The Abode of the Divine: Spirituality and Mythology of Tehri Garhwal

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Exploring the palace that Ananda in the Himalayas calls home is a captivating journey through time and culture, where history, mythology, spirituality, and luxury intertwine to create an unforgettable experience.

Tucked away in the heart of the Himalayas, in the serene region of Tehri Garhwal, lies a palace that has witnessed epochs of history, mythology, and the rise and fall of empires. Starting in the 80s, given rising stress levels and the impetus on health and rejuvenation in the world, Ananda’s founder Ashok Khanna embarked on a mission to find a spiritual, serene and pollution free location to create a destination spa and wellness retreat. He felt that people needed a place for calming the mind and rejuvenating the body. When he came upon the Palace Estate of the Maharaja of Tehri-Garhwal, overlooking Rishikesh and the Ganges river, he knew at once that this was the chosen place. Yoga and Ayurveda have their origins in these Himalayan foothills, and with inspiration from these ancient wellbeing and spiritual practices, Ananda in the Himalayas was born. It took four years of further planning and building to open Ananda in 2001.

Ananda in the Himalayas, now a world-renowned luxurious wellness retreat nestled within the exalted walls of the Viceregal Palace, stands as a testament to the opulent past and enduring mythology of the land.

Garhwal: A Land of Myth and Legend

The landscape of Garhwal, where the palace stands proud, is steeped in myth and lore, with tales woven into every stone. Tracing its roots back to the Vedas, ancient scriptures extolling the purity of the Himalayas, this region emerges as a land that breathes spirituality. The Mahabharata, dated around 1000 BC, paints a vivid image of the mountains in the western Garhwal, immortalizing the Pandavas' ascent to heaven on the slopes of Swargarohini – the "Ascent to Heaven."

Rishikesh, nestled at the foothills of Garhwal, emerges as a spiritual haven. Elevation of 1160 feet above sea level, it stands as the gateway to the revered Char Dham of Garhwal Hills – four sacred pilgrimage centres. The Ganga, revered as the holiest of rivers, flows through this town, enshrining its spiritual significance. Legends intertwine with reality as the Ganga is believed to be sanctified by the Hindu trinity – Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva – adding layers of mysticism to the already enchanting landscape.

Witnessing the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat is a quintessential Rishikesh experience. Every evening, as the sun sets, the ghat comes alive with a captivating ritual where priests perform intricate rituals with fire, incense, and lamps, while devotional hymns fill the air. The sight of hundreds of diyas (oil lamps) floating down the Ganga river is truly awe-inspiring. The Ganga Aarti is not only a spiritual event but also a cultural spectacle that showcases the deep reverence locals hold for the sacred river.

The Kunjapuri Devi Temple, situated atop a hill at a short distance from Narendra Nagar, is a captivating spot to explore. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva, and offers a mesmerizing sunrise view. A short trek leads you to the temple, and as you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with a stunning panorama of the Himalayan peaks illuminated by the rising sun. This serene setting also makes it an ideal place for meditation and quiet reflection, allowing you to connect with nature and find inner peace.

Ananda's Resplendent Home

Within this backdrop of history and mythology, Ananda in the Himalayas has its reception within the Viceregal Palace.

The history and mythology that intertwine within the palace's walls transform Ananda in the Himalayas into more than just a luxury retreat; it's a living testament to the captivating tales of Tehri Garhwal. As guests step into this sanctuary, they embark on a journey that transcends time, where history, mythology, and luxury converge to create an experience that is as enriching as it is indulgent. Whispers of the past resonate, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the mystique of a region where myths and realities have forever danced together.

A Tapestry of History and Royalty

Once a princely state under the rule of the Panwar Dynasty, Tehri Garhwal's history unfurls like a dramatic saga. The Panwar Dynasty traces its origins back to the 8th century when King Kanakpal established the kingdom of Tehri by conquering the small fragments of this region ruled by different independent families, bringing in administrative reforms, and joining them into one diplomatically.

This region, in modern times a part of the Indian state Uttarakhand, was marked by the shimmering summer capital of Narendra Nagar (the official abode of the ruling Maharaja) and the resplendent Viceregal Palace (to hosts the guests of the Royal family who mostly were dignitaries like the Viceroy). In the era of British colonialism, this palace welcomed Viceroys, dignitaries, and luminaries like Mahatma Gandhi and Mira Ben, each leaving their footprints on its storied floors.

Post-independence, the Viceregal Palace continued its legacy as a sanctuary for eminent political and religious figures, preserving the echoes of its majestic past. As the centuries unfolded, the palace's walls became chroniclers of history, adorned with life-size portraits of the erstwhile Maharaja and illustrious guests.