Khem Villas, Ranthambhore National Park, Rajasthan - Explore & Book
"This place is a treat. Lush gardens wrap around a colonial-style white house, and the air is fragrant with frangipani, lavender and roses. Daybeds scattered here and there allow you to sit back and take in the views, the silence only punctuated by birds, of which there are many. It’s incredibly serene, bordering Ranthambhore Park - the closest you can get to actually staying in the park itself. An admirable hotel in many respects, owners Goverdhan and Usha are pillars of the rural community. Their whole ethos is ethical sustainable tourism: food is vegetarian and the lodge’s 30 acres of grassland, lakes and forest were hand-planted years ago, cultivating a flourishing natural habitat for myriad wildlife – they even have resident crocodiles. People come here for the national park’s tigers, but with sightings never guaranteed, a place as special as this will ensure you don’t leave Ranthambhore disappointed. Highs An ecological oasis teeming with bird and animal life - make time for a walk with the resident naturalist A warm welcome: big smiles, chilled face towels and sweet lime juice instantly revive you Gorgeous accommodation including chic thatched cottages and luxury tents, plus some cheaper rooms in the main building Little indulgences: a cooling plunge pool, a small spa offering relaxing massages and fun evening drinks around the campfire An ethical lodge: the owners have set up a local hospital and school, introduced animal husbandry and only employ local staff Lows The food is good, but a little repetitive Rates seem quite high but they are full board There's not a lot of light in the bedrooms at night A bit off the beaten track - although you can arrive by train and get collected from the station, the journey is a bit stressful Tiger safaris need to be booked at least 6-8 weeks in advance" - Liz Simpson
