Modern life is a cacophony of stress and anxiety interspersed with the chaos of daily routine. Every now and then, it’s pertinent to pause and focus on the self. But is it possible to be on a long vacation when life’s responsibilities consistently demand your attention and time? All we need is a quick getaway, a weekend perhaps, to rejuvenate, re-think and re-discover ourselves.

A mere four hours’ drive from Delhi took us to The Aalia Jungle Retreat & Spa, an enchanting oasis set in the heart of Rajaji National Park, Haridwar. It offered a magical fusion of luxury and adventure that allowed us to bask in the serenity of nature while blissfully indulging ourselves. The resort comprises of Luxury tents that each feature all the comforts of a 5-star hotel, not to mention a giant 4-poster bed, a mini-bar and a fancy coffee machine.

One of the key elements of luxury Glamping is ‘pampering’. So the Spa was what we headed to right after we rested, after all we were ready for some much-needed TLC on this holiday. The Aalia spa is literally a haven of holistic healing ensconced within one of their luxury tents in a quiet, calm corner of the resort. Here, even as you step in, a heady scent of calming essential oils beckon you into the therapy room where the massage table awaits you with its crisp white sheets which are softly strewn with fresh flower petals to enhance the inherent soothing aromas. You can choose from their carefully hand-picked Aromatherapy treatments like – Swedish Massage, Anti-Stress Massage, Reflexology and several more.

An entire hour of their highly recommended Deep Tissue Massage by their expert therapist ensured that we experienced a sense of tranquility and wellness like never before. Lilting, soft music that sang to our soul and the warm glow of candlelight transported us into a deep transcendent world of bliss and peace which one wouldn’t want to return from. Almost meditative, one could even hear the distant chirping of birds perched on the surrounding trees, a sweet reminder that we were still in the midst of the forest.

Few things can replace little luxuries like this.

Even as our little holiday at this magnificent jungle oasis ended, we returned reluctantly, but laden with wonderful memories of our experience here and a few golden thoughts to ponder over-
Always remember to take time off from life’s daily humdrum. Do pamper yourself often (because you’re worth it). Take time to slow down, because that’s what your body needs when the going gets too much.
Do visit Aalia Jungle Retreat & Spa, because it has the perfect solution to all of the above.

By Vaishali Sabherwal