Nestled amidst tranquil and secluded Thana and Dehrian forests, overlooking the Thana Dam’s reservoir lake, Thana Nature Retreat has quickly become a sought-after destination for nature lovers and those seeking peace in the embrace of nature. Since its establishment just two years ago, the retreat has drawn thousands of eco-tourists, with visitors from within the district, other regions, and even abroad, eager to experience a night in the jungle.
The retreat boasts jungle lodges and three lake-facing, air-conditioned eco-tents, which remain fully booked throughout the year. The serene surroundings and the opportunity to experience the beauty of the wilderness make it an ideal destination for a peaceful getaway. Boating at the Thana Dam lake and jungle safaris, conducted in specially designed open jeeps that splash through water streams, have become major attractions for visitors and eco-tourism enthusiasts alike.
The forest’s pristine beauty, paired with the picturesque view of Thana Lake, offers a serene experience for nature lovers. One of the highlights of the retreat is the 24 km jungle safari, priced at just Rs 350 per person, which takes visitors through the Thana, Dehrian, and Kukanet areas. The safari’s 7-km stretch from Thana to Dehrian offers an adventurous ride across sand dunes, while the next 5 km from Dehrian to Kukanet takes visitors along a steady stream of water that flows year-round. This stream is lined by a natural bamboo canopy, providing a unique and beautiful experience.
Along the route, tourists may spot caves of wild animals and ancient water channels once dug by villagers to irrigate their fields. The safari, which winds through passes between hills, culminates in a beautiful waterfall before returning to the Thana base. Along the way, visitors often catch glimpses of numerous birds and wildlife, including Sambur and Nilgai. For the lucky few, leopards may also be spotted.
The Thana Dam lake also offers an enchanting boat ride experience at an affordable price of just Rs 200 per person. Tourists can choose between paddle boats, a Shikara, or a motorboat to explore the serene lake.
The camp features three all-weather tent cottages, available for Rs 4,000 for a 24-hour stay, including complimentary breakfast for two. Dining and restaurant facilities are also available for visitors. The camp additionally offers boat rides on the Thana Dam lake.
“These facilities have significantly boosted the ecotourism potential of the area and contributed to the local economy,” said Dr Sanjeev Tiwari, Conservator of Forest, Hoshiarpur.
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