Going to Ananda is more like a pilgrimage than a visit, with every moment designed to cultivate presence. But the real gift is the opportunity to come back to self, to the centered space that abides within us all. Oprah Winfrey

Thank you for a week of healing and bliss! Even in the monsoon, a most magical place in this world! Uma Thurman

Thank you very much for a great experience. It is a beautiful place and everybody who works here is so friendly and kind... we loved it. Edward Norton

Unbelievably serene, relaxing and yet invigorating. Ratan Tata

Following the death of my husband, my life spiraled into chaos, turned upside down. My mental, physical and spiritual state was catastrophic. I was looking for a clinic that could save me and it was ChatGPT who recommended Ananda les Himalayas! I stayed there for 3 weeks. Upon my arrival, the warm welcome, the beauty of this former Maharaja palace, the meticulously tended gardens, reminiscent of a Monet painting, everything is designed to bring peace and well-being to the soul and concentration towards healing. If you read the credentials of each doctor, each therapist, masseuse, kitchen staff, dining room staff, service staff or even gardener, you appreciate their kindness, dedication and professionalism! Every element and treatment makes you feel uniquely cared for, with all attention devoted to rebuilding both body and mind. Ananda is special in its approach to finding the right treatment for each case and giving back life to those who feel lost as I did when I arrived or more simply giving back youth or strength which gradually diminishes in a world of stress, pollution and violence. It has been 1 month since I returned home, and the observation is that - I feel strong, full of life and joyful! that the pain of separation from my husband has transformed into a spiritual love full of light and Love. My tears of longing have turned into smiles for life, I can now accept in calm and peace the eternal rest of my husband. Thank you all. Thank you for saving me ! Not only do I recommend Ananda to all those who read me but I will return every year to refocus my ethereal self to my physical body and also to see the Tree of Life I was honored to plant in the magnificent gardens of this Himalayan sanctuary. Many thanks to everyone at Ananda the Himalayas for your thoughtfulness and professionalism. Marie Poisson

There are now many options worldwide when choosing a health spa but the authenticity, warmth and respect that every staff member at Ananda displays sets Ananda apart. The quality of the Ayurvedic treatments , food, attention to emotional wellbeing and emphasis on Vedic teaching and Yogic philosophy allows all participants to learn strategies to implement in their lives upon returning home ensuring that in the world of health spas Ananda really has no peer. Thank you for introducing me to the teachings of Vedanta. You have truly inspired me to continue this journey on how to live an examined life, one which I shall continue with a passion. I leave here a changed person with a renewed outlook on how to live a balanced life. I am ever so grateful to you all. Hanish Bagga

The wellness program has been a truly life-changing experience for my son. He came with clear health goals, and through the thoughtful structure of the program, personalized guidance, and caring support from the team, he was able to not only meet those goals but also build a deeper awareness of his overall well-being. What made this retreat stand out was the way it introduced him to new experiences, whether through mindful practices, nourishing meals, or holistic lifestyle activities, that he had never tried before. Each session was tailored in a way that was engaging and inspiring, helping him create healthy routines he can now carry forward into everyday life. I am deeply grateful to the entire team for creating such a nurturing environment. They provided the right balance of encouragement, knowledge, and care that allowed my son to grow and thrive. This retreat did more than support his health, it sparked a genuine enthusiasm for wellness that I believe will stay with him for years to come Konark Uppal

