Luxury retreats in India have carved a niche for themselves on the global stage by offering a unique blend of traditional wellness practices, stunning natural settings, and unparalleled luxury.
From the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda to the regal opulence of restored forts, these retreats provide transformative experiences that attract discerning travellers from around the world.
Whether seeking holistic healing, cultural immersion, or simply an escape into nature, these renowned retreats offer a sanctuary of peace and rejuvenation, embodying the essence of luxury and wellness in India.
In this feature, we explore some of the newly opened as well as well-established luxury retreats in India that have garnered international acclaim. These sanctuaries of serenity and opulence offer an unparalleled experience, blending traditional Indian hospitality with world-class amenities.
Ananda in the Himalayas, Uttarakhand
Nestled in the serene foothills of the Himalayas, Ananda is an award-winning luxury wellness retreat that has set the standard for opulent wellness tourism. Established in 2000, Ananda seamlessly blends Ayurvedic practices with modern wellness therapies, attracting celebrities, royalty, and wellness enthusiasts from around the globe.
Why It’s Famous:
Ananda is set in a stunning location overlooking the spiritual town of Rishikesh and the Ganges River Valley, offering breathtaking views that enhance the healing experience. The retreat provides holistic wellness through comprehensive programs that include Ayurveda, yoga, Vedanta, and international wellness practices, all personalized to meet individual needs. Guests can enjoy luxurious accommodations, with a choice of rooms, suites, and villas, each offering stunning views and top-notch amenities, ensuring a truly opulent and rejuvenating stay.
Vana, Dehradun
Opened in 2014, Vana in Dehradun is a relatively new entrant in the luxury retreats in India space but has quickly established itself as a beacon of holistic wellness. The retreat is designed to offer a transformative experience, rooted in traditional wellness practices.
Why It’s Famous:
Vana offers innovative wellness programs that blend Ayurveda, Sowa Rigpa (Tibetan healing), yoga, and natural therapies, providing a unique and comprehensive approach to well-being. The retreat emphasizes sustainability by using eco-friendly materials and practices to minimize its environmental impact. Each guest receives personalized care with a tailored wellness itinerary, ensuring a bespoke and highly individualized experience.
Amanbagh, Rajasthan
Amanbagh, part of the prestigious Aman Resorts, is a luxurious retreat located in the ruggedly beautiful state of Rajasthan. Built in the style of a Mughal palace, Amanbagh offers a unique combination of regal opulence and contemporary comfort.
Why It’s Famous:
The resort’s architecture, inspired by Mughal aesthetics, showcases grand domes, high ceilings, and intricate carvings, creating an atmosphere of architectural splendour. Guests can indulge in exclusive experiences, such as private yoga sessions, Ayurvedic treatments, and curated explorations of Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage. Nestled in a secluded valley, Amanbagh provides a tranquil and intimate setting, offering an escape from the hustle and bustle and ensuring a secluded luxury experience.
ITC Grand Bharat, Gurgaon
Set amidst the ancient Aravalli Range, ITC Grand Bharat pays homage to five thousand years of unbroken civilization. Spanning an expansive 1214056 sq.m., this luxurious retreat showcases an architectural blend of ancient, medieval, and modern Indian influences.
Why It’s Famous:
ITC Grand Bharat offers a rich array of luxury experiences, including 4 Presidential Villas, 100 suites, and a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course. Guests can indulge in elaborate culinary experiences, state-of-the-art conferencing facilities, and the 3,251 sq.m. Kaya Kalp – The Royal Spa. The spa provides holistic wellness experiences using natural plant and mineral products, personalized consultations, Ayurvedic rituals, a hammam, yoga, and swasthya cuisine.
As an uber-luxury LEED Platinum certified retreat, ITC Grand Bharat operates on the ethos of ‘Responsible Luxury,’ delivering opulence without compromising the earth, and integrating sustainable practices with authentic indigenous experiences.
Six Senses Fort Barwara, Rajasthan
Opened in 2021, Six Senses Fort Barwara is a stunning new addition to the luxury retreats in the Indian landscape. This 14th-century fort has been meticulously restored to its former glory, offering a perfect blend of heritage and luxury.
Why It’s Famous:
The fort’s original architecture has been meticulously preserved, creating a unique atmosphere that combines historical grandeur with modern luxury. The retreat focuses on comprehensive wellness programs, offering Ayurveda, yoga, meditation, and holistic treatments.
