Some stories take time. Some stories require a long term vision, patience and a plan. Some stories require care.
So it is with the land. This story is one which started 40 some years ago, when 180 acres of over grazed, barren land was purchased, 160 acres was protected and allowed to rewild, 20 acres were taken for an organic farm and to allow an idea to develop. An idea which could show that one didn’t need to sell land to big developers who would take from the land to give an experience to people, but how nurtured, rewilded land, could provide a unique experience for the traveller whilst providing a haven for nature, birds and wildlife which struggles so much in a world where man animal conflict is a concern.
It takes time, as these things do. I first visited Dera Amer in 2007. At the time, it was a concept which fit the then tourism requirements, unique, experiential, successful, but not quite where they wanted to be. That’s okay, time was on their side. In a world that’s got itself into such a rush, it was a vision many couldn’t see.
I last visited in 2018 and there has been a discernible change between then and now. What Dera Amer has become follows the long term vision of the Singh family.
The 160 acres of rewilded forest now gives refuge to over 150 species of birds, and camera traps show regular sightings of leopard (I have a story there from my visit!) Jackal, Hyena, Fox, Porcupine and Jungle Cat.
But this place isn’t about safaris and expectation. It’s about following the lead of the founding concept. Let nature take its course. Instead of what will be will be, what you’ll see, you’ll see!
Stay amidst nature, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle, enjoy nature walks with naturalists and the camera traps which are checked daily will show which animals crossed your path!
In addition to being a haven/refuge for India’s wildlife it’s also becoming a little bit of a sanctuary for animals in need of a better home. Elephants Laxmi and Rangmala were acquired to get them away from having to ply the hot and dusty roads of Jaipur and are now taken care of at the camp. There are the camels that came from a village where they were no longer needed and of course Gauri and Bhurrie, the Dera Amer dogs who found their way there, neglected and injured, realised they were onto a good thing and never left!
Dera Amer has transitioned from lunches, dinners and larger events into low key, conscious tourism but, with a certain amount of style!
It is possible to visit here for a nature experience and lunch or dinner but, for those who would like to stay here there’s accommodation too. There are just six spacious ‘glamping,’ tents, 2 in one location and 4 in another, allowing for privacy for a couple or family traveling together. Between the two, there’s a rather delightful, swimming pool, is it too naff to call this “forest bathing?”
You are brilliantly looked after by the team, many of whom have been there since my first visit (always a good sign) who always remember my top 3 favourite tipples (not always a good thing) and many of whom are from the local village.
Activities include nature walks, a visit to their sustainable, organic farm (where you can pick your own veg to have cooked) the nearby Meena tribal village and the local school which is also supported by Dera Amer.
Of course, for those who don’t know, Dera Amer is on the outskirts of Jaipur, just 20 minutes from the fort and 35 minutes to the city palace and pink city. So, an easy base to visit the city from if you’re a nature lover staying at the camp. If you’re a city slicker who’d also like to see some of what rural India and its natural heritage has to offer, it’s a great place to visit from the city for lunch or dinner. Numbers are strictly limited and so advance booking is recommended.
Whether you choose to stay at Dera Amer, or visit for an afternoon or evening, it will give you a different perspective on Jaipur and a glimpse into the natural heritage of India and what is proving to be, a rather successful conservation project.
Dera Amer Facts:
Location: Jaipur by the Amber Fort
No of tents: 6
Mobile : +91 9001512512
Phone : +91 9001412080
Email : udaijit@deraamer.com
Website:Dera Amer