In the pitch-dark embrace of the wilderness, the deck of an African-style tent transforms into a stage for nature’s nocturnal symphony. The canvas walls, softly illuminated by solar lamps, create a haven of comfort, while overhead, a brilliant expanse of stars twinkle against a velvety backdrop. Below, the gentle rustle of grass carries whispers of elusive forest creatures. This is glamping—a fusion of glamour and camping—where untamed nature converges with refined indulgence in India.
Glamping exudes an unmatched style, offering rustic charm set against pristine natural backdrops. Notably, India’s glamping market is projected to reach USD 185.3 million by 2030, driven by travelers seeking immersive experiences without sacrificing luxury.
Marrying the splendor of the outdoors with lavish amenities, glamping presents a distinct alternative to modern hotels. Unlike conventional accommodations that demand extensive upkeep, glamping sites champion sustainability through eco-friendly infrastructure, solar energy, and minimal-impact designs. Imagine private safari excursions, starlit dinners by the fire, and outdoor spa treatments in remote, unspoiled settings.
Luxury brands elevate the experience with butler-serviced tents, curated wildlife encounters, and culturally immersive activities—delivering a unique proposition that traditional hotels rarely match. Beyond indulgence, glamping fosters responsible tourism, inviting travelers to connect with nature while treading lightly. So if we have managed to convince you to try, here are eight tented camps in India that cut back neither on the luxury, nor the nature.
1. Untamed by TUTC, Bandhavgarh
In the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh National Park unfolds like a verdant dream. The Ultimate Travelling Camp (TUTC) unveiled Untamed Bandhavgarh in 2023 as a hidden gem amid dense sal forests and sprawling grasslands on the edge of the tiger reserve. Tents perched on stilted platforms serve as sanctuaries of understated elegance, blending rustic appeal with contemporary sophistication. Mornings come alive with birdsong, while the discovery of pugmarks—silent traces of nocturnal wanderers, sends a thrilling chill down the spine. Evenings enchant with candlelit dinners beneath expansive, starry skies paired with meals cooked in local style. The resort also has a dedicated Spa tent offering a wide range of treatments.
2. Oberoi Vindhyavilas, Bandhavgarh
The newest Oberoi offering is a sanctuary of luxury amid central India’s wilderness. Spanning 21 acres, Vindhyavilas features 19 lavish tents and two villas, each with private pools. Inspired by the Vindhya ranges and tribal artistry, the resort showcases hand-carved Gond motifs and Katni stone interiors. Culinary experiences highlight heirloom recipes, local flavors, and wood-fired delights. Guests can dine under the stars, enjoy high tea in the wild, or gather around a bonfire. Beyond safaris, which offer glimpses of tigers and leopards, the resort immerses guests in local culture with Gond art workshops, village walks, and folk performances. A soon-to-launch spa promises nature-inspired therapies and yoga sessions.
3. SUJÁN Life Camps, Rajasthan
Within Rajasthan’s dramatic granite wilderness, SUJÁN JAWAI offers an intimate escape where refined comfort meets the wild. Featured in the second season of Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives, this retreat presents handcrafted tents seamlessly integrated into the rocky landscape. Guests enjoy immersive experiences in India’s premier leopard country, with morning and evening drives promising encounters with elusive big cats and fireside dining that elevates every meal.
On the fringes of Ranthambore National Park, SUJÁN Sher Bagh evokes the golden age of safari with its 1920s-style tents, complete with vintage campaign furniture and deep soaking tubs—that transport guests to a bygone era of opulence. Complementing these experiences, the SUJÁN Indian Tigers polo team actively participates in tournaments, inviting guests to partake in this aristocratic tradition.
4. Reni Pani Jungle Lodge, Satpura
Within the untamed wilderness of Satpura Tiger Reserve, Reni Pani Jungle Lodge offers a rare blend of royal luxury and adventure. Here one wakes to the call of Malabar giant squirrels, and steps into a world where time slows. Designed for the discerning traveler, this conservation-driven retreat invites guests to explore the jungle on thrilling horseback safaris, tranquil boat safaris along the Denwa River, or immersive walking safaris, where every rustle and footprint tells a story.
