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BEAyurveda Holidays & Retreats
Mother of all Medicines
Ayurveda, a natural system of medicine, originated in India more than 3,000 years ago. Ayurveda can help to improve physical, mental, and emotional health, and promote a sense of balance, harmony, and wellbeing. Ayurveda also achieves remarkable results for rheumatic conditions, sleep problems, chronic fatigue, stress, high blood pressure, migraines, psoriasis or depression. There are many great hotels and resorts who offer dedicated Ayurveda holidays, where you can experience authentic Ayurvedic treatments and therapies in a beautiful and peaceful environment. The best place to go for an Ayurveda holiday depends on your personal preferences and budget. It's important to do your research and choose a place that offers authentic Ayurvedic treatments and therapies. The Wellbeing Experts at Puurenkuur can advice you which Ayurveda resort suits your personal needs and goals. We have been in all the hotels and resorts ourselves to check and can advice you in detail.
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Discover all our Ayurveda holidays
25 Reviews
Canico, Funchal, Madeira (Portugal)
Ayurveda in one of Madeira’s most beautiful seaside resorts. Alpino Atlántico combines authentic treatments with a spectacular setting. read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
- Complimentary ayurveda hand massage (valid for all stays of min. 3 nights)
- Repeater offer: Free ayurveda package upon arrival (tongue scraper, sesam oil for daily orral and nasal care and ayurveda shampoo)
5 Reviews
Pokhara, Nepal
Enjoy peaceful Ayurveda cures at the foot of the imposing Himalaya Mountains. True stillness; living in harmony with the untouched nature and exploring Nepal’s unique culture. read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
- Reduced rates for single travellers (already included in the rates)
- Complimentary spa credit voucher worth $ 100 per person (min. stay 7 nights)
20 Reviews
Laško, Ljubljana, Slovenia
An authentic Ayurveda centre, a medical wellbeing center, thermal water and a large spa. In spring and autumn, Thermana Park Laško is the perfect wellness destination. In summer, it is the ideal holiday destination with children. read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
- No Single Supplement
- Hotel passport with various discounts
- Free room upgrade to a Comfort plus room with river view and balcony, when available at time of booking
- For Twin/Doubles: book 1 massage and receive 2 (available for Ayurvedic, Beer body massage and detox with hemp massage and only at Spa reception desk)
4 Reviews
Trivandrum, India
A cosy ayurveda resort offering yoga and meditation, run by enthusiastic eco warriors in a tropical paradise by the Indian Ocean. read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
- Gratis nachten! reeds verwerkt in de getoonde prijs
- 14=13, geldig voor een verblijf in april, mei, augustus, september en oktober 2023
- 14=12, geldig voor een verblijf in juni en/of juli 2023
- Voor terugkerende gasten (voor de tweede keer): gratis Back Water excursie OF city tour (bij een verblijf van april - oktober 2023)
- Voor terugkerende gasten (voor de derde keer of meer): 5% korting (bij een verblijf van november 2023 - maart 2024)
7 Reviews
Bad Waltersdorf, Austria
A unique combination of Ayurveda and the healing thermal waters of Eastern Styria at a fabulous European Ayurveda Resort with Asian vibes. read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
- Free spa credit voucher worth € 20 per stay
6 Reviews
Dolomites, Italy
An Ayurveda holiday in a beautiful hotel right in the healing Austrian mountains plus more than 2500m2 of spa facilities, This gem in South Tyrol is the perfect place for you! read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
- Discounted rates for single travellers (already calculated in the price)
- Complimentary roundtrip airport transfers from Bolzano airport OR
- A complimentary Ayurvedic facial treatment 60 min. (worth € 95)
- For repeating Engel hotel clients: the above extra's + a complimentary room upgrade if available at the time of arrival
28 Reviews
Trivandrum, India
Soma Manaltheeram Ayurveda Beach Village lives up to its name. Think authentic Ayurveda, a sandy beach with palm trees and cosy cottages. read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
- Free excursion: Back water tour for a min. stay 7 nights OR Trivandrum city tour for a min. 14 night stay
- 15% summer discount on all stays in summer: April until September 2022
8 Reviews
Trivandrum, India
Over 30 years’ experience plus one of the first Ayurveda resorts in the world. If you’re looking for authentic, traditional Ayurveda, Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort is the place for you. read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
- Free excursion: Back water tour for a min. stay 7 nights OR Trivandrum city tour for a min. 14 night stay
