Imagine a vacation high up in the trees, surrounded solely by the buzz of nature and the breeze rustled up by the jungle. If you’re done with glamping and you’d like to try something a little different, these rugged yet comfortable tree houses in Asia will elevate your adventure with a boost of height, so you can bask in the beauty of abundant greenery without being distracted by any modern contraptions (or crowds of fellow holiday-goers).
From Thailand to India, here are four hip spots where you can spend some much-needed time with Mother Nature.
Bangkok Tree House in Bangkok, Thailand
Escape from the traffic-clogged streets of Bangkok at this secluded green hideaway along the Chao Phraya River, which is only accessible by foot, bike, or boat. Replete with river views and cool breezes, the snug lodgings constructed with upcycled and organic materials range from a tree-top nest with a private rooftop area to the bare-bones “view with a room”, where two can snuggle up directly under the stars.
There’s even a river bed option, where you’ll have all the space in the world — but you’re also likely to fall into the water in the middle of the night. Essentially, your experience here depends on how adventurous you are.
Bang Nam Pheung region, Greater Bangkok. +66 82 995 1150. Rates from US$125/night.
Gibbon Experience in Huay Xai, Laos
At the forest canopy of Laos’ Bokeo Nature Reserve, guests get to stay in tree houses that are among the highest in the world. Since 1996, the Gibbon Experience has taken visitors on adrenaline-spiking jungle zip lining and hikes through the foliage below, on top of doing its part to conserve the environment with reforestation and sustainable agriculture initiatives.
Three adventure and stay options are offered here. The classic tour, also known as the easiest trek, takes you around the tree house to spot gibbons before leaving you in peace for two nights. If you’re on the one-night express trail, you’ll zip your way through the branches before spending the night next to the biggest tree in the entire Laos. As for the waterfall experience, sunsets and fresh water pools are part of the itinerary, along with two different tree houses over two nights.
Ban Houayxay, Bokeo Province. +856 84 21 20 21. Rates from US$187/express tour.
Japamala Resort in Tioman, Malaysia
The diver haven that is Tioman Island is also home to rustic rooms at Japamala, where the stunning blues of the ocean meet the lush greens of the rainforest. For a basic budget option, the treetop chalet features indoor rain showers and verandahs; otherwise, splurge a little for the jungle luxe sarang (it means “nest” in Malay), which comes with an outdoor deck and plunge pool, or the seaview villa — it’s quite the romantic spot with plenty of space to relax amidst nature.
You won’t have to forgo your modern amenities here either, since every accommodation option comes with air-conditioning, flat screen TVs, and mini bars.
Kampung Lanting, Pulau Tioman. +609 419 7777. Rates from US$217/night.
Tranquil Resort in Kerala, India
A boutique retreat with just seven rooms and two tree houses, Tranquil Resort sits on a 400-acre coffee and spice plantation, tucked away in the remote rainforest of Wayanad. While you’re there, stroll through one of the 13 walking trails for a serene afternoon or pick up a pair of binoculars to see if you can spot some of the 127 bird species in the area.
If you’re wondering which of the treetop accommodations to choose, the tree house is a cozy abode 45 feet up high, offering a balcony with views of the valley and modern bathroom facilities, while the tree villa sits a little closer to the ground for a child-friendly stay.
16, Kolagappara-Ambalavayal Rd, Rock Valley Housing Colony, Kolagapaara, Kerala. +91 994 758 8507. Rates from US$151/night for treehouse stays.