Satpura’s rugged terrain is home to the UNESCO-listed Bhimbetka rock shelters, along with large mammals and excellent wildlife. Prehistoric cave paintings whisper tales of early human civilization at this place. Owned by the royal family of Bhopal, Reni Pani offers exclusive tent accommodations overlooking a waterhole where animals visit after dark. From bush dinners under starlit canopies to post safari spa sessions, the lodge offers an unparalleled experience.
5. Aman-i-Khās, Ranthambore
Amid the rugged terrain of Ranthambore, Aman-i-Khās emerges as an oasis of tranquility at the tiger reserve’s edge. Each of the ten exclusive Mughal-inspired tents are adorned with elegant drapery, handcrafted furnishings, and a private sun deck, evoking a sense of regal seclusion but in a minimal style. Designed to mirror the traveling tents of Mughal emperors, the airy, white-canopied suites are divided into sleeping, dining, and bathing areas, offering a seamless blend of sophistication and nature. Here, the pace of life slows, and each day unfolds like a verse. Safaris through Ranthambore National Park offer moments of hushed anticipation, where glimpses of Bengal tigers, leopards, and sloth bears etch unforgettable memories. Evenings invite relaxation, whether with therapeutic spa treatments, quiet reflection by the firepit, or farm-to-table feasts that celebrate the region’s culinary heritage. Locally sourced ingredients and traditional Rajasthani flavors take center stage, offering an authentic taste of the land. Under the soft glow of lanterns, the jungle’s mysteries come alive, forging an intimate bond between guests and the wild.
6. The Serai, Jaisalmer
Set amid Rajasthan’s vast Thar Desert, SUJÁN The Serai is a secluded luxury retreat spread over 100 acres of pristine scrubland. Inspired by the royal caravan sites of Rajputana, its 21 lavish tents rest on Jaisalmer sandstone plinths, featuring spacious bedrooms, en-suite bathrooms, and private verandahs. Some suites offer walled gardens and heated plunge pools, ensuring the ultimate indulgence.
Culinary experiences at ‘The Dining Tent’ celebrate Rajasthani flavors and organic produce, sourced from the camp’s own gardens. Guests can enjoy intimate meals under the vast desert sky, while the camp’s Bar offers handcrafted cocktails in a warm, elegant setting. At the SUJÁN Spa, therapies infused with indigenous ingredients provide deep rejuvenation, complemented by yoga and meditation sessions. Beyond relaxation, The Serai curates exclusive excursions—camel safaris through golden dunes, immersive visits to Jaisalmer Fort, and encounters with local artisans. Evenings come alive with Manganiyar folk music, echoing the region’s soul.
7. Brij Pola, Jawai
Amid uber luxury offerings, Jawai is fast emerging as a sought-after luxury destination among discerning travellers. Here, Brij Pola harmonizes with granite hills and tranquil reservoirs. Earth-toned tents mirror the desert’s arid beauty, blending effortlessly into the landscape. In this delicate balance where leopards roam freely, fleeting encounters with these elusive creatures leave lasting impressions. The Rabari herdsmen, adorned in vibrant turbans, add depth to the experience as their timeless stories unfold by the glow of a bonfire. Traditional Rajasthani fare, savored under an expansive night sky, transforms every meal into a sensory journey.
8. Kaav Safari Lodge, Kabini
By the serene backwaters of Kabini in Karnataka, Kaav Safari Lodge provides a final chapter of reflection amid lush foliage. Its two exclusive tents, cocooned in comfort, open onto private decks overlooking shimmering waters. Here, the air is rich with the scent of rain-soaked earth and the chatter of birds. Days unfold luxuriously, blending exhilarating safaris with tranquil explorations along quiet trails. As the sun sets, a welcoming bonfire and locally inspired cocktails invite intimate conversations, while tribal dances and village visits weave a tapestry of cultural connection.
Glamping in India transcends conventional luxury travel, inviting a journey into the heart of the wild—a communion with landscapes pulsating with life and history. Each destination narrates a unique chapter where sustainability and opulence intertwine effortlessly. From the untamed beauty of Bandhavgarh and Jawai to the regal allure of Ranthambore and the serene backwaters of Kabini, glamping celebrates nature, culture, and their indelible bond.
