RAAS Chhatrasagar

In the countryside between Jodhpur and Jaipur, this tented lodge overlooking a lake is both a birders’ paradise and the perfect place to unwind between city visits.

• The semi-permanent tented accommodations, featuring embroidered canvas walls and an over-the-bed skylight for prime stargazing
• The natural amenities, like the hotel’s expansive herb garden and grass tennis court
• The picturesque restaurant deck, perfect for birdwatching and lounging with a sundowner

In the Rajasthani countryside, this tented-lodge property used to be the private home of local nobles before being converted into a luxury hotel in 2019. The land, once enjoyed by the family for hunting and farming, is an oasis rich with wildlife, and makes for the perfect serene escape from the busy cities that can often dominate a Rajasthan itinerary.

This is the newest property in the RAAS portfolio and, with sustainability top of mind, it was purpose-built to have a low impact on the environment. The hotel features a line of semi-permanent tented accommodations, each finished with a small outdoor deck space overlooking the lake and a skylight over the bed for stargazing. While the tents themselves are on the smaller side (particularly the two bedroom tents which would really only work for families with young children), they have all the creature comforts one might need. The design is soulful with canvas walls and tented ceilings that are hand-embroidered with images of birds and wildlife, giving the space a distinct personality and paying homage to the textile work that can be found throughout India.

While there is no dedicated fitness center, morning yoga overlooking the lake can be arranged, along with scenic nature walks or tennis on the property's grass court. During the winter months, guests can utilize the tented spa, but it is removed during the humid summer season.

Days here are spent relaxing on property by the pool, enjoying a boat ride and picnic on the lake or perhaps taking a stroll through the expansive herb garden. Those who want to be a bit more active may elect to embark on a hike or enjoy a half day scenic safari where you can spot antelope, porcupine, wild boar, lizards and jackals—though those hoping to see tiger or leopard are better off staying elsewhere in the countryside of Ranthambore. Avid birders will be happy here, as Chhatrasagar is home to over 250 species of birds.

Couples or families looking to relax and slow things down in a beautiful location and take a break from the hustle of Indian city life, as the location between Jaipur and Jodphur is perfect for this.