Amidst the verdant Himalayan heights, in the center of a desert between seemingly endless sand dunes, or in the heart of a bustling metropolitan — take your pick. This Yoga Day, we’ve scouted five top spots where you can strike a pose and unwind with ease.
Ananda in The Himalayas, Rishikesh
Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayan foothills of North India, Ananda stands as the world’s foremost holistic wellness retreat. Formerly the Palace Estate of the Maharaja of Tehri-Garhwal, this resort spans 100 acres of lush grounds, gardens and surrounding forests, offering premier wellness facilities and a serene retreat into nature’s embrace.
As the birthplace of Ayurveda, Yoga and meditation, this spiritual destination draws wellness seekers on a pilgrimage from across the globe. Ananda integrates traditional Ayurvedic practices with holistic well-being, yoga, meditation, emotional healing, spiritual enlightenment and nourishing organic cuisine, aiming to restore balance and harmonise energy. They offer a comprehensive program of 7 and 14 nights focusing on yoga’s therapeutic process with the objective of achieving a particular physiological, psychological or spiritual goal.
Relais & Chateaux Sujan Jawai, Jawai
Located beside its serene lake, Relais & Châteaux SUJÁN JAWAl in the Jawai district of Marwar, Rajasthan offers a peaceful getaway where still waters help create perfect harmony and provide inner peace. Their wellness experts lead meditation and yoga sessions by the lake, poolside, or in your private tent. One gets to engage with traditional wellness practices to boost one’s well-being and fitness. SUJÁN JAWAl integrates wellness into its calm setting, promoting ancient methods that enhance daily life and overall wellness.
Relais & Chateaux Sujan Serai, Jaisalmer
The renowned SUJÁN Spa at The Serai, Jaisalmer, designed by Rosamund Freeman-Attwood from Raison d’Etre cannot be skipped from this list. Nestled within a walled garden, the spa features four tents adorned with interiors that evoke a soothing charm. A diverse menu of therapies caters to the varied needs of guests, ranging from invigorating reflexology to cleansing scrubs and relaxing massages. Using organic and ayurvedic products infused with healing herbs from the Thar region, the spa promises a rejuvenating and heavenly experience.
The wellness team at The Serai is dedicated to curating enriching programs, including personalised organic menu planning and sunrise meditation classes. Daily yoga sessions, suitable for beginners and intermediates, are held on the Pool Deck of The Serai. Whether guests prefer private lessons or wish to organise group yoga sessions and bespoke wellness retreats, the team ensures tailored experiences that cater to individual preferences.
Also Read: 5 A+D approved properties in India for the Bridgerton within you
Heritage Village Resort, Manesar
A perfect getaway for this Yoga Day or even after, Heritage Village Resort in Manesar with its traditional architecture and modern amenities is a must visit spot especially for people in Delhi. They offer a variety of activities and services specifically curated to foster wellness and relaxation.
Under the guidance of their experienced trainer, this session promises to provide a holistic approach to wellness, offering techniques that enhance flexibility, strength and mental clarity. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to yoga, this session is designed to accommodate all levels and help you achieve a state of inner peace and physical well-being.
Yoga House, Mumbai
Mumbai might not be your first thought while looking for a yoga retreat. But this stunning jade-hued building in the quiet by lanes of Bandra is the perfect spot to learn authentic yogic principles with a modern outlook on life, making it a must-visit in the city. Whether you’re into hatha vinyasa, iyengar or ashtanga, this place has everything to keep you pumped up and going. The café onsite serves up some of the most delicious healthy eats, and your fellow yogis are the kind you’d love to share matcha lattes with.
View this post on Instagram
Four Seasons, Mauritius
Perched along one of the island’s largest and most pristine natural lagoons, Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita sprawls gracefully into the vivid turquoise waters of the east coast, creating a paradise for wellness enthusiasts. It offers a variety of yoga programs that blend Hatha and Ashtanga practices or try out Pranayama and meditation sessions to synchronise your breath and achieve mindfulness.
The resort also offers gentle yoga sessions tailored for women in their second and third trimesters, aimed at enhancing comfort, improving circulation and promoting relaxation. Guests can unwind at the award-winning overwater Spa, elevated on wooden pillars above the Indian Ocean. They also offer spa treatments, including massages using exotic local ingredients, ensuring a rejuvenating experience that epitomises well-being at its finest.