Ananda in the Himalayas History, Hidden Gems, Best Time to Visit and Photography
Located at
The Palace Estate, Narendra Nagar
Uttarakhand
Description:
Ananda in the Himalayas is a sprawling wellness resort that integrates the beauty of nature with the serenity of the Himalayas. The resort offers a range of holistic wellness programs, including yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, spa treatments, and fitness programs. The accommodations are luxurious, ranging from rooms to palatial suites, each designed to reflect the resort”s commitment to peace and tranquility. With a focus on well-being, the resort aims to provide a sanctuary for relaxation, healing, and personal growth.
History:
Ananda in the Himalayas was originally the royal palace estate of the Maharaja of Tehri Garhwal. Over the years, the palace was transformed into a world-class wellness resort. The property retains its regal charm while offering cutting-edge wellness facilities. The resort has earned a prestigious reputation as one of the top luxury wellness resorts globally, attracting guests from all over the world.
Nearest Attractions:
- Rajaji National Park: A serene wildlife sanctuary known for its rich flora and fauna, ideal for nature walks, bird watching, and safaris.
- Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Located around 12 km from Ananda, this revered temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its scenic beauty and spiritual significance.
- Triveni Ghat: A sacred spot where the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers meet. It is famous for its Ganga Aarti in the evening.
- Kunjapuri Temple: Located at an elevation of 1,676 meters, it offers panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges and is a great place for trekking.
- Rishikesh: Known as the "Yoga Capital of the World," Rishikesh offers spiritual experiences, yoga, and meditation opportunities along the banks of the Ganges.
Things to Do:
- Yoga & Meditation: Ananda offers expert yoga instructors and guided meditation sessions to help guests reconnect with their inner selves.
- Ayurveda Treatments: Rejuvenate through a variety of Ayurvedic therapies, including massages, herbal baths, and detox treatments.
- Spa & Wellness Programs: The resort”s spa offers a range of holistic treatments such as aromatherapy, Swedish massages, reflexology, and more.
- Trekking: Explore the beautiful surroundings of the Himalayas with guided treks to places like Kunjapuri Temple and the surrounding forest trails.
- Cooking Classes: Learn the secrets of Ayurvedic cooking with expert chefs in the resort.
- River Rafting & Outdoor Adventure: For the adventurous, activities such as white-water rafting in the Ganges, ziplining, and rock climbing are available nearby.
Adventures:
- White-Water Rafting: The Ganges River is famous for its rafting opportunities. You can enjoy thrilling rafting experiences near Rishikesh.
- Trekking: The nearby hills offer scenic trekking routes that lead to temples, waterfalls, and panoramic views of the mountains.
- Jungle Safari: Experience wildlife safaris in the Rajaji National Park.
- Mountain Biking: Explore the local terrain on a bike, enjoying the fresh air and scenic views.
- Rock Climbing: There are several nearby locations for rock climbing and rappelling for adventure enthusiasts.
Budget:
- Luxury: Ananda in the Himalayas is a high-end resort, with prices typically ranging from INR 30,000 to INR 60,000 per night depending on the type of accommodation and wellness program chosen.
- Packages: They offer wellness packages, which can range from 3 days to a week, providing a comprehensive experience that includes meals, wellness treatments, yoga sessions, and excursions.
- Off-Peak Discounts: The resort often offers discounts and special packages during off-peak seasons (summer and monsoon months).
Hidden Gem:
- Kunjapuri Temple Sunrise Trek: A lesser-known but incredibly beautiful sunrise trek from the resort. The views of the sun rising over the Himalayan peaks are breathtaking.
- The Forest Trail: The surrounding forest offers peaceful, secluded walks that are perfect for a quiet, meditative escape from the resort”s busy wellness activities.
Photography:
- Sunrise and Sunset Views: The resort offers spectacular views of the sunrise and sunset over the Ganges and the surrounding mountains, which are perfect for photography.
- Nature Shots: The serene environment and lush forests offer fantastic opportunities for nature photography, especially birds and flowers in the early morning light.
- Yoga and Wellness: The resort”s yoga and meditation sessions provide opportunities for capturing peaceful moments and personal transformation.
Food:
- Veg: Ananda offers a range of vegetarian dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, organic ingredients. The cuisine incorporates Ayurvedic principles and focuses on balanced, nutritious meals.
- Non-Veg: While the focus is on vegetarian food, the resort does offer select non-vegetarian options prepared with the finest ingredients.
- Vegan: The resort offers a wide variety of vegan meals, including plant-based curries, salads, detox juices, and vegan desserts, catering to guests following a vegan lifestyle.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), approximately 40 km from the resort. The airport is well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Haridwar, about 55 km away, which is well-connected to major Indian cities. From Haridwar, you can take a taxi to Ananda.
- By Road: The resort is easily accessible by road from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun. The road to the resort offers scenic views of the river and hills.
ATM and Medical:
- ATM: The nearest ATM is in Rishikesh (around 10 km away). There are also ATMs in Haridwar and Dehradun.
- Medical: The resort has a medical team available for basic medical assistance. For more serious medical needs, the nearest hospital is in Rishikesh.
Parking:
Ananda in the Himalayas offers on-site parking facilities for guests traveling by car, ensuring convenience and ease of access.
Conclusion:
Ananda in the Himalayas offers the perfect blend of luxury, wellness, and adventure. The resort is ideal for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation through holistic therapies, yoga, and meditation, as well as for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Uttarakhand. Whether you are visiting for a wellness retreat or simply to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the Himalayas, Ananda provides an unforgettable experience.
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