India (Frommer's, 4th Edition) - Keith Bain [313]
Shreyas One of the best Yoga retreats in India, Shreyas is simply addictive. Chanting in a machan, open platform for yogasana, gardens for getting your hands dirty, paths for evening walks, Balinese and Thai massage for ultimate relaxation, secreted niches for contemplation—it’s all here. One can endlessly explore the spaces and be surprised every turn of the way. We recommend the tented cottages which are a delight with their large windows, bamboo screens, chunky chests and smart daris; spacious bathrooms open into a pebbled yard. Evenings are utterly magical with hurricane lamps and paper lanterns and impromptu dining decor. No alcohol/meat/tobacco may seem harsh but it’s surprising how easily you will take to fresh pomegranate juice with barbequed tofu and embrace the overall wellness ethic. Limited to just three accommodation choices (a three-room garden cottage, three poolside cottages, and eight tented cottages) set in 10 hectares (25 acres), the atmosphere is discreet and personal, amenities are luxurious and service a living reality of what Shreyas stands for—excellence.
Santoshima Farm, near Golahalli Farm, Nelamangala, Bengaluru 562 123. 080/2773-7102. Fax 080/2773-7016. www.shreyasretreat.com. 14 units. $340 single, $460 double; extra bed for up to 8 years of age although children are not encouraged. Rates include all meals, daily yoga and chanting sessions, all recreational facilities. Taxes extra. Visit the website for specific packages. AE, MC, V. Amenities: Dining room; airport transfer (Rs 2,250); cricket net with bowling machine; doctor-on-call; gym; music/film/book libraries; ozonated pool with Jacuzzi; spa; steam room. In room: A/C, hair dryer, Internet (complimentary).
Taj West End Hotel A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, West End dates back to 1887, when it was a 10-room Victorian boardinghouse. Today the luxury hotel has expanded hugely but retains its old-world charm while providing guests with 21st-century conveniences. The stately lobby features a central atrium with skylight, dark walnut paneling, teakwood fluting on the walls, lots of plants, plush sofas, and a grand piano. Accommodations are spread over more than 9 hectares (22 acres) of untamed gardens with lush foliage—although there is a buggy to whisk you to your room after check-in, it’s a delight to walk through the meandering paths under century-old trees. Rooms comprise various pitched-roof-veranda blocks and more recent structures modeled on similar colonial architecture; each has a private balcony overlooking the extensive gardens. Try to book in the Heritage Wing, which has four-poster beds and old-fashioned Bengaluru-theme lithographs. Some of the Luxury and Grand Luxury rooms are by comparison rather ordinary, but the private balcony with lovely views is a consolation.
Race Course Rd., Bengaluru 560 001. 080/6660-5660. Fax 080/6660-5700. www.tajhotels.com. 117 units. Rs 22,500 luxury double; Rs 24,500 luxury grand; Rs 29,500 taj club; Rs 40,000–Rs 2,00,000 suites. Rs 1,500 extra bed. Taj Club rooms and suites include breakfast and airport transfers. AE, DC, MC, V. Amenities: 3 restaurants; bar; airport transfer (Rs 2,670); babysitting; currency exchange; doctor-on-call; fitness center; golf and riding on request; laptop computers for hire; room service; 2 outdoor tennis courts. In room: A/C, TV, hair dryer, minibar, Wi-Fi (Rs 240/hr, Rs 722/day). Taj Club units: butlers, DVD players, fax machines on request.
Villa Pottipati Surrounded by fruit and flowering trees, this stately villa is the most authentic and reasonably priced heritage experience you can have, and