In the bustling metropolis of Bangalore, where the fast-paced city life often leaves its inhabitants yearning for a moment of tranquility, there exists an oasis of peace and rejuvenation. Shathayu Ayurvedic Resort Bangalore, located in the serene outskirts of the city, offers a perfect escape from the chaos, inviting guests to embark on a holistic journey of wellness and relaxation.
This blog takes you through a virtual tour of Shathayu, the Ayurvedic Resort in the outskirts of Bangalore, exploring its offerings, ambiance, and the experiences it promises and observations from our visit.
The Essence of Shathayu Ayurvedic Resort Bangalore
Shathayu Ayurvedic Retreat offers ayurvedic treatments and therapies, an approach and a holistic healing system that originated in India over thousands of years ago. Just for your additional information, Ayurveda was revealed to human beings by God Dhanvanthri. He appeared when the ocean was churned by both Devas and Asuras in search of Amirtham – ‘the immortal elixir’.
Shathayu Ayurvedic resort Bangalore seamlessly blends traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern amenities, providing guests with a unique and authentic experience. The name “Shathayu” itself is derived from Sanskrit, meaning “hundred years of life,” symbolizing the retreat’s commitment to promoting longevity and well-being.
Arrival and First Impressions at Shathayu Ayurvedic Resort Bangalore
As you arrive at Shathayu, you are greeted by a lush, green landscape that immediately sets the tone for your stay. The retreat is nestled amidst nature, with well-maintained gardens, tranquil water bodies, and the soothing sounds of birds chirping. The architecture of the retreat is a blend of traditional South Indian design and contemporary elements, creating a welcoming and aesthetically pleasing environment.
The reception area exudes warmth and hospitality, with friendly staff ready to assist you with the check-in process. The ambiance is calm and serene, allowing you to instantly disconnect from the outside world and immerse yourself in the retreat experience.
Accommodation
Shathayu Ayurvedic resort Bangalore offers a range of accommodation options to suit the preferences and needs of its guests. Whether you are traveling alone, with a partner, or as a family, there is a suitable option for everyone. The rooms are designed to provide maximum comfort and relaxation, with tasteful decor, comfortable bedding, and modern amenities.
Each room offers views of the surrounding greenery, allowing you to wake up to the sights and sounds of nature every morning. The retreat ensures that the rooms are kept clean and well-maintained, providing a hygienic and pleasant environment for your stay. The toilets especially were very neat and clean.
Pro-tip: By default, Shathayu offers soft beds in the accommodation. However, this bed which is fluffy and deeply spongy may not be comfortable for elders or even for the new-moms as it would be very difficult to sit on those beds and quickly get up, especially with babies and toddlers on hand. Hence, one can always request for a slightly hard bed, additional furniture and toiletries for that matter. Shathayu offers such customizations on request.
Such customizations are free of cost. However, they have not explicitly mentioned this anywhere in the venue and neither did they inform us by default We came to know about it only from a fellow visitor who had come for a week long treatment.
Ayurvedic Treatments and Therapies
The heart of Shathayu lies in its extensive range of Ayurvedic treatments and therapies. The retreat employs a team of Ayurvedic doctors and therapists who are dedicated to providing personalized care to each guest. Upon arrival, you will undergo a consultation with an Ayurvedic doctor who will assess your health condition, lifestyle, and individual needs.
Based on this assessment, a customized treatment plan will be created for you, which may include a combination of therapies such as Abhyanga (oil massage), Shirodhara (oil pouring on the forehead), Panchakarma (detoxification), and various other rejuvenation treatments. These therapies are designed to balance the doshas (vata, pitta, and kapha), detoxify the body, and promote overall well-being.
The treatment rooms at Shathayu are designed to provide a soothing and comfortable environment for the therapies. The use of natural materials, soft lighting, and calming music enhances the overall experience, allowing you to relax and fully immerse yourself in the healing process.
Yoga and Meditation
In addition to Ayurvedic treatments, Shathayu places emphasis on yoga and meditation as integral components of holistic wellness.
