Alaya Organic Spa

Alaya

Lodhi Hotel

Sawasdee Spa

Jiva Spa At Vivanta By Taj

Levo - Premier World Class

Amatrra Spa

Asian Roots

Nothing we write can express the unadulterated pleasure of massage therapy, especially with a soft Buddhist hymn providing a ‘relax now’ soundtrack. Although Delhi is home to many, we picked our favourite in the Capital. For those we missed, we don’t mean to rub you the wrong way.

Based on Tibetan Buddhist peacefulness, Alaya takes our nirvana quite seriously. Everything from the terri-cotton robes to the essential oils used in therapies are as close to natural as can be {scrubs use organic almonds, coffee or sugar} so your state of zen works on multiple levels.
Charges: Massages range from INR 1500 to INR 3400, plus taxes, for 60 minutes. We recommend some of the combination deals.

Nothing spells decadence, luxury and just down right splendid like the spa at The Lodhi. Be ready to drop some serious cash, but if you want to know what celebrities feel like in their pampering routine, then this is worth it. Equipped with private therapy rooms, complete with steam, shower, private beds, a bathtub and a massage table, the therapies range from international treatments to more homegrown ayurvedic options. The Lodhi spa and salon also houses male and female Hamams, with plunge pools, the temperature of which are adjustable, so you don’t land yourself in hot water. Expect the finest staff, courteous treatment and an all round excellent experience.
Charges: 60 minute therapies start at INR 5500

Leaving Tibet behind and moving on to Thailand, it seems like every corner of the world has their unique way to unwind. We trust our Thai friends to not just be incredibly welcoming but also to know what they do about traditional healing and beauty therapies based on ancient medicine. The menu for face and body rituals is constructed to tackle specific concerns; hey, we’re feeling better already!
Charges: Starts at INR 2500 plus taxes for a 60 minute massage
Where: Ambience Mall & South Point Mall, Gurgaon
Nearest Metro: IndusInd CyberCity on Rapid Metro for Ambience Mall; Sikanderpur on Delhi Metro for South Point Mall
Call for appointment: Check <a href="http://www.sawasdee.in/contact-us.html">here</a>

#LBBBestof Spas in Delhi and Gurgaon

Thai Pavilion -  Taj City Centre

Thai High

Ego Thai

Neung Roi - Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi Airport

Mei Kun

Bangkok 1 Thai House

A cuisine that some only know through colour {red, green, yellow}, we’re here to educate you in the ways of the Near East by taking you through a marvellous journey of handpicked restaurants that serve the best Thai dishes. For starters {pun intended}, Thai food is all about balance, detail and variety, and that is exactly what we bring to you below.

If you want a quiet night out on the town, Dao, with its traditional decor and dim lighting, is the most apt restaurant we can think of; authentic Thai never tasted better. We particularly recommend the Mango with Sticky Rice and the Water Chestnut in Coconut Milk for dessert {sounds unusual doesn’t it?}. Getting into outdoor catering now, this biggie is creating waves in the world of family and corporate events.
Where: N 17, 1st Floor, N Block, Greater Kailash {GK}-I
Nearest Metro Station: Kalkaji
Price: INR 1,700 for two
Contact: 011 33106294
You can check them out on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/DAO/1417662545150111" target="_blank">here</a>.

One of the best places for Thai in G-Town, we are fans of their service and attentiveness. They also have some super dishes on the menu; our faves being the Makroo Flavoured Chocolate Dollops, Vermicelli Shrimp and the Raw Mango Salad. On the first floor, the place is tastefully done up with glass and steel interiors. We’d love to be here on date night. {Is anyone listening?!}
Where: Vivanta by Taj, Sector 44, Gurgaon
Nearest Metro Station: HUDA city center
Price: INR 3,500 for two
Contact: 0124 6671234

At the Qutub, this restaurant overlooks one of the most popular and romantic views – that of the Qutub Minar. The by-lanes of Mehrauli always lend a certain charm for us, more so when exquisite Thai food in involved. The bouquets include Crispy Lamb and Steam Fish topped with Lemon Grass Tamarind.  The Zen Garden is also a must visit attached to the restaurant if you’re looking for some quiet downtime.
Where: 1091/1, Ambawatta Complex, Kalka Das Marg, Mehrauli
Nearest Metro Station: Chhattarpur
Price: INR 2,000 for two
Contact: 011 33105729
Find more info <a href="http://www.thaihigh.in/" target="_blank">here</a>.

With chefs flown in from Thailand, and decorated with Thai artefacts, Ego Thai more than delivers with the food too. Little on the expensive side, it is recommended that you discuss with the staff exactly what you want {names on the menu are a teensy bit twisted}. We recommend their Pad Thai and Crispy Rice {especially if you’re a bhelfan} and the lounge area for their more comfortable seating.
Where: 53, Community Center, New Friends Colony
Nearest Metro Station: Kalkaji
Price: INR 1,700 for two
Contact: 011 26331181, 011 26331182
Find out more <a href="http://modi.com/ego-thai.html" target="_blank">here</a>.

Please Thai: 7 Delhi and Gurgaon Restaurants that Do Thai Food Right

Find the best Zen Mode recommendations in Delhi - Curated by LBB experts. Access latest customer reviews, contact info, & more

Looking for Zen Mode  in Delhi | LBB

Side Wok

Sidewok has four restaurants across Delhi and one that I recently visited is located on the Golf Course Road, right next to my favourite cafe Another Fine Day. The ambience switches on your zen mode and the food is probably one of the best Pan Asian that Gurgaon offers. Reasonably priced and great service, this place serves a variety of Asian delicacies including claypot, mizutaki, nasi goreng and pad Thai.

What Makes It Awesome

You can also order from the menu of Another Fine Day along with the Side Wok menu. Now, doesn’t that feel like a double bonanza ? 

What's My Pro Tip?

