Durva's Travel Diaries: Ananda in the Himalayas!



Ananda Spa

Speaking of the Himalayas, "Ananda Spa" is something that is certainly worth a mention. It is rated as one of the world's best spa destinations. Located in the tranquil Himalayan foothills, close to the mythological cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh, surrounded by graceful Sal forests, overlooking the peaceful Ganga as it meanders into the distance, Ananda is the spiritual pathway to the ultimate, discovered through the union of body, mind and soul. It is not just a retreat that will leave you breathless with the enchantment of its surroundings, but assists in redefining lifestyles to include the well-known traditional Indian wellness regimes of Ayurveda, Yoga and Vedanta combined with best of International Wellness Experiences to bring about the union of mind, body and soul. I think that, Ananda definitely lives upto its reputation and begins to enchant you the moment you set foot on this palace in the hills.

 Peacocks dancing on your courtyards and white kurta-pajama of your size by a renowned fashion label waiting for you in your room, makes a very good first impression. Dressed in whites, my body was pampered and taken care of throughout the week. I had my personalized itinery consisting yoga sessions in the amphi-theatre, personalized aqua-aerobics classes in the spa pool, my very own personalized spa treatment and gymming which used to keep me busy through-out the day followed by a vedanta lession and basic meditation to set the tone for the evening. With chantsas the background score the spa building, I had found myself surrounded by an aura of solace. Along with all this, something that is worth a mention is the food that is catered to the dietary requisites of the guests by some world class chefs. It is truly delicious and yet oozes out with healthiness.

Away from the stresses of the city life, this Himalayan abode does rate high and is not to be missed! It is bound to raise your spirits to another level and a week can almost transform you inside out. I see myself revisiting Ananda on many other occassions.