Madhya Pradesh truly is the heart of India. Famous as it is for Chanderi silks and architecture that dates back to the 11th century, Madhya Pradesh’s real gems lie in its forests. Explore its national parks, tracking down the elusive striped beast, even as you take the opportunity to unwind far from the bustle of urban existence.

At Bandhavgarh, spend your nights in absolute luxury after a long day of animal spotting. Enjoy the cocooning comfort of a traditional vernacular-style lodge, and nurse your nightcap to the sounds of the forest. In Kanha, where Rudyard Kipling himself sought inspiration, you’ll have more than the bare necessities of life. Dine under the stars or by a campfire before you settle down for the night in your comfortable cottage or tent. During the day, bathe a friendly elephant in a nearby river or set out into the park to track its wild inhabitants.

In Pench, explore the forest before you end the day on a cosy treehouse. Choose between a luxury tent, kitted out with all the bells and whistles, or a machaan with nothing but a mosquito net separating you from the starry sky above.

In Maheshwar, take a break from the forest and stay along the banks of the Narmada river in an 18th-century property, or curl up in a tent that comes with its own heated plunge pool. Spend the day exploring the temples at Khajuraho or visit a handloom weaving centre for a peek at the gossamer Maheshwari silks. Make a day trip to Mandu to see an exquisite 15th century Islamic city, or visit the cenotaphs of Orchha.

Venture further and make the most of your wild vacation with a trip to Tadoba, Maharashtra. Opt for a few days in tiger territory, with walks into the jungle, evening BBQs in the bush and nothing but the wilderness all around you.

And even if you don’t see the elusive tigers of the heart of India, know that when the jungle called, you answered.