Before Ananda, I struggled with a lot of physical health and mental health issues. All my doctors had told me that my conditions were permanent; all that could be done was manage the symptoms as best we could with medication and counselling. So when I went to Ananda, I came with the expectation that Ananda would be able to help a lot with my general health and well-being, but in the end, they wouldn’t be able to do much about my diagnosed conditions. But what I gained at Ananda was beyond anything I could have imagined! The doctors at Ananda were able to not only help me vastly improve many of my symptoms, but they were also able to help me understand my body, how I’d ended up with the symptoms in the first place, and most importantly, what I could do to heal them. Over the course of my two-week stay at Ananda, many of the symptoms I’d struggled with since childhood went away; they were gone! Now, it’s not a magical cure; it’s tried and true alternative medicine whereby, if I continue to implement the lifestyle changes I learned at Ananda, these positive effects can be maintained and continue to improve. Furthermore, the staff at Ananda are absolutely superb! Everyone at Ananda (doctors, massage therapists, yoga instructors, personal trainers, chefs…) go over and above to support your healing and make you feel at home. In addition, the property is an absolute paradise! It’s so beautiful and the sights and sounds of nature all around are so peaceful and tranquil. And it’s not just the treatments and diet; you also get the opportunity to gain new insight into yourself and how to live your life through Vedanta philosophy, yoga, and so much more. I have gained so many valuable tools from Ananda for how to think about the world, live my life to the fullest, and help my body heal itself. Words cannot express how grateful I am for everything I’ve learned at Ananda. It truly was life-changing. I spent a lot of my life feeling hopeless and helpless about my health. But now I find myself feeling a sense of optimism and confidence I’ve never experienced before. I am forever grateful to Ananda, and I hope I can return soon to continue learning about my body, mind, and spirit and further my healing journey. Bianca Verjee

Body and soul detox at its best! Thank you for an incredible unforgettable experience. -The Acupuncture sessions gave me a lot of peace and reduced, actually removed my pain. I am very grateful for the advise of the doctor (physiotherapy). I have seen so many doctors in Germany, took medicine, multiple MRTs - but nothing came close to the sessions with you. Thank you! Laura Wilhelms

I was going through an exhausting period, feeling as if the whole world was placing its weight on my shoulders. Accumulated pressures, days passing without rest, and small details were enough to drain me mentally and physically. I used to smile as if everything was fine, but inside me there was a storm that never calmed. I truly needed to pause… not as an escape, but for healing. I wanted to step away from everything, to return to the self that had been lost in the crowd of responsibilities and expectations. And that’s when I made the decision to go to Ananda Global Resort… as if my heart led me there without thinking. The moment I arrived, I felt I was in the right place. The air was different—pure, as if I were breathing for the first time. The resort was not just a place to stay, but a warm embrace that healed the soul before the body. Every corner of it spoke of peace. I spent my days between yoga and meditation sessions, learning how to breathe deeply, how to be calm, how to hear the voice of my heart amid the silence of nature. Each moment of meditation felt like an honest conversation between me and the self I had long forgotten. The Ayurvedic treatments there were an extraordinary experience. The warm hands, the natural oils, the aromatic scents… each session pulled out years of exhaustion from within me, as if it were rearranging my energy, teaching me how to be kinder to my body and soul. The food there was not just food… but a ritual of healing. Fresh organic dishes prepared with a calm spirit and served with the intention of caring for you. I ate them slowly, with gratitude, feeling that every bite was restoring a part of my balance. And every night, I would return to my room, gaze at the peaceful horizon, and thank myself for choosing to care for me. Ananda wasn’t just a resort—it was a rebirth for me… a place where I found my serenity, and realized that rest is not a luxury, but a right… and that when I choose to love myself, everything begins to heal. Khulod Ibrahim A Alshaya

