Samode Bagh, Jaipur, India

Luxury tented camp Samode Bagh is a romantic hideaway popular with honeymooners on the outskirts of Jaipur. It was built 150 years ago as a garden paradise for the Samode royal family who used it for rare moments of privacy.

Many of the original features of the 20-acre garden have been preserved – the traditional geometric planting favoured by the Mughal emperors, the 200 feet-long row of fountains fed from natural springs and the 15-foot high surrounding stone wall.

The facilities

Traditional Rajasthani food is served al fresco at Samode Bagh. Chef can cater for large receptions of up to 350 guests, making the luxury tented camp hugely popular with wedding parties. Intimate dinners for two can also be arranged beside the large, mosaic-tiled, outdoor pool.

The exquisite, 400-year-old Samode Palace is the main attraction of the area and at least a day should be spent exploring its intricately hand-painted Durbar Hall and the breathtaking ‘Sheesh Mahal’ or the hall of mirrors.

Camel, jeep and horse safaris can be arranged and lawn tennis, croquet and badminton facilities are hugely popular. There are even supervised craft workshops and games for the children.

At the end of the day, guests tend to congregate around the camp fire swapping stories and travel yarns.

The luxury tents

The 44 luxury, air-conditioned tents have been furnished in a traditional 16th century Rajasthani style with occasional flourishes of Victoriana. Carpeted floors, walk-in wardrobes, electric lights, heating and marble bathrooms make this no ordinary camping experience.