The Oberoi Vanyavilas, Ranthambhore

We were welcomed into Vanyavilas with a gentle shower of rose petals - a moment that instantly set the tone for what was to come. As the kids were greeted with puzzles, stoles, and tiny pagaris, their faces lit up with pure joy. It was thoughtful, charming, and incredibly special, an arrival we will never forget! I travelled with my husband, our two boys, and my best friend, with her daughter visiting from Dubai and it turned out to be one of those rare experiences that delights both adults and children equally. We did a walk in the afternoon with the naturalist, who was so knowledgeable. The kids were completely absorbed, spotting birds and insects around the property, learning about the flora and fauna in the resort, climbing up the observation tower for sweeping forest views, and truly engaging with nature in such an immersive way. I would highly recommend this experience for anyone visiting with kids. Safaris were made even more comfortable with well-prepared snack boxes and blankets - such a thoughtful addition that makes early mornings and long drives so much easier. The food deserves a special mention - it was consistently exceptional, with every meal thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented. Chef Atharvas' team deserves a special mention. A particularly special moment was when I mentioned to Chef Atharva that my younger son dreams of becoming a chef; he immediately and graciously took all the kids on a tour of the kitchen. It meant the world to them and is something they will remember for a long time. A big part of what makes this place so special is the team. Under the leadership of Ms. Ratna Malhotra, the General Manager, there is a clear culture of warmth, attention to detail, and genuine care. Every single team member greets you with a smile and makes you feel at home. The hospitality feels deeply personal, not transactional - which is rare. We were especially touched by the little details that made the experience unforgettable for the children. From towel art and nature walks to tiara-making using flowers and twigs, and even a visit to the kitchen garden—there was always something engaging planned. The evening sessions with the naturalists, especially the one on tigers, were both educational and fascinating. Personalised bedtime letters and stories were left for the kids each night. It was such a heartfelt gesture and something they looked forward to daily. Even the child-sized bathrobes and slippers added to the feeling of being completely pampered. The ambience of the property is elevated further by live Rajasthani folk music during breakfast and dinner—it adds such an authentic and soulful touch to the experience. And the presence of so many peacocks wandering gracefully around the property only adds to its charm. The experience ended on just as thoughtful a note - with beautiful parting gifts for the children, including boxes of chocolates, a striking glass pugmark, and stunning prints of Ranthambore’s tigers. It was the perfect way to carry a piece of the wilderness back home. Overall, the level of luxury, comfort, and thoughtful hospitality here is truly world-class. It’s not just a hotel stay, "it’s truly an experience that stays with you long after you leave."

Luxury stay, glimpse of tiger

This hotel and it’s staff are exceptional! The level of detail and love they put in all their efforts to make their guests happy is unique! Ms Malhotra, the general manager, sets the standard and the whole team together make it an experience you won’t forget. Every detail is thought of. If you need any assistance you won’t have to ask, because they have already foreseen what you need. Their approach is very personal. The food is delicious and varies every day, from real Radjastani traditional food, till international dishes. And they always surprise with a new setting where to dine. We went to Ranthambore to see the tigers, and also this was very well organized, with outstanding guides. The praise could go on and on. And the tents are so private, with your own little secluded garden, that you seem to be all by yourself. Compliments to the whole team!

The Oberoi Hotel Vanyavilas, a would class hotel right next to the fabulous Ranthambhore tiger reserve, makes one of the world’s most amazing trips (to Ranthambhore) the ultimate trip. The tiger viewing at Ranthambhore is wonderful. We’ve been here a number of times. This last trip we saw tigers, a leopard and a sloth bear among many other animals. But the special treat for us, in addition to that, is the Oberoi hotel here. Ratna is the long-time general manager. She is superb. The people who work here all really care about their primary job- their guests. They really are interested in making sure that you enjoy your time at this wonderful hotel and location. Thanks to Ratna, Nishkarsh in the front office who helped us purchase a needed new camera among other things, Divyesh who we’ve met before and who is always super helpful, Sameer who might best be described as a big star Silicon Valley tech guy (where is a good tech guy when you need him- right here!), and the wonderful team in the restaurant (chef, Indian musicians and waiters and waitresses). The housekeeping team also was wonderful and deserves a special “shout out.” They were especially super nice on our very last evening.

Fantastic hotel in lovely setting. The rooms are luxurious, the staff friendly and helpful and the food is gorgeous.