The Winners and Runners Up for 2024
The John Wakefield Memorial Award for Most inspirational Eco lodge of the Year 2024
Outstanding Pug Rating Lodges
WINNER
Jim’s Jungle Retreat - Corbett, Uttarakhand
It is a wildlife lodge in Corbett Tiger Reserve, Uttarakhand. They use solar energy, organic farming, and waste recycling. Their USP is the immersive jungle experience with exclusive cottages, farm-to-table meals, and curated wildlife activities.
RUNNER UP
Spice Village CGH Earth Experience Hotels - Periyar, Kerala
An eco-friendly resort in Thekkady, Kerala, combines luxury with sustainability. The resort, designed as a tribal village, offers a “50-mile diet” concept, sourcing locally grown ingredients and organic produce. Activities include guided nature treks, birdwatching, wildlife safaris, papermaking, culinary classes, and spice tours. The resort operates sustainably, using solar power for 75% of energy and reducing plastic waste.
Quality Pug Rating Lodges
WINNER
Surwahi Social Ecoestate - Kanha, Madhya Pradesh
It is a sustainable, community-driven homestay near Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh, blending nature, luxury, and social responsibility. It promotes biodiversity, local culture, and community engagement, offering a unique experience.
RUNNER UP
Kanha Jungle Camp - Kanha, Madhya Pradesh
Located in the heart of Kanha National Park, the camp prioritises conservation, community engagement, and authentic cultural experiences. Guests can choose from elevated, semi-elevated, or ground-level cottages, and enjoy activities like guided jungle safaris, nature trails, birdwatching, stargazing, and visits to local villages. The camp employs eco-friendly practices, employs over 80% local staff, and offers a curated menu.
Outstanding Footprint Rating Lodges
WINNER: Wayanad Wild CGH Earth Experience Hotels - Wayanad, Kerala
Established in 2016, it is a nature retreat in Kerala’s Western Ghats, offering sustainable luxury and close-to-nature experiences. Guests can enjoy guided walks, birdwatching, and eco-friendly infrastructure. It is exclusive, offering serene views and a chance to disconnect from urban life. Activities include adventure trails and forest sounds, blending nature and mindful living for eco-conscious travellers.
Quality Footprint Rating Lodges
WINNER: Brij Lakshman Sagar - Todgarh, Rajasthan
Brij Lakshman Sagar, a luxury heritage resort in Pali, Rajasthan, blends traditional architecture with modern comfort. Built around a 19th-century hunting lodge, it offers secluded cottages, private plunge pools, nature walks, boating, cultural experiences, and eco-friendly practices.
Most Inspirational Eco Lodge of the Year - The Rising Star
WINNER: Kutani Bagh - Sariska, Rajasthan
Kutani Bagh Sariska is a luxurious, eco-friendly resort in Talab Village, surrounded by Aravalli Hills. Offering a blend of comfort, adventure, and cultural exploration. It offers exclusive dining experiences, customised adventures, cultural immersion, and eco-conscious hospitality.
Dr. A.J.T Johnsingh Lodge Naturalist of the Year 2024
JOINT WINNERS: Alina Chaudhary, Barahi Jungle Lodge, Nepal & Umesh Pavukandi, Wayanad Wild-CGH Earth Experience Hotels, Wayanad, Kerala
sponsored by
Alina Chaudhary, Barahi Jungle Lodge, Nepal
A naturalist at Barahi Jungle Lodge, leads wildlife conservation and responsible tourism, educating guests about Chitwan National Park’s flora and fauna. Her work empowers local communities and promotes sustainability.
Umesh Pavukandi - Wayanad Wild-CGH Earth Experience Hotels, Wayanad, Kerala
A naturalist with a keen interest in smaller creatures has made significant contributions to the scientific community, working as an Environment and Wildlife Protection Adviser for KMTR, educating locals, documenting species, and securing a stop memo for illegal granite mining in India.
JOINT RUNNER-UP: Ashish Kumar Bais, Mahua Kothi, A Taj Safari & Kshitij Gambhir, Denwa Backwater Escape, Satpura
Ashish Kumar Bais - Mahua Kothi, A Taj Safari
He has over 20 years of experience as a naturalist and guest relations executive and leads guest relations and educational programs at Mahua Kothi, Taj Safaris in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. He’s involved in key projects like tiger estimation and predation risk mapping and uses techniques like camera trapping and radio collaring for conservation.
