Ananda in the Himalayas
Rishikesh

Imagine a peaceful morning in the Himalayas; mist clinging to the mountaintops, the scent of cedar trees filling the air and the promise of serenity wrapped in nature’s embrace. This is the world of Ananda in the Himalayas, a retreat that seems to exist outside the realm of time and stress.

Tucked away in the northern foothills of the Himalayas, Ananda is not just a resort, it’s a sanctuary for the soul. With the majestic Ganges River winding its way below and the peaks of the mountains offering their quiet watch, every corner of this place invites introspection, rejuvenation, and, perhaps, a bit of soul-searching.

Ananda’s story is as much about heritage as it is about luxury. The property sits on the former royal palace estate of the Maharaja of Tehri Garhwal, and every step you take here resonates with history. Yet, this is no ordinary historical site. The fusion of old-world grandeur and modern wellness philosophy feels effortless. It’s a harmonious blend of India’s spiritual past and the refined comforts of the 21st century.

At Ampersand Travel, we know that the allure of Ananda in the Himalayas lies in its ability to merge ancient traditions with contemporary wellness practices. The Ayurvedic treatments at Ananda are a perfect example of this harmonious blend, rooted in centuries-old wisdom, yet delivered with modern expertise and a deep reverence for the craft. Guests can indulge in a wide range of wellness programmes, from rejuvenating yoga and meditation sessions to holistic therapies designed to align both body and mind. One morning, we had the privilege of experiencing a sunrise yoga session in a private pavilion, where our instructor led us through sun salutations as the golden light bathed the snow-capped peaks. It was a transformative moment, a serene escape that felt truly otherworldly.

The cuisine deserves a special mention too, as it balances the delicate art of fine dining with the ancient knowledge of Ayurvedic principles. Every meal is crafted to nourish both the body and the spirit, with ingredients sourced from the local area and often organic. However, beyond the treatments and meals, it’s the sheer scale of tranquility that defines Ananda. The serene atmosphere makes it the perfect place to disconnect from the chaos of everyday life. Whether you’re lounging in one of the spacious suites with panoramic views or exploring the gentle hikes around the property, the mountains seem to whisper a quiet invitation to pause and reflect.

Ananda isn’t about luxury for the sake of it, it’s luxury with meaning, where each moment has purpose, each treatment connects you to a greater sense of balance, and every glance out of the window brings you closer to nature. It’s not just about escaping the stresses of modern life, but about reconnecting with what matters most: peace, clarity and an awakened sense of self.

For those seeking a transformative journey, where the body and spirit unite in perfect harmony, Ananda in the Himalayas is the place to go. It’s an experience, not just a destination. And, like the Himalayas themselves, it leaves you feeling infinitely more grounded.

My favourite thing is to go where I've never been.
Diane Arbus