Couples, If You’re Not Glamping, What Are You Even Doing?!

Though being out in nature is great for your serotonin levels, and helps you connect with yourself, camping as a method to achieve all of this, seems like a bit of a task. I mean, for those of us who are more inclined towards environments that are cosy, comfortable and soothing, sleeping bags and cleaning up with wet wipes seems almost like a battleground.

So, don’t get me wrong, camping is great, but it’s just a littletooclose to nature at times. This is where Glamping comes in. Glamping - a portmanteau of the words ‘glamorous’ and ‘camping’ -is a combination of comfort and camping; Here you get to experience living in a tent, that is cosy, and often has a canopy-covered bed, inclusive of a fine dining experience and spa services.

Everything To Know About Glamping

Glamping locations provide you with the experience of living in a tent, while also having the luxury of a regal bed to sleep in, private shower/bath space as well as serene, outdoor dinners that involve curated food menus. There aren’t many reasons to say no to a glamping experience for you’re not in a position of scarcity or danger, yet can have the peace and awe of being in the lap of nature. India has a vast geographical landscape, we’ve got stunning mountains, deserts, forests and coastal regions that are perfect for glamping. From the stunning lakeside allure of Udaipur and Tamil Nadu to the green and dune-filled wonder of Uttrakhand and Ranthambore, there is a lot to experience.

Where did glamping originate from?

Several moments in history describe the aristocratic and wealthy travelling in a way where they would carry large, spacious tents and more than enough extravagant food essentials to keep things comfortable. To be specific though, in the 1500s, the French, English, and Ottomans were known to travel carrying palatial tents with them! But in the 20th century, when many Europeans and Americans began travelling to Africa for safari trips, the idea of safari tents became quite popular. And the first instance of tent structures being seen in India was around the time the Mughal Empire existed and when royals wanted to celebrate royal weddings and organise durbars and hunting expeditions.

Though, one of the most extravagant examples of a celebration taking place in a tent, in Indian History was in the 20th century when Lord Curzon organised a celebration for the Coronation Durbar of King George V.

Today, the concept remains similar. Though of course, much more curated and personalised. Presently, the idea of glamping isn’t only limited to desert areas, but, mountainous regions as well as forest, or lakeside locations.

In fact, since the experience is so personal and intimate, glamping destinations are a preference for many people looking for a romantic getaway with their significant other. Especially, if the occasion is something special like, perhaps –  popping the question or a special anniversary! It’s even ideal for a honeymoon (or anearlymoon!). The seclusion of glamping locations and their nature-related activities offer the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with a loved one.

In fact, this is exactly what Mr Aditya P. Lakhanpal, Chairman, JPL Group (which also owns Aalia Jungle, Retreat and Spa, Uttarakhand)  had to say about what makes glamping so romantic. “Glamping makes for a quiet getaway, where people can spend quality time with their loved ones. Featuring British-era campaign-style tents equipped with all the amenities of a luxurious stay.’

Along with Aalia Jungle, stays such as Aman-i-Khás (an Aman Group property) and RAAS Chhatrasagar, Rajasthan are among the few destinations that offer stunning views and a chance to really retreat into nature. As Harry Fernandes, the General Manager at Amanbagh and Regional Director at Aman India & Sri Lanka tells us more, “The camping experience at Aman-i-Khás brings together the beauty of nature and the privacy of a luxury stay, making it a perfect getaway for couples. It provides an intimate sanctuary for couples with secluded accommodation, luxury amenities and experiences that promise privacy and romance.”

But not just to couples and lovebirds, glamping offers serenity to everyone who chooses the experience. It’s about privacy, peace and comfort, “Anyone who is seeking authentic experiences in nature while still maintaining the luxurious comfort of staying in a private setting will most certainly enjoy,” Harry tells us.

However, it’s not surprising that many glamping stays witness some of the most heartwarming proposals and intimate celebrations, as Mr S. Sakthi Saravanan, General Manager at The Alampara Resort in Tamil Nadu tells us narrates, “We’ve had many successful proposals, wedding anniversaries, birthday celebrations that have taken place at our Private beach. Which is exclusive at The Alampara and incredibly interesting for any couple to plan their proposal at. We also organise candlelight dinners at the backwaters!”

Glamping is one of the most sought-after travel experiences currently. From the riverside to the desert, there is a lot to explore. This is why we’ve curated a list of glamping locations that are fit for your kingly/queenly self. Read on…

Glamping locations to bookmark

Aman-I-Khas, Ranthambore

The tents at Aman-i-Khás consist of soaring canopies, private sun decks,  king-size beds, daybed-equipped living spaces, dining areas, free-standing bathtubs and showers. Not to mention, the property is also located in a wonderful self-contained oasis set in 10 acres!

Jungle Safaris at The Bison, Karnataka

At The Bison, you can experience glamping with four kinds of tents, namely; The Little Bison (an exclusive glamping experience that offers bubble baths, private bonfires and more), Waterfront Luxury Tents, Rustic Machans and Private Bush Tents. Aside from this, you can experience going on safaris as well!

Aalia Jungle, Uttrakhand

Located in a national park in Uttrakhand, Aalia Jungle offers stunning private dinners, campfire experiences and breathtaking views that will leave you awestruck. Apart from this. The retreat is committed to sustainable development, and the common room and dining restaurant have been constructed with traditional mud phuska-treated walls and a roof made from repurposed crate wood! So, expect only the best from your stay at the property.

Chamba Camp Diskit, Ladakh

From getting a chance to indulge in archery, private dinners and bonfires, Chamba Cam Diskit is a glamping site established by The Ultimate Travelling Camp which is located in Nubra Valley and surrounded by the serenity of mountains. But not only this, you can expect spacious tents that will provide you with outdoor decks to stargaze on, closet space and a desk where you can catch up on any kind of writing!

The Alampara Resort, Tamil Nadu

The Alampara resort, located in Tamil Nadu is nestled right next to the Coromandel Coast. The stay consists of 4 fantastic large tents, a restaurant and a sandbar. You get a chance to experience water sports such as kayaking, surfing, kneeboarding, stand-up paddle boarding and fishing rides with The Alampara, as it borders a private lake too.

The Bagh Villas, Madhya Pradesh

Located in the Kanha Tiger Reserve, The Bagh Villas offers luxurious tents amidst

You can also expect exquisite organic food, of which the ingredients are grown on the farm in-house or curated from select local farmers. You can head out for biking trails, birdwatching as well as nature trails with The Bagh Villas to engage with nature on a more personal level.

RAAS Chhatrasagar, Rajasthan

The Raas Chhatrasagar is all about birdlife, farming communities, walks and rewilding. Aside from the outdoor activities, the culinary experience is said to be rich and authentic, especially because of the stay’s conscious effort to source local produce and ingredients. Each tent is air-conditioned and has an outdoor sitting space that allows you privacy yet the freedom to enjoy the stunning views!