What could possibly be more thrilling than staying in a tree house in the wild! Suspended from treetops and canopied in leafy branches, a treehouse is just so much dreamier than a regular brick and mortar hotel. From rustic to luxe – there’s a tree house for every kind of vacation. No matter which one you choose, common threads include a connection with nature, tranquility and the adventure and excitement of spending the night somewhere unique and different.
Bookmark these 10 amazing tree-house hotels for a secluded getaway in nature.
1. The Machan, Lonavala
At a mere 2.5-hour drive from Mumbai and 1.5 hours from Pune, this serene and lavish retreat makes for an accessible weekend getaway. The cabins suspend over the boundaries of the mountain cliff and provide spectacular view of the valley lying below it. The interiors are equally breathtaking - four-poster bed, antique writing table, stone-topped bar, outdoor rain shower and a bathtub on a private deck. Some of the tree houses even come with translucent, retractable roof to enjoy the pitter-patter of the rain in the monsoons and the starry night sky in the winters and summers.
Details here
2. Tranquil Resorts, Wayanad, Kerala
This peaceful hideaway by Ajay and Nisha Mathula is set deep in 400s acre of fruit and coffee plantation. In addition to providing beautiful views of the mountains, dense woodlands and a gurgling lake the tree houses combine an eco-conscious attitude with luxury: The tree houses have been built entirely from the wood of trees that are grown and felled at the property during felling season. Meals carved from the property’s own garden and the fantastic coffee are other highlights of Tranquil. The famous Edakkal Caves, Muthanga Wildlife Park and Kanthampara Waterfalls are close by for exploration. But the best thing to do at Tranquil is to take a dip in the pool, surrender to a massage and return to a delish south Indian meal by the host Nisha.
Details here
3. The Hidden Burrow, Himachal Pradesh
All you hear at this quaint treehouse is the gently flowing river Jibhi and the chirping of mountain birds. Located in the picturesque town of Jibhi the tree houses here are plonked on trees 60feet from the ground and include a master bedroom, an attic and a luxurious washroom carved in wood. Balconies come with cosy beds to bask in the morning sun or simply gawk at the snow-clad mountains. The café here churns out delicious hot parathas and steaming bowls of Maggi. Evenings at the Hidden Burrow will almost always end with a beautiful sunset and a bonfire.
Details here
4. Pepper Trail, Wayanad, Kerala
Despite the setting inside a spice and coffee plantation and the tropical rainforest surrounding it, the tree houses at Pepper Trail feel intimate and comforting. Built on giant jackfruit trees 40 feet above the ground, the tree villas are furnished with four poster beds, luxurious bathrooms and large outdoor spaces ideal for privacy. There is also a140-year-old colonial style bungalow to stay. The in-house restaurant, Pavilion is set high up amidst the trees, and offers unforgettable views. Plantation walks, open jeep safaris, cycling, fishing, canoeing and coracle rides will fill up your days at Pepper Trail. The famous Edakkal Caves are only 15km from the property and the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary a mere 20km away.
Details here
5. Khaama Kethna, Agonda, Goa
Eco conscious travellers will love this tree house retreat spread across 12 acres of forest. From trees in the bedroom to frogs in the toilet and geckos in the patio – expect nature in every form and life here. The cabanas come with outdoor shower, antique daybed and a patio with a great view to boot. The onsite café serves delicious vegan meals. Days at Khaama are filled with meditation, yoga, plant-based meals, creative workshops and nature walks.
Note: No alcohol permitted here. Wi-Fi is patchy.
Details here
6. Suro Resort, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Snuggled in the picturesque valley of Shoghi, this treehouse property is wrapped in oak forest and fresh mountain air. The luxurious chalets are decked with large balconies overlooking the forest and wooden bathroom with glass cubicle, rain shower and superb modern fittings. Those looking for adrenalin can hike up to Kaithlighat through a landscape of meadows, river crossing and terraced farmland. Return to a roaring bonfire and wood fired pizza under the sky.
Note: Suro is a pet friendly retreat.
Details here
7. The Treehouse Resort Jaipur
Nestled in the scenic Syari Valley, with amazing view of the mighty Aravallis, the tree houses here are truly homes in the clouds. There are several wooden gazebos to meditate, read or simply relax. Spend the days learning pottery from local craftsman, plucking fresh produce from the organic herb garden or learning to cook local delicacies. Jaipur monuments such as Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, Jaigarh and Jal Mahal are just 20 minutes away from the property.
Details here
8. Tree House Hideaway, Bandhavgarh
Located near the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, the tree houses here offer a spellbinding view of the jungle spread over 21 acres. The hideaways - Mahua, Tendu, Peepal, Banyan and Palash are named after the trees on which they are built on. Even the restaurant is built around a century old Mahua tree. You can choose to spend your time luxuriating in the intimacy of your tree villa or go looking for wildlife in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. The lodge also has a machaan overlooking a water hole frequented by wild animals.
Details here
9. Vanya Tree House, Kerala
Vanya combines adventure, natural beauty and breathtaking views as it’s next to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady. The sit-out here makes for a perfect perch to see animals that pass by. The home-style Kerala food is delicious. Don’t miss the early morning trek to the pond to catch the bison taking a bath. Evenings are dedicated to bonfires and stargazing.
Details here
10. Hornbill River Resort, Dandeli
If you’re after tropical vibes, you’ve come to the right place. At Hornbill, you’ll wake up each morning in a tree house in the unexplored jungles of Dandeli with the mighty river Kali flowing beside. Enjoy your coffee out on your private deck and request an in-room massage to really unwind. Plus, fun is never far away; white water rafting, bird watching, boating, trekking, rock climbing and rappelling are all yours for the taking.
Details here