Situated in the heart of Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park is renowned for its iconic Bengal tigers, dramatic ruins, and striking landscapes. Just a short drive from Zone 5 of the park is Baaghini, a homestay that harmoniously blends simplicity with understated elegance. Enveloped entirely by the Aravalli hills, this 1.25-acre property is separated from the national park by only a ten-foot-wide road. Established in October 2024, Baaghini is a five-room retreat nestled within a thriving guava orchard on the edge of Sherpur village, about three hours away from Jaipur. Here, wildlife casually crosses paths with everyday life. Daylight fills the garden with the melodious calls of golden orioles, peacocks, koels, and parakeets, while the evenings echo with the sounds of owls, lapwings, and nightjars. A quiet moment on the machan offers an unmatched experience of solitude and connection with nature.
The Blissful Set Up of Baaghini
The guest rooms are arranged in a linear fashion overlooking a central garden, each with doors and windows that frame the surrounding mountains. Designed for comfort and aesthetic warmth, each double room includes tall ceilings, Jaipur-printed linens, and handcrafted ottomans placed at the bed’s foot. Each room opens onto a private verandah furnished with charpais, perfect for lounging while observing scenes reminiscent of a live wildlife documentary. Just beyond the property’s perimeter, camera traps frequently capture the movements of the region’s diverse fauna – from honey badgers and sloth bears to porcupines and the elusive Bengal tiger.
The land Baaghini stands on still retains its orchard roots, now flourishing with guava trees alongside custard apples, mangoes, lemons, and lemongrass. Though the gardens are well-maintained – lawns trimmed and paths clear – wildlife continues to roam freely. Hares, civets, mongooses, and foxes are often spotted on the grounds, a reminder of nature’s persistent presence.
Baaghini remains open throughout the year. “Every season brings its own kind of beauty,” shares Kalponika Bhattacharya, the host. While winter attracts the most visitors due to the active safari season, the monsoon months unveil a lush, almost surreal landscape. During the rains, it feels less like Rajasthan and more like Ooty. As spring arrives with cooler, starry nights, guests gather on the rooftop terrace, where traditional chattais and candles set the mood for an enchanting stargazing session.
Accommodation – At Baaghini, each room is thoughtfully curated to offer both rustic charm and modern comfort. With tasteful interiors, soft bedding, and carefully chosen amenities, the rooms create a calming space that reflects the serenity of Ranthambore. Guests awaken to the soothing sounds of the wild and relax in their private sanctuary.
Dining – Meals at Baaghini are a farm-to-table experience. The host takes special care in serving dishes crafted from ingredients grown organically on-site. Every element on the plate is cultivated with mindfulness, ensuring freshness and sustainability. The menu celebrates the local flavours of Ranthambore National Park while honouring nature’s wholesome bounty.
Getting There
- Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (approx. 168 km)
- Nearest Railhead: Sawai Madhopur Railway Station (approx. 14 km)
- Bus Terminal: Sawai Madhopur Bus Depot (approx. 13 km)
