If you love the great outdoors but don’t want to give up the comforts of a hotel, then glamping might be the perfect choice for you. Asia has become a popular destination for luxury glamping, offering stunning natural landscapes, unique accommodations, and a range of exciting experiences.
What is Luxury Glamping?
Glamping, short for glamorous camping, is a form of camping that combines the thrill of the outdoors with the comforts of a high-end hotel. Luxury glamping accommodations often include spacious tents and yurts, treehouses, and even villas with private pools and jacuzzis. Glamping sites also tend to offer unique activities such as hiking, wildlife spotting, and outdoor yoga, as well as fine dining and spa treatments.
Defining Glamping
The rise of glamping has prompted various definitions. For example, the Oxford Dictionary defines it as “a form of camping involving accommodation and facilities more luxurious than those associated with traditional camping.” Meanwhile, the International Glamping Association (yes, there is one!) describes glamping as “a way to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing luxury and amenities.”
The Rise of Glamping in Asia
With its diverse cultures and natural wonders, Asia has become a hot spot for luxury glamping. Bali, Thailand, Cambodia, India, and Japan offer a range of stunning destinations for glamping enthusiasts, with each country providing its unique take on the experience.
In Bali, for example, you can stay in a luxurious safari tent at the Sandat Glamping Resort. The resort is located in a lush tropical forest and offers a unique blend of traditional Balinese culture and modern luxury. Guests can enjoy a range of activities such as rice paddy trekking, Balinese cooking classes, and even a visit to a local healer.
Thailand is another popular destination for luxury glamping. The Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle offers guests the chance to stay in a luxurious tented camp in the heart of the jungle. The camp features spacious tents with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, as well as a range of activities such as elephant trekking, river cruises, and spa treatments.
Cambodia is home to the Shinta Mani Wild, a luxury glamping resort located in the heart of the jungle. The resort offers guests the chance to stay in a luxurious tented camp, complete with a private waterfall and outdoor bathtub. Guests can also enjoy a range of activities such as ziplining, kayaking, and wildlife safaris.
In India, glamping enthusiasts can head to the Amanbagh resort in Rajasthan. The resort offers guests the chance to stay in luxurious tents set in a beautiful garden oasis. Guests can also enjoy a range of activities such as camel rides, hot air balloon rides, and visits to local villages.
Japan is another country that has embraced luxury glamping. The Hoshinoya Fuji resort offers guests the chance to stay in luxurious cabins with stunning views of Mount Fuji. Guests can also enjoy a range of activities such as stargazing, forest walks, and hot spring baths.
Overall, luxury glamping offers a unique way to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort and luxury. With a range of stunning destinations to choose from, glamping enthusiasts are spoiled for choice when it comes to planning their next adventure.
Luxury Glamping in Bali
Bali is known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and exotic culture. It’s also home to some of the most luxurious glamping sites in Asia. Glamping, or glamorous camping, is a popular way to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort or style. If you’re looking for a unique and luxurious getaway in Bali, glamping is the way to go.
Top Glamping Sites in Bali
The glamping options in Bali are endless, but a few stand out. Try Sandat Glamping Tents in Ubud, which offers comfortable tents set in tropical gardens and rice paddies. The tents are beautifully decorated with local handicrafts and come with modern amenities like air conditioning and hot showers. Fans of beachfront glamping will love the laid-back atmosphere and spacious tents at Jeda Villa in Pemuteran. The tents are just steps away from the beach and offer stunning views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. Meanwhile, the 5-star Capella Ubud offers indulgent safari tents with private pools, outdoor showers, and your own personal assistant. You’ll feel like royalty in these luxurious tents, which are set in the heart of Bali’s lush rainforest.
Unique Activities and Experiences in Bali
Bali offers an array of outdoor adventures. Hike up Mount Batur at sunrise and witness the breathtaking views of the island from above. The trek is challenging but rewarding, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious breakfast cooked using the steam from the volcano. If you’re looking for a more adrenaline-fueled adventure, go white water rafting down the Ayung River. The rapids are exhilarating, and you’ll get to see Bali’s stunning natural beauty up close. For a more leisurely experience, take a cycling tour of the island’s lush rice paddies. You’ll get to see the local way of life up close and learn about Bali’s unique farming practices.
If you want to relax, indulge in a traditional Balinese massage or try an outdoor yoga class. Bali is known for its spa culture, and there are plenty of options for pampering yourself. A Balinese massage combines gentle stretches, acupressure, and aromatherapy to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Outdoor yoga classes are also popular in Bali, and there’s no better way to start your day than with a sunrise yoga session overlooking the ocean.
You can also immerse yourself in Bali’s vibrant culture by visiting temples and local villages. Bali is home to thousands of temples, each with its own unique history and significance. The island’s villages are also worth exploring, as they offer a glimpse into traditional Balinese life. You can learn traditional Balinese dance and cuisine, and even try your hand at making offerings for the gods.
No matter what your interests are, Bali has something to offer. And with its luxurious glamping options, you can experience all that the island has to offer in style and comfort.
Thailand’s Exquisite Glamping Destinations
Thailand is a country that boasts stunning beaches and islands, lush jungle, and an array of wildlife. It’s no wonder that the country is fast becoming a glamping paradise. Glamping, or glamorous camping, is a luxurious way to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort and convenience.
