Pay no mind to the rumours you’ve heard about summer in India: the subcontinent can be a truly relaxing and comfortable destination for a seasonal getaway. While it’s true that much of the country experiences soaring temperatures and serious humidity in the summer months, in the hill stations and mountains of the north and southwest, the temperatures remain balmy – and the scenery unforgettable.
Summertime travelers to India will want to take advantage of Ananda’s seasonal offer © Ananda in the Himalayas
Those after a bit of luxury, a touch of tranquillity, stunning nature excursions and comfortable summertime temperatures should make their way to Ananda in the Himalayas. A destination spa and wellness getaway (voted the world’s top destination spa in last year’s Conde Nast traveler Readers’ Choice Awards), the hotel is set in Uttaranchal, in the midst of the Himalayan foothills. That means you’ll be surrounded by stunning mountain vistas, and far removed from the hustle and bustle of India’s busiest cities.
The luxury retreat mingles high-end offerings with wellness treatments © Ananda in the Himalayas
Visitors planning to spend the summer in India will also have access to a truly enviable seasonal offer. Now available for all summertime bookings, Ananda’s offer rewards guests with complimentary nights at the luxury enclave. Those staying for four nights or more will receive one extra night, those who’ve booked a wellness package of seven nights or more will receive two extra nights, while those staying for two weeks will earn three extra nights and those booked in for three weeks will accrue four extra nights. It’s the perfect excuse to indulge in a longer getaway at Ananda in the Himalayas – particularly for those looking to truly immerse themselves in the retreat’s beautiful and restful ambiance.
Ayurvedic principles underlie Ananda’s treatments © Ananda in the Himalayas
One of the underlying principles of Ananda in the Himalayas is a dedication to wellness and ancient Ayurvedic principles. The venue’s 24,000 square foot spa offers a menu of more than 80 different treatments, while, outdoors, a temperature-controlled lap pool beckons. Yoga and meditation practices are also a key part of Ananda’s offerings, and outdoor classes help guests practice mindfulness while profiting from the unique local environment.
An outdoor pool complements the spa menu © Ananda in the Himalayas
For those spending the summer in India and looking to take advantage of Ananda’s incomparable natural surroundings, there are also ample opportunities to explore the wild beauty of the region. Ananda hosts treks, nature walks, birdwatching trips, and safaris at Rajaji National Park. Excursions can also be made to the nearby towns of Rishikesh and Haridwar, while white water rafting trips should tempt the adventurous. On the hotel’s property, a sauna, six-hole golf course, cooking classes and other cultural activities are additional draws.
Yoga and meditation classes are among the draws at Ananda © Ananda in the Himalayas
And then there’s the luxury. Ananda’s 70 rooms look out onto the gardens, valleys, and palaces of the region, while a range of high-end suites offer tasteful décor and indulgent amenities ranging from personal terraces to complimentary breakfasts. Private Ananda Villas cater to those seeking uninterrupted relaxation (helped along by personal infinity pools), while meals can be taken in the on-site restaurant, tea lounge, by the pool, or in a private venue.
This year, then, consider spending summer in India. From the Ayurvedic pampering to the nature walks, the gourmet meals to the spa treatments – not to mention the complimentary nights – Ananda in the Himalayas has much to tempt.
