“This is not a resort, but a retreat!” I was very politely corrected by the property manager as I stepped into this cozy refuge that was to be my home for the next three nights. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayan foothills, banked beside the placid Heval River—one of the many tributaries of the Holy River Ganges—the jüSTa Rasa Retreat and Spa, I soon learned, is truly much more than a mere resort.
Tucked away on the outskirts of one of India’s most spiritual towns, Rishikesh, this place is a sanctuary for those wanting a blend of luxury, serenity, and oneness with nature. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, an adventure enthusiast, or someone simply looking to unwind, like I was, the retreat caters to all, making it a perfect destination for relaxation, rejuvenation, and exploration.
Hotel
The retreat allows its guests to experience the beauty of the outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, the jüSTa Rasa Retreat and Spa features lush gardens, open spaces, and modern architecture that combine to create an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. Here, the focus is on sustainability and eco-friendliness, reflected in its architecture that uses locally sourced materials and promotes energy-efficient designs. The soothing sounds of the Heval River and the gentle rustling of the Himalayan breeze create a calming ambiance—a place where unwinding and reconnecting with nature is imperative!
Room
The accommodations here are nothing short of luxurious. The retreat offers a variety of room options, including elegantly designed deluxe rooms, suites, and private wooden cabins, each crafted to provide the utmost comfort and privacy. With modern furnishings, spacious layouts, and private balconies offering panoramic views of the river or mountains, guests are guaranteed a serene and restful stay.
Each room is equipped with high-end amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minibars, air-conditioning, and spacious bathrooms with rainfall showers. The interiors are tastefully decorated with a mix of traditional and contemporary elements, creating a harmonious atmosphere that enhances the guest experience. For those seeking more exclusivity, the private cabins offer a secluded and lavish retreat, perfect for a family or group getaway.
Food
The retreat emphasizes health-conscious dining, highlighting both local and international flavors. The main restaurant serves a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Guests can enjoy their meals while taking in the beautiful views of the river, creating a memorable dining experience that delights all the senses. The retreat’s culinary team is dedicated to crafting meals that not only satisfy the palate but also promote overall wellness, incorporating Ayurvedic principles into many dishes.
Spa
The retreat’s Ekam Spa offers a range of holistic treatments, including Ayurvedic and Western therapies, massages, and wellness rituals that promote relaxation and healing. It is this holistic approach to wellness that ensures that guests leave feeling refreshed, balanced, and restored, both physically and mentally. I particularly enjoyed the soothing, long strokes of my one-hour abhyanga massage therapy that I chose from the Ayurvedic treatments section of the spa’s menu.
To Do
One of the key attractions at the jüSTa Rasa Retreat and Spa is its focus on wellness and spirituality, making it an ideal destination for those looking to rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul. The retreat offers a variety of yoga and meditation programs, which are held in scenic outdoor spaces, providing an immersive experience in nature. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a beginner, the resort’s experienced instructors tailor the sessions to suit your level of practice.
Taking full advantage of the fact that Rishikesh is known for its adventure activities, the retreat offers easy access to some of the best experiences in the region. From white-water rafting on the Ganges to trekking in the nearby hills, guests can engage in a variety of outdoor activities. The retreat can also arrange guided excursions to the city’s spiritual landmarks, including the iconic twin suspension bridges of Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula, or perhaps a holy bath at Triveni Ghat.
In a Nutshell
Combining the beauty of nature with world-class amenities, this place offers a unique and luxurious retreat. Whether you’re visiting for spiritual rejuvenation, adventure, or simply relaxation, the retreat provides an unforgettable experience. With its serene surroundings, luxurious accommodations, wellness offerings, and local dining experiences, the jüSTa Rasa Retreat and Spa is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the mundane and immerse themselves in the peaceful embrace of Rishikesh.
Getting There
The nearest airport to the retreat is the Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun. From there, it is an easy 37 km, 1.15-hour drive on a mountainous highway that meanders along the Holy River Ganges to reach the jüSTa Rasa Retreat and Spa. Dehradun is connected to most major Indian cities like New Delhi, Chandigarh, and Mumbai by rail, road, and via airlines like Air India, Spice Jet, and IndiGo.
Factbox
Accommodation in the executive suites starts from £200++ per night, on a double occupancy basis, inclusive of breakfast. There is an additional supplement of £10 for each additional meal like lunch, high tea, and dinner.
Address: jüSTa Rasa Retreat and Spa, Mohan Chatti, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand – 249304, India.
Phone: +91-9258126060
Email: [email protected]
Website: justahotels.com
Photography courtesy of jüSTa Rasa Retreat and Spa.
