The Oberoi Vanyavilas

Enjoy authentic Rajasthani cuisine and more international fare at The Dining Room with its painted walls and high chandeliers. Drinks at the bar are a cosy affair, surrounded by tigress oil paintings and walls of well-read books. Enter the spa past flower-filled water features where you can partake in a range of treatments overlooking the lily pond - plus yoga sessions on the pavilion. In a sunny courtyard, enjoy a soak in the pool complete with colourful, tasseled umbrellas.

Across the bridge from the central lodge, the Vanyavilas' luxury tents make a welcome return after a day of exploring. A king size bed, writing desk and plump armchairs set the scene. The bright tents have a high, embroidered canopy and creamy walls, complete with a chaise lounge on the patio and attentive butler service. Other handy amenities include air con, a fully-stocked mini bar, pillow menu and an in-house movie collection. The bathrooms are decked out with a clawfoot tub, high-pressure shower and silk bathrobes.

The forested world of Ranthambore is one of the best places to see India's Royal Bengal tigers in their natural habitat. Keep your eyes pealed for the striped beauties on a jungle drive or venture into Kachida Valley to search for an Indian leopard (aka panther). For a safari of a different kind, enjoy a boat ride down the Chambal River to spot endangered Gharial crocs. Perched 700m above the trees, Ranthambore Fort is home to one of India's oldest Ganesha temples. Back at the lodge, get stuck into everything from an art walk to stargazing atop the observatory tower, complete with a glass of bubbly.