What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of camping? Is it cramped tents and uncomfortable beds? If yes, then throw out all those notions as you read on, for we bring to you desert camps that ooze luxury – gazing at the night sky filled with glimmering and twinkling stars from your verandah, midnight dips in your private heated pool is what life here is all about. Your days are spent on camel back exploring the golden sand dunes and evenings spent listening to the bards of the western desert. These are some desert camps that have us swooning –
1. The Serai, Jaisalmer, Rajathan
This luxurious desert camp and spa, close to Jaisalmer, is set on a hundred-acre private estate of indigenous desert scrub. The swimming pool is a unique inversion of a traditional Rajasthani step-well and offers an elevated view of the symmetry of the camp. Culinary sessions where you choose your own ingredients and cook with the chef, camel rides into the sunset and private dinners in the bush with a flutist are some of the things that must be experienced here.
2. Samsara Resort & Desert Camp, Jodhpur, Rajasthan
The mysterious, majestic dunes of the Thar form the backdrop for Samsara, where beautifully landscaped exteriors compliment the thoughtfully luxurious interiors. Linger on for an unforgettable dinner under the stars, on the dunes set amongst hundreds of flickering lanterns, with an occasional reminder to self that you are not dreaming.
3. Manvar Desert Camp & Resort, Khiyansariya, Rajasthan
Located in the heart of the sand dune region of Rajasthan, this resort is a hidden gem – a quaint green oasis in the desert. Built in the style of a village settlement against the backdrop of a desert landscape, this desert camp has warm and comfortable interiors which contrast the earthy and rugged exteriors leading to the growth of an environment which has retained the original beauty and royalty of Rajasthan in its red and beige stone structure. It’s an out-of-the-world experience to dine out in an open courtyard and feast on mouth-watering cuisine that offers both local and international cuisines while folk musicians set the tempo around a crackling fire.
4. The Wilderness Camp, Rohet, Rajasthan
The Wilderness Camp Rohet has luxury tents which sit comfortably on a small dune in the lap of nature and total wilderness. The small dune happens to be the highest point of an otherwise pan flat landscape which offers spectacular views. The nights for stargazing, where you will discover a whole new universe.The lounge and dining areas are made from the traditional thatch and dung plaster, fluffy cushions adorn the traditional seating, and the place is lit with soft candle light and a crackling fire in the clay plaster fire places make the evenings incredibly cosy.
5. Mirvana Nature Resort, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
This camp is a blend of rustic charms with posh indulgences. It’s a massive resort, around 55 km away from Jaisalmer, that speaks volumes about the mystic and grandeur of the Thar Desert. Interestingly, Mirvana has been given quite a ‘green’ setting contrary to a desert, which is known for barrenness. Thus, it’s one of the rare gems of Rajasthan. Apart from the usual desert elements like camels and sand dunes, you will find plenty of verdure in the form of organic farms and orchards.
Where do you wanna go?
PlushEscapes Editor
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