Ananda in the Himalayas

Arriving into the small airport of Dehradun via Delhi, I was greeted by my personal driver and taken straight into an air-conditioned 4x4 for the short 45-minute journey up the mountain towards Ananda. The journey itself was an experience, from seeing monkeys, cows, and goats up the windy uphill roads and a more impressive view at every turn. Ananda means peace – and my seven-day stay was a purifying experience of just that.

Altogether a pleasantly different experience!! At Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun, a well mannered chauffeur,took us in his Ford endeavour car..very knowledgeable,offered water bottles and some cookies on the way. At the Resort, were welcomed by Rudraxa Mala then were led to our rooms in a golf cart..beautiful rooms with views of the valley..Amphitheatre which was utilised for Yoga session in the morning and then laid for outdoor dining with light music..Greenery all around with peahens roaming freely..no noise only sound of chirping birds..beautiful breakfast area as if within trees, well mannered always smiling waiters bending down on knees to take orders..must try pineapple ginger juice...

I visited Anandas a couple of days back ie. October end and I've had an experience that will remain with me for years to come. The moment you enter the space, you're greeted with loads of warmth and love. The staff welcomes you wholeheartedly and this just makes for a perfect beginning to your getaway. The environment at Anandas is extremely holistic, beautiful and pure. You're truly living amid nature - lush green mountains, clear skies, beautiful peacocks and other species of birds etc. 

Rooms: The rooms here are up to date with all necessary facilities. Plus point? Every room, irrespective of the category, has a private balcony with a coffee table where you can simply sit and relax. I enjoyed lounging in the balcony area listening to the chirping birds and gushing waterfall. These sounds make you feel alive. You can also ask for a wake up call any time between 5 am to 8 pm and you will have the staff waking you up with a cup of steaming hot lemon honey ginger tea. 

Food: If you prefer light healthy meals, you'd love the food here. But if you're into spicy, fried food, you may be disappointed as the resort revolves around the concept of healthy living. They food served at the restaurant is healthy, tasty and pleasing to the eyes. If you're opting for a wellness package, you'd be recommended a diet according to your dosha - ie vata, pitta or kapha. And all these menus are tailor-made as per the body type. The restaurant has indoor as well as outdoor seating. And the outdoor seating is right in the middle of the wild, amid the jungle. I enjoyed having long meals here and that's one thing I miss the most about Anandas.

Spa: Anandas has some beautifully customised spa packages that pack in a lot of massages and treatments for a healthy mind and body. From different kinds of yoga sessions and fitness consultation to Ayurvedic and international therapies, they have it all. The spa menu is elaborate and the treatments will leave you wanting for more. The entire spa area with a large number of rooms is made quite beautifully keeping the little things in mind. For example, the man playing flute right at the centre of the building elevates the spa experience. You can hear the soothing tunes of flute throughout the place. 

Staff: All the staff members of Anandas are very warm and friendly. They are always serving you with a smile. They also contribute towards making the experience a lot more personalised by interacting with you on a personal level. 

What's more? You can pack really light when you are travelling to Anandas in the Himalayas. White kurta and pajamas is the dress code here and they provide you with two fresh pairs every day. They have these kurta pajamas in all possible sizes, so you don't have to worry about finding the right size for yourself. 

To sum it up, if you haven't been to Anandas in the Himalayas, you have truly missed out on a lot. If you are craving some quiet time with yourself and some rejuvenation, this one is undoubtedly the best place to be.

My stay overall was very special - Ananda is a unique and remarkable place for Ayurveda, Yoga and Spa, surrounded by nature in a luxurious setting. I highly recommend to anybody looking to visit the most majestic and sacred area in South Asia to balance body, mind and soul.