Luxe Chateau glass glamp at Luxeglamp
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
It’s 6am and I awake to the sound of birds heralding the morning outside my glass dome. I am glamping at the brand new Luxe Chateau, a double-glass dome at Luxeglamp’s eco-resort near Poombarai Hills in Kodaikanal. Shortly after I step out, the crisp forest air washes over my face and I catch the first rays of the sun rising over a breathtaking landscape — of a valley draped in layers of greenery amidst a cascading waterfall and acres of terraced fields.
As the morning breeze carries the scent of the forest, I feast on freshly-baked pastries, fruits, and omelettes — all arranged on a wooden tray floating in my private infinity pool. Says Antony Thomas, CEO & Founder of Luxeglamp EcoResorts, “We wanted to elevate our guests’ connection with nature. Our new Glass Glamps offer an all-encompassing experience where guests can sleep under the stars and wake up to one of the most beautiful sunrises in Kodaikanal — all while staying warm and cozy.”
There are seven premium domes designed around Moroccan, Rodeo and Celestial themes and an exclusive glass dome. Shot On OnePlus #FramesofIndia
| Photo Credit:
K Jeshi
Glamping or ‘glamorous camping’, is an outdoor experience that combines the excitement of camping with the luxury and comfort of a high-end hotel. Instead of traditional tents and sleeping bags, glamping accommodations often include stylish, fully furnished tents, domes, yurts, or cabins equipped with modern amenities.
Sunrise view from the dome
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
In India, glamping is rapidly growing due to the country’s diverse landscapes, from mountains and beaches to deserts, and also because it combines the best of both worlds — of camping outdoors yet with the modern conveniences of a luxury star hotel. For example, Rajasthan offers glamping in luxury tents near the Thar Desert, Udaipur, and Jaipur, often combined with camel safaris and cultural experiences while in Kerala, the backwaters, tea plantations, and lush hills, provide serene glamping options, particularly in Munnar and Wayanad. States like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are also popular for glamping near scenic mountains, rivers, and valleys, especially in Manali, Shimla, Rishikesh, and Nainital.
At Luxeglamp in Kodaikanal, one can choose from seven premium domes designed around Moroccan, Rodeo and Celestial themes that cost ₹ 17700 per day (all inclusive of tax and breakfast), or the exclusive glass dome at ₹29500 per day including tax, breakfast and one meal. The glass glamp features minimalist interiors inspired by the rustic homes of the Wild West, plush bedding, soft cushions, and warm lighting, a private deck for outdoor relaxation, electricity, and private bathroom. During the day, I bask in warm golden morning light that filters in and as night falls, the dome transforms into a dreamy setting for stargazing. From the comfort of my bed, I gaze at the large, panoramic roof window that frames the night sky like a canvas. As I snuggle up in my king-sized bed, I continue to watch the starlit expanse, of a glowing crescent and glimmering stars on a clear sky, and drift into blissful sleep.
The dome transforms into a dreamy setting for stargazing at night
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
Guests can also try the afternoon tea experience, a scenic guided horse ride across the valley or an intimate candlelit outdoor dining experience under the stars. The food is continental, Indian, or regional, made from seasonal produce grown in nearby villages.
Breakfast at the private infinity pool. Shot On OnePlus #FramesofIndia
| Photo Credit:
K Jeshi
The interiors of my luxury dome are designed for both functionality and aesthetics. Furnishings are selected to maximise space and comfort and provide a clear 360 degree view allowing one to enjoy uninterrupted views of the surrounding forests and starry night skies.
Food is continental, Indian, or regional, made from seasonal produce grown in nearby villages. Shot On OnePlus #FramesofIndia
| Photo Credit:
K Jeshi
As the glass dome uses double-glazed or insulated glass, it maintains the indoor temperature thereby reducing the need for artificial heating or cooling. This in turn lowers energy consumption and carbon footprint. As there are no permanent structures, there is no piling, and zero soil disturbance, which makes the dome an eco-conscious design. Besides, the property uses solar power for operations and some of the structures are made from recyclable materials including tempered glass and aluminium.
Interiors at the glass dome inspired by the rustic homes of the Wild West
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
There is also a ban on single use plastics at the property. “While we have maximised the use of solar panels for energy needs so as to reduce fossil fuel reliance, all our structures are fully removable and temporary. This ensures that we don’t leave a trace of waste in the forest,” explains Antony adding that Luxeglamp also has plans to introduce more thematic glamping experiences across its locations, including Munnar in Kerala and Tamil Nadu and the UAE.
For reservations, visit luxeglamp.com or call 9962159621. The author was at Luxeglamp eco-resorts at Kodaikanal on invitation
Published – June 11, 2025 03:05 pm IST
