Retreat in Rishikesh

Updated on: 16 June,2011 09:16 AM IST |
Urmimala Banerjee |

It was the beauty and spirituality of Rishikesh that drew TV actor Manasi Parekh Gohil to the place

It was the beauty and spirituality of Rishikesh that drew TV actor Manasi Parekh Gohil to the place. "My holiday helped me restore my health, mind and spirit," says Manasi, who tried out the yoga and therapy centers in the hilly town.u00a0

Rejuvenation time
Surrounded by the Shivalik Hills, Rishikesh is known as a hub for pilgrimage and adventure. It's called the yoga capital of the world with places for Chakra well-being, Tantra Yoga and Bhakti Yoga. I felt totally relaxed at the Ananda Spa where they use traditional Ayurvedic methods to restore mental and physical health. While I didn't go for white water rafting, I did take a swim in the river Tons. The Ganga Aarti was a sight to behold. I thoroughly enjoyed that part and splashed the water on my head and feet.u00a0

Soaking inu00a0
Rishikesh offers you handicraft items made of shells, beads and pearls. Sarees, kurtas, sheets and rugs can be purchased from here. I bought a rudraksha bag with quality bead work on it. And the food, though vegetarian, is absolutely delicious. There's also no shortage of multi-cuisine backpacker cafes because of adventure tourism. What excited me are the delicious Ayurvedic and health food restaurants, perfect for an after-yoga meal. This break was a wonderful surprise gift to me from my husband.