I came to rejuvenate and to lose weight with a wish to get rid of a few pains, some of which I have been dealing with for over 30 years. In short, I came to renew!! Dr. Sankar was my doctor. He listened to me, checked me, organized my activities and decided which food could assist me to loose some weight & what activities would help clear out my aches and pains. Every couple of days he would see me and adjust what was needed to make sure I got the best treatment. Dr. Sreelal Shankar is an Ayurvedic doctor who happens to be extremely knowledgeable, caring, professional. I felt his full committment to help me, in his holistic way, to maximize my benefit while in the program and beyond. The very experienced, learned Dr Ashwani, whose expertise is in reflexology, got rid of pains that I’ve had for over 30 years. He was the one that succeeded after many years of trying a variety of treatment. I enjoyed very much Gaurav Gurgute’s lectures, exploring life, living, self, reality, mental peace, and loads more. A great teacher, dedicated, knowledgeable and very valuable for my holistic learning experience. Blossom, an expert in emotional wellness, assisted me with very valuable tools to let go of what was not needed, embrace myself, and simply and wholly, keep walking my walk. I was lucky to also meet Roma, a vibrant, warm & fun expert in emotional wellness, with whom I shared some lovely laughs, meals & talks! I thank you for your expert Physio work and for your warm care Gaurav! Lakham, you are extremely special, you work with total commitment. Thank you for training and for guiding me. You looked at my abilities and at my liabilities, and gave me the right exercises for my needs and possibilities. Dear chefs, the meals you prepared for me, each one was delicious and very beautifully presented! I must add that I shared this wonderful experience with special people… guests that came for different reasons from India and from different continents… Young and old, we all immersed ourselves together in this wonderful experience with open hearts! To the beautiful people that I met I say, thank you for sharing this journey with me! I accomplished my goals, left with no pain and with enough information to, hopefully, continue to feel well, to live with no, or less pain, and with the dream of coming back soon!!! Anabella Nachumow

I was never very much into yoga. It seemed to be too complicated with poses especially if I have some body issues. So I was approaching yoga class with Swati with very limited expectations. I attended lessons with Swati with my husband who is 83, is hearing impaired and doesn’t speak English. So I expected rather tortures of exercises, translating at the same time and being partly responsible for all of that. It appeared to be totally opposite. Swati is very experienced, clever, smart and attentive teacher. She took into account all our past injuries problems. She started very gently so we didn’t feel overwhelmed. She took special care of my husband. She grasped Polish words very quickly so I could be concentrating on my body. Then she was slowly adding more difficult hatha yoga but we were already prepared for it. We took yoga classes with Swati every day. We like her dedication and concern so much. And it was the same with Pranayama., Swati presented some exercises especially to my husband to improve some of his issues and for me as well. I thought meditation will be impossible for two of us but Swati took her time and found Polish version of yoga nidra and we did some other meditation techniques as well which appeared to be possible even with sb not speaking English. Miracle! Our experience of yoga, pranayama and meditation with Swati was so good, far beyond our expectations. And we keep exercising back at home. Dorota Anna Wnuk Lipinska

Ayurveda here is not merely a system of diet or a series of cosmetic treatments—it is a way of life, a profound philosophy. To experience its fullest benefits, it is best to arrive with mindfulness and an understanding of its principles; then, the results will far exceed all expectations. From the very first moment, you are enveloped in attentive care. On the day of arrival, guests are greeted with a consultation by a physician—one who checks your pulse, reviews your questionnaire, discusses your overall health, and crafts a personalized program of rejuvenation. Depending on your dosha (Vata, Pitta, or Kapha), your treatment may include Ayurvedic therapies, acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and the soothing oil massages of Ananda. You can explore the range of programs on the hotel’s website, each designed for various durations and wellness goals. The hotel’s team is composed of seasoned professionals—many with over a decade of experience—who not only perform the treatments but also genuinely care for every guest. Guests arrive here from all over the world—from renowned actors to esteemed statesmen—yet within these walls, all are equal. In the restaurant, where the food is exceptionally delicious, you can encounter people from a multitude of cultures. Many return again and again—some on their second visit, others for the fifth—because here, true restoration of strength and the rediscovery of inner balance take place. One can’t help but wish to linger longer. And when it’s time to leave this oasis, the thought of returning soon fills the heart with eager anticipation. The word “ananda” in Hindi means “nirvana, absolute bliss.” It is precisely this that awaits you in the Maharaja’s Palace. Liubov Zabolotnaia

In just six days at Ananda, my entire inner world shifted. I realized how deeply important it is to care for the body, to be mindful of what you eat, think, and do. The doctors, therapists, chefs, and all the staff care for you as if you were family. The emotional work here isn’t about “let me tell you how to fix your life and be successful.” It’s a gentle unveiling of your true self. It brings clarity, wisdom, a sense of deep acceptance and peace. And then, you start to glow. Truly your eyes, your skin, your voice. But most of all - your heart begins to shine Mariia Romanes

