The Art of Rejuvenation - 10 Best Spa/Yoga Resorts in South India

The Spring is here, we are in the middle of March and you guessed it right, it’s Holi time. It’s time to pack off your woolens into the dark corner of your cabinets, bring out the whites and transform into a canvas for the fusion of different colours. But after having a great time with your family and friends with colors, water-balloons and glasses of bhaang, all you need is to indulge yourself into some private relaxing time, so that the Holi fever doesn't take a toll on you.

Relax, Rejuvenate and Reflect - It is with this aim that we set ourselves upon the task of identifying the spas and retreats that will offer you the simple pleasures (of sitting back and getting recharged) in the best possible way. The inclusion s in the list are all truly world-class options, some of them being the winners of numerous prestigious awards. 

So go ahead & take your pick.

1. Amanvana, Coorg - This ‘rabbit hole for the soul’ is situated along the banks of river Kaveri in the picturesquely beautiful land of Coorg. Apart from regular services like therapeutic, full body and anti-stress massages Amanvana scores some cherry points in being unique with its offerings.One of their speciality, Vinotherapy is full body massage using fines wines, essential herbal oils and rare herbs.They also have Wine facial, pretty good reason to get sober. The Chocoholics can go for a relaxing and divine rendition chocolate massage.  

2. Maya Spa, (The Zuri) Kumarakom - Recipient of 2007 ‘Best Spa Award’ at Asia Spa Awards, is the signature brand of Spa offered by The Zuri chain of hotels.The biggest spa in South India, the spa offers a whole range of treatments like Ayurveda, hydrotherapy, solar therapies, Sabai stone therapy. The place also has a unique ‘body’ temple and meditation island.The ‘Shirodhara’ and Cloud 9 massage should definitely be tried.

3. Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort, Trivandrum - Founded in 1985 Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort is the world’s first Ayurvedic beach resort.About 9 km south of Kovalam Beach, this place offers a perfect combination of Ayurveda treatment and  Yoga. The place has fully functional Ayurvedic hospital and research centre with about 20 well- experienced Ayurvedic doctors and 90 therapists with special training in administering Ayurvedic treatment, medicine manufacturing plant, herbal garden and Ayurveda academy. A huge range of ayurvedic treatments like Pizhichil (speciality of Kerala), Snehapanam (treatment for digestive disorders)  and Nasyam (treatment for illness in head region).

4. Jiva Spa, (Vivanta by Taj) Cochin - Another Conde Nast Traveller Award recipient of 2008 ‘Best Spa in Asia and Indian Subcontinent’, this spa is located in Vivanta by Taj Malabar.Away from the hustle this property on Kochi’s Willingdon Island affords serene views of Kerala’s famed backwaters and Kochi harbour. ‘Jivanya’ a complete treatment to relieve your muscle tension includes of exfoliating herbal scrub, a heat-stimulating wrap of exotic spices and herbs from the hills and a massage with energising oils, is a must try.

5. Shreyas Yoga Retreat, Bangalore - A yoga resort in Bangalore city, is one of the most luxurious and upscale yoga retreat center in the world. It boasts of meditation huts, open air amphitheatre, infinity pool along with an option of ‘Nature Farming, for the people who wish to get their hand dirty and connect to Mother Earth. One can choose from Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga sessions and Hatha Yoga sessions. Many ayurvedic and spa treatments are also available here.

6. Divya Spa, (The Leela) Kovalam - The Divya Spa at The Leela Kempinski is situated on a cliff top, thus ensuring a spectacular scene every time you come here. Set up in a contemporary Indian style decor, this wellness centre provides ayurvedic spa treatments ranging from 1 day to 28 days. All of the treatments provided are strictly personalized and tailor made by the resident doctor, who prepares it after an in-deep consultation with the guests. The Kalari Signature Massage performed by two kalaripayattu experts should be on the top of your list.

7. Paradise Spa, (The Dune) Pondicherry - Located at Dune Eco Village, Paradise Spa provides nearly 50 different types of external and internal therapies from a simple relaxing massage to a complete cure for serious ailments.The spa also has a spa shop, where they stock only organic products like oil, soaps, ayurvedic medicines etc.The main attraction of this spa is magic water treatments popularly known as Watsu.Watsu is inspired by Zen Shiatsu in which the patient floats feeling the rhythmic movement of the water, the combination of a light acupressure of energy points, stretching, rocking as if they were back in their mother’s womb.

8. Kalari Kovilakom, (CGH Earth) Palakkad - ’The palace of Ayurveda’ as they call themselves is a unique ayurveda hospital which combines the healing power of ayurveda with opulence of palace lifestyle.The place provide numerous ayurvedic treatments that are custom made according to one’s requirements.The most unique thing about this location is that you can perform Chankramana or Walking Meditation.The grounds of Kalari are criss crossed with little secluded pathways where one can practise this beautiful meditative technique.Sounds Interesting !. But before you visit this place make sure you don't carry a leather footwear as they are strictly banned in Kalari Kovilakom.

Last but not the least, we couldn't stop ourselves from including the below 2 resorts, which, though are not strictly in 'South India', but surely give a sense of completeness to the list.

9. Ashiyana Yoga Retreat, Goa - Located in the small North Goan village of Mandrem, this place is  surrounded by coconut palm grove, Mandrem river and a beautiful beach offering a serene environment. A perfect place to loose yourself. The retreat offers three Detox and Rejuvenation Retreats throughout the season  in 7 / 14 / 21 day options. ‘Urban Antidote’ is a popular option to start with while staying in beach huts.

10. Sereno Spa, (Park Hyatt) Goa - Located in Park Hyatt, Goa, this whopping 36000 sq ft spa is styled on an Indo-Portuguese village with lush green courtyards and gardens interconnected with bridges canals and cobbled streets. It was voted as the ‘World’s Number One Spa’ and ‘Best Spa in Asian and Indian Subcontinent’ by Conde Nast Traveller in 2006.The famous treatments are the Pitta Shamak and Samudra. You can have an ayurvedic consultation to find out which treatment will help you relieve yourself.

All of these places have something unique to offer, making you spoilt for choice. Try out these places and revitalize your mind and body, so that you can sustain the pressure of your job, and the heat of Summers that is round the corner. In the words of Joseph Addison,

“A contented mind is the greatest blessing a man can enjoy in this world.”   

If you have already figured the one where you want to go, then contact us and we will ensure that you have the best of time. But if you are still confused about which one to pick, well then, still call us and we'll help you zero-down on one :)