Ananda, India

Welcome to the birthplace of India’s ancient arts of yoga, meditation and Ayurveda. A true destination spa retreat, Ananda sits in the picturesque foothills of the Himalayas in a majestic palace and 100-acre estate of the Maharaja of Teri-Garhwal. The magic of the Himalayan landscape and salubrious year-round climate make for the perfect place to absorb yourself in pampered bliss. Ananda spa resort, Himalayas is a place to seek solace and complete escape from it all in one of the most magical settings in the world.

At Ananda in the Himalayas, each guest is considired unique. So too are the programmes and experiences that are offered. Individual needs and requirements are assessed prior to the programme being selected, through a personal consultation with the Ayurveda and wellness consultants.

Art and culture is a strong theme at Ananda, to elevate the human spirit and enhance wellness, with Indian classical and folk dance and songs and visiting performers.

Accommodation

The serene guest rooms use colours echoing nature and are kitted out with kurta pyjamas and fresh ginger teas. There are 70 deluxe rooms, with walk-in closets and large balconies, making the most of the panoramic views of the valley or of the Palace. The deluxe suites offer sitting rooms and secluded private gardens, as well as spectacular views. The Ananda suite offers sitting and dining areas with a large garden, whereas the Viceregal suite adds a private rooftop jacuzzi. The spacious villas have private saunas and tranquil private pools.

Dining

The cuisine at Ananda is founded on Ayurvedic priniciples, and a customised diet is advised, depending on whether you are considered Vata, Pitta or Kapha. The menus are based on fresh natural foods low in fat and calories, with an emphasis on whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, low-fat dairy products, and the avoidance of added or artificial salts, colors, flavors, or preservatives.

The philosophy is not that of weight loss, but instead learning a new way of life, based on rejuvenation. There is a show kitchen at Ananda where the chefs show how to make these dishes at home. Special care menus are provided in consultation with the in house Ayurvedic doctor, to align the specific imbalances of the various body types.

Choose to dine at the main restaurant overlooking the valley, on the tree-top deck amongst lush vegetation, in the intimate pavilion, in the elegant tea lounge or down by the pool, all with a choice of delicacies from world cuisine.

Facilities

Fitness centre, swimming pool, golf, adventure walks and visits to local places of interest, squash, golf, yoga pavilion, billiards room (featuring a 100 year old billiards table, the oldest in India), library, white water rafting and angling.

Emma Recommends: definitely taking a valley view room as the vista over the snow capped mountains is one not to miss, especially from your bath tub! I also suggest keeping a careful watch over your belongings when dining on the outside terrace as some of those monkeys can appear very quickly. I stuck to the recommended foods to eat and those to avoid for my "dosha" during the week I was there and could not believe that despite indulging in what felt like too much good food and fresh juices, I lost 4lbs and that was not even on a weight program. I made full use of the daily yoga classes and tried one of the hikes which although challenging, should not be missed.

Location:

4 hours from the airport in the Himalayas, India

Ananda in the Himalayas, from Essential Escapes, for your luxury spa holiday. Expectations exceeded.