Dera Amer Elephant Camp

Hotel review

A unique operation, the Singh family have restored this previously barren plot of land, back to its former glory days as a hunting ground of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Taking an abrupt left-hand turn off the Jaipur highway, the city melts away as you journey deeper in the Rajasthan desert. One-hundred-and-eighty acres of protected scrubland set the scene for our camp. Unzip your tent in the morning to breakfast with Laxmi or Rangmala, Dera Amer's two resident elephants. Choose from "Luxury" or "Rustic" tents, the former, for those who want a wilderness experience without forgoing the creature comforts; the latter a camping trip with none of the hassle (or washing up afterwards). Interiors in both tents include Raj-era furnishings, hand-made by local artisans. Luxury tents are decorated in a regal Indian style and include an attached bathroom (with surprisingly good showers!) and local favourite, Forest Essentials toiletries. The Rustic tents' bathroom is but a few steps away. Much of the food is from Dera Amer's enormous organic vegetable plot, which is maintained by local villagers using traditional methods. Farm fresh food is the height of flavour, as are the classic Indian dishes: daals, palak paneer, tomato chutneys, with jeera and rice and rotis fresh off the tandoor. Westen options are also available on request. An oft-overused phrase, Dera Amer is truly a "one-of-a-kind" experience. Couples will love the intimacy of it, and it would make an unforgettable family holiday. From petting elephants, camel rides, jeep excursions and village walks there is enough to keep even the most energetic little ones occupied.

Megan Lambert Review published: 31/10/2018