IN SEARCH OF A DEEPER LIGHT

Refine your yoga practice, indulge in sound baths, meditate on a moon-like landscape, or discover Varanasi through a scholar's eyes. Vasudha Rai recommends 10 top wellness experiences in India

- Vasudha Rai

CLEANSING WITH SHAT KRIYAS AT ANANDA IN THE HIMALAYAS

Ananda in the Himalayas is popular for many reasons-the Ayurvedic expertise, the hydrotherapy area, the ambience of the mountains. But not many are aware that Sandeep Agarwalla, their head of yoga, has studied at the traditional Bihar School of Yoga, and is therefore proficient with the shat kriyas, or six cleansing practices that are synonymous with this school. Learn a simple jal neti, which he teaches in great detail: the posture, water temperature, saltiness, how to pour and, most importantly, how to expel every drop. From ₹36,000 per night for a single room for wellness programmes. Minimum stay, five days; anandaspa.com

THE COMPLETE AYURVEDA EXPERIENCE IN PUNE

Situated on the outskirts of Pune, the Tanman Ayurvedic Research Centre provides an authentic experience with deep detoxes and adjunctive support for serious health problems. The panel of senior doctors, who travel to teach Ayurveda around the world, are helmed by Subhash Ranade who has written many books on Ayurveda. Tanman is also a destination to learn about Ayurveda. Every month they run six courses including marma therapy, jyotish and Vedic psychology. All of this in a serene environment with mango orchards, vegetable gardens, an Ayurvedic restaurant; and an on-site cowshed. Courses, ayurved-int.com; the centre, tanman.co.in

SOUND BATHS IN PUDUCHERRY