Into the wild

In case you haven’t noticed, luxury safaris are having a moment right now; just scroll through Sydney Sweeney’s adorable photo dump from her latest getaway to the Serengeti in Tanzania. Or, closer to home, a quick peek into Alia Bhatt’s or Katrina Kaif’s social media will tell you all that you need to know: everyone’s craving a serene escape into the wild.

Typically, when we think of safaris, we usually picture sweeping savannahs, dramatic wildlife sightings and grasses in shades of golden yellow and dusty brown. Towering green trees and a snow-capped mountain in the backdrop complete the postcard-perfect scene. But if Africa or the Amazon feel too far-flung this summer, don’t fret; India’s own luxury safari spots offer a front-row seat to nature’s beauty, minus the long-haul flight.

Here’s where you need to go.

Aramness Gir Safari Lodge, Gujarat

Spanning 18 square kilometres, the wilderness corridor that connects Aramness Gir Safari Lodge with Sasan Gir National Park offers a rare and intimate glimpse into India’s last remaining habitat of the Asiatic lion. Guests can immerse themselves in the lush teak forest, home to chital deer, blue bulls, and nearly 300 species of birds.

Curated experiences also include guided nature walks, offering the younger guests a chance to connect with the region’s rich wildlife in a thoughtful and more engaging way.

Know more about the Aramness Gir Safari Lodge experience here. 

Taj Corbett Resort & Spa, Uttarakhand

Featuring more than fifty rooms, cottages and suites on the banks of the river Kosi, Taj Corbett Resort is inarguably one of the best places to stay in Jim Corbett. Its location just 12 km from the park makes it incredibly convenient to join one of their daily jeep safaris and catch sight of Asiatic elephants, leopards, deer, red foxes, sloth bears, and even tigers.

Apart from the excursion, you can also camp under the starry skies or take a hike in the mountains.

Know more about the Taj Corbett Resort & Spa experience here. 

Banjaar Tola, Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Kanha National Park, one of India’s most important wildlife reserves, is known for its rich biodiversity and thriving population of tigers, leopards, and barasinghas. During your stay at Banjaar Tola, a Taj Safari, explore this lush forest on twice-daily game drives led by expert naturalists. Begin your mornings at sunrise as you track elusive jungle cats, stop for a picnic breakfast in the wild, and end your day soaking in the beauty of a golden sunset over the landscape.

Know more about the Banjaar Tola experience here.

The Oberoi Vanyavilas, Ranthambore, Rajasthan

Nestled on the edge of Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, The Oberoi Vanyavilas offers a luxurious wildlife experience like no other. After an early morning of tiger tracking, which, according to reports, have doubled in recent years, return to a handcrafted al fresco breakfast by the mango orchard and lily pond. Post the morning activities, spend your day unwinding with personalised spa treatments, sunset views and private dinners for a quiet experience.

Know more about the Oberoi Vanyavilas experience here.