Wildly beautiful Ananda sits in the sort of silent ‘at-one’ mountain setting that spiritual fairies are beguiled by. This is the ultimate Indian spa experience – and surprisingly the only one of its kind in the motherland. This place is nurturing, holistic and not at all ashram-grotty. Come to be massaged to within an inch of your life, until you feel as if your body is boneless; to be yoga-stretched to posture-perfection; and to be fed on fresh juices and delicious, health giving food. Don’t miss lunch by the pool, slumbering on a gigantic daybeds in the shade, eating crispy lettuce salads bursting with feta and sunblush tomatoes. Otherwise Dr Shree can sort out your pitta from your kapha and prescribe an ayurvedic diet – even if you think it’s all tosh, the vegetarian feasts are outrageously good. And while every calorie is counted, the gentle approach is unashamedly joyful. Fancy some merlot? No problem (within reason). The therapists really care about how you are feeling and there’s a great deal of calm your karma, one-on-one attention. Go on marvellous hill walks, watch young monks chanting by the Gangesand visit Rishikesh, an ancient pilgrimage point for yogis. Then retreat back to the manicured grounds and watch the peacocks prance and mischievous langur monkeys swing from the trees.