Inside India’s First Military-Themed Luxury Glamping Resort Few Travellers Know About

Despite being among the most unconventional offerings in India’s hospitality sector, D.A.T.A Resort by Della has operated with limited public attention for several years. Positioned as the country’s first military-themed luxury glamping resort, the property is located within the natural landscape of Lonavala and has steadily built its reputation through a focused, experience-led model rather than mass visibility.

Conceptualised by Jimmy Mistry, designer, hotelier, and social entrepreneur, D.A.T.A Resort introduced a format that was largely absent from the Indian market at the time of its launch. The resort combined military-inspired environments with high-end accommodation, well before experiential travel and themed stays became mainstream. The operating philosophy prioritised controlled scale, curated guests, and depth of experience over aggressive expansion or promotional exposure.

The resort features 27 military-themed glamping tents, each measuring 500 sq. ft., overlooking Shirota Lake. The accommodation format integrates structured design elements aligned with a military setting while maintaining luxury standards. A key component of the experience is its training and engagement programmes led by ex-military commandos. These sessions are designed to introduce guests to discipline, teamwork, and resilience within a safe and regulated environment. The resort caters to families, couples, and corporate groups, particularly those seeking structured outbound and leadership-focused programmes alongside leisure.

Industry observers note that the resort’s low visibility is closely tied to its operating strategy. Its remote location, limited inventory, and selective guest targeting have contributed to its positioning as a niche destination. The property was not developed for high-volume tourism but rather as a purpose-driven hospitality concept focused on immersive engagement. Visitors often refer to it as a “hidden gem,” a perception reinforced by its controlled growth and consistent guest feedback.

As domestic travel demand shifts toward experiential, value-driven, and story-based offerings, D.A.T.A Resort by Della reflects an early-mover model that aligns with current industry trends. Its focus on authenticity, structured programming, and differentiated design places it within a growing segment of hospitality experiences that prioritise engagement and personal impact over conventional luxury markers. Within the evolving travel landscape, the resort represents a case study in how niche concepts can deliver sustained relevance without relying on mainstream visibility.