Ananda Spa Rishikesh, Uttaranchal

A closely guarded secret of the Himalayan hills is a resort called Ananda. Run by Mandarin Hotels, which run resorts in places as diverse as Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta and London, Ananda spa is the erstwhile summer retreat of the British gentry and the palace of an erstwhile local Maharaja.
The Viceroy's palace is the main center where among the relics of a regal past, one can unwind to the deft technique of Ayurvedic massages and yogic exercises that relax the body and heals the mind. The iron gates of the spa open to a tree-lined driveway leading to the Maharaja's palace, built in 1910.
 

Getting There

By Air: The closest international airport to Ananda is New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. 45-minute flights to Jolly Grant airport, Dehradun.

By Road: The 5 hrs drive from Delhi to Ananda is approximately 260 km along a National Highway. From Dehradun, you take a 60-minute drive through the Rajaji Wildlife Sanctuary before reaching Ananda.

By Train: 60 minutes ride to Ananda from Haridwar

Things to do

Rishikesh: Rishikesh is one of the best-located pilgrimage centers along the Right Bank of the river Ganga. A breathtaking experience of natural beauty and undiscovered wildlife await here.

Rajaji National Park: There are approximately 21 tigers in this extensive area. It is generally easier to sight the elusive leopard in certain areas like Chilla. Herds of the Spotted Deer are fairly common to spot. The other animals that can be spotted in the Chilla wildlife sanctuary are the wild boar, Sambhar Deer, the Grey Langur, the Red Rhesus Macaque, the Barking Deer, the Peacock, Quails, Hornbills, Hawks, Falcons, Vultures and many other birds of prey.

Fishing Programmes On The Ganges:

About The Fish & The Species- The fish-the Mahseer- found only in the Indian sub-continent is reputed as being the strongest fresh water sport fish in the world.
 
The Species- The Mahseer is also the world's largest member of the carp family. The Himalayan Mahseer (Barbus tor pututora), the ones found on the rivers we raft can be as big as a 100lbs and 5ft long.

Best Time Of Year For Angling- It is this 'window' (March - April, October - November) that determine the fishing expedition departures.
 
Fishing Guides- During our trips, an English speaking fishing guide is employed with intimate knowledge and passion for the Mahseer.

River Staff- Experienced river guides with intimate knowledge of the river get you downstream on our rafts safely. In addition cooks and helpers ensure your comfortable stay in the camps while you focus on the fishing.

Typical Angling Day - Typically the angling starts with an early morning session from the campsite followed by breakfast and then another angling session till lunch. Later in the evening the angling continues till dusk and sometimes until dark. Almost all the casting is done from shore.

Ananda Art And Culture - Discover the richness of Indian Art and Culture at Ananda - In the Himalayas. Propelled with the concept of a holistic lifestyle and well being, the spa rests on the healing philosophy of physical, mental and spiritual health. While the vast menu of spa programs and adventure activities energies the body, serene yoga and meditation sessions uplift the mind.
Indian Art and Culture is the true index of the vastness and diversity of the Indian sub-continent. Ananda Art and Culture involves the coming together of the rich and varied forms of Indian classical and folk traditions, performing and visual arts, traditional and contemporary cultural ethos. Whether it is a classical performance of Bharatanatyam - one of the oldest classical dance forms in the world, originating in the South of India, or a soulful evening of Ghazals - poetic love songs, culture at Ananda becomes a self-reflective statement.
Accommodation

Built on a mountain ridge, the rooms offer breathtaking view of the valley and the city of Rishikesh or the Palace. The rooms have been designed in a minimalist and holistic fashion with wooden floors offset by essential furniture, walk- in closet and well-lit marble bathrooms with sunken bathtub facing bay windows offering exquisite views. One of the main features of the rooms is the independent patio balcony with breath taking view of the Himalayas, where one can relax or even practice Yoga.

The Viceregal Suite: This Suite, with a wrap around terrace, outdoor Jacuzzi and its own telescope, embodies the graciousness of a bygone era.

Deluxe Suites and Ananda Suite: The superb one-bedroom deluxe suites are located on the first and third floor, while the spacious and delightful Ananda Suite is located on the ground floor of the guest residence. Ananda Suite has its own private garden. Overlooking the Rishikesh valley, the river Ganga or the landscaped garden and Palace, the suites feature a private bar, a walk-in closet, in-room safe, bay-window bath tubs and separate shower, tea cove making facility and telephones with data port and voice mail.


Eating

The Pavilion: The Pavilion is a casual and elegant setting for drinks and light snacks. With a bar that features the finest wines and liquors, the Pavilion is the perfect place to celebrate special occasions with family and friends.

The Tree Top Deck: The Tree Top Deck is a delightful outdoor venue of the Restaurant that is built on treetops, thereby infusing your meal experience with the beauty of the Himalayan mountains and the fresh, natural surroundings.

The Tea Lounge: Located in the Viceregal Palace, the Maharaja's Tea Lounge is a warm, romantic setting for an afternoon cup of tea and light snacks, taking you back to the by-gone days of the British Raj and royalty. Enjoy spectacular sunsets or appreciate the beauty of the well-manicured gardens. Savor the cup of tea at the royal card tables.

Facilities

The Spa: Dedicated to your rejuvenation is a vast universe of 21,000 sq. ft., embodying the promise of health and vitality, youthfulness and beauty. In the healing presence of nature and positive aura of the Spa, uplift your spirits.

Ayurveda: Experience the healing science of Ayurveda. Benefit from centuries old herbal remedies. Remake yourself through the renowned 'Panchkarma' treatment that detoxifies the body. Find release from asthma and arthritis.

Yoga: Achieve the enlightening postures and knowledge of yogic chakras. Meditate in the primordial silence of the valley.

Fitness Center: Work yourself to your best shape in the 16 - station life cycle gym. Lose weight; tone up with strength and stamina enhancing equipment. Dive into the pool and set your own pace, or join in aqua aerobics for a class in water calisthenics.