Are you waiting to get away from the heat and dust of the plains this summer and wish to be rejuvenated like never before? If you wish to be pampered and treated like – well - a queen, then how about heading to the land of the Seven Sisters for some unusual and exotic spa treatments? From traditional Khasi massages, exotic Tibetan and Bhutanese healing techniques to Green Coffee body wraps, a host of soul-satisfying treatments are available in the various luxury spa resorts tucked away in the verdant greens of the Northeast. Let’s check out some of the resorts offering wellness treatments:
Mayfair Resort and Spa, Sikkim
Considered one of the best resorts in the state for its sheer location, service and standard, it offers a spectacular view of the Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world. Just 10km away from Gangtok, this resort sits on an unspoilt, sylvan hillside offering an unhindered view of the world-famous Rumtek Monastery. Surrounded by lush greenery, the resort beautifully combines Sikkim’s monastic philosophy with colonial architecture. Another reason for its popularity is its live gaming casino, Casino Mahjong, thus, making it India’s first five-star hotel with a gaming facility.
But it’s the spa that’s the icing on the cake. Mayfair Spa Resort, Gangtok has partnered with Pevonia Botanica, a leading American natural skincare brand that uses organic products for anti-ageing treatments. There are 12 well-maintained therapy rooms with a range of specialized treatments. These are provided by trained therapists who rely on fresh ingredients.
The Aromatic therapy, which uses a selection of blended oils, is ideal for relaxing while another one involving pure lavender extract is good for those seeking serenity. The Vitality treatment offered here uses extracts of rosemary and grapefruit which are blended and applied on the body. For those recovering from any illness, the therapeutic Eucalyptus and Camphor blended oil treatment is just the right remedy. A must-try at the spa is the Aromatic Anti-Fatigue Moor Mudwhich follows ascientifically-proven technique wherein natural vitamins, minerals and enzymes are generously applied to the body. Sore muscles, aches and pains are alleviated as the body’s circulation is stimulated and stress vanishes. It is ideal for those prone to chronic pain or fatigue, rheumatism/arthritis pain and post-sports injuries, stress and fatigue. Among beauty treatments, especially for those who want to be pampered like Cleopatra, different luxurious body wraps are available. The Green Coffee Slimming Body Wrapuses acutting-edge cellulite treatment to work wonders on your body. The good old Aromatic Seaweed Wrapis perfect fordetoxification and improving blood circulation in the skin. For couples, indulgence packages which include deep cleansing facial, exfoliating and hydrotherapy, can up the romance quotient. What, however, is fascinating is the Romantic Couple Get Away, wherein the treatment can be customized as per requirement.
In addition to all these, the Spa offers Anti – Cellulite (is it written like this?) by Endermologie, believed to be the world’s most safe technique for cellulite reduction through French technology.
Ri Kynjai, Shillong
This is a beautiful resort situated on the Umiam Lake. It is set amidst thick groves of pine, lush paddy fields and organic tea gardens, almost reminding one of the exotic resorts in faraway Southeast Asia. Drawing inspiration from Khasi architecture, which relies on the use of locally sourced materials such as thatch and mud, the resort has a distinct flavor of the region. It combines the warm hospitality of Khasi culture with modern amenities, thus providing its high-profile clients a unique experience. This experience is further accentuated by the traditional Khasi massages and wellness treatments on offer at this resort.
Khem Janai - The Spa specialises in a variety of ancient Khasi healing techniques. The original Khasi massage is a closely guarded family secret where only a few are passed on the knowledge, thus retaining its originality. What is interesting about massage is that it cannot be learnt or taught in a structured manner. Guests can opt for either the relaxation massage or one that has rejuvenating benefits.
The Khasi bath is a special warm water massage which leaves one rejuvenated and recharged. Khem Tynrai or traditional Khasi curative massage, is an elaborate procedure which streamlines and disentangles the circulatory system of the body which may have got knotted due to mild injuries, stress and other physical problems. It also removes residual joints and body aches. This massage brings in a sense of relief and is a natural detoxification. The massage is followed by Khasi bath.
Khem Jah Thait is a massage meant for general toning of the muscles and enhancing blood circulation. This is done by specialists who know exactly where to emphasise the pressure points in the body to ensure complete relief from any pain.
Iora Retreat, Kaziranga
Located just 15 minutes walking distance from the entrance of the Kaziranga National Park’s Central Range, the 20-acre resort has 42-rooms that are well-appointed. Blending comfort and style, the luxury resort offers genuine Assamese hospitality without being intrusive. Other than animal safari and nature walks, spa treatments are a big attraction. Of course, after a sumptuous Assamese thali, what should naturally follow is a pampering session at the spa, to compete the indulgence.
The seven treatment rooms at the Elgin Spa are spacious and well-maintained. On offer are various treatments ranging from beauty to destressing and rejuvenation. Facials, body massages, wraps and scrubs are done using different natural oils. From aromatherapy, Swedish and Indian head and shoulder massages, reflexology to holistic Ayurveda-inspired massages, the spa has it all.
Nor-Khill, Gangtok
This is an old mansion that was built by the king of Sikkim in 1932.The 25-room property is steeped in history and guests love the grandness and charm of the old world. Run and maintained by Elgin Hotels & Resorts, a chain that owns hotels in Darjeeling and Sikkim, the resort is perched at a height of 5,000 feet in the Himalayas and offers spectacular mountain views.
A brand new spa is the latest addition that will be soon be functional will introduce traditional Tibetan and Bhutanese treatments. Along with it Thai and other regular massages will also feature. Ancient Tibetan healing medicines are known to be the best form of healing as they use herbs and age-old techniques.