At a Glance
Amanresorts’ tented camp brings a contemporary aesthetic and high-touch service to living under canvas.
Review
This camp with ten tents opened in 2003 and commands the highest overnight price in Ranthambore. Set on 18 acres of deciduous forest on the edge of the tiger preserve, Aman-i-Khás delivers the expected high-style, Aman experience in safari form. Once you pass through the entry gate of high ocher walls, a stark stone slab pathway leads to the central gathering area of the camp, a sunken stone seating area, where a massive campfire is lit at night.
Three oversized tents containing the dining room, lounge and spa line the main camp level, and while their walls and ceilings are simple canvas, the polished stone floors and custom leather and wood furniture seem more suited to a chic Parisian apartment than your typical safari tent. Well-known interior designer Jean-Michel Gathy, who also created Amanyara in the Turks and Caicos, fashioned towering dark wood bookcases with leather inlays and sleek contemporary versions of campaign furniture. In the ten air-conditioned guest tents, which are scattered around the property, a modernist aesthetic mixes with Asian accents like the day beds that serve as a constant reminder that this is an Aman safari, not a Maharajah’s. The camp pool was designed to resemble an Indian step-well, and guests can lounge on triangular pillows and mattresses instead of chaise longues.
In keeping with the Aman philosophy, the staff here focuses on delivering unusual experiences for its guests as well as sexy accommodations, so they may suggest a breakfast set up in the Ranthambore fort, village walks or camel treks. Additionally, the tents come with their own butlers, who are there to make every experience as memorable as possible. While most travelers come to Aman-i-Khás to see tigers, once there, guests will appreciate just relaxing on the serene grounds as much as seeing the big cats. Aman is the Sanskrit word for peace and Khas means special in Hindu; few would deny that this is a special place of peace.
Who Should Stay
Aman junkies will not be disappointed by the Aman take on a tiger safari, but those with young kids or who prize more traditional amenities such as a fitness center will prefer Vanyavilas, and those who crave an old-fashioned experience should choose the nearby Sher Bagh. Overall, Aman-i-Khás is best for couples and adults.
Written by Melissa Biggs Bradley