Six Senses Fort Barwara also emphasizes sustainable luxury, implementing initiatives such as using local materials, minimizing waste, and conserving water to ensure an eco-friendly and opulent experience.
Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, Kerala
Situated along the pristine shores of Kovalam, Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra is a haven of tranquillity and luxury. This retreat offers a unique blend of traditional Keralite architecture and contemporary amenities, making it a favourite among luxury travellers.
Why It’s Famous:
The retreat is nestled amidst lush tropical gardens, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Niraamaya is renowned for its authentic Ayurvedic treatments, complemented by comprehensive yoga and wellness programs. Guests can indulge in exquisite dining, savouring gourmet cuisine that emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients and traditional Kerala flavours, ensuring a truly enriching and rejuvenating experience.
Svatma, Tamil Nadu
Svatma in Thanjavur is a cultural and wellness retreat that offers a deep dive into South Indian heritage. The retreat is housed in a beautifully restored heritage building, providing an immersive experience that combines luxury with cultural authenticity.
Why It’s Famous:
Svatma provides guests with a unique cultural immersion, allowing them to explore classical music, dance, and traditional arts alongside wellness programs. The retreat’s architecture beautifully reflects the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu, featuring intricate woodwork and traditional design elements. Svatma’s wellness programs are complemented by a focus on sattvic (pure) cuisine, enhancing the overall rejuvenation experience and ensuring a harmonious and enriching stay.
The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort, Ranthambhore
Located near the famous Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort is an opulent retreat that offers a unique blend of luxury and adventure. Guests can experience the thrill of a wildlife safari while enjoying world-class hospitality.
Why It’s Famous:
The resort offers luxury tents equipped with all modern amenities, providing an authentic yet comfortable jungle experience. Guests can embark on guided safaris in Ranthambhore National Park, renowned for its tiger population and diverse wildlife. The Oberoi’s unparalleled service ensures that every guest’s needs are met with meticulous attention to detail, creating a truly exceptional stay.
Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort, Kerala
Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort in Mararikulam, Kerala, offers a luxurious escape with a focus on holistic wellness. The resort combines traditional Ayurvedic treatments with modern luxury, making it a sought-after destination for health and wellness enthusiasts.
Why It’s Famous:
The resort provides holistic wellness through a variety of Ayurvedic treatments, yoga sessions, and detox programs, all tailored to individual needs. Carnoustie is dedicated to sustainability, featuring eco-friendly villas, organic gardens, and solar power usage. Guests can experience beachfront luxury, enjoying the serene beauty of Marari Beach while indulging in luxurious amenities and personalized service. This combination of wellness, eco-friendly practices, and beachfront elegance ensures a rejuvenating and memorable stay.
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans
Opened in 2018, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa in the Andaman Islands is one of the most popular luxury retreats in India that offers a unique blend of pristine natural beauty and opulent comfort. The resort is set on Havelock Island, known for its stunning beaches and clear waters.
Why It’s Famous:
The resort boasts an exquisite location, surrounded by lush rainforests and overlooking the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. Taj Exotica is committed to sustainability, featuring eco-friendly villas constructed using indigenous materials and practices. Guests can enjoy a diverse range of experiences, including snorkelling, diving, and exploring the rich marine life and natural beauty of the Andamans. This combination of a stunning setting, eco-conscious design, and a variety of activities ensures a unique and memorable stay.
Atmantan Wellness Resort, Maharashtra
Atmantan Wellness Resort, located near Pune, is a premier destination for holistic wellness. The resort offers an array of wellness programs designed to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit.
Why It’s Famous:
Atmantan offers a range of comprehensive wellness programs, including retreats focused on detox, weight loss, fitness, and stress management. Nestled in the Sahyadri Mountains, the resort provides a tranquil environment with stunning views of Mulshi Lake, creating a serene backdrop for rejuvenation.
Guests can choose from luxurious accommodations, featuring well-appointed rooms and suites designed to enhance the overall wellness experience. This combination of specialized wellness programs, breathtaking scenery, and opulent accommodations ensures a deeply enriching and restorative stay.
Shreyas Retreat, Karnataka
Shreyas Retreat in Bangalore is the epitome of luxury, simplicity, and serene wellness. This retreat is celebrated for its exceptional hospitality, spiritual tranquillity, and focus on personalized wellness experiences.