 Etched in my heart, body, mind, and soul lies the memory of my 21 day wellness at Ananda in the Himalayas. Going here was a wish 10 years ago but January 2025 was a time of alignment where possibility became reality. Unbeknownst to family and friends, I made the necessary reservations, purchased travel insurance, and advanced payment in full so there was no going backwards. Two months later, I announced that I would be going to India in June 2025. Initially, this was met with polite silence but soon the naysayers and fearmongers began planting seeds of doubt, warning of disease, air pollution, pickpockets and other forms of criminality, war, civil unrest, etc. To this, I thanked everyone for their concern and focused on preparing for the unknown. By the time June arrived, I was more than ready to leave home to explore ways to thrive in this life. At 77, I did not think I ‘d be traveling alone to a country whose language and culture were foreign to me. Yet, being a survivor of a car crash which left me with worsening residual injuries, motivated me to push onward. I looked to age gracefully. In the retirement community where I live currently, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, angina, gout, spinal stenosis, osteoporosis abound. Hip and knee replacements are the norm. Every day, someone dies or falls and is incapacitated. I was determined not to go down this road but, finding sound, effective allopathic and alternative care was challenging. I needed time-tested healthcare that was patient- centered i.e. responsive, respectful, comprehensive, integrated, holistic, and supportive. Ananda’s Wellness Program appeared to offer this approach. Its mission is clear. It can be a high end spa with unique amenities for those who wish to vacation or it can offer an extraordinary, cohesive program, with supportive structures for individuals who wish to do transformative work. Step by step, one can ultimately succeed in learning to thrive rather than be victimized by circumstance. In my case, intake began in Delhi with Dr. Gunjana Bhardwaj before my trip. She spent a good amount of ZOOM time going through my health history. Based on her assessment and the recommended program, Dr. Harilal set up a series of daily treatments, coordinated care with my team’s doctors and therapists, communicated with dining hall staff to ensure that my diet was consistent with my dosha, met with me every 2-3 days to monitor the appropriateness of my program and,to tweak it, when necessary. He assured me that the constant dry cough that plagued me for several years was not symptomatic of disease but of internal dryness. He was right. If I had gone to a pulmonologist, I would have been prescribed steroids and an inhaler. His perspective on emotional healing and its impact on digestion and elimination were spot on. When I adhere to my diet, the body is happy. On the other hand, it will give me immediate feedback when I deviate. But, how was I to explain my dietary/lifestyle changes to friends and family without being ostracized. My only approach was.....SLOOOOWLY! The acupuncture with Dr. Manashi completely cleared the longstanding cough which interfered with my sleep and left me feeling exhausted. She recommended a tune-up 7-8 weeks from the date of my return. In the very first session, physiotherapist, Dr. Sujata, released the tightness in my lower right jaw due to surgery on the right zygoma. I was then able to insert a dental plate into the lower teeth without pain. My Bihar Yoga teachers, each with unique gifts, left me with lessons that could be accessed on the internet, ensuring that I could be anywhere in the world yet still practice. Malati taught me ways to adjust and support the body while doing asana. She also emailed detailed instructions for alternate nostril breathing when I requested help. I continue to practice pranayama and to work on my sleep issues. I decided that breath work was the better approach because CPAP did not work in my favor. Emotional Healing was not on my radar when I first arrived. I did not realize that it was a critical part of my physical well being. Dr. Shalini Sangram provided a safe, protected space for me to unearth aspects of prior events and relationships that affect the present. Never intrusive but always supportive, she was a gentle, loving presence. Despite time differences and distance, I plan to continue sessions with her. Gautam Vazirani, our visiting Vedanta teacher, brought the rarified philosophy down to earth through his humor, storytelling, quotes from other masters, diagrams, etc. I have told him that he is funny without even trying. His methodology is insightful and helps the student see the practicality of Vedanta teachings in the life of “Everyman.” Now, I arrive at the most significant aspect of my Ananda experience which did not occur when I arrived home in June. In retrospect, seeds were planted and began germinating in July. It was not until August when I began to experience the power of the program to induce discipline and continuity. When I first returned to life in the fast lane where 80 miles on the freeway is not unusual, I was unprepared for the human drama that awaited. I was still casting about, trying to establish some semblance of the Ayurvedic lifestyle at Ananda. Inserting mantra, asana, breathwork, followed by Neti and dinacharya into my morning was a challenge. I missed the wonderful food and the impeccable service. I was no longer being cared for. I was on my own and feeling lost, despite Dr. Harilal’s handout for structuring my day and diet. Finding an Indian market with all the needed spices, having the proper cooking equipment, learning to cook Indian style made my head spin. Getting started...how to prioritize...how to explain myself and on and on. Interestingly, August swept in and, despite the mundane, I began connecting to Sri Anandamai Ma through the Gayatri. While at Ananda, I entertained a sense of curiosity as I knew nothing about her. I vaguely remember Yogananda speaking of her in his autobiography and seeing a photo of both in his book which I read many years ago. I asked Malati if we could have our yoga session in the room Ma occupied while living on the Palace grounds. I’m not sure what I expected but my brain was so focused on the lesson I felt nothing. I am still trying to make sense of disparate events happening many years apart — a decision that changed the trajectory of my life, leading to an almost tragic end, being given a second chance but not feeling at home in the world, discovering Yogananda’s book and years later unknowingly receiving darshan when gazing at his photo just before his transition. Then, I encounter Ma at Ananda and today, Sept. 4, 2025, I deepen my connection to this Blessed Soul. Ananda appears to be the garland that holds these blossoms together. Inexplicable, mystical...the journey continues to unfold. And so, I extend my gratitude to the founders of Ananda in the Himalayas, the administrative staff, the doctors and therapists, spa schedulers, gift shop ladies, the spa changing ladies, the dining hall chefs, hosts and hostesses, servers, groundskeepers, maintenance crew, laundry room staff, housekeeping, the cart drivers, all the unseen hands that made this endeavor possible for me. Namaskar! Carolyn Ho

