The Best Spa Hotels in India

The Indian metropolis can fray the nerves of even the hardiest traveller, and sometimes you just need to get as far from the madding crowed as one can. Swap the hawkers for the hammam for the ultimate relaxing stay.

• Accessible only by boat, there is quite literally a moat of tranquillity separating Taj Lake Palace from the rest of Udaipur. Boasting Taj’s signature JIVA treatments and the novel spa boat (there truly is something unique about getting a pedicure on the water) this is not only the most luxurious place to stay in Udaipur, but also the most indulgent. Leave feeling fabulous.
• Dedicated to promoting authentic yoga, meditation and the Ayurvedic life Shreyas Retreat is much more than just a hotel, it is a philosophy. It has the feel of a South Indian hideaway, tucked away amidst remote paddy fields; however this haven of tranquillity is in fact on the outskirts of the tech-hub of Bangalore. Achieving ‘enlightenment’ has never felt so good with a choice of pools, comprehensive spa and detox programmes, yoga studio and organic dining. Namaste in style.
• Tucked away in leafy Friends Colony, The Manor enjoys a residential address with world class facilities. Not only is it home to the famous Indian Accent restaurant (make sure to book your table) its popular Ayurvedic Spa, Zehen is famed in town for the most authentic and holistic products. With its traditional treatments, trained doctors, diet plans, fitness programmes, you’ll forget you still have the whole of Delhi to explore!
• One of Mumbai’s best addresses, home to AER rooftop bar, overlooking the Arabian Sea, it is hardly surprising that The Four Seasons houses one if the city’s best spas. Boasting signature treatments it includes two suites that function as private spas – allowing for hours of uninterrupted bliss. Add to this personalised fitness and yoga programmes, Ayurvedic rituals, the Rossano Ferretti salon and a nail spa this is an urban idyll of the utmost luxury.
• A veritable oasis in the busy southern city of Chennai, Taj Connemara enjoys divine art deco architecture, some courtesy of legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa, and some stylish interiors. Then there is the spa, which uses ancient Indian wellness and beauty wisdom and the finest natural ingredients to leave you feeling radiant. Combine this with private yoga and meditation sessions and you will float your way home.

Whether nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas or down in one of India’s charming southern hill stations – there are some fabulous spa destinations hidden away in India’s hills. What these spas all have in common is that they make the most of some jaw dropping views. What could be more relaxing than enjoying a massage overlooking some of the country’s most commanding natural beauty.

• The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa puts Gulmarg very much on the luxury travel map, providing a five star stay in India’s number one ski resort. And for those who’d rather slide into a bubble bath than down the slopes, there is an indulgent spa using L’Occitane products. Complete with wet room, indoor and outdoor pools, sauna and steam rooms there are plenty of ways to rest weary ski legs.
• Rising out of the hillside like a fairy tale castle with views overlooking Shimla’s Ridge, the Oberoi Wildflower Hall has to be seen to be believed. Its five star spa commands far reaching views of the Greater Himalayas and treatments can be taken in a choice of several secluded locations around the property. Choose from Ayurvedic care or one of Oberoi’s signature treatments. And make sure to use the open-air whirlpool!
• Carved into a hillock overlooking Coorg’s rolling coffee plantations, Taj Madikeri is built around the local landscape. This modern edifice, rising out of Madikeri’s verdant pastures is a Bond worthy hideaway. The spa and its indoor pool are designed to make the most of those vistas with huge glass walls and openings. Boasting Taj’s signature JIVA treatments as well as tailor-made Ayurveda and yoga packages you can relax and unwind whilst taking in those views.

There are hotels with spas and then there are spas with hotels. India’s best spas are the ones where the spa is the destination. The ones on everyone’s bucket list: if your body is your temple then these are the places to visit for some unparalleled self-worship.

• More of a 5* luxury ashram than a spa is how you should think of Ananda in the Himalayas. Amidst the manicured grounds of this former maharajah’s palace it focuses on wellness through Ayurvedic treatments, Vedanta teaching and yoga. Depending on your length of stay or package a number of treatments are included in the package. The Viceregal Suite is particularly “regal” and features a private Jacuzzi. All this and you are just a short drive from the pilgrimage town of Rishikesh.
• Goa has its fare share of beach resorts but Alila Diwa is a serious spa break. Opt for one of their detox programmes and they will send you an entire meal plan, treatment and yoga schedule before you’ve even arrived: no skipping class! A sanctuary of contemporary elegance it sits alone amidst acres of verdant paddy. Plus there is the exclusive Diwa Club - a resort within a resort – boasting its own lap pool with an open air hot tub.
• One of those resorts where you arrive and do not leave until check out. Inspired by Kerala’s traditional kottayam boats, Vivanta by Taj - Green Cove is a work of art in itself. Located in the home of Ayurveda it boasts an extensive treatment menu in its award winning JIVA spa. Bathrooms feature huge hot tub baths where some tailor made treatments can be taken. Shudhikara, a detoxifying lymphatic drainage massage is a particular favourite. Whilst healthy eating is encouraged (there are tailor made Ayurveda menus and wellness packages) it does not take itself too seriously as a spa - alcohol and other indulgences are served. Get in sync with the tempo of Kerala’s sleepy backwaters and relax.
• Much more than just a spa or wellness retreat, Vana Malsi Estate is a philosophy. Their unique homogenising of Indian and Tibetan medicines has won them numerous awards since opening in 2013. Earnestly combining the spiritual authenticity of an ashram with levels of luxury expected at a five star hotel. All meals are according seasonal, organic and according to your tailor made menu. Who knew a detox could be so delicious!

What is more relaxing than the classic beach break? Answer: the spa beach break. Combining the best of both worlds these properties allow guests to relax in every possible way.

• A fine offering from a firm Indian favourite The Leela Kovalam has opulent modern interiors with eye-ogling views plus its own private beach and infinity pool. Known for its opulence the Leela’s spas never disappoint, but built on a cliff top occupying a space of 8000 square feet, their Kovalam offering is like no other. With its own yoga pavilion to treatment rooms with a view, there are qualified Ayurvedic doctors, providing personalised consultations as well as an extensive list of world-class treatments. When you’re all done, don’t forget to visit the Warren Tricomi Salon for some New York luxury.
• Right on the edge of an unspoilt stretch of beach lies Neeleshwar Hermitage. Rustic luxury at its best villas feature their own plunge pools – a perfect blending of modern amenities with traditional style. With an infinity pool that seems to go on for, well, infinity and a renowned Ayurvedic spa providing specialised treatments, as well as yoga and meditation, there is no limit to the ways one can relax and unwind during your stay.

India is blessed with some excellent boutique properties. Combine this with their superlative spas and you have a recipe for success. Yoga, wellness and holistic medicine are a part of their culture and some of the most authentic treatments are provided by India’s boutique hotels.

• The clue is in the name with Maria Fernhof’s Purity: you will leave feeling cleansed and revitalised. An idyllic boutique property, whilst the spa is small it is fully functioning and being located in Kerala, the home of Ayurveda, the treatments are excellent. Massages can be taken in the spa or in room (for utter relaxation). To add to this there is a sun dappled pool and a fresh and healthy South India menu. If you’re looking for a spa break and are an undisputed boutique lover then Purity is the place for you.
• Coorg is known for its fantastic nature and Orange County Coorg certainly makes the most of its surrounds. True escapism, accommodation is comprised of individual cottages with an eco-chic look that include their own private plunge pools and outdoor showers. The spa is traditional in style and in its treatments use natural products and practices that have stood the test of time.

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• Take a look at all our recommended hotels in India,
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