Must-Visit Glamping Sites in Thailand
One of the most popular glamping sites in Thailand is the Elephant Hills Tented Camp in Khao Sok National Park. Here, you can sleep under canvas tents, float down the river on a bamboo raft, and feed elephants. The tents are equipped with comfortable beds, fans, and en-suite bathrooms. You can also enjoy Thai massages and traditional cooking classes.
For a unique experience, try the Treehouse Villas in Koh Yao Noi, which have been built into the canopy of the jungle and offer stunning ocean views. The villas are made of sustainable materials and have private infinity pools, outdoor showers, and modern amenities like air conditioning and Wi-Fi. You can also take part in island-hopping tours, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Alternatively, the glamping tents at Panviman Resort in Chiang Mai offer luxurious amenities, including air conditioning, private bathrooms, and outdoor rain showers. The tents are set in a peaceful garden and have a rustic charm that blends with the natural surroundings. You can also enjoy yoga classes, Thai massages, and cycling tours.
Exploring Thai Culture and Nature
Thailand has a rich cultural and natural heritage to explore. Bangkok, the capital city, is a bustling metropolis that is home to ancient temples, modern skyscrapers, and vibrant street markets. The Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and Wat Arun are some of the most iconic landmarks that you can visit.
Chiang Mai, in northern Thailand, is a cultural hub that has a laid-back vibe. The city is surrounded by mountains and has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. You can visit the Old City, which is surrounded by a moat and ancient walls, and explore the many temples and museums. The Doi Suthep-Pui National Park is also a popular attraction that offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views.
For nature lovers, Khao Yai National Park is a must-visit destination. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that covers an area of over 2,000 square kilometers. It is home to an array of wildlife, including elephants, gibbons, and tigers. You can take guided tours to explore the park and see the wildlife up close.
In conclusion, Thailand is a glamping paradise that offers a unique blend of luxury and adventure. Whether you want to sleep under canvas tents, stay in a treehouse villa, or relax in a glamping tent, there is something for everyone. With its rich culture and natural beauty, Thailand is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
Discovering Cambodia’s Hidden Glamping Gems
Cambodia’s dramatic landscapes, ancient ruins, and stunning beaches make it an exciting destination for luxury camping. However, there are some hidden gems that are worth exploring for a truly unique glamping experience.
One such hidden gem is the 4 Rivers Floating Lodge, located in the heart of the Koh Kong Conservation Corridor. This eco-friendly lodge offers 12 luxurious tents that float on the Tatai River, surrounded by lush rainforest. Guests can take a dip in the river, go kayaking or explore the local waterfalls.
If you’re looking for a glamping experience that combines luxury with adventure, then the Elephant Valley Project in Mondulkiri is the place to be. Here, you’ll stay in comfortable tents that overlook the elephant sanctuary, where you can observe and interact with these majestic animals in their natural habitat.
Best Glamping Spots in Cambodia
The Cardamom Tented Camp in Koh Kong Province is one of Cambodia’s most unique glamping sites. Here, you’ll stay in comfortable eco-tents situated in the heart of the Cardamom Mountains, surrounded by rainforest and river. For a beach getaway, try the Song Saa Private Island, which offers luxurious overwater villas and a range of water activities. Finally, the Shinta Mani Wild, located in the Southern Cardamom National Park, offers luxurious glamping tents and exciting adventures, including ziplining and kayaking.
Delving into Cambodia’s Rich History
Cambodia is a country steeped in history, with ancient temples and ruins scattered throughout the landscape. The most famous of these is Angkor Wat, which attracts millions of visitors each year. However, Cambodia has much more to offer beyond Angkor Wat, including the lesser-known temples of Banteay Chhmar and Preah Vihear.
For those interested in Cambodia’s more recent history, the Tuol Sleng Museum and the Killing Fields in Phnom Penh offer a sobering reminder of the Khmer Rouge period. Visitors can learn about the atrocities committed during this time and pay their respects to the victims.
Overall, Cambodia is a country that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural history. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious glamping experience or an opportunity to delve into the country’s past, Cambodia has something for everyone.
India’s Diverse Glamping Escapes
India is a country of contrasts, from the bustling cities to the peaceful countryside, and it offers a range of glamping options to match.
Top Glamping Locations in India
India offers a range of glamping options, including luxury tents and villas. One of the most unique accommodations in the country is the Oberoi Vanyavilas in Ranthambore National Park, which offers luxury tents with private gardens and hot tubs, as well as guided wildlife tours. For a beach getaway, try the glamping tents at The Leela Goa, which have been designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding garden and sea views. Finally, the Serai Resort in Jaisalmer offers luxurious tents in the heart of the Thar Desert, with stunning starlit skies and traditional Rajasthani cuisine.
Experiencing India’s Cultural and Natural Wonders
India is a country of vibrant cultures and stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can explore the ancient history of Delhi and Jaipur or go trekking in the Himalayas. The country’s natural wonders are also a draw, with wildlife safaris in Ranthambore and Kaziranga National Parks or exploring the stunning tea plantations in Darjeeling. Don’t forget to sample the delicious cuisine, which varies by region and is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Conclusion
Luxury glamping in Asia offers a unique way to experience this diverse continent. From the lush jungles of Bali to the dramatic mountains of Cambodia and the cultural wonders of India, there are plenty of glamping destinations to explore. So why not pack your bags and head out for a luxurious adventure in the great outdoors?
