select - ayurvedic spas
Written by Oryx
The medical system known as Ayurveda evolved on the Indian subcontinent some 2,500 years ago as a complete and natural healing process aimed at total body balance. These days, it seems we’re in need of it as never before; Ayurveda is flourishing worldwide.
Thiruvananthapuram
The state of Kerala is the epicentre of spa tourism in India, and Thiruvananthapuram, the capital, has long been known for its Ayurvedic clinics that treat a whole variety of ailments using spices and herbs that flourish in the lush surrounding hills. Agastya Ayurveda Garden (www.ayurveda-india.com) is a holiday retreat on the edge of the ocean that specialises in various Ayurveda therapies, including marma massages, said to assist with rejuvenation by stimulating vital points.
This traditional massage is performed by masseurs using both the hands and feet. Other treatments include abhayangam, a full-body massage, and snehapanam, a purification process based on the consumption of ghee. Herbal medicines, specially designed meals, and herbal medicines, all created along Ayurvedic principles, complement the treatments at the beachside retreat.
WHY
Dozens of Ayurvedic clinics and retreats can be found in Thiruvananthapuram, favoured by domestic and international tourists alike.
WHERE
Thiruvananthapuram is the capital of Kerala in southwest India and lies on the south coast of the state.
HOW TO GET THERE
Qatar Airways has daily non-stop flights from Doha to Thiruvananthapuram.
Kochi
In the historic port town of Kochi (formerly Cochin) , Malabar House offers kalari massage techniques using authentic Ayurvedic oils and techniques derived from kalarippayat, a martial art that is among the oldest in Asia. Two masseurs work together on vital energy points in order to harmonise the flow of energy. Other treatments include pressure from a bag of herbal leaves that has been dipped in warm oil in a technique known as ela kizhi. And, in a nod to modern life, a shirodhara treatment of herbal oil, poured in a rhythmic manner on the forehead, is just the thing for computer-related neck pain.
Various massages at Malabar House take just an hour, though many enjoy three-day stress management programmes, while others indulge in full Ayurvedic retreats that can last up to 15 days. (www.malabarhouse.com)
WHY
A wide range of ancient techniques applied to the aches and stresses of modern life.
WHERE
Kochi is on the central coast of Kerala in southwest India, some 210km north of the capital at Thiruvananthapuram.
HOW TO GET THERE
Qatar Airways has daily non-stop flights to Kochi from Doha.
Colombo
Siddhalepa Ayurveda SPA (33 Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7) is Colombo’s first Ayurvedic luxury spa, recently opened in a stylishly refurbished colonial house. Beds are made from khomba wood, which is said to promote relaxation; signature treatments to relieve stress and rejuvenate body and soul range from 50 minutes to full-day packages. The spa is the flagship of a family-run enterprise with over 200 years of Ayurvedic knowledge.
WHY
Sri Lanka’s first luxury spa dedicated to Ayurvedic treatments in a family tradition dating back two centuries.
WHERE
Colombo is Sri Lanka’s capital and stands near the centre of the island nation’s west coast.
HOW TO GET THERE
Qatar Airways has twice-daily non-stop flights to Colombo from Doha.