For your additional information: The term yoga in itself has been misunderstood by many in today’s world. Yoga doesn’t mean the twists and turns of the body and making the body flexible. The term Yoga means ‘union’ or ‘to align’, as in aligning with the greater cosmos. The asanas which involves the twists and turns of body is the third segment of yoga which would pave the way and prepare the body (the vessel) to go through the remaining 5 segments including pranayama all the way to dhyana and samadhi. The retreat offers daily yoga asanas and meditation sessions conducted by experienced instructors who guide you through various asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), and meditation techniques.
The yoga sessions are suitable for all levels, whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner. Practicing yoga in the serene surroundings of Shathayu enhances the experience, allowing you to connect with your inner self and achieve a sense of balance and harmony.
Depending on the body condition, the Yoga master recommends specific asanas. One can always proactively inform the teacher about one’s body conditions. For example, for pregnant women or new moms or elders with ailments, the master suggests asanas which are comfortably doable without causing any strain to the body.
Meditation sessions at Shathayu focus on mindfulness and relaxation, helping you to quiet the mind and achieve a state of deep inner peace. The instructors use a variety of techniques, including guided meditation, mantra chanting, and silent meditation, to help you achieve a state of mental clarity and emotional well-being.
Both yoga asana and meditation sessions are conducted twice a day.
Vegetarian Cuisine
One of the highlights of staying at Shathayu is the delectable vegetarian cuisine offered at the retreat. This is one of the very reasons that makes this resort authentic. I have seen so many so called resorts that adapt ayurvedic practices and offer ayurvedic treatments and therapies while offering multi-cuisine non-vegetarian diet preferences to its the guests. Offering non-vegetarian cuisines to guests and claiming the resort to offer yoga therapies and treatments doesn’t go well with the traditional aspects. This is simply because, Ayurveda doesn’t prescribe non-vegetarian food or addition of meat in the diet. In fact, it goes against the principles of Ayurveda.
The retreat’s restaurant serves a variety of nutritious and delicious vegetarian dishes that are prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu is designed to complement the Ayurvedic treatments and promote overall health and wellness. Please note that the restaurant includes onion and garlic by default in the diet, unless specifically prescribed by the Doctors.
The chefs at Shathayu are well-versed in Ayurvedic dietary principles and create dishes that are not only tasty but also balanced and nourishing. Each meal is a celebration of flavors and textures, with a focus on seasonal produce and traditional recipes. Whether you are enjoying a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or a sumptuous dinner, you can be assured that the food at Shathayu will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
Those guests who take up treatments get a special doctor prescribed diet that doesn’t include onion and garlic, etc. in some cases. While those guests who come for weekend rejuvenation and wellness can savor all the dishes prepared by chefs. They follow specific time for serving food. Morning 8.30 AM to 1.030 AM for breakfast, 1 PM to 2.30 PM lunch, 4.30 PM onwards snacks and coffee / tea and dinner until 8.30 PM.
The challenge is if one wants to spend a little more time at night and eat something late in the night, there is no restaurant or Cafe either inside or in the nearby vicinity. This is not a negative because the whole reason behind staying in such a place that offers Ayurvedic therapies is to rejuvenate and sleep is one of the important factors in both body and mind rejuvenation. So it makes sense to shut down meal counters by 8.30 PM in the night.
Wellness Programs
Shathayu offers a range of wellness programs that cater to different health goals and needs. These programs are designed to provide a comprehensive and immersive experience, allowing guests to achieve their desired outcomes in a supportive and nurturing environment. Some of the popular wellness programs at Shathayu include:
- Detox and Rejuvenation Program: This program focuses on cleansing the body of toxins and rejuvenating the mind and spirit. It includes a combination of detoxifying treatments, dietary modifications, yoga, and meditation.
- Weight Management Program: Designed for those looking to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, this program includes personalized dietary plans, Ayurvedic treatments, and fitness activities.
- Stress Management Program: Ideal for individuals dealing with stress and anxiety, this program incorporates relaxation therapies, mindfulness practices, and lifestyle guidance to promote mental and emotional well-being.
- Anti-Aging Program: This program aims to slow down the aging process and promote youthful vitality through specialized treatments, nutrition, and lifestyle recommendations.