- 15% summer discount on all stays in summer: April until September 2022
15 Reviews
Beruwela, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Heritance Ayurveda Maha Gedara is a serene resort, where you can surrender yourself into the caring hands of the Ayurveda therapists? read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
- 5% early booking discount when you book this program 90 days in advance (this offer is combinable with other offers)
- Free nights for all stays in May, June and July 2019
13 Reviews
La Petite Pierre, France
Right in the middle of Alsace’s forest, La Clairière is one of the first holistic hotels in France. Eastern treatments (ayurveda, acupuncture), vegan options on the menu and a mesmerizing spa. This place encourages you to live a healthier life. read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
1 Review
Tangalle, Sri Lanka
Personalised Ayurveda programme at a small-scale retreat read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
- Free return airport transfers Colombo airport - hotel (min. stay 7 nights)
- For repeat client bookings: free nights (7=6, 10=8)
11 Reviews
Phuket, Thailand
This intimate, adults-only boutique hotel sits among tropical gardens with spectacular views of the ocean. Guests can follow authentic Ayurveda cures in Thailand, with a top Ayurveda practitioner from India who will prescribe you a personal treatment plan read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
- Free massage per person (30 minutes)
6 Reviews
Abano, Venice, Italy
The only luxury 5* hotel in the Italian spa town: Abano Terme. A family hotel with modern, thermal spa for traditional fango cures and innovative beauty and anti-aging treatments. read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
18 Reviews
Pune, India
Traditional eastern medicine comes paired with a state-of the art spa, ultra-modern fitness facilities and western medical knowledge at Atmantan Wellness Resort. The purpose? To truly own a deep sense of wellbeing; not just experience it. read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
- Reduced rates for single travellers (during the whole year 2022)(already calculated in the rates)
- Complimentary one way airport transfer from Pune/Mumbai airport
- Free room upgrade from standard room (Asoka & Arjuna) to the next room category (subject to availability at the time of arrival)
- Free spa credit voucher worth 125 USD per booking
- Repeating clients at Atmantan who booked through Puurenkuur before: Atmantan Signature Amenities gift box!
10 Reviews
Ahungalla, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Lotus Villa is a small-scale Ayurveda resort, where making connections with other retreat guests is very easy. This makes it a perfect place for solo travellers. read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
- Free round trip airport transfer
- Early bird discount
Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka
Haritha Villas & Spa is a small-scale, super-deluxe natural paradise for tailor-made Ayurveda treatments and wellness. All 9 villas come with absolute privacy, ultimate comfort and a private pool. read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
8 Reviews
Tangalle, Sri Lanka
An alluring tropical island experience combined with the luxurious 5 star wellness of the Anantara Resorts. read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
- Book your stay now and get 25 % discount! - already calculated in the price, book in May and June 2022, stay in May - October 2022
- Free upgrade to half board when staying min. 7 nights
- Complimentary private yoga class per room when pre-booking an ayurveda package (ayurvedic weight management, ayurvedic inner harmony or ayurvedic deep sleep)
24 Reviews
Uttarakhand, India
A truly unbeatable wellness experience. One of the very best destination spas in the world, you can expect nothing but the best at Ananda in the Himalayas. read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
- For all Puurenkuur Travellers: a Spa Credit Voucher worth 100 USD per person (min. 7 nights stay)
- Free excursion to Rishikesh to experience Ganga Aarti Ceremony (per room, only applicable for Wellness Programmes min. 7 nights)
11 Reviews
Altos del Monte, Costa Rica
The Retreat Costa Rica is one of the best luxury wellness boutique resort and spa, where organic gardens, lush landscapes, chirping birds, and technicolor sunsets are the setting for healing journeys. read more
Pureandcure Benefits
Depending on your Holiday:
- Welcome amenity in the room
- Complimentary pick-up service from SJO airport (worth $100)
- Complimentary room upgrade for all stay of min. 7 nights (subject to availability at time of booking)
- Participation to the tea tasting activity (worth $30 per person)
- Diana Stobo's (founder) bestseller book
- For returning guests: 15% discount on extra spa treatments (does not apply for the Abhyangam treatments) + the above extra's
Not found what you were looking for? Please call +31 (0)20 573 03 50 for more info!
