Ananda in the Himalayas

Hotel review

Ananda in the Himalayas is so much more than a spa or a hotel. When it first opened it was known as a destination spa which provided Ayurvedic treatments, but since then it has transformed itself over the years into one of the best wellness centres in the world and probably the best in India. Not far from Rishikesh, the birthplace of yoga, Ananda sits majestically upon the hillside with panoramic views across the valleys and mountains. The perfect spot to tune into the vibration and energy that surrounds the area and there are many benches dotted around the gardens where you can simply just 'be' and soak up the tranquillity whilst thanking your lucky stars you're here.

Rooms are spacious, each with their own balcony - ask for one with a view if you're an early bird and like to meditate though you'll find you won't spend much time in the room. The en-suite marble bathrooms are large and luxurious with bath and big shower; on arrival you'll find some Ayurvedic products in your bathroom including a tongue scraper, sesame oil, foot oil and nasal oil. A stay here is a cocooning experience; ginger and honey tea is delivered to your room every morning (you choose when) and a hot water bottle is popped into your bed every evening along with a healthy nibble and a quote of the day.

Before arrival each guest fills in a questionnaire and receives an online consultation to avoid wasting time precious on arrival. Once your answers have been analysed a bespoke programme is put in place ready for your arrival - we recommend at least a 7 night stay to really benefit from the well thought out holistic treatment programme put in place which has Ayurvedic treatments as the foundation and therapies specific to your prrogramme added on top eg. Chinese Medicine, one to one yoga, emotional healing. It also takes a few days for your body to surrender itself to the new routine. All treatments, apart from yoga which takes place in the palace take place in the spa, the beating heart of Ananda. This is also where you'll find the large, heated pool, just a hop and a skip from the hotel's shop.

Dining here is a relaxing experience, no chits to sign and the staff know pretty quickly what menu to bring you. The terrace is a great place to catch the morning sun and in the evenings the restaurant is a cosy, grounding space with an open log fire - jumpers and jackets are definitely needed! Each programme includes a specific menu choice (they have 14 menus at any one time which change every 7 days) which may be a yogic cleanse, detox or a menu according to your dosha (Ayurvedic body type). You can, of course, choose from the extensive à la carte menu.

If you're stressed, lacking sleep, longing for authentic yoga, need some emotional healing or just an amazing week where you'll leave energised, re-balanced and ready for life then Ananda is the place for you.

Arrive as a chrysalis, leave as a butterfly.

Lulu Townsend Review published: 21/10/2024