Don’t break a sweat: Catch a much-deserved break at these wellness destinations in India

Auroville, Tamil Nadu
Auroville is an experimental township in Tamil Nadu that is focused on building unity among people. The destination is perfect to de-stress and relax in with its wet and dry tropical climate and open roads to instill inner calm. The community of the township is very close knit and the atmosphere is very homely. Matrimandir is the town’s secular gathering spot for people to meditate and experience tranquility in peaceful silence. The township hosts weekly workshops and therapies for its people and tourists of the city, including community yoga. Auroville has become synonymous with community healing and is an abode to many on the lookout for inner peace.

Mysore, Tamil Nadu
Another gem you will find in Tamil Nadu is Mysore, a destination booming with an array of wellness centres and spas amidst its blossoming natural beauty. The Tattva Spa and Turiya wellness centre are perfect for stress relief and relaxation massages. Mysore is also known for having a rich wildlife scene and for ayurvedic rejuvenation therapy, one that involves therapeutic interactions with elephants. If you are in search of new ways to de-stress, why not connect with elephants in a unique and fulfilling experience. One can also go camping or take a dip in Lake Kukkarahalli in Mysore giving you a chance to disconnect from the modern world. And don’t forget to make a pitstop at Devaraja Market, an age-old trade spot for silk, sandalwood and other spices to help tantalize your senses.

Varkala, Kerala
Varkala is a town in the south Indian state of Kerala, where palm-covered red cliffs and golden beaches have made it a popular setting for self-care and self-love. Just about every other building in the town is a wellness studio, ashram or teacher training school; while the beach is often dotted with impromptu classes. What’s more, the state of Kerala is celebrated as the home of the ancient holistic healing system, Ayurveda, as well as for its mesmerising network of tropical backwaters. And a backwater cruise or an Ayurvedic massage make for a blissful treat for our soul and our body. Apart from the serene, quiet beaches and backwaters, the city has been a pilgrimage destination owing to the famous Sree Janardhana Swamy and Sivagiri temples. The town is also well known for its hot springs which provide mineral water that is believed to have medicinal properties. Varkala has also become popular for the growing ‘Naturopathy’ practiced in several of its Ayurvedic centres.

Mandrem, Goa
Mandrem is a small, cozy coastal village with quiet white sand beaches and clear water. When it is safe to do so, you can book a relaxing stay in several cozy cottages that line the village and break away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Ashiyana is a village located in Mandrem that offers tourists a retreat and chance to experience life the old fashioned way - in handmade huts and cottages along the coast. The beaches are void of any sound at dawn, which is perfect for meditation at that time. Apart from meditation on the shore, you will find several mind healers who host sessions alongside the beach as well.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
In the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh offers you a much-needed escape from reality. Known to be one of the holiest heritage sites in India, this pilgrimage site is home to several patrons of yoga and spirituality. From the snowcapped Chandrashila Trek to the mysterious and eerie Roopkund trek, Rishikesh also has several trekking trails for you to explore. And if trekking is for another day, get up close with the fauna in this spiritual town with a trip to Rajaji National Park. One can also choose to enjoy their own company by staying at Ashrams and partaking in the devout ritual of Ganga Aarti to attain peace of mind.