What is Ayurveda
Ayurveda, a natural system of medicine, originated in India more than 3,000 years ago. The word ‘Ayurveda’ is derived from the Sanskrit words ayur (life) and veda (knowledge). Thus, Ayurveda translates to knowledge of life. Ayurveda is based on the concept that health and wellbeing depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body, and spirit. Ayurveda is recognized as a complementary and alternative medicine system, and it is becoming increasingly popular as people seek out more natural and holistic approaches to healthcare. In Ayurvedic medicine, practitioners use a holistic approach to healing that includes a variety of techniques, including herbal remedies, dietary guidelines, massage, yoga, and meditation. The goal of Ayurveda is to help people achieve optimal health by restoring balance to their physical and mental state. Read our blog
The benefits of Ayurveda
Ayurveda can help to improve physical, mental, and emotional health, and promote a sense of balance, harmony, and wellbeing. Ayurveda also achieves remarkable results for rheumatic conditions, sleep problems, chronic fatigue, stress, high blood pressure, migraines or skin diseases. Ayurvedic philosophy also offers us greater insight into ourselves and the world around us. Specialized Ayurveda resorts (mainly in India, Sri Lanka and Nepal) you’ll receive two to four treatments per day, such as head, body and synchronized massages, Shirodhara, Nosil treatments, herbal baths and steam baths. Ayurvedic medicine is gentle and based on a natural approach.
We listed some of the benefits of Ayurveda
- Improve digestion: Ayurvedic dietary guidelines and herbal remedies can help to improve digestion and promote a healthy gut.
- Reduce stress and anxiety: Ayurvedic techniques such as meditation, yoga, and massage can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can improve overall health and wellbeing.
- Boost immunity: Ayurvedic remedies and practices are believed to boost the immune system, helping to prevent illness and disease.
- Balance hormones: Ayurvedic treatments can help to balance hormones and reduce symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances, such as mood swings, hot flashes, and menstrual cramps.
- Manage chronic health conditions: Ayurveda can help to manage chronic health conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease, by addressing the root cause of the condition and promoting overall health and wellbeing.
- Enhance mental clarity: Ayurvedic practices such as meditation and mindfulness can help to improve mental clarity, focus, and concentration.
Type of Ayurveda programs
There are various types of Ayurveda programs, depending on health needs and goals. There are Ayurveda light programs for a week (Rasayana), intensive panchakarma (purification of body and mind) programs for a minimum of 2 weeks or medical Ayurveda programs (for the treatment of specific conditions or complaints). Medical Ayurveda require a longer stay. We also recommend repeat treatments and therapies.
We listed some of the most common types of Ayurveda programs
- Panchakarma: A traditional Ayurvedic detoxification program that includes a series of therapies, such as massage, herbal remedies, and cleansing techniques to remove toxins from the body.
- Ayurvedic diet and nutrition: Ayurveda offers guidelines on diet and nutrition, including specific foods and spices that are believed to promote good health and balance the doshas.
- Herbal remedies: Ayurvedic practitioners use a variety of herbal remedies to address specific health concerns and promote overall wellness.
- Yoga and meditation: Yoga and meditation are integral parts of Ayurveda, and many Ayurvedic programs incorporate these practices to promote physical and mental wellbeing.
- Ayurvedic lifestyle counseling: Ayurvedic practitioners offer lifestyle counseling to help individuals make positive changes in their daily habits and routines, such as sleep patterns, exercise, and stress management.
- Ayurvedic massage and bodywork: Ayurveda includes various massage and bodywork therapies, such as Abhyanga, Shirodhara, and Pinda Sweda, to promote relaxation and improve overall health.
The best places for Ayurveda holidays
There are many great places around the world to go for an Ayurveda holiday, where you can experience authentic Ayurvedic treatments and therapies in a beautiful and peaceful environment. The best place to go for an Ayurveda holiday depends on your personal preferences and budget. It's important to do your research and choose a reputable center or resort that offers authentic Ayurvedic treatments and therapies. The Wellbeing Experts at Puurenkuur can advice you which Ayurveda resort suits your personal needs and goals. We have been in all the hotels and resorts we offer and can advice you in detail.
- Kerala, India: Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda and is home to many Ayurvedic centers and resorts. The tranquil backwaters and scenic beaches make it an ideal destination for an Ayurveda holiday.
- Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka is another popular destination for Ayurveda holidays, with many Ayurvedic retreats and wellness centers offering a range of treatments and therapies.
