ERENE in the desert, this Amanresort in India, Amanbagh, derives its name from the words "aman" ("peaceful" in Sanskrit) and "bagh", or garden in Hindi. It lies within a walled compound that was once used by the Maharajah of Alwar during his tiger hunts. Long since abandoned, the trees and vegetation continue to thrive due to a reliable water supply drawn from an adjacent lake. Amanbagh is every bit a modern day "palace," but paying homage to the traditional architecture and design of Rajasthan.

The swimming pool, an informal dining area and wading pool are all set within landscaped grounds. Accommodation is in ground-level Courtyard Haveli Suites, Garden Haveli Suites, Terrace Haveli Suites (on the upper level) and in 16 private Pool Pavilions with their own garden, pool and reception hall.

Typically, rooms feature a living area, a private courtyard, domed ceilings and king-size beds. There is an inroom sound system.

Aman-i-Khás (combining "aman" and "khás", or "special", in Urdu) is an exclusive wilderness camp set in the rugged hills of Rajasthan on the outskirts of Ranthambhore National Park. The luxury tents are set in a quiet rural area that borders one of the finest tiger reserves in the world. The camp operates in cooler months from October until the end of April. There are ten accommodation tents on concrete plinths and a walk-in "step-well". Each 108sq m tent echoes a rich Mughal style with "rooms" separated by cotton drapes.

They are constructed of canvas and supported by a steel frame with the interior walls and ceilings draped in fine cotton.The centre of each tent soars up to a six-metre canopy. Each tent is air-conditioned and has a ceiling fan. Dinner is most often served around a roaring outdoor fire.

The gateway for the Aman Rajasthan experience is the capital, New Delhi, where guests overnight at the Manor hotel in the plush suburb of Friends Colony.