 I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for Dr Naresh guidance and support during my recent stay at Ananda in the Himalayas wellness resort. My primary objectives were to work on my stress management and address the digestive challenges I had been facing, including continuous bloating and an uncomfortable feeling in my stomach. I am delighted to report that with the program and the post-program plan, I have seen remarkable and pleasant results. For the first time since my Celiac diagnosis in 2020, I feel a noticeable difference in my stomach area. The bloating has subsided, and my stomach is back to a more normal level, rather than the bloated state I had been experiencing. I also have more energy than before, and my mood swings are more manageable and minimal. I am deeply appreciative of the enhanced lifestyle you have helped me achieve. I have become more mindful of my food choices, introduced a light physical routine, and incorporated a regular massage routine 2-3 times a week. Additionally, I have started a journaling practice, which has been tremendously helpful in managing my emotions. Thank you Ananda for helping me regain a sense of well-being. I am grateful for the progress I have made. Hanan Ahli

My overall experience with the programme at Ananda was truly transformative. From the moment I arrived, I felt supported, seen, and guided with genuine care. Each treatment, physical, emotional, and energetic, helped me reconnect with myself on a deeper level. The therapists were attentive, kind, and highly skilled, and I left every session feeling lighter, clearer, and more balanced. The combination of the peaceful environment, the mindful approach, and the personalized treatments helped me gain exactly what I needed: renewed energy, emotional release, and a stronger sense of inner calm. This journey made a real impact on my wellbeing, and I feel grateful for the positive changes I am taking back home with me. Rivka Moriel Zilberstein Kaufman

Truly Heaven on Earth! Words can’t capture this magical wellness retreat. Nestled in the Himalayas with pristine air, forests, and mountains, it feels like paradise. Come for detox, stress relief, or health—half your problems vanish just being here! The food is healthy yet gourmet—you never feel deprived. Personalised doctor-designed treatments and spa therapies rejuvenated us completely. Yoga, meditation, sound healing, and Vedanta made us feel 5 years younger! Sanjay Shah

