
A verdant oasis amidst the sandy plains and craggy hills of Rajasthan in northern India, Amanbagh means ‘peaceful garden’.
Opulent isn’t a word usually used to describe retiring into tents for the night, and yet, on the outskirts of Ranthambore National Park, it couldn’t be more true. Inherited from an era of art that gave us the mighty Taj Mahal, this accommodation style brings spacious high ceilings to your stay, and safari standards that reach to lofty heights.
Sojourns to Ranthambore are all united by a single aim: to spot the sauntering stripes of a Bengal Tiger. Leaving behind the clean-lined linens of camp, twice-daily game drives here are the opportunity to do just that, combing through a palette of greens and gold in a quiet search for any signs of camouflage. All eyes are peeled for the moment four wheels cross paths with paws, and photographers focus their lenses for the perfect shot. In these parts, history is often an added dimension, with ancient ruins now ruled again by nature making for a rather intriguing backdrop. One particularly impressive feature – the UNESCO World Heritage site Ranthambore Fort – is a must-see, experienced best under the expertise of the Aman-i-Khas team.
Waking to the sounds of the jungle is a gentle affair, the call of birdsong denoting the break of day, followed closely by the beginnings of an authentic-meets-luxury adventure. Comfort isn’t to be compromised for a bona fide experience, shown most in the delectable flavours flowing from local family recipes into the traditional cuisine here.
And though the national park lies so close by, fruits, vegetables and herb ingredients grown in neighbouring fields are picked daily, with the sprawling land in question doubling up as an awe-inspiring stargazing spot come nightfall.
Guests here have likely crossed the classic African safari off their bucket list already, turning to India for an alternative to bring that new-experience excitement to their travels. Naturally, second-best would fall short, but a highly personalised service style from ‘Batman’ butlers is the first indication of sophistication on this safari. Surrounded by experts on all things culture and wildlife, this is an erudite destination for conversation.
Steeped in the history of Ayurvedic healing practices, serenity flows from the bubbling fountain at the centre of the Aman-i-Khas spa into its two treatment rooms, readied for massages, scrubs and wraps. Outdoors, daily yoga sessions continue a sense of calm, while the camp’s jungle setting shrouds the main pool, designed to reflect Ranthambore’s ancient step wells. Aromatic bathing experiences are the most private, prepared in your pavilion to soak off the day’s game-driving dust.
Safaris are a given so close to Ranthambore, though not all are accompanied by wildlife conservationists able to compete with Daulat Singh Shaktawat. A celebrated expert in animal behaviour and tracking, hear about his 40-year journey with the Rajasthan Forest Department on your search for the crocodiles, birdlife and big cats of Ranthambore National Park. You may even find yourself wanting one of his books for the journey home.
A verdant oasis amidst the sandy plains and craggy hills of Rajasthan in northern India, Amanbagh means ‘peaceful garden’.
Built in 1903, this architectural marvel brings together Moorish, Far Eastern and Florentine styles, showcasing contemporary Indian influences.
Just 600 metres from the world’s greatest monument, this romantic enclave gives breathtaking views of the Taj Mahal from every room.