Kshitij Gambhir - Denwa Backwater Escape, Satpura
A nature enthusiast, works with tribal and rural communities for wildlife rescue and environmental awareness. He leads the Foliage Outdoors program and participates in PRONAT, India’s first-of-its-kind Professional Naturalist Training Program, training 110 students.
The Billy Arjan Singh Memorial Award for Wildlife Guide of the Year 2024
(East Zone | CENTRAL INDIA | North Zone | NEPAL)
WINNERS: Abidur Rahman (East), Ajay Kodape (Central India), Rajesh Bhatt (North), Ramjan Chaudhary (Nepal)
sponsored by
Abidur Rahman (East)
A naturalist and birding tour leader, has 19 years of experience in tourism and conservation NGOs, focusing on the Kaziranga National Park in northeast India. He has worked with NGOs, wildlife trusts, and park authorities. He has published numerous articles on bird conservation and sustainable tourism practices.
Ajay Kodape (Central India)
An eco-tourism manager at Tadoba Tiger Project, guides tourists and manages tourism activities in the buffer zone. He provides training and offers guidance on nature trails, wildlife watching, cycling, birdwatching, and off-road activities. The revenue generated is deposited into the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve’s account, with 5% allocated for village development.
Rajesh Bhatt (North)
A wildlife guide and conservationist, has over three decades of experience. He has trained hundreds of thousands of guides and is dedicated to the welfare of the ecosystem, promoting Responsible Tourism, Rural Tourism, and Inclusive Approach.
Ramjan Chaudhary (Nepal)
For over a decade, he has been a trusted guide and friend for exploring the Terai region’s wilderness. Their expeditions have been featured on channels like National Geographic, Discovery, Travel Channel, and Curiosity Stream, showcasing the region’s wildlife. Rajan’s expertise in tracking and spotting wildlife, particularly tigers, is unparalleled. He ensures safety and professionalism during each adventure.
Wildlife Harmony Homestay Award of the Year 2024
JOINT WINNERS: Pangolakha Wilderness Homestay - Nimachen Village, Sikkim & Sakti Eco Homestay - Chun Chan, Leh
Pangolakha Wilderness Homestay - Nimachen Village, Sikkim
It is an ecotourism initiative in Nimachen village, focusing on wildlife conservation and involving local communities. It connects visitors, generates income, supports local schools, and hosts a Guide Training Program.
Sakti Eco Homestay - Chun Chan, Leh
Located in the village of Ladakh, combines traditional Ladakhi life with sustainable practices. They use organic farming and renewable energy, offering fresh, nutritious meals. The homestay is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a unique view of Ladakh’s natural beauty during harsh winter months and snow leopards.
RUNNER UP: Agoratoli Jungalow Kaziranga - Kaziranga, Assam
Agoratoli Jungalow Kaziranga - Kaziranga, Assam
Offering a peaceful experience surrounded by tea gardens, rice fields, and fishponds. Designed in a traditional tea bungalow style, it offers a blend of comfort, culture, and conservation. The homestay emphasizes sustainability and offers a chance to immerse in local Assamese culture, making it a top choice for travellers visiting Kaziranga.
Wildlife Promotion Company of the Year 2024
WINNER: Destination Management Consultants Tours Private Ltd.
Destination Management Consultants Tours Private Ltd., Delhi
DMC is a young, experienced tourism group specialising in wildlife safaris, photography trips, river cruises, and wilderness camping. They promote sustainable tourism, supporting local cultures and economies through local practices, energy-saving practices, and waste management.
RUNNER UP: Travel Inn India Private Limited & Indo Asia Leisure Services Private Limited
Travel Inn India Private Limited
An Indian travel agency, is recognised for its exceptional wildlife and luxury travel experiences. It prioritises responsible tourism, innovation, and personalisation, offering tailored journeys and carbon footprint calculations. The company supports local businesses and artisans.
Indo Asia Leisure Services Private Limited
They prioritises sustainable tourism and community development. They partner with the Holy World Foundation, support Apna Jatan, implement Guide Training Programs, promote ‘plastic-free’ Coorg, and support the Purkal Youth Development Society. They have received awards for sustainable initiatives.
Wildlife Tourism Community Initiative of the Year 2024
WINNER: Satpura Worker’s Society
sponsored by
Satpura Worker’s Society
The Satpura Tiger Reserve Cooperative and Workers Society, with 689 members, has increased income and self-sufficiency through canteens, shops, and low-interest loans. It plans to provide healthcare and training for its members.
