10/05/2026
Ananda in the Himalayas is widely considered one of the world's most luxurious and spiritually profound wellness retreats. Here are some of the most "wow" facts about this legendary destination:
1. A Royal Heritage
The resort is set within a 100-acre Maharaja’s Palace Estate that once belonged to the Maharaja of Tehri Garhwal. The iconic Viceregal Palace on the property was built in 1910–11 specifically to host the Viceroy of India during his official visits.
2. The "Spirit" of the Himalayas
Located at an altitude of 3,500 feet, Ananda offers a direct view of the River Ganges meandering through the valley below and the spiritual town of Rishikesh, known as the "Yoga Capital of the World." The air here is said to be infused with the spiritual energy of the mountains.
3. World’s Number One Spa
Ananda doesn't just win awards; it dominates them. It has been voted the #1 Destination Spa in the World multiple times by Condé Nast Traveller (UK & USA) and Travel + Leisure. It was also India’s first-ever destination spa.
4. A Guest List of Icons
The retreat has hosted a "who’s who" of global figures seeking peace and rejuvenation, including Oprah Winfrey, Bill Gates, Kate Winslet, Uma Thurman, and King Charles III (during his time as Prince of Wales). Oprah famously described her visit as one of the most life-changing experiences she's had.
5. Spiritual Intellectualism (Vedanta)
Unlike many spas that focus only on physical treatments, Ananda is one of the few places in the world that offers Vedanta classes. These are daily lectures on ancient Indian philosophy that aim to provide intellectual clarity and mental peace, alongside physical yoga and Ayurveda.
6. The "White Pajama" Culture
When you stay at Ananda, you aren't expected to wear your own clothes. All guests are provided with fresh white cotton Kurta-Pyjamas every day. This creates a unique atmosphere of equality and simplicity, where everyone—regardless of their status—dresses the same to focus on their inner journey.
7. Hyper-Personalized "Dosha" Cuisine
There is no generic "healthy menu" here. Upon arrival, you meet with an Ayurvedic doctor who determines your Dosha (body type: Vata, Pitta, or Kapha). Your entire diet for the stay is then customized to balance your specific energy, using organic ingredients from the palace’s own gardens.
8. Arrival by Air
For those seeking total privacy and luxury, Ananda has its own private helipad. Many high-profile guests take a quick 45-minute helicopter charter from Delhi directly to the palace gates, bypassing the long mountain drive.
9. The 25,000 sq. ft. Sanctuary
The spa itself is massive, spanning 25,000 square feet with 24 treatment rooms. It offers a menu of over 80 treatments that blend ancient Indian sciences with modern international techniques like hydrotherapy and emotional healing.
10. The Viceregal Suite
If you stay in the Viceregal Suite, you are living in the original palace chambers. It features a period four-poster bed, antique fittings, and a rooftop whirlpool bath that overlooks the sloping landscaped gardens and the distant Ganges Valley.
The big question: If you had to spend a week in total Himalayan silence—no phone, no labels, just a white pajama—could you do it? 📱🚫
Let me know in the comments! 👇
PC: AnandaInTheHimalayas Instagram
