Internal ActivitiesVedanta ClassesVedanta literally means the culmination of knowledge. It is a scientific presentation of the Eternal Principles of life and living, enabling one to attain the rare combination of material prosperity and mental peace. The knowledge directs one to the goal of ultimate liberation - Spiritual Enlightenment. Complimentary lectures are conducted twice daily by senior disciples of Swami Parthasarthy, internationally acclaimed exponent of Vedanta.
YogaThe Yoga practices followed at Ananda are completely pure and traditional in form, stemming from the roots of Hatha Yoga. It is a disciplined science encompassing all aspects of life in different ways and levels.
BilliardsThe billiard room housed in the vice regal palace is a enthusiast's dream. Housing a 100 year old pool table, used by the erstwhile Maharajah, and decorated with artifacts that echo the past, this room is the perfect hideaway for a rainy afternoon, or a quiet evening.
GolfAn idyllic but challenging six-hole golf course is set in scenic surroundings. Practice your swing with a private coach, or just saunter along and enjoy the privacy of a course designed to suit every mood.
Cooking classesThe chef at Ananda shares his secrets to good health and
great cuisine. Join these entertaining and value added sessions in the show
kitchen held once every week and cook your way to better health.
Cultural programmesWeekends evenings at the amphitheatre are a visual delight of sound and colour, where talented young performers from the nearby children's' home come to entertain and enchant. Enjoy these evenings, devoted not just toward culture, but also toward Child welfare.
External ActivitiesKunjapuri Temple Trek14kms from Ananda, at the Himalayas, Kunjapuri soars 1645 metres high to commemorate Goddess Shakti and Lord Shivas' idols and awaken one's spirituality cradled by snow capped Himalayan Mountain-vistas and sacred surroundings at sunrise or sunset. Guided by the spa staff, the 3-4 hour trek experience is a sound balance to a fulfilling Ananda Yoga programme.
Trek to Laxman JhulaThis is a downhill trek passing through verdant Sal forests. If the guests wish, they can spend the evening in the town of Rishikesh and watch the evening Aarti performed every evening on the banks of the river Ganga and then return to Ananda by car. Charges for the trek: Rs.6000 (Inclusive of Taxes)
Nature WalkThe morning starts with a fresh juice served in the Spa lounge. This is followed by stroll along the trail with a guide, enjoying the beauty and tranquility of nature. At a certain point guests have the opportunity to be guided to a deep meditative experience. The walk ends with a ginger/lemon tea and a relaxed soak in the pool, spa or sauna.
White Water RaftingOf all the rivers of the Indian subcontinent, the Ganga is perhaps the most beautiful. It originates at the Gaumukh in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas and is a magnificiant river for inflatable rafts. Rafting on its waters is an unusual experience and one to cherish. To ride these rapids and to come to terms with their strength and wildness will let you nurture your very existance.
Safari
Rajaji National Park was formed by consolidating three sanctuaries namely Chilla, Motichur and Rajaji. It covers an area of 820 sq. km. The area lies towards the east of the Dehradun-Roorkee highway. There are approximately 21 tigers in this extensive area and a denser population of leopard in the upper regions of the park. There are watchtowers located over water holes and motorable tracks taking one to
areas around the park where wild-animals can be spotted. Herds of
Spotted Deer are commonly found here.