Wildlife and Tourism Initiative of the Year 2024
sponsored by
WINNER
Kibber Sustainable Tourism Association - Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Promotes eco-friendly travel while preserving the region’s fragile environment and culture. Located in Himachal Pradesh, it involves locals in tourism activities like homestays and guided treks. Its uniqueness lies in fostering responsible tourism that protects wildlife, including the snow leopard, and sustains traditional livelihoods.
RUNNER UP
Prakash Kumar Verma - Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh
Promotes eco-friendly travel while preserving the region’s fragile environment and culture. Located in Himachal Pradesh, it involves locals in tourism activities like homestays and guided treks. Its uniqueness lies in fostering responsible tourism that protects wildlife, including the snow leopard, and sustains traditional livelihoods.
Wildlife Conservation Documentary Award of the year 2024
WINNER: Gaur - Return of The Giants, By Nishant Kapoor & Himani Singh Chouhan
sponsored by
Gaur - Return of The Giants, By Nishant Kapoor & Himani Singh Chouhan
A documentary by Nishant Kapoor & Himani Singh Chouhan, it is about the successful reintroduction of the Gaur, a mega herbivore, to Sanjay Tiger Reserve in Central India, funded by the wildlife tourism industry, emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships in wildlife conservation.
RUNNER UP: Pench : Land Of The Jungle Book by Farhan Khan & Homecoming by Amoghavarsha Janakaloti Shamarao
Pench : Land Of The Jungle Book by Farhan Khan
A documentary by Farhan Khan, it combines historical storytelling with modern conservation efforts, showcasing the challenges faced by forest rangers in preserving Pench Tiger Reserve, promoting eco-friendly tourism, and engaging local communities, inspired by Rudyard Kipling’s classic, The Jungle Book.
Homecoming by Amoghavarsha Janakaloti Shamarao
“Homecoming” by Amoghavarsha, a film about a sea turtle, raises awareness about plastic pollution in oceans through a personal narrative, highlighting the film’s commitment to environmental conservation.
Wildlife Conservation Photography Award of the year 2024
WINNER: Najish Ali Sayyad
Najish Ali Sayyad
A wildlife photographer, activist, and member of the Habitat Conservation Society, he actively contributes to conservation efforts and raises awareness about the importance of protecting and restoring flora and fauna. His conservation work focuses particularly on addressing the railway track crisis that passes through the jungles of Chandrapur. Collaborating with local NGOs, he works tirelessly to promote awareness and enhance conservation initiatives in the region.
Climate Guardian of the year 2024
WINNER
Kishan Lal Puri, Earth Focus, Kahna
Kishan Lal Puri, Project Coordinator for Earth Focus’ Nature-Based Livelihoods Program, restored 450 acres of degraded forest land in Kanha Tiger Reserve, improving soil health, biodiversity, food security, and boosting household incomes by ₹1 lakh.
RUNNER UP
The Corbett Foundation
The Corbett Foundation (TCF) is a wildlife conservation organisation that engages local communities in over 800 villages to protect endangered species, implement eco-restoration projects, and promote sustainable rural development, mitigating climate change effects.
Kailash Sankhala Visitor Friendly Wildlife National Park of the Year 2024 (Jury Nomination only)
sponsored by
WINNER: Pench Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh
Pench National Park, spanning Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, is celebrated for its rich wildlife and scenic beauty, inspiring Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. The park is home to tigers, leopards, deer, and over 200 bird species. Its uniqueness lies in its thriving tiger population and picturesque Pench River flowing through it.
Sanctury Asia Award for Best State for Sustainable Wildlife Tourism of the year 2024 (Jury Nomination only)
WINNER: Kerala
Kerala, “God’s Own Country,” is a global model for sustainable, community-driven tourism through its Responsible Tourism (RT) Mission. Spearheaded by the Kerala Department of Tourism, it emphasizes eco-friendly practices, cultural preservation, and minimal environmental impact. The Mission empowers communities by linking tourism with local livelihoods, benefiting artisans, farmers, and performers. This approach ensures grassroots populations thrive while fostering meaningful visitor experiences.
TOFT Wildlife Custodian Award of the year 2024
WINNER: Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Uttar Pradesh
Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, situated in Uttar Pradesh, is a haven for diverse wildlife within the Terai region’s lush landscapes. It shelters tigers, swamp deer, Gangetic dolphins, and rare migratory birds. Its uniqueness lies in preserving the Terai-Bhabar ecosystem and swamp deer population. It is recognised for its crucial role in rhino conservation, wildlife protection, and habitat enhancement, despite border issues and conflict, enhancing biodiversity and visitor experiences.
