Summer escapes: 4 heavenly spas you have to experience in India

Holidays with a soul – indulgent spa escapes in India

The best holidays succeed in pampering mind, body and spirit in equal measure. Thankfully, India is a rich source of such vacation spots – luxurious retreats set in spectacular surroundings that promise nutritious food, yoga sessions, massage treatments and detox therapies. What’s more, the best of these tranquil getaways also encourage guests to connect with the local culture – while reconnecting with themselves – through fun activities such as cooking, surfing or art.

Ananda in the Himalayas

Best for? Groups of friends or family looking to relax in ultimate style.

Why here? Located on a forested hillside, Ananda in the Himalayas was the former residence of the Maharaja of Tehri-Garhwal. Now it is a 40-hectare luxury resort that provides a getaway from the noise and chaos of the city. In fact, once you check in you don’t even have to think about what to wear – Ananda’s signature white kurta pyjamas are provided to every guest to wear around the compound. Start your day with yoga classes based on the principles of the Bihar School of Yoga, snooze under the trees on the tranquil lawns and indulge in some organic feasts from the resort’s kitchen. You can even sign up for a complimentary cooking class. For those who want to leave the resort’s quiet bliss, activities such as white-water rafting, nature trails and wildlife safaris can be arranged.

Specialty treatments? The Tibetan Ku Nye treatment helps to cleanse the lymphatic system through acupressure and hot Himalayan salt poultices infused with a blend of cardamom, lavender and jatamansi. If visiting as a couple, check out the Kama suites private jacuzzi and sauna.

Insider’s tip? For a special treat, time you visit to coincide with Ananda’s special workshops and private sessions with Visiting Masters – world-class specialist therapists and healers from around the world.

Atmantan Wellness Resort

Best for? Urbanites desperate for peace and quiet.

Why here? Despite being located only 45 minutes’ drive from Pune International Airport, Atmantan ticks all the right boxes for a picturesque wellness getaway. Overlooking the azure waters of Mulshi Lake, it is surrounded by pristine wildlife and scenic mountains. All rooms feature plush king-size beds certified by the American Chiropractic Association, floor-to-ceiling windows, marble bathrooms and private balconies. However, if you want to take your vacation a notch higher, book the spacious Mango Tree Villa with its private infinity pool, pagoda, gymnasium, couple’s spa, sauna, butler’s pantry and 270-degree views of the surrounding mountains.

Specialty treatments? Choose from a range of nine different core treatment packages, including the Spa Life (relaxation focus), the Master Cleanse (detoxification focus) and Journey Through Yoga (yoga practice focus).

Insider’s tip? If you’re getting married soon, try Atmantan’s bespoke pre-wedding detox programme.

Dune Eco Village and Resort, Puducherry

Best for? Art enthusiasts with a passion for the environment.

Why here? With a strong commitment to wellness and organic living, the Dune Eco Village and Resort is unique, both in terms of its setting and offering. Cuisine wise, restaurant staff work closely with Ayurvedic doctors to prepare personalised meals for each guest, depending on their dietary requirements. Accommodation deserves special mention, too – ranging from chic beach huts to spacious family houses and romantic private pool villas, each is designed by a different set of designers and architects so that no two rooms look the same.

Specialty treatments? The three-day Magic Water package takes place in a specially-built facility featuring a 14-metre salt water swimming pool set in an old wooden house relocated from Kerala. Treatments includes water shiatsu, hydrotherapy, chroma or colour therapy in water, woga (water-based yoga) and dolphin dancing (fluid Sufi-inspired movements in water).

Insider’s tip? The resort is extremely family friendly with plenty of fun activities to keep little ones happy, such as milking cows in the resort’s farm, pottery classes, kite flying and balloon shooting.

Niraamaya Retreats, Surya Samudra, Kovalam

Best for? Couples seeking rejuvenation in romantic surroundings.

Why here? Set amongst landscaped tropical gardens on a dramatic cliff above the Arabian Sea, Niraamya boasts meticulously restored heritage cottages with panoramic sea views. With terracotta roofs, polished wood floors and handpicked furnishings, the accommodation delivers the perfect balance between old world charm and contemporary comfort, with the sound of crashing surf lulling guests to sleep each night. At sunset, take a dip in the rock-cut infinity pool before heading for dinner at Essence, a superb seafood restaurant featuring delicious locally-caught produce such as jumbo prawns krapao and mahi mahi baked into banana leaves. Gain an insight into the life of the local community with a private tour of the local fish market or enjoy a backwater cruise and beach picnic in the pretty backwaters of the Poovar estuary.

Specialty treatments? The Ayurveda Stress and Strain Buster is a five-day programme that includes yoga, meditation and 90 minutes of daily Ayurveda treatments.

Insider’s tip? Make it an evening to remember with a candlelit dinner set in the yoga pavilion overlooking the sea or on a secluded strip of beach.

Enjoy a first-class experience wherever you go with travel privileges for Global Indians.

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