Why It’s Famous:
Shreyas is renowned for its comprehensive yoga and meditation programs, offering a holistic approach to wellness through expertly guided practices. The retreat places a strong emphasis on healthy eating, providing organic, farm-fresh meals tailored to guests’ dietary preferences through its farm-to-table dining experience.
Guests can also immerse themselves in the local culture by participating in community service, Vedic chanting, and other enriching cultural activities. This combination of wellness, healthy dining, and cultural immersion ensures a truly transformative and fulfilling stay.
RAAS Devigarh, Rajasthan
RAAS Devigarh is a stunning heritage retreat set in an 18th-century palace in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan. It combines the charm of royal history with modern luxury, offering a unique experience that celebrates the grandeur of Indian architecture and culture.
Why It’s Famous:
The palace has been meticulously restored to preserve its historical grandeur, seamlessly incorporating modern amenities to ensure a luxurious stay. Guests are invited to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region, with opportunities to visit nearby temples, forts, and the local village.
This immersive experience offers a deep connection to the area’s history and traditions. The retreat also features a comprehensive spa and wellness program, providing a range of treatments that include traditional Ayurvedic therapies, yoga sessions, and various spa services. This combination of heritage, luxury, and wellness creates a truly unique and enriching experience for all visitors.
Raffles Udaipur, Rajasthan
Raffles Udaipur, situated on a private island in Udai Sagar Lake, is a luxurious retreat in India that epitomizes regal splendour and modern comfort. Opened in 2021, it is known for its majestic architecture, breathtaking views, and impeccable service.
Why It’s Famous:
The resort’s exclusive location on a private island provides a serene and secluded environment, perfect for relaxation and privacy. This tranquil setting is complemented by architectural grandeur, as the resort’s design masterfully combines traditional Rajasthani elements with contemporary elegance, creating a unique and opulent atmosphere.
Guests are treated to world-class amenities, including luxurious accommodations that ensure the utmost comfort and sophistication. The dining experience is equally impressive, featuring gourmet cuisine that delights the senses. A state-of-the-art spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, while a variety of recreational activities cater to guests seeking adventure and leisure. All of this is enhanced by Raffles’ renowned service, ensuring an unforgettable stay for every visitor.
Suján Jawai, Rajasthan
Suján Jawai is a luxurious tented camp located in the heart of the leopard country in Rajasthan. One of the well-known luxury retreats in India offers an unparalleled experience of wildlife, culture, and luxury, blending adventure with opulent comfort.
Why It’s Famous: The camp provides guests with the opportunity for thrilling wildlife encounters through guided jeep safaris. These safaris offer an intimate experience with nature, allowing visitors to observe leopards and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Guests stay in spacious, beautifully appointed tents that perfectly combine traditional craftsmanship with modern amenities, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable experience. The retreat also offers cultural immersion, featuring visits to local villages and interactions with the Rabari herdsmen. These experiences enrich the overall stay, giving guests a deeper understanding of the local culture and traditions.
The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Kashmir:
The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa in Gulmarg, Kashmir, is one of the finest luxury retreats in India set amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas. It offers a perfect blend of natural splendour, adventure, and opulence.
Why It’s Famous:
The resort is situated in the pristine Gulmarg Valley, a breathtaking location that offers panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and lush landscapes. This stunning setting serves as a backdrop for both adventure and relaxation. Guests can indulge in a variety of exhilarating activities such as skiing and trekking, making the most of the valley’s natural beauty.
For those seeking tranquillity, the resort offers a luxurious spa where visitors can unwind and rejuvenate. The accommodations are exquisite, featuring beautifully designed rooms and cottages that blend comfort and luxury with a touch of local Kashmiri charm, ensuring a memorable stay for every guest.
Why luxury retreats in India have carved a niche on the global stage
Luxury retreats in India have carved a niche for themselves on the global stage by offering a unique blend of traditional wellness practices, stunning natural settings, and unparalleled luxury.
From the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda to the regal opulence of restored forts, these retreats provide transformative experiences that attract discerning travellers from around the world.
You may be seeking holistic healing in Kerala, cultural immersion in Rajasthan, a yoga retreat in Rishikesh, or simply an escape into nature, these renowned retreats offer a sanctuary of peace and rejuvenation, embodying the essence of luxury and wellness in India.
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