- Thailand: Thailand is well-known for its traditional Thai massage, but it also offers a range of Ayurvedic treatments and therapies at wellness centers and resorts throughout the country.
- Europe: Ayurveda is becoming increasingly popular in western countries as people seek out more natural and holistic approaches to healthcare. Europe is home to a number of Ayurvedic clinics and Health centers that offer authentic Ayurvedic treatments, a dosha-specific diet and daily yoga and meditation. You will find specialized Ayurveda hotels in Germany, Austria, Madeira, Spain, Slovenia etc in a serene and tranquil setting. The hotels source the knowledge, experience and products (and sometimes even the Ayurveda practitioners and therapists) from India or Sri Lanka.
What to expect on an Ayurveda day
A typical day in Ayurveda can vary, depending on the individual's specific health needs and goals and the Ayurvedic program you are following. However, there are certain practices that are common in Ayurvedic daily routines, known as Dinacharya. A typical Ayurveda day usually begins with yoga and ends with meditation. Ayurvedic meals are mostly vegetarian (only sometimes with chicken or fish once or twice a week). An Ayurveda program isn’t only limited to massages and treatments, but also includes nutrition, herbs, health products, yoga, meditation, readings, workshops and other activities.
Here is an example of a typical day in Ayurveda:
- Rise early: Ayurveda recommends waking up early, ideally before sunrise, to align with the body's natural circadian rhythms and promote good health.
- Tongue scraping: One of the first practices upon waking is to scrape the tongue with a tongue scraper to remove any toxins that may have accumulated overnight.
- Drinking warm water: Drinking a glass of warm water is recommended to help flush out toxins from the body and promote digestion.
- Yoga or exercise: Engaging in yoga or other forms of exercise helps to promote physical and mental wellbeing and can be tailored to an individual's specific needs.
- Breakfast: Ayurveda recommends a nourishing breakfast, such as warm oatmeal or a vegetable omelet, that is easy to digest and provides sustained energy throughout the day.
- Ayurveda personalized treatment plan: Ayurveda treatments will be scheduled in the morning, sometimes in the afternoon. The Ayurvedic doctor will assess the imbalances in the doshas by using various diagnostic tools including pulse diagnosis, tongue examination and assessment of the individual's overall physical and emotional state. Based on this assessment, the Ayurvedic doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan that include a day-to-day treatment plan, dietary suggestions, herbal remedies, lifestyle modifications and other Ayurvedic therapies. In addition to providing the personalized treatment plan, the Ayurvedic doctors may also offer guidance on diet and lifestyle modifications to promote optimal health and wellbeing. They may also provide education on Ayurvedic principles and practices to empower individuals to take an active role in their own health and wellness.
- Lunch: Ayurveda recommends a nourishing lunch that is the main meal of the day, consisting of a variety of whole grains, vegetables, and protein sources.
- Rest and relaxation: Taking time to rest and relax in the afternoon is an important part of Ayurvedic daily routine, which can include meditation, reading, or taking a nap.
- Light dinner: Ayurveda recommends a light dinner that is easy to digest, such as soup or steamed vegetables, to avoid overburdening the digestive system.
- Bedtime routine: An Ayurvedic bedtime routine may include practices such as oiling the feet, taking a warm bath or reading a book to promote relaxation and restful sleep.
Typical Ayurveda treatments
Ayurveda offers a wide range of treatments that are tailored to an individual's specific health needs and imbalances. In Ayurveda treatments, the therapists use a lot of warm oils with herbs that are rubbed pretty much all over the body. The herbs are absorbed into the skin through the oil. The specific treatments recommended will vary based on an individual's unique health needs and imbalances, and should be customized by an experienced Ayurvedic doctor.
We listed the following Ayurvedic treatments.
- Abhyanga: A full-body massage with warm oil that promotes relaxation, improves circulation, and nourishes the skin.
- Shirodhara: A therapy where warm oil is poured in a continuous stream onto the forehead, which helps to calm the mind and nervous system. We also call this pouring oil on the ‘third eye’.
- Basti: An herbal enema that is used to promote elimination of toxins from the colon and improve digestion.
- Nasya: A therapy where herbal oil is poured through the nostrils to treat respiratory and sinus conditions.
- Udvartana: A massage with herbal powders that is used to promote weight loss, improve circulation, and reduce cellulite.
- Netra Tarpana: Warm ghee is poured into the eyes to improve vision, reduce eye strain, and relieve dry eyes.
