Khem Villas, Ranthambhore National Park, Rajasthan, India
Of the many luxury hotels around Ranthambhore National Park, we picked Khem Villas to relax a few days after our strenuous sightseeing in the heat. The reviews were raving, the peaceful and quiet atmosphere, set in a big well kept ground, the great rooms and what not…
All this was true, especially the bungalows were stunning (avoid the tents from April onward, without AC they are unbearably hot), with their outside bathtubs and exquisite decoration. Taking a bath under the stars does have a certain charm. Nevertheless, 390 USD a night, food included (vegetarian only), is bizarre! Around 150 USD would be a more proper price. Only knowing that a large junk of the money goes to the very important “Tiger Watch” project as well as to local initiatives gave us comfort.
The resort was started in the 1980s. By planting indigenous trees and creating small water bodies, it has converted this vast open grassland into a natural habitat. Sustainability is the motto of this place. Even the food served in the hotel is biologically grown in gardens right next to Khem Villas.
On our last morning, we experienced a big excitement: a farmer reported having spotted a female tiger with two cubs nearby the hotel. We were the only guests around, so together with the owner’s sister we raced off in a jeep, hearts racing. We were briefed to say we were going to a friend’s farm if the forest authorities questioned us. Despite our desperate hopes, the creature had no mercy with us, it was gone…
Khem Villas, Ranthambhore National Park, Rajasthan, India
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