We stayed at Chambal for two days in Jan 2012. As the other reviewers say, it's kind of pricey, but there are lots of great things to do, especially for kids, and we had a lovely time. Our eight year old son rated it the best place I have every stayed" and he's a pretty tough customer when it comes to being entertained if there is no TV, no computer, and no consistent access to his iPod because the complex runs off a generator and daytime solar.

We went on the river tour (saw two Gangetic dolphins and a garial !!), a visit to Bateshwar Temples on the Yamuna River, and a camel safari to see the fort. For me the camels and fort were the highlight, because we were the ONLY people in this enormous fort, which was just as good as something like Hyuman's tomb or the Red Fort in Delhi. We also had free run of the fort, and could climb etc (with our guide, who kept the kids out of the dangerous places). Magic.

One night we also went looking for civet cats (and found a whole family group). We also saw mongoose, jackals, and many wonderful birds. There are wandering rhesus macaques in the grounds as well. This place is a wonderful antidote to crazy, dirty Agra and Delhi and it's a lovely place for kids to run around.

We were slightly worried thinking we will have not much to do if we were not serious bird watchers and our 9 year old son may complain. However, we were surprised with the absolute diversity of activities, and how accommodating the staff were. Apart from the wildlife, there is so much history and culture on offer. Our son was going on nature walks with different members of the staff and coming back more excited and with more pictures every time. The trip to the temples and the time we spent on the river was full of memories. The river is one of the most pristine in India and the only place you get to see freshwater dolphins in the wild.

We would definitely recommend this place if you are in north India, and a couple of nights is ideal. Our most satisfying part of the visit was talking to the staff and fellow guests around the fire at night, exchanging stories and enjoying the wonderful local cuisine on offer. A truly memorable stay.

Last week I plan my trip to CSL , actually after checking rooms I find that they are not worth spending money , and find they are especially for foreigners . I ask them for crocodile safari they ask to deposit 3000 Rs first , and then a guy sits in my car and take us to CHAMBAL river at which we sit on their steamer and the guide was lack of knowledge and he shows us 3 crocodiles in 1 hr river safari , then we head back to lounge , drop guy then head back to our respective place , didn't find any adventure in it :( , it wasn't worth spending rs 1500 per person on it ... But their are 99.9 % chances that you can spot crocodile their .

This past November, I travelled to India for the first time with a friend and as part of a small tour. Our first "major stop" was Chambal which we arrived after a 6+ drive from Delhi. What a delightful start to our holidays. We stayed in one of the cottages and once we'd killed off the mosquitoes and turned on the fan, the accommodations were lovely! The bedroom area is a good size and the bathroom is huge. Loads of space for two people and very, very relaxing surroundings -- just don't be startled if you look out the window and see a Nilgai -- Blue Bull -- wandering by.

Every evening there was a lovely bonfire in the main hotel area which gave you an opportunity to relax and chat with fellow guests. All of the meals were buffets -- and very, very tasty. My friend and I did an early morning trip to Agra and the cooks were kind enough to pack us a box breakfast.

As for the service -- top notch. You never had to look up more than once before somebody had come over to ask what you needed.

As for the Chambal river safari -- brilliant. We had a magnificent naturalist who obviously loved what he did. He also organized a trip for us to the Bateshwar Temples to see the local fair and participate in the purification ceremony which took place on the Yamena River. Incredible experience -- well above and beyond any of our expectations.

Our of our group also had some mobility issues; the guide was fabulous and organized a special jeep to assist us in reaching the Chambal river -- all on less than 12 hours notice.

I cannot recommend this lodge more highly. I hope to go back!