year 2023
WINNER: Drenmo Lodge - Dras, Ladakh
sponsored by
Drenmo Lodge - Dras, Ladakh
The first Himalayan Brown Bear sanctuary in Western Ladakh, is managed by Muzammil and a dedicated conservation team. It offers an authentic bear tracking experience, promoting wildlife coexistence in Drass villages.
International Wildlife Tour Operator of the Year 2023
WINNER: Exodus Adventure Travels - Washington, United States
Exodus Adventure Travels - Washington, United States
Places a strong emphasis on sustainability, actively participating in the restoration of wild areas and efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Specializing in eco-friendly adventures in India’s national parks, they are dedicated to supporting tiger conservation and fostering community development.
RUNNER UP: Daktari Travel GmbH - Cologne, Germany
Daktari Travel GmbH - Cologne, Germany
A German tour operator, specializes in sustainable travel in Africa and India, prioritizing environmental and animal protection. They provide authentic, responsible travel experiences that support local communities and contribute to wildlife conservation projects.
Lodge Naturalist Of The Year 2023
JOINT WINNERS: Amith Bangre - Jaagir Manor, Dudhwa, Uttar Pradesh & Erwin Agnel D'Rose - Jehan Numa Palace Hotel, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
sponsored by
Amith Bangre - Jaagir Manor, Dudhwa, Uttar Pradesh
Chief Naturalist at Jaagir Manor in Dudhwa, boasts 20 years of experience. Beginning as a wildlife enthusiast, he evolved into a skilled photographer and a fervent advocate for eco-tourism and conservation initiatives.
Erwin Agnel D'Rose - Jehan Numa Palace Hotel, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
A dedicated guide with Jehan Numa for a decade, excels in wildlife and conservation. Serving as an expedition leader, he actively promotes sustainability and provides valuable tips to guests, enhancing their understanding of eco-friendly practices.
Wildlife Photography Award of the Year 2023
WINNER: Shivang Mehta
Shivang Mehta
A renowned wildlife photographer and Canon Ambassador, distinguished as an accomplished author and photojournalist specializing in wildlife stories. As a fellow of iLCP (International League of Conservation Photographers), his debut book, “A Decade with Tigers,” has achieved bestseller status, showcasing his profound dedication to capturing and sharing the beauty of the natural world.
Wildlife Documentary Award of the Year 2023
WINNER: Saving the Bone-Swallower - by Mayuresh Hendre
Saving the Bone-Swallower - by Mayuresh Hendre
A documentary by Mayuresh Hendre explores the surprising role of the endangered Greater Adjutant stork in an urban ecosystem on a northeast Indian landfill, challenging perceptions.
RUNNER UP: The Last Hope - Frog Conservation Documentary from Western Ghats - by Pradeep Hegde
The Last Hope - Frog Conservation Documentary from Western Ghats - by Pradeep Hegde
A documentary by Pradeep Hegde, a conservationist filmmaker, highlights frog conservation in the Western Ghats. He focuses on creating compelling narratives that help the broader public connect to intricate and complex information.
Wildlife Harmony Homestay Award of the Year 2023
WINNER: Bukpa Homestay - Village Maan, Pangong, Ladakh
Bukpa Homestay - Village Maan, Pangong, Ladakh
Owned by a renowned astronomer, offers eco-friendly lodging at 14,000 ft. Operating on solar energy, the homestay features mud brick construction and provides unique star-gazing experiences for guests.
The Kailash Sankhala Award for Transformative Sustainable Tourism Potential of the Year 2023
WINNER: Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, Uttar Pradesh
Sanctuary Asia Award for The Best Sustainable Wildlife Tourism State of the Year 2023
WINNER: Madhya Pradesh Tourism board
