Let&rsquos face it. Not everyone wants to rough it out with an adventurous hike and sleep in tents that may (or may not) be the best, especially if you&rsquove managed to barely keep it together. If vacation for you translates to experiencing the outdoors without compromising on luxury, glamping, as glamorous camping is called, may just be the thing for you.
With curated experiences, luxurious and well-equipped camps, and all the creature comforts you could ask for, these glamping resorts will make you forget your run-of-the-mill opulent hotel rooms and enjoy the countryside hassle-free.
The Bison, Karnataka
Situated at the confluence of the Bandipur and Nagarhole National Parks, right on the scenic shores of the Kabini River, what is not to love about The Bison a spectacular glamping resort that never fails to charm. Its rustic African-style tents offer a beautiful balance of luxury amidst the wilderness. With all the amenities sorted, you can head out for fantastic game rides and midnight boat tours or curl up on the cosy deck and gaze into the never-ending forest line as the sun sets. For unparalleled luxury, book The Little Bison, with the creature comforts of a personal valet, private bonfires, dinners and everything under the starry sky.
Sujan Jawai Leopard Camp, Rajasthan
While the leopard enjoys a solitary stroll at night, away from the din of human settlements, Pali&rsquos Jawai Bandh is witness to a beautiful symbiotic relationship between people and wildlife. And there is no better place to enjoy a stroll with the charismatic Rabari herdsmen and immerse yourself in the local culture of the land than at Sujan Jawai. With just ten tented suites, Sujan, a Relais & Chateaux member, redefines responsible luxury in the wilderness. Founders Anjali & Jaisal Singh designed the space using a muted palette of grey, black and white, ensuring the camp is at one with its sheer natural beauty. With open-air dining, wilderness drives, and a luxurious spa treatment to boot, it doesn&rsquot get much better.
Elsewhere, Goa
Away from the crowded beaches and cacophonous clubs, discover a Goa that will stay with you for a long time. Enter Elsewhere, a boutique retreat that sits snuggly between a beach and a salty creek and offers the best of Goa&rsquos scenery. Three idyllic tents rightly called the Otter Creek tents, face the creek, which runs parallel to the sea, where tranquillity, peace and purity prevail. With a stunning sit-out and a bamboo jetty that hangs over the creek, Elsewhere is your personal oasis in this stunning state.
Chokhi Dhani Luxury Desert Camp and Village Fair, Rajasthan
An idyllic gateway to experience the multihued cultural richness of the Thar desert, Chokhi Dhani has long been synonymous with an authentic Rajasthani experience. At their luxury desert camp in Jaisalmer, Chokhi Dhani offers authentic Rajasthani fare, cultural performances such as folk dances and music nights, and insight into village life. The tents, replete with luxurious amenities, are situated near the popular Sam Sand dunes and bring home the experiences of the desert, such as desert safaris and camel rides. The camp also boasts luxurious waterproof tents with a spacious verandah to take in the clear skies at night.
Tranquil Resort, Kerala
Kuppamudi Estate has a rich heritage. This 126-year-old property was originally owned and run by the British plantation pioneers until they sold it to Dutch entrepreneurs after independence, who ultimately sold it out to Aswati Plantations. Today, this coffee and spice plantation is a favourite among discerning travellers who love to embark on a journey of living in the yesteryears, with every accommodation an ode to the planter&rsquos bungalows. You can live in a tree house, enmeshed with tall trees or find solace in a verandah with a view of the lush plantation. Bird watching, cooking classes or ayurvedic massages - there is much to do at this 400-acre nature&rsquos delight.