From the enthralling cities of India to the clandestine jungles of Sri Lanka, and let’s not forget about Bhutan, a kingdom hidden in the Himalayas, it’s no surprise that the Indian subcontinent is high on many bucket lists. A visit to this part of the world holds as much adventure as it does serenity, and the best Indian subcontinent lodges know how to make your dream trip a reality. Take a look at our favourites for a little inspiration, then get planning!
Wild Coast Tented Lodge
Yala National Park, Sri Lanka
You might have heard of Sri Lanka’s most famous spots but why not take a few days exploring its untamed and less-visited shores. Tucked in between the arresting jungle of Yala National Park and the cerulean sea, Wild Coast Tented Lodge combines luxury and camping in the best sense. Aptly named ‘cocoons’, the tents are decked out with delicate silks, leather deckchairs and four-poster beds – plus a plunge pool to cool off in. When in Yala, there’s only one thing to do, leopard-spotting! Join your expert guide on a game drive through the cool undergrowth to spy on the famous big cats (it’s the largest population in the world) as well as elephant, water buffalo and the surreal sloth bears. This is one of our favourite spots for families, the kids will be identifying tracks and building campfires in no time. Back at camp, enjoy top-notch meals in the cathedral-like dining domes, lounge in the pool or book a dreamy treatment at the spa.
Taj Lake Palace
Udaipur, India
Known to many India aficionados as the country’s most romantic city or perhaps, the City of Lakes, Udaipur is a captivating blend of regal history, deep spirituality and natural beauty. Built as a private island in the middle of glassy Lake Pichola, with lavish rooms (butler service included) and turrets of marble, the Taj Lake Palace manages to capture this spirit entirely. If you’re after a little pampering then the Jiva Spa is the spot for you, and you needn’t miss out on your surroundings as this spa has its own boat – spice-scented treatments, jacuzzi and all! And those surroundings we mentioned, they don’t get much better than the views you’ll find of lakeside palaces and Rajasthan’s far-off Aravalli Hills. You might be encircled by water but don’t worry, it’s simple enough to get your feet on solid ground and a short boat ride will drop you in the midst of age-worn havelis, temples, and head-turning stalls in no time. Once you’re back on your palace island, tuck into 5-star cuisine and vintage wines whilst looking out over the starlit lake. You’d think a place like the Taj only belongs in the movies (you might even recognise it from Octopussy) but luckily, it welcomes guests, and with quite a flourish too.
Six Senses
Bumthang, Bhutan
Nature personified, Six Senses was built as a ‘forest within a forest.’ Not only was not a single tree removed in its creation, each suite also has a pine sapling growing at its centre. This passion for the environment flows throughout with furniture crafted from recycled wood and traditional meals whipped up with foraged ingredients – and delicacies like air-dried yak with glass noodles and rich Bhutanese cheese too. The hotel pays homage to its alpine setting with authentic (and divine) bathing rituals and Himalayan salt treatments at the spa, after which you’ll be walking on air… And you may just need it after treks and horse rides through the glacier-carved valley and walks to the hilltop dzongs and Buddhist legends. But we wouldn’t blame you for wanting to spend hours taking in the view from your balcony, a steaming cup of butter tea in hand.
Camellia Hills
Hatton, Sri Lanka
Should talk of Sri Lanka conjure up images of rolling hills topped with temples and fragrant tea plantations as far as the eye can see, the Hill Country is what you’re after. Hatton is as idyllic and genteel as it sounds, and with its ethereal views over Castlereagh Lake, you may just think you’ve dreamt this spot up. For a more modern taste of Hatton, Camellia Hills is an intimate lodge with just five alpine-style chalets, cosy sitting areas to curl up with a good book and a lovely infinity pool with views of the gleaming lake. As is always the case in Sri Lanka, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Visit historic tea factories where you’ll sip on a local blend and picnic in the shamrock-green fields, hike into the hills or go white water rafting. Did we mention a hike to the falls or boating on the water? Yes please!
SUJÁN Sher Bagh
Ranthambore National Park, India
When it comes to searching for the flash of stripes and arresting stare of a Bengal Tiger, Ranthambore National Park is king and you’ll find few better spots to rest your head after a day of tiger tracking than SUJÁN Sher Bagh. Set on the edge of the billion-year-old forest, Sher Bagh is an opulent tented camp with a heady mix of butler service, foot rubs under the fig trees, wild adventure and drinks to be shared around the campfire each night. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled here, a female tiger has been known to wander the pathways! Make yourself at home in one of the dozen fluttering canvas suites – pick one with a private jacuzzi and romantic outdoor shower to really up your stay. And we haven’t even mentioned the all-access pass to this sensational wilderness! Grab a pair of binos and wet your whistle with a deckchair safari as you spy on the waterhole rabble before taking intrepid drives in search of the famous tigers (along with sloth bears and crocodile-saturated lakes!). You can even enjoy horseback rides into the bird-rich foothills and get a taste of local history at the reserve’s formidable fort. Return for delicious thalis under the stars and fall asleep to the sounds of the jungle. Welcome to Rajasthan!
Jungle Beach Resort
Trincomalee, Sri Lanka
In a remote village sandwiched between the piercing blue sea and intrepid jungle, this resort is 10 acres of thatched cabins with the view of your choice, treehouse dining and a sense of adventure that’s truly catching. Whether it’s a family affair or a honeymoon to remember, Jungle Beach has luxury, fun and stunning views by the bucket load. After years of struggle, this once war-torn coast is on the rise as a beach paradise and it still has that unexplored feel. Venture down the coastline on a whale watching boat ride, jet ski across the bay and dive amongst shoals of iridescent fish. We couldn’t let you go to Sri Lanka’s mystical northern coast without delving into its history on a tour of Trincomalee’s ancient streets and temples. What can we say, Sri Lanka is pretty magical.
Xandari Riverscapes
Kerala backwaters, India
A tapestry of canals and lakes, where hidden villages and lush jungle brush along the waterline, the Kerala backwaters promise endless tranquillity and we’re not sure there’s any better way to explore them than from the water itself – on a restored rice barge no less. Picture yourself gazing out over the scenery (which changes form every hour) from your bed or rooftop lounger as dazzling kingfishers speed above the water – bliss. You won’t just get to see the sights but learn about them too – your captain, butler and personal guide are all locals who grew up on the water and know the area like the back of their hand. Not only will you be led along those peaceful tributaries but also through the winding canals of Old Alleppey village to get a taste of local life. Your days on Xandari Riverscapes are sealed with starlit nights on deck where mouth-watering Keralan cuisine, made with ingredients courtesy of local farmers and fishermen, is served on banana leaves. If it’s true seclusion you’re after, book the boat with just one room – you can thank us later.
