Ananda in the Himalayas

On a 100-acre princely estate in the forested Himalayan foothills overlooking Rishikesh, the Ananda is an award-winning spa retreat, and perhaps India’s finest wellness escape.

The royal palace has been restored in a way that is common throughout the Ananda – a simple combination of the traditional and the best of the new.

78 rooms, suites and villas are classically elegant, with hints of colonial hill station architecture to make the most of the surroundings, and offer panoramic views of the valley or palace from private balconies and exquisite bathrooms. Four suites enjoy their own private gardens and the three luxury villas have their own pool.

Traditional Ayurveda, yoga and Vedanta techniques compliment international wellness experiences and healthy organic cuisine to restore and harmonise. There are personalised programmes to meet individual needs and goals – de-stressing, detoxification and cleansing, relaxation, anti-ageing and weight loss – while also offering guidance in the areas of nutrition and fitness.

Wellness continues into the cuisine, with fresh natural foods and special care menus offered in consultation with the in-house Ayurvedic doctor. These can be enjoyed at the top deck restaurant, tea lounge or private dining venues across the estate.

Away from the resort, enjoy the surroundings on nature walks or guided mountain treks, or try rafting the white waters of the Ganges. You can also head down into Rishikesh to see ancient ceremonies performed, or spot wild elephants, incredible birdlife and possibly tiger on safari in the nearby Rajaji National Park.