- Kati Basti: Warm herbal oil is held in a dough dam on the lower back to relieve pain and tension in the lumbar region.
- Shiro Abhyanga: A head and scalp massage with warm oil that promotes relaxation, relieves tension headaches, and nourishes the hair and scalp.
- Marma therapy: A gentle massage of the body's energy points, which can help to release emotional blockages and promote overall wellbeing.
- Sound therapy: Ayurvedic practitioners may use sound therapy, such as chanting, singing bowls, or tuning forks, to balance the doshas and promote relaxation.
- Ayurvedic facials: A facial treatment that uses herbal ingredients to nourish and rejuvenate the skin, promote circulation, and reduce inflammation.
- Herbal remedies: Ayurvedic practitioners may prescribe herbal remedies, which can include teas, tinctures, powders, and tablets, to address specific health concerns and imbalances.
- Diet and lifestyle modifications: Ayurveda places great emphasis on diet and lifestyle modifications to promote optimal health and wellbeing. Ayurvedic practitioners may offer guidance on diet, exercise, and other lifestyle modifications to support an individual's specific health needs and imbalances.
- Yoga and meditation: Ayurveda recognizes the mind-body connection and the importance of incorporating practices that promote mental and emotional wellbeing. Yoga and meditation are often recommended as part of an Ayurvedic treatment plan to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve overall health and wellbeing.
Ayurvedic treatments are designed to promote balance, restore health, and prevent disease. The specific treatments recommended will vary based on an individual's unique health needs and imbalances.
Which Dosha type are you: Vata, Pitta or Kahpa?
In Ayurveda, the doshas are three fundamental life energies that govern all biological processes within the human body and mind. According to the Ayurvedic philosophy, from birth, we all have a unique balance of the three Dosha types. This balance is reflected in a person’s body shape, immune system, character traits and behaviour. The three doshas are: Vata, Pitta and Kahpa. Every one of us is different and has a different balance of these three energies. If everything was perfect, all three energies are equally balanced. If one of the three doshas is dominant, physical or mental issues will develop. An Ayurveda program is designed to rebalance the three doshas.
- Vata: The Vata dosha is associated with movement and is responsible for all movement within the body, including the movement of nerve impulses, blood flow, and digestion. Vata represents impulsiveness. Vatas could be identified by a slight body shape, mobility and a restless mind. People with a predominant Vata dosha tend to be creative, energetic, and quick-thinking, but they may also experience anxiety, dry skin, and digestive issues when the dosha is imbalanced. Vatas are susceptible to experiencing anxiety and stress.
- Pitta: The Pitta dosha is associated with transformation, fire and is responsible for metabolic processes within the body, including digestion, absorption, and assimilation. People with a predominant Pitta dosha tend to be ambitious, focused, demanding, determined, critical and detail-oriented, but they may also experience irritability, inflammation, and digestive issues when the dosha is imbalanced.
- Kapha: The Kapha dosha is associated with stability, structure and is responsible for the body's physical structure, stability, and immunity. People with a predominant Kapha dosha tend to be calm, grounded, respectful, empathic and nurturing, but they may also experience lethargy, weight gain, emotional eating and respiratory issues when the dosha is imbalanced.
It's important to note that everyone has a unique combination of all three doshas, known as their Prakriti or natural constitution. The balance of these doshas can be influenced by various factors such as diet, lifestyle, stress, and environmental factors. An Ayurvedic doctor can help to identify an individual's Prakriti and recommend dietary and lifestyle changes to help balance the doshas and promote overall health and wellbeing.
Good to know for your next Ayurveda holiday
- In Ayurveda, it is common that male therapists will treat males, and female therapists will treat females. This is the case in India and Sri Lanka. In Europe, ayurvedaresorts may deviate from this because there is often just one or two Ayurvedic therapists. If, as a woman, your preference is to be treated by a female therapist, please let the ayurvedic doctor know when creating your personalised ayurveda plan.
- Bring your favourite books and magazines. In line with Ayurvedic philosophy, most authentic Ayurveda resorts in India and Sri Lanka do not have TVs or air-conditioning so that you can really relax.
Need advice from the experts
If you have any other questions about Ayurveda or need advice where to find your perfect Ayurveda resort, the Puurenkuur Wellbeing experts are here to help!
Read our blog about ‘Ayurveda Types: are you an impulsive Vata, fiery Pitta or a calm Kapha?’
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