

The term “safari hotel” might bring to mind African plains, but India has its fair share, just as atmospheric.
They range from luxury tented camps in tiger reserves, inspired by the travelling style of the Maharajas and their armies, to low-key lodges in hidden pockets of wilderness, where you can spot the local wildlife easily.
We also include other opotions in this part of our portfolio like river cruisers and specialist birding retreats.



Some of the lodges and camps below are well known and widely celebrated but some fly (blissfully) under the radar. We rate these – not only do they offer great wildlife viewing, but a window into the rhythms of rural life: integrated farming, forest traditions, and community-run conservation.
Whilst northern India and Rajasthan, in particular, can be scorching during the day, the temperature plummets at night, and there are few more magical experiences than sitting around the fire in the evening.
Yes, some of these remote places take a while to reach. But that extra effort pays off: whether in rare animal sightings, peace and quiet, or a sense of real connection to the land.
Our India experts willl weave one (or a few) of these stays into your itinerary if you’re up for a dash of adventure in your luxury holiday.



Explore ETG's Favourite Safari Hotels in India

India
Aman-i-Khas
Safari camp at its absolute finest: Sumptuous, spacious tents and wonderful wildlife spotting near Ranthambore.
Highlights
Highlights
Luxurious tents,
Spellbinding setting,
Safaris
Best for
Couples
Gallery




Gujarat, India
Aramness Safari Lodge
Set on the edge of Gir National Park, Aramness Safari Lodge is a world-class wildlife retreat offering luxury in the heart of Gujarat’s teak forests. Surrounded by lions, leopards, and over 300 species of birds, the lodge provides an extraordinary window into one of India’s richest ecosystems
Highlights
Highlights
Teak forest setting,
Private plunge pools
Best for
Families,
Couples,
Gallery




Kolkata, India
Assam Bengal Navigation River Cruise
Assam Bengal Navigation (ABN) offers boutique river cruises through some of India’s most culturally rich and lesser-known landscapes. With heritage-style boats, thoughtfully designed routes, and a focus on local life and wildlife, ABN cruises combine comfort with cultural discovery.
Highlights
Highlights
River cruising, Cultural immersion
Best for
Couples,
Solos,
Groups
Gallery




Chhattisgarh, India
Bhoramdeo Jungle Retreat
Bhoramdeo Jungle Retreat offers an intimate and immersive experience in rural Chhattisgarh, set against the Maikal Hills and surrounded by jungle and tribal villages. With just five rooms and a deep connection to local communities, it’s a unique base for slow, meaningful travel. From village walks to temple visits and wildlife spotting, it’s a retreat for curious travellers wanting a real glimpse into traditional Indian life.
Highlights
Highlights
Forest treks,
Temple ruins
Best for
Families,
Curious Explorers,
Solos
Gallery



Rajasthan, India
SUJÁN Sher Bagh
Set at the foot of the Aravali Hills, SUJÁN Sher Bagh offers a luxurious glamping experience that blends wildlife adventure with elegant comfort. Known for its exceptional leopard spotting opportunities, this is one of Rajasthan’s premier safari camps.
Highlights
Highlights
1920s-inspired tented safari camp,
Eco-luxury ethos,
Star-lit dining
Best for
Couples,
Wildlife Enthusiasts,
Culture Seekers
Gallery




Gujarat, India
Blackbuck Lodge
Set on the edge of Gujarat’s Blackbuck National Park, Blackbuck Lodge brings African-style safari luxury to India’s grasslands. Surrounded by wildlife and crafted with conservation in mind, it’s a peaceful and immersive retreat for travellers seeking nature without sacrificing comfort. With carefully designed cottages, thoughtful eco measures and early-morning safaris, it’s one of the best ways to experience the region’s rare and striking wildlife.
Highlights
Highlights
Rare wildlife sightings,
Peaceful grassland setting,
Best for
Couples,
Nature Enthusiasts,
Photographers
Gallery




Rajasthan, India
Chambal Safari Lodge
Surrounded by scrubland, riverbanks and history, Chambal Safari Lodge is a tranquil wildlife retreat just an hour from the Taj Mahal. A former 19th-century stable block turned eco-lodge, it offers bird-filled gardens, comfortable heritage cottages and remarkable excursions along the Chambal River. With a laidback, family-run charm and rich wildlife experiences, it’s an offbeat gem in rural Uttar Pradesh.
Highlights
Highlights
River safaris,
Bateshwar temples
Best for
Couples,
Birdwatchers,
Curious Explorers
Gallery




Assam, India
Diphlu River Lodge
Diphlu River Lodge offers a peaceful and immersive retreat on the banks of the Diphlu River, right beside Assam’s renowned Kaziranga National Park. This eco-conscious lodge blends local Assamese design with modern comforts, providing a prime base for exploring the park’s exceptional wildlife. Expect rustic charm, expert-led safaris, and a deep connection to the landscape.
Highlights
Highlights
Wildlife safaris,
Riverside setting
Best for
Couples,
Solos,
Nature Enthusiasts
Gallery




Karnataka, India
Hampi’s Boulder
Nestled among the iconic granite formations near the spellbinding ruins of Hampi, Hampi’s Boulder is a characterful eco-retreat that blends harmoniously with its dramatic surroundings. With organic gardens, river views and a natural rock pool, it’s a peaceful, nature-centric base for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site nearby.
Highlights
Highlights
Striking boulder landscape,
Natural rock pools,
Rustic charm
Best for
Couples,
Solos,
Culture Seekers
Gallery




Madyha Pradesh, India
Jamtara Wilderness Camp
Tucked into a remote corner of Pench National Park, Jamtara Wilderness Camp offers an authentic, low-impact safari experience. With just 12 luxury tents, a tranquil atmosphere, and a genuine connection to the surrounding community and landscape, it’s one of India’s most special wildlife stays.
Highlights
Highlights
Machaan experience,
National park access
Best for
Couples,
Nature Enthusiasts
Gallery




Uttarakhand, India
Jim's Jungle Retreat
Set on the edge of Corbett National Park, Jim’s Jungle Retreat is a thoughtfully designed wildlife lodge built in traditional Gujar style. Surrounded by sal forests and grasslands, it’s an immersive base for safaris and nature-based adventures in Uttarakhand.
Highlights
Highlights
Wildlife safaris,
Jungle sleepouts,
Forest-view lodges
Best for
Families,
Couples,
Solos
Gallery




Uttarakhand, India
Jungle Lore Birding Lodge
Tucked among oak forests in Pangot, Jungle Lore Birding Lodge is a humble, nature-immersed base ideal for birdwatchers and hikers. With over 250 bird species recorded in the area, it’s considered one of the best spots for birding in India.
Highlights
Highlights
Exceptional birding location,
Scenic forest surroundings,
Peaceful escape
Best for
Nature Lovers,
Birders,
Couples
Gallery




Karnataka, India
Kaav Safari Lodge
Kaav Safari Lodge is an intimate luxury retreat perched at the edge of Nagarhole’s lush Kabini forest. With just four beautifully appointed rooms, two elegant glamping tents, and a private pool villa, this boutique lodge combines stylish design with a peaceful, immersive wilderness setting. Between safaris, relax on the deck with forest views, watch birdsong from the pool, or gather for alfresco meals under tree canopies.
Highlights
Highlights
Boutique safari experience
Best for
Couples,
Small families,
Wildlife lovers
Gallery




Uttarakhand, India
Nine Furlongs
Perched high in the Himalayan foothills of Binsar National Park, Nine Furlongs is an intimate mountain hideaway with a storied past. Reached by a short forest trail or rugged drive, the property rewards intrepid travellers with remarkable views of the Nanda Devi range and an atmosphere of serene detachment. This is a place to soak up nature, history and horizon-stretching skies.
Highlights
Highlights
Epic Himalayan views,
Characterful cottages
Best for
Adventurers,
Couples,
Solos
Gallery




Kerala, India
Pepper Trail
Tucked within a working plantation in Wayanad, Pepper Trail is a charming retreat surrounded by rainforest and steeped in heritage. Dating back to the 1800s, the estate blends colonial charm with immersive nature experiences.
Highlights
Highlights
Treehouse stays,
Spice plantation immersion
Best for
Couples,
Solos,
Nature Enthusiasts

Gujarat, India
Rann Riders Resort
Set on the edge of the Little Rann of Kutch, Rann Riders Resort is a rustic but welcoming base for exploring one of Gujarat’s most unique landscapes. Blending local craftsmanship with ecological design, the resort has a distinct village aesthetic and a focus on showcasing the region’s wildlife, wilderness and traditional culture.
Highlights
Highlights
Wildlife safaris,
Traditional-style cottages,
Rural desert setting
Best for
Couples,
Families,
Birdwatchers
Gallery




Madhya Pradesh, India
Reni Pani Jungle Lodge
Reni Pani Jungle Lodge sits on the edge of Satpura National Park, offering immersive safaris and a deep connection to nature. Tucked within 30 acres of pristine forest, this characterful lodge is run by passionate conservationists and brings guests close to the wildlife that makes this region so special—without compromising on comfort.
Highlights
Highlights
Safaris,
Forest views,
Peaceful setting
Best for
Couples,
Families,
Wildlife Enthusiasts
Gallery




West Bengal, India
Sunderban Tiger Camp
Surrounded by mangrove forests and tranquil waterways, Sunderban Tiger Camp is a simple yet characterful base for exploring the magical Sundarbans. It’s not flashy, but it’s full of heart and perfectly placed for nature-led discovery.
Highlights
Highlights
Mangrove boat safaris,
Birdwatching on the private lake
Best for
Families,
Couples,
Solos
Gallery




Karnataka, India
The Serai Bandipur
Perched on the edge of Bandipur National Park, The Serai Bandipur draws inspiration from African game lodges, blending comfort with nature in one of India’s top wildlife regions. With expansive grounds and a focus on natural harmony, it’s a peaceful retreat for wildlife lovers and adventurers alike.
Highlights
Highlights
Wildlife lodge setting,
Immersive outdoor experiences
Best for
Couples,
Families,
Nature Enthusiasts
Gallery