I was delighted with the physical and gut reset I achieved. I sure came out stronger with renewed resolve and purpose towards my own wellbeing. This has to be on my annual calendar going forward Srinivasan H R

This has been a truly wonderful week. I came to Ananda looking to deepen my yoga practice, get a little closer to myself, and generally take some time out. Everything has been absolute perfection, from the warm welcome to the heartfelt goodbyes. Nothing has been too much trouble and I have felt truly cared for and loved. Pranayama and bandhas now make sense, and I have come to understand that there is power in gentleness and I do not need to chase the next version of a pose. The emotional healing sessions gave me a freedom I have been lacking for many years. It was an extraordinary privilege to visit Anandamayi Ma’s room with Simerjit, and the very special sense of peace to be found there fills the air at Ananda. The overwhelming sense from every interaction I have had is one of kindness and love and I will keep this with me for a very long time. Victoria Elizabeth Evans

I came to Ananda feeling emotionally and physically exhausted. I left with a renewed mindset, relaxed nervous system and a sense of my own well being. I had found the setting, the team and the expertise at Ananda worked in tandem to allow this to happen. Ananda resonates with quiet luxury, good energy and the opportunity to have a transformative experience. Michele Sherie Dominick

Thanks, experience the best treatment and wellness and I improved the way I think and eat and exercise. Mentally I change a lot. Abdullah Almahmoud

I came to Ananda hoping to feel better after a 2 week wellness program. I did not expect to find myself in the best wellness sanctuary where I was able to reconnect with my body, heal my wandering mind and reach a centeredness that has strengthen my spirit. The doctors, the therapists, the yoga, meditation teachers, and the chef are all incredible and made this healing journey possible. The mind- body-spirit focus at Ananda is what sets it apart and makes it one of the best wellness place. Ananda is a true gem that I would recommend to anyone seeking a full holistic approach in a serene Himalayan setting. Marie Caiola

My stay was truly special. I enjoyed the services immensely and felt cared for from the very first moment. Every member of the team was committed, attentive, and deeply professional. I felt genuinely embraced throughout the experience, and all my questions were answered with patience and knowledge. The environment naturally invites introspection. There is a quiet atmosphere that allows you to slow down and turn inward. The sound healing sessions were extraordinary, and the therapies exceeded my expectations in every way. I also loved the lectures. Learning in that setting added another dimension to the journey. The food made me feel very well and balanced. It complemented the entire experience beautifully. I would absolutely return and warmly recommend the hotel to friends who wish to experience this unique Ananda feeling. It is more than a stay. It is something you carry with you long after you leave Joana Florencio

Coming into the retreat I was expecting generic R&R, however it ended up being transformative. Every aspect, from the meal plan, to your treatments, to the group activities, are specifically tailored for your physical and mental growth and wellbeing. Would highly recommend to all. Jasmine Sultana Nanji

Complete paradise from the moment you arrive to departure. Each and every tiny detail and ritual we felt nurtured, well cared for and individual. The staff are all happy and helpful from therapists to gardeners to security. The gardens and facilities are outstanding and meticulously cared for and a delight to be in with flowers everywhere Yoga studio is the best most uplifting environment I have encountered….. open air and set within the forest. Food was individually prepared for our body types with great care and attention to detail. On every level we were gently steered and encouraged towards our wellness goals. We’d love to return one day. Gay Berner

Words cannot describe the state of body and soul one experiences while at Ananda. My primary goal for the retreat was simple yet challenging—something I hadn't been able to resolve in my everyday life: getting proper sleep. For years, I had been sleeping no more than 4–5 hours a night; at Ananda, however, I slept about 9 hours, felt fully rested, and was in excellent spirits and health. Ananda is undoubtedly a place of power—a sanctuary for restoring one's strength and vitality. I will definitely be returning soon. Zoya Evsyukova