Sawai Madhopur Lodge – IHCL SeleQtions is the only heritage retreat amidst the wilderness of Ranthambore, one of India’s most renowned national parks and kingdom of the Royal Bengal Tiger. Spread over 16 lush green acres, it was built in 1930 as a hunting lodge for the Royal Family of Jaipur. Guests are ushered into this glamorous abode, with the promise of jungle adventures and princely legends. The crescent-shaped Art Deco mansion is a treat for period architecture fans, with vibrant colors, geometric lines, chequered floors and verandas. From the Jaipur coat of arms, royal portraits in the rooms and taxidermic wild animals on the walls, every detail evokes a majestic past, with the added luxury of modern amenities. The lush green grounds – home to a 100-year old banyan tree – have a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa, an organic garden and three state-of-the-art conference and banquet venues. The lodge is uniquely positioned to offer an authentic slice of local culture. Gourmands can savour the robust simplicity of khadmurg, a whole chicken smoked for hours in a coal pit, once the staple meal of royal hunting parties.