5 Luxury Wildlife Safari Getaways This Summer

From the towering Himalayas and the plains of central India to the Western Ghats and the world’s largest mangrove forests in the east, India is home to over 100 national parks that protect its wildlife, much of which is endemic and endangered. The country is home to 70 per cent of the world’s tigers and 60 per cent of its Asian elephants, and has recorded more than 1,360 species of birds, 600 reptiles and 400 mammals within its borders.

With national parks closing soon for the monsoon season, embark on these five luxury wildlife safaris that will bring you up close and personal with the raw beauty of the more-than-human landscape—without compromising on comfort.

Aramness, Gir National Park

Inspired by the charm of Gujarati villages, this boutique lodge in Gir National Park offers more than just a luxury stay; it prides itself on providing opportunities to learn through distinctive adventures. Guests have several choices for how to spend their day, whether that involves sunrise game drives into the park, jungle walks in the teak forest, visiting a Maldhari family in their home, sampling delicious Gujarati food, relaxing in the spa, burning energy in the gym or simply soaking up the natural beauty of the park.

The twice-daily safaris to Gir National Park—home to the Asiatic lion—and excursions to Blackbuck National Park, whose golden grasslands abound with Indian wolves, hyenas, foxes, jackals and blackbucks, are more than worth your time—they’re a must.

You’ll be staying in one of 18 suites, called kothis, which take their cue from the charmingly informal arrangement of local Gujarati village homes. The understated yet luxurious interiors have been designed to instil deep comfort and tranquillity, with either one or two ground-floor bedrooms in each, a sitting room, a spacious bathroom with a tub and shower, as well as a cool, shaded courtyard and a first-floor veranda looking out over waterways and the dense teak forest.

Address: 177/2, Haripur–Bhalchhel Road, Haripur, Amblash, Gujarat 362150

Tariff: A two-night stay in June 2025 starts at INR 67,500

The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort, Ranthambore National Park

One of India’s most popular national parks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ranthambore sits at the junction of some of the oldest mountain ranges in the world—the Aravallis and the Vindhyas. Open from October to June, it is among the top places to see Bengal tigers in the wild.

The perfect place to relax and unwind after a thrilling day spent tiger-spotting is undoubtedly The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort. Inspired by the royal tents of travelling caravans from a bygone era, the luxury tents are furnished with a canopied king-size bed, a large writing desk and plush armchairs. They also feature a claw-foot standalone bathtub and teakwood floors, with a garden framed by handmade traditional walls for maximum privacy. For added luxury, consider booking a tent with a temperature-controlled private pool for unparalleled comfort and serenity.

The property organises safaris led by experienced chauffeurs, forest guides and in-house naturalists. Each vehicle accommodates up to six guests and is fitted with safety belts and charging points for cameras and mobile devices. Guests may also explore Surwal Lake, home to over 100 bird species, or visit the Chambal River to spot gharials basking in the sun.

Address: Ranthambhore Road, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan 322001

Tariff: A two-night stay in June 2025 starts at INR 56,000

Banjaar Tola, Kanha National Park

The largest national park in Madhya Pradesh, Kanha National Park is located in the Maikal Hills and is one of the best places in India to spot leopards, Bengal tigers, dholes, sloth bears, barking deer, barasingha, gaur and more.

Located along the banks of the Banjaar River, Banjaar Tola—part of the Taj portfolio—offers a memorable and sustainable experience, complete with dining decks, intimate sitting areas and an organic garden. Two elegant camps of nine tents each feature terraced lounges, pools, Gond artwork and Bastar bell metal work that highlight the local culture.

Expert naturalists lead morning and evening game drives in private 4×4 vehicles designed for comfort and luxury. Explore misty grasslands, spy on tigers, observe fascinating wildlife and enjoy a “bonnet breakfast” during your morning drive.

Address: Kanha National Park, Near Mukki Gate, Manjitola, Baihar, Madhya Pradesh 481111

Tariff: A two-night stay in June 2025 starts at INR 38,000

Diphlu River Lodge, Kaziranga National Park

When Prince William and Princess Catherine visited Kaziranga National Park in April 2016, they stayed in one of the 12 semi-detached cottages at Diphlu River Lodge. Inspired by the architecture of local Mishing tribal homes, the cottages are raised on stilts and constructed from bamboo and wood, topped with thatched roofs.

Kaziranga is home to the world’s largest populations of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, wild water buffalo and barasingha. Set out on a jeep safari to spot them, or hop aboard a specially designed country boat that cruises down the Brahmaputra River, where you might glimpse the endangered Gangetic dolphin. Afterwards, help bathe a domesticated Indian elephant—under the supervision of its handler—in the refreshing waters of the Diphlu River.

Address: Kaziranga National Park, Police Outpost, Near Bagori, Kuthari, Assam 782136

Tariff: A two-night stay in June 2025 starts at INR 15,500

Spice Village – CGH Earth, Periyar National Park

Located in the Western Ghats along the border with Tamil Nadu, Periyar National Park is a renowned elephant and tiger reserve. It is also home to endemic birds such as the Malabar grey hornbill, Nilgiri wood pigeon, blue-winged parakeet, crimson-backed sunbird and white-bellied redstart.

A top stay near the park is Spice Village, a CGH Earth property. Its charming cottages are inspired by the traditional dwellings of the local Mannan tribe, with thatched roofs made from elephant grass. You won’t find carpets or air conditioning here—coir mats on bare stone floors and breezy private porches show how comfort can be achieved without disturbing the surrounding environment.

Forest guides, many of whom come from indigenous tribal communities, lead treks into the national park. Depending on the season, you can take a day trip to a nearby pepper plantation or join the in-house naturalists to learn about the region’s flora and fauna.

Address: Kottayam–Kumily Road, Thekkady, Kumily, Kerala 685509

Tariff: A two-night stay in June 2025 starts at INR 10,358