Blackbuck Safari Lodge Velavadar

The hotel offers a unique blend of a peaceful, nature-immersed retreat with direct access to the Blackbuck National Park, making it a memorable destination. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional staff and service, delicious and varied food, spotlessly clean and comfortable rooms, and the overall serene ambiance. This makes it an ideal choice for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and bird watchers seeking an immersive experience. It is also well-suited for families and groups looking for a relaxing getaway, and couples desiring tranquility. To enhance your stay, consider booking safaris directly through the lodge to benefit from the highly knowledgeable naturalist, and be prepared for a purely vegetarian dining experience with limited mobile network connectivity, encouraging a true "detox" from urban life.

Facilities & Amenities
The resort features a gorgeous pool area, which, despite some comments about its smaller size, is consistently described as clean and well-maintained. The property boasts an artificial lake or pond and expansive grasslands designed to mimic the nearby national park, creating a natural habitat that attracts various bird species. Guests can enjoy a bicycle track for fitness enthusiasts, and a range of indoor games including table tennis, carrom, and chess. There are also outdoor games like cricket and badminton, and a dedicated children's play area. Numerous sit-out areas, including a gazebo and traditional khatias, are scattered throughout the well-maintained gardens, providing peaceful spots for relaxation. The resort also organizes bonfires in the evenings, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently praise the neatness and cleanliness of the rooms and the overall property. The accommodations are described as spacious, well-appointed cottages with a cozy yet modern design. Reviewers frequently highlight the comfortable beds and clean bedsheets, ensuring a restful stay. Rooms are equipped with air conditioning and fans, along with large windows that offer natural light. Standard amenities include a chair, round table, and fixed sofa. The bathrooms are noted for being very clean and hygienic, featuring high-quality sanitary ware, hot and cold water 24 hours a day, and clean towels. The hotel provides in-house RO system water bottles, and quality toiletries. While some mention large beds that might not be ideal for back pains, the general consensus is of a very comfortable and well-maintained environment, with no significant issues reported regarding noise levels, contributing to a peaceful stay.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, with guests consistently describing the food as delicious, excellent, and of high quality. The cuisine is primarily pure vegetarian, offering a varied menu that includes different curries daily, freshly made breakfasts, and local specialties like Kathiyawadi food, Nizam Handi, Mohanthal, Suji halwa, and Sukhadi. Many appreciate the homely taste and the availability of options like Jain food. The chef is commended for being accommodating, preparing specific dishes for children or adjusting spice levels. While most reviews are glowing, some guests found certain dishes, particularly the Kathiyawadi food or other subzis, to be a "hit and miss" or "fiery," and a few noted the buffet lacked variety or was "mediocre." Despite minor criticisms, the overall sentiment is that the food is a significant highlight of the stay.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent location for wildlife enthusiasts, being conveniently situated just 7 to 10 kilometers from the Blackbuck National Park, making it an ideal base for safaris. Guests appreciate its setting "in the middle of nowhere," offering a peaceful and tranquil environment away from urban noise and pollution, providing a true "detox" experience. While described as "offbeat" and "remote," its proximity to Bhavnagar and Dholera makes it a feasible option for a weekend getaway. The road from Ahmedabad to the hotel is generally smooth, though the last 17 kilometers involve a single, narrow road. The property is surrounded by farmlands, enhancing its natural appeal. Parking facilities are available and noted as good for both guests and their drivers, adding to the convenience for those traveling by car.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives high praise for their exceptional service, described as selfless, very cooperative, helpful, attentive, and friendly. Guests highlight the quick check-in and late check-out options offered, demonstrating flexibility. The team is commended for their willingness to accommodate requests, from preparing off-menu items and special meals for children to arranging room decorations for special occasions and providing extra beds. The promptness of service is frequently mentioned, ensuring a comfortable stay. A standout feature is the knowledgeable naturalist, who guides guests on safaris and shares extensive information about local flora and fauna. While a few guests noted isolated instances of staff struggling with comprehension or being perceived as less service-oriented, the overwhelming feedback emphasizes the staff's dedication to providing a warm welcome and an excellent guest experience.

Additional Information
The hotel is a pure vegetarian resort, meaning no non-vegetarian food or alcohol is served, which is a significant aspect for many guests. A recurring theme is the network issues within the property, with no Wi-Fi in rooms and patchy mobile connectivity for some providers, though Jio generally works well. This contributes to the "detox" atmosphere, encouraging guests to disconnect. The lodge offers comprehensive safari arrangements, including guides and jeep services, which, while sometimes noted as a "tad expensive," are considered worth the cost due to the expertise of the in-house naturalist. Guests can also enjoy unique experiences like a bush-themed dinner and bonfires. The resort's design, with an artificial lake and grasslands, is intended to mimic the natural environment, attracting various bird species and enhancing the wildlife experience even within the property. Some guests noted that during the off-season, the landscape maintenance might be less pristine.