The Serai Bandipur

I recently stayed at The Serai Bandipur from May 16 to 19 with my family (5 adults, a 5-year-old, and a 6-month-old), and unfortunately, the experience was well below the standards I expected from a brand I once held in high regard. Having stayed at other Serai properties—my last visit being the Barefoot at Havelock. I was expecting a memorable stay. Sadly, this was not the case. First and foremost, this is not a child-friendly resort. The play area is limited, worn out, unsafe, and poorly maintained. With two young children, it was difficult to keep them engaged or even comfortable. We booked two premium Log Huts (Rooms 22 & 23), but the rooms were outdated, not properly maintained, and worst of all, infested with rats. We found three rats inside our room, despite all doors being closed. This was horrifying, especially with an infant in the room. The bathroom fixtures didn’t work properly, and overall cleanliness and upkeep were lacking. The service was also poor. It took nearly an hour to get our luggage to the room. Dining service was slow, and our requests were frequently ignored. The resort manager seemed inexperienced, and the property appeared understaffed. For the premium prices charged, this was a major letdown. We travel frequently and choose luxury resorts to create memories and enjoy top-tier service. Sadly, this experience left us regretting the choice. I truly miss the golden days of The Serai under Mr. Siddhartha Hegde’s vision, and even after his passing, Ms. Malavika Hegde carried that legacy forward with grace. But something has changed, and not for the better. I sincerely hope this feedback helps improve future guest experiences, because the Serai name still means something to many of us who’ve been loyal guests over the years.

It is probably the worst booking and canceling experience I have ever had with any resort. When called them, the asked me to email. When I emailed, I never got a response. Follow up emails, no responses. Called again, asked to email again! I wanted to change the booking dates. Frustrated, I cancelled after several attempts. 1 week in advance, but got zero refund. Entire amount charged without prompting any options. It’s been a traumatic experience for me I don’t think I or anyone from my company will ever do business with them again.

The resort was very nice and well maintained. We had a very good time at the resort, swimming and cycling were the best. The staff were very friendly and always ready to assist. Food was a little let down though and the cycles had very poor maintainance. Overall our stay was a memorable one.

Serene place in the midst of dense forest. Amazing staff, very accomodating, Madhusudhan at reception planning the activities, Amit and team at the restaurant delivering excellent dining experience made sure the stay was pleasant. More than 80% of the staff are local and places nearby, knowing how to take care of the place and the property, blending smoothly into the background. Thank you for making the experience memorable.

The resort is very well maintained, food is very good, staff se very friednly and hospitable. Only thing we missed was some kind of entertainment in the evenings. The safari was very good bbut tiger sighting is only by luck. the rooms respacious and luxurious. THE restaurant is very convenient and serves well

Enjoyed every moment with fresh air, beautiful property surrounded by Nilgiri Mountain range. Birds coming to the balcony of room and trees all around do not allow to remain inside. Excellent care by the team like Chef Ileum, Naturalist Chetan and everyone. Guards are always concerned about safety and convenience. Have also observed MD of property Venkatesh taking care of minutest things for better services.