PEACE MAKERS

The behemoth luxury retreats and their practitioners that are rocking Asia's wellness scene

- By DAISY FINER

SIX SENSES VANA

DEHRADUN, INDIA

My love affair with Vana first started when it opened in 2014. Back then, this discreet modern hideaway, vibrating with birdsong and the scent of jasmine, marked a new era of wellbeing in India. One that transported the ancient wisdoms of Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, natural therapies, and Tibetan Sowa-Rigpa into a hushed environment closely guarded by owner Veer Singh. To stay here was to be part of a quiet, insider set intent on potent, 360-degree, mind-body healing. Phones were, and still are, banned in public spaces. Seven nights were obligatory and children were not allowed.

I've visited a few times since, magnetised by the profundity of Vana's therapies and insights of its doctors and specialists. The best are still in residence, including head acupuncturist Dimple Raghuvanshi (“I am a great detective, plumber, and electrician,” she says). Since the pandemic, Six Senses is at the helm. Five-night stays and children are welcomed. Vana's pure intent still remains. Guests come to allow themselves to fall apart and then, after yoga, Watsu, intestinal cleansing, and rest, to reignite their inner fire and float home.

The seven-night Personalised programme from Healing Holidays (healingholidays.com/condenast) costs ₹2,72,700 per person sharing.

DHARANA AT SHILLIM

PUNE, INDIA