In pictures: Tales from the banks of India’s Chambal River

Its allure is boosted by prolific bird life, an unusually (for India) clean, undeveloped river and the enigmatic Chambal ravines, while the Lodge’s comfort takes the edge off the region’s earthiness. Courtesy: Chambal Safari Lodge

A marsh crocodile in Chambal River. Courtesy: Chambal Safari Lodge

Indian Skimmers in Chambal River. Photo by Eling Lee

Despite intensive conservation efforts, the gharial population has plummeted catastrophically in recent years – but may now just about be clawing back. Courtesy: Chambal Safari Lodge

The Lodge’s river safaris typically operate during early mornings and late afternoons, the best times for spotting wildlife, especially birds – the NCS has about 200 species. Courtesy: Chambal Safari Lodge

The Imli Kothi Luxury Suite at Chambal Safari Lodge. Courtesy: Chambal Safari Lodge

Bateshwar temples. It is an auspicious spot, a kind of low-key Varanasi, with a hundred or so whitewashed riverside shrines and temples with bathing ghats, or steps, leading down to the water. Courtesy: Chambal Safari Lodge

The National staff

Rural Uttar Pradesh is not the most obvious place for a tourist, but just as India’s burgeoning economy ushers new opportunities, so its vast countryside offers alternatives for travellers who have already visited the area’s much-trammelled hot spots.

Updated: November 28, 2013, 12:00 AM