An eternal Member Favourite, Six Senses Vana is one of the most peaceful places in India. With a unique outlook on escape, a groundbreaking wellness program and a stunning design, it’s the perfect place to reset for a short stay or make groundbreaking self-improvements over a longer trip.
The Place | Location and Setting
A scenic one-hour drive from Dehradun Airport, Six Senses Vana is one of India’s most conveniently located wellness retreats, easily accessible with direct flights from most major cities.
Despite being located close to the centre of Dehradun Town, Six Senses Vana lives up to its name, with dense Sal forests surrounding the property on three sides. Spread over twenty-one acres, the retreat grounds serve as the perfect insulation from the bustle of the town.
Space | Rooms and Facilities
Rooms at Vana though simple, are still luxurious and perfect for a wellness journey. The Bodhi Suite remains a favourite for guests on a mindfulness journey due to having a dedicated meditation space, while the private pool at the Vana Suite is always in high demand. Some of my favourite features in every room are the walk-in closets, balconies with beautiful Forest or Garden Views and the minibars stocked with healthy snacks.
The real stars of the show at Vana are the common areas, including three treatment areas, a vast communal space with Bio Hacking Equipment, and a variety of active spaces. The outdoor swimming pool is especially striking, while the yoga and meditation spaces nestled in the orchards are the most peaceful.
Vibe | People and Experience
Being a dedicated wellness retreat, the experience at Vana is quite unique and starts with medical screening and consultation. Wellness at Vana focuses on a blend of three practices — Ayurveda, Sowa Rigpa, and Natural Therapies, each offering distinct benefits and purposes. Being able to tap into a diverse range of philosophies is a tailored service offered by Vana. This provision entails a multi-pronged strategy towards treatments and also alternative options for guests who might not align with a specific approach. Treatments themselves go beyond massages, with traditional options such as Yogayama and more modern therapies such as lymphatic drainage also playing a part.
Another crucial part of the Vana experience is the calendar of retreat activities, ranging from meditation and yoga to fitness classes, treks and fun activities such as pottery. Retreat activities focus on various goals, from mindfulness to weight loss and simply using one’s hands, which is something a lot of city dwellers don’t get a chance to do. Paired with the ‘Digital Detox’ of the retreat, which limits phone usage in most parts of the property, creates a unique environment for a personal, retrospective journey.
Taste | Food and Beverage
Vana’s food and beverage menu is created keeping in mind all seasonal, local and organic ingredients. As a wellness retreat, the focus remains firmly on healthy food, with no refined sugar, flour or oil being used.
Meals are served either in the main restaurant, which serves a variety of cuisines, or the dedicated Ayurveda restaurant, which serves a Thali of Saatvic food, tailored to your Ayurvedic Doshas. What is surprising is that despite being designed to be low in calories and healthy, the food actually tastes great, and there’s a wide variety on offer. In fact, the menus don’t repeat for twenty-one days, which is how long a panchakarma journey takes.
It’s worth noting that alcohol at Vana is limited to sake and beer with meals, and smoking is not permitted beyond one designated area.
Verdict | Summary
Six Senses Vana offers a stellar wellness experience that caters to those enthusiastic about committing to their well-being. While the ease of access makes it a great option for a quick getaway, we truly recommend at least 5-7 nights for an immersive, rejuvenating and reflective experience.
Notes - This review is based on the views of PureLuxe Founder, Keshav Arya who stayed at Vana in July 2023. Our stays at hotels we review are hosted by the hotels.
To plan your personal retreat to Vana and benefit from our unique partnerships, insights and experience, contact us today.
