Surrounded by lush teak forests, Aramness Gir is a new luxury safari lodge located on the outskirts of the Sasan Gir National Park. Coexisting with the semi-nomadic Maldhari tribe in the national park, are the last remaining Asiatic lions in the world.
Photo Courtesy: Aramness Gir
Slated to open in October 2021, Aramness is a collaborative culmination between Fox Browne Creative and Nicholas Plewman Architects to create a truly unique and immersive experience in the Indian wilderness. The lodge sits within a natural paradise that is home to abundant bird and animal species, that roam freely between the park and the lodge.
It was owner Jimmy Patel’s passion for the wilderness, dedication to conservation and his love for Gujarat that birthed this innovation. Aramness provides a wildlife experience that is entrenched in local culture and designed with authenticity and luxury in equal measures.
Photo Courtesy: Aramness Gir
The lodge design takes its inspiration from the characteristic local village, Haripur, with its central cobbled streets fringed with courtyard homes (kothis). Natural forests and meadow gardens have been revived on the property to merge the natural habitat of the area with the built environment. Fixed in and around the kothis and guest areas, these forests and meadows pay homage to the original farmland.
Photo Courtesy: Aramness Gir
Each and every product used in the making of the lodge has been designed using products that have been sourced from or made in Gujarat. From the pattern on the large sandstone and steel Jali screens— a replica of the perforations of the dried leaf of a sal tree, to the striking wall of Kutchi Lipan plasterwork with its intricate inlaid mirrors handcrafted by local artisans. The vintage applique scatter cushions and hand-beaten brass tables add to the detailed layering.
Photo Courtesy: Aramness Gir
The 18 sensitively appointed private village-style kothis take inspiration from the informal but charming Gujarati village homes. Staying true to its name (Aramness – peaceful village) the interiors of the lodge are understated yet utterly luxurious, designed to instil deep comfort and tranquillity.
Photo Courtesy: Aramness Gir
The lodge houses 15 standalone single bedroom kothis and 3 standalone double bedroom kothis with a shared dining space. Each kothi is a spacious double-storey building that echoes the sophistication of simplicity.
Photo Courtesy: Aramness Gir
All kothis have a cool shaded courtyard and upper deck veranda, along with a private pool inspired by the Indian step wells. A private butler is assigned to each kothi, who will deliver the exceptionally curated experiences for guests.
Photo Courtesy: Aramness Gir
Guests at Aramness Gir can choose how they spend their day. Game drives into the park with an Aramness naturalist, jungle walks in the teak forest, visiting a Maldhari family in their home, sampling delicious Gujarati food, relaxing in the spa, engaging kids with inspiring activities at Aramness Playscape or, simply soaking up the natural beauty of the park.
Jimmy Patel, Owner of Aramness Gir
In the words of Patel, “There is a unique relationship between man and wildlife in Gujarat that does not exist anywhere else in India, nor in the rest of the world. At Aramness Gir, we will not only be supporting the Asiatic lions but also delivering an exceptionally crafted, luxury experience.”
