Ananda in the Himalayas
INDIA
About Ananda in the Himalayas
Ananda in the Himalayas is a multi-award-winning wellness retreat in India, set in the peaceful Himalayan foothills with sweeping views over the sacred town of Rishikesh and the Ganges River valley. Located on a 100-acre Maharaja’s Palace Estate, this retreat is surrounded by ancient Sal forests and manicured gardens, creating a serene backdrop for rest, renewal, and transformation.
Widely regarded as the spiritual home of Ayurveda, yoga, and meditation, Ananda offers an authentic wellness experience that blends India’s ancient healing traditions with contemporary holistic therapies. Guests can choose from a wide range of programmes, including Ayurvedic Panchakarma detox, stress management, emotional healing, weight loss, and spiritual growth.
With its combination of expert care, personalised wellness, and extraordinary natural beauty, Ananda is considered one of the best retreats for holistic healing in India.
Wellness Programmes at Ananda in the Himalayas
Hotel Facilities
The facilities at Ananda in the Himalayas are designed to encourage mindful living and inner balance. Guests can join a daily schedule of activities, from morning mantra chanting and guided nature walks in the Himalayan foothills to yoga classes, meditation sessions, and wellness talks led by experts. Cooking demonstrations showcase the principles of Ayurvedic nutrition, helping guests integrate healthy habits into daily life.
Between therapies, you can relax in peaceful gardens, enjoy the outdoor temperature-controlled swimming pool, or spend time in the cosy library and billiards room. Every detail is thoughtfully designed to create a nurturing environment, making Ananda one of the most complete yoga and wellness retreats in India.
Wellness Facilities
The award-winning Ananda Spa spans 24,000 square feet and is recognised as one of the most comprehensive Ayurveda spas in India. With 25 treatment rooms, it offers more than 90 personalised therapies including Panchakarma detox, Shirodhara, Abhyanga, Reiki, reflexology, and holistic energy treatments.
Hydrotherapy facilities include steam rooms, saunas, a Kneipp foot bath, and a cold plunge pool. Each wellness programme is tailored with the support of Ayurvedic doctors, skilled therapists, and in-house yoga masters. Whether your goal is detox, stress management, weight loss, or emotional healing, the integrated approach at Ananda ensures long-lasting results for body, mind, and spirit.
Dining
Nutrition is central to Ananda’s wellness philosophy. The retreat’s cuisine follows Ayurvedic dietary principles, with menus tailored to each guest’s dosha (body constitution). Using fresh, organic ingredients, the culinary team prepares nourishing meals that balance flavour and function.
The Restaurant and Tree-Top Deck is built in a grove of ancient Sal trees, with a yantric decor, features the finest Indian, Asian and other international cuisines. The restaurant also includes a tree top deck for outdoor and intimate dining experiences.
The Tea Lounge at the Restaurant Pavilion is an ideal spot to spend a regal afternoon with tea and light snacks.
The Pool offers a cool, relaxed setting in which one can enjoy light healthy snacks that refresh and hydrate while offering a splendid view.
Good to Know
Guests are provided with traditional Kurta pyjamas to wear throughout their stay, reflecting Ananda’s philosophy of simplicity, comfort, and mindful living. This thoughtful detail allows visitors to immerse fully in the retreat experience without distraction.
Location
Ananda is located in the Himalayan foothills in northern India, surrounded by panoramic mountain views, lush forest, and the spiritual energy of Rishikesh, the birthplace of yoga, and the holy Ganges River. This sacred setting adds a profound layer of tranquillity and depth to your wellness experience, offering an ideal environment for inner reflection and connection with nature.
Nearest Airport
Dehradun (DED)
Transfer Time
40 mins
Check in/ Check out
2pm/11am
Accommodation
Ananda offers 78 elegant rooms, suites, and villas, each designed in classic colonial hill architecture and styled to harmonise with the surrounding natural landscape. The 70 deluxe rooms feature sweeping views of the valley or palace gardens, with large private balconies, plush bedding, and spacious bathrooms complete with deep soaking tubs. For added privacy, the suites and private villas offer extra space, private gardens, and infinity-edge pools - perfect for guests seeking seclusion and luxury during their wellness stay.
Offers at Ananda in the Himalayas
Returning Guest Offer
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10% discount for returning guests booking a Comprehensive or Intensive wellness programme
*guest must have stayed within the last 5 years* (Not applicable for stays between 1 June and 31 July)
Enquire About a Stay at Ananda in the Himalayas
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Ananda in the Himalayas unique?
Ananda is one of India’s most renowned wellness retreats, located in the Himalayan foothills overlooking Rishikesh and the Ganges River valley. It combines authentic Ayurvedic therapies, yoga, meditation, and holistic healing with luxury facilities, making it a leading destination for transformative wellness.
What wellness programmes are available at Ananda?
Programmes at Ananda include Ayurveda and Panchakarma detox, weight management, yoga and meditation, stress management, emotional healing, and holistic fitness. Each is personalised through consultations with Ayurvedic doctors, nutritionists, and yoga masters.
Is Ananda suitable for beginners in yoga or Ayurveda?
Yes. Whether you are new to yoga, meditation, or Ayurveda, the retreat is designed to be accessible to all levels. Expert teachers and therapists provide step-by-step guidance tailored to your experience and comfort.
What type of food is served at Ananda?
The cuisine follows Ayurvedic principles, with personalised menus created according to your dosha (body constitution). Meals are fresh, organic, and nourishing, designed to support detox, healing, and long-term vitality. There are also global wellness options for guests not on a structured programme.
What kind of treatments are offered at Ananda Spa?
The spa offers over 90 treatments, including Ayurvedic therapies like Shirodhara, Abhyanga, and Panchakarma, as well as Reiki, reflexology, hydrotherapy, and modern holistic practices. All treatments are personalised to support balance, healing, and rejuvenation.
Is Ananda in the Himalayas suitable for solo travellers?
Absolutely. Many guests visit Ananda alone and find it a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment. With a balance of private therapies and optional group activities, it is an ideal retreat for solo wellness travel.
When is the best time to visit Ananda in the Himalayas?
The best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is cool and clear, perfect for outdoor activities and forest walks. The summer months (April–June) are also pleasant, while the monsoon season (July–September) is quieter and particularly suited for deep rest and rejuvenation.
How long should I stay at Ananda for the best results?
A stay of 7 nights is recommended for noticeable benefits, particularly for detox or stress management. For deeper transformation, longer programmes of 14–21 nights are ideal, especially for Panchakarma or lifestyle reset retreats.