Each program is tailored to meet the individual needs of the guests and is overseen by experienced Ayurvedic doctors and wellness experts. Please note that subscription to any of these programs are done after consultation and on the recommendation of the resident Doctors. And these programs will definitely drain the pockets for a budget traveler. An approximate week’s stay for a weight loss program may cost anywhere between INR 70000 to INR 90000 (~ $1000 – $1200). In short, Shatayu is quite pricey.
Nature Walks and Outdoor Activities
The natural surroundings of Shathayu provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and nature walks. The retreat offers guided nature walks that allow you to explore the beautiful landscape, learn about the local flora and fauna, and experience the therapeutic benefits of spending time in nature.
In addition to nature walks, Shathayu also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as bird watching, gardening, and recreational sports. These activities provide an opportunity to connect with nature, engage in physical exercise, and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. The venue is surrounded by hillocks which not only offer a beautiful view but also gives an opportunity for the guests to explore, climb and enjoy short hikes.
Apart from its serene surroundings and fauna and flora to explore, the retreat also offers a volley ball / shuttle court with net and a swimming pool. Depending on the season of one’s visit (as it is either cold or it rains in most part of the years), one can easily spend as much as half a day on the pool side, relaxing themselves and forgetting their tiring routines back home. The swimming pool also houses 3 or 4 sun bathe relaxing chairs where one could simply lie down and enjoy the views and sounds of nature.
Shathayu is placed adjacent to a lake called ‘Avathi Lake’ which in fact touches parts of the retreat. The presence of lake on one side and hillocks on all other sides makes it a perfect tranquil get-away place for the city-dwellers.
Holistic Workshops and Classes
Shathayu organizes a variety of holistic workshops and classes that allow guests to deepen their understanding of Ayurveda, yoga, and wellness. These workshops cover a wide range of topics, including Ayurvedic cooking, herbal medicine, mindfulness practices, and stress management techniques.
The classes are conducted by instructors who share their expertise and insights, providing valuable information and practical tips that guests can incorporate into their daily lives. Participating in these workshops enhances the overall retreat experience and empowers guests to take charge of their health and well-being.
The Shathayu Experience
Staying at Shathayu Ayurvedic Retreat is more than just a vacation; it is a transformative journey that allows you to reconnect with yourself and embrace a healthier and more balanced way of life. The retreat provides a holistic and nurturing environment where you can focus on your well-being and experience the profound benefits of Ayurveda and yoga. However, it does come at a cost.
Guests often leave Shathayu feeling revitalized, with a renewed sense of energy and clarity. The personalized care, the serene ambiance, and the comprehensive wellness programs create a lasting impact, inspiring guests to continue their journey of health and wellness even after they leave the retreat.
Practical Information
For those interested in experiencing the magic of Shathayu Ayurvedic Retreat, here is some practical information to help you plan your visit:
- Location: Shathayu Ayurvedic Retreat is located in the outskirts of Bangalore, making it easily accessible from the city while offering a peaceful and tranquil environment.
- How to Get There: The retreat is approximately 40 kilometers from Bangalore’s Kempegowda International Airport. You can reach the retreat by taxi or private car. The retreat also offers pick-up and drop-off services for guests.
- Booking and Reservations: It is advisable to book your stay in advance, especially during peak seasons. You can make reservations through the retreat’s official website or by contacting their reservations team.
- What to Pack: Pack comfortable clothing suitable for yoga and outdoor activities. It is also recommended to bring any personal toiletries and medications you may need during your stay.
- Health and Safety: Shathayu follows strict health and safety protocols to ensure the well-being of its guests. The retreat maintains high standards of hygiene and cleanliness, ensuring a safe and pleasant stay for all visitors.
Important information and pro-tips for travelers
Approximate one-night stay cost for one guest availing therapies: Rs. 10000
Approximate one-night stay cost for a by-stander who stays in the resort as a second guest in a twin sharing room, without availing the therapies; just having food and exploring the amenities such as swimming pool and the yoga and meditation sessions: Rs. 2000
Approximate cost for one guest undergoing a week long treatment: Rs. 70000 – 80000
Shathuyu’s official website: https://retreat.shathayuretreat.com/
Office mobile number for making reservations: +91-9108581901
Its location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TL1yiCVGjpskFrwX7
