Top Three Healthy Destinations in India

Vibrant colours, aromatic spices, and a rich cultural heritage are some of the things that make India a bucket-list destination for many people around the world. India is also the home to one of the world’s oldest healthcare system Ayurveda. There is a multitude of places in India that offer an array of healthy activities, accommodation, and food options.

Originating thousands of years ago, Ayurveda is traditionally known for its holistic approach to wellness and overall health. At its core, Ayurveda focuses on balance, herbal treatments, yoga, yogic breathing, and diet in order to heal ailments and reach optimal health.

While Ayurveda is prevalent in most regions of India, there are specific destinations where Ayurveda is heavily ingrained in the culture and everyday life of the people – locals as well as the tourists. If you’re looking for a healthy destination in India, you could consider a trip to these three spots.  Here we list out some healthy places to stay, healthy places to eat and healthy activities that you can partake in each of these three health destinations in India.

Kerala

Located on the Southwest coast, this region in India is comparable to the seaside province of Goa, minus the surplus of tourists. Named as one of the ‘Top Paradises of the World’ by National Geographic Traveler, Kerala is known for its undisturbed beaches, canals, mountains, spice plantations, and national parks.

 

Where to stay in Kerala:

Sarovaram Ayurvedic Health Center

This family-owned health centre is run by third generation ayurvedic doctors. Their motto is, “We help you to a live a healthy life,” and they take it very seriously. The cottages sit right next to the banks of Ashtamudi Lake and offer a serene place for rejuvenation and relaxation. Their focus on pacification and purification, combined with herbal treatments and ayurvedic medicine, make this a perfect place for those seeking balance. They also use fruits and vegetables grown on site for some of the treatments.

The Leela

Sitting on a cliff overlooking the beach, The Leela exudes a laid-back and peaceful atmosphere. Located in Kovalam, the area is known for its clean and safe beaches, making it a perfect destination for families. The spa offers a myriad of holistic treatments, yoga packages, and Ayurvedic treatments.

 

Healthy places to eat in Kerala:

Lonely Planet – Kovalam

This vegetarian, organic cafe offers healthy options and a unique atmosphere. Be sure to try the Kappa, a rich herb filled with protein and vitamins.

Street food is also a popular choice in Kovalam. Puttu, steamed rice flour layered with coconut, is an authentic Kerala dish and healthy option.

 

Healthy things to do in Kerala:

Go on a spice tour

Spices and herbs are at the core of ayurvedic medicine. Spices such as ginger, turmeric, and cardamom are native to India and widely known to promote health. Most hotels offer tours around local spice plantations—an inexpensive opportunity to walk in nature and learn more about the health benefits and history of various spices.

Visit Eravikulam National Park

This nature oasis offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, local fauna, and tea plantations. Filled with plenty of trails and footpaths, the park is also home to many different endangered animals and plants.

 

Mysore (Mysuru)

One of the most well-known areas in India and the world for Yoga, Mysore is one of the most tranquil cities in southern India. Pattabhi Jois, a guru who contributed a great deal to the creation of Ashtanga yoga, opened the Ashtanga Yoga Research Center in Mysore. A hub for devotees and yogis of all kinds, Mysore is an excellent place to practice and learn more about yoga and Ayurvedic practices.

Where to stay in Mysore:

Indus Valley Ayurvedic Centre

Located at the base of the Chamundi Hills, this is known as one of the best ayurvedic centres in India. They offer everything from simple guest rooms to luxury cottages, which makes it family-friendly. The centre specializes in yoga, panchakarma, detox/ anti-ageing treatment, and Ayurvedic medicine.

Ayuryoga Eco-Ashram

Located on an organic farm on the Kabini river, this ashram offers ayurvedic retreats ranging from 7-28 days. Specializing in detox, rejuvenation, stress management, and weight loss programs, Ayuryoga teaches yoga and meditation practices to help in all areas of life. Visitors have the option of a private or shared room, both of which are surrounded by nature.

 

Healthy places to eat in Mysore:

Depth N Green

This vegetarian cafe offers vegan options, a vast menu selection, smoothies and a welcoming atmosphere.

Manda Cafe

Another vegetarian restaurant with vegan options, this cafe is part of a yoga centre. They offer salads, freshly-squeezed juices, organic coffee and small dishes.

 

Healthy things to do in Mysore:

1001 steps up Chamundi Hills

Chamundi Hills is extremely important to locals and Hindus in general. Climbing from the base to the top is the most popular attraction in Mysore. The daunting ascent can be seen from anywhere in the city and offers beautiful views from the peak.

Take a yoga class at Yogadarshanam

A trip to Mysore is not complete without taking at least one yoga class. Yogadarshanam offers drop-in classes at their main school, and at their foundation across various times of the day. They also offer yoga teacher training in Ashtanga, Hatha, prenatal, and yoga therapy if you’re interested in taking your yoga knowledge to the next level.

 

Rishikesh

 

Located at the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is known as the Gateway to the Ganga, the most sacred river in India. Consequently, Rishikesh is a religious city with a multitude of ashrams. As a result, alcohol and non-vegetarian food are strictly prohibited in the area, making it a very healthy destination.

Rishikesh is also revered as the Yoga Capital of the World. Surrounded by trees, forests, and hills, Rishikesh is a serene and peaceful destination in northern India.

 

Where to stay:

Bhandari Swiss Cottage

Located roughly 20 minutes northeast of the city, these spacious rooms provide a respite from the chaos. Bhandari Swiss Cottage offers not only a quiet place to practice yoga or meditate but also Ayurveda massages and a variety of outdoor adventures.

Hotel Ishan

This family-run hotel is the perfect mix of modern and eclectic. With rooftop yoga, a study room, and a great view of the city at your disposal, Hotel Ishan provides travellers a relaxing escape in the heart of the city.

 

Healthy places to eat in Rishikesh:

Little Buddha Cafe

Famed as one of the best restaurants in Rishikesh, this tree-house style cafe offers an international menu with an array of healthy options, large portions, and very friendly service.

Madras Cafe

This modern, vegetarian cafe offers a variety of healthy options. Be sure to try the whole wheat pancakes or the mushroom curry.

 

Healthy things to do in Rishikesh:

Try Hasya yoga

Also known as laughter therapy, Hasya yoga involves prolonged, voluntary laughter. The belief is that voluntary laughter provides similar health benefits to involuntary laughter. Om Shanti Om offers drop-in classes every Sunday at 11 am.

 

Watch the Ganga Aarti

Health consists not only of the physical and mental wellbeing of the body but the spiritual too. This unique experience is a devoted ritual to the goddess Ganga and is performed on the Ganges River. Hindu priests along with local ashram students perform the ceremony, which involves an offering, prayers, singing, and a lamp lighting.

 

The refreshing ambience of all these health destinations in India is sure to recharge your senses and rejuvenate you physically, emotionally and spiritually.

 

This guest post is written by Hannah Fitzpatrick

Hannah is a freelance writer and blogger at AllTheRooms who has a deep passion for travel, mindful living and people. Originally from Upstate New York, she’s had the opportunity to live in Arizona, Colorado, Georgia and most currently, Maryland. She recently crossed country number 16 off her bucket list and is always devising a plan to fulfil her perpetual wanderlust. When she’s not busy writing or travelling, you can find her enjoying the great outdoors with her husband and puppy, exploring her local community or honing in on her photography skills.

PS The pictures used in the post have been provided by the guest author.

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