New Delhi, Jan. 30 -- In Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh, the golden hour usually belongs to the tiger. But as the safari dust settles at the Kanha Earth Lodge, a different spectacle unfolds beneath a sprawling mahua tree. Dinner is served and it's not the usual north Indian or continental fare. Instead, it is grilled chicken with pineapple glaze, lentil salad and pan-seared fish. By the time the mahua ice cream arrives, the transition is distinct.

The eco-luxury retreat bordering Kanha's buffer zone maintains its own organic garden for vegetables, fruits and herbs. The butterfly garden produces edible flowers. Any extra produce is sourced from the nearest village of Sarekha, around 3km away. "We want our guests to get a taste of t...