Ananda, Spa, Yoga, India, Ayurveda, Rishikesh

Perched on a hilltop – the foothills of the Himalayas rising from the plain and Rishikesh below – Ananda breathes fresh air and looks out over the holy River Ganges. Here rejuvenation of the body and mind await in one of the world’s most famous spas.

Creating a skillful synthesis between Yoga and Ayurveda, modern spa treatments and the only ‘Aveda’ Beauty Institute in India, Ananda’s spa therapies are tailored for you - de-stress, de-tox, cleanse and relax…deeply. On arrival one is advised to consult one of the doctors who will assess exactly how far one has let things slide and prescribe appropriate treatments and diet – all entirely optional of course.

‘Aveda’ is an international beauty line now part of Estee Lauder and the enormous spa offers an extensive menu of over seventy-nine body and beauty treatments, integrating traditional Indian methods with the more contemporary western spa approaches. It is by no means all yoga and chanting however and there is also an extensive range of recreational facilities.

The outdoor pool sees most guests relaxing and discussing the most recent way in which they have been manipulated before drifting off for more serious rejuvenation. There is a sixteen-station life-cycle gymnasium, squash courts and a six hole golf course - all at one’s disposal and the opportunities for excursions include rafting, trekking, wildlife safaris and art and cultural tours of the region – but the main focus is on the spa.

Delicious Indo-fusion, Oriental and World cuisines are served in the restaurant, built in a grove of old Sal trees, overlooking the valley of Rishikesh and a more perfect setting is hard to imagine. Served al la carte there is also a buffet which is always very interesting and the many exotic dishes come labeled, reminding one guiltily of the doctors’ advice according to Ayurvedic practice.

Spacious rooms are beautifully decorated in soft colours and all have balconies overlooking either the valley or lovingly manicured grounds. Marble bathrooms command spectacular views of the Rishikesh Valley and the climate is very pleasant all year round. Ananda is perfect, institutionalized pampering in a lovely setting and works well as part of an Indian Odyssey or as a relaxing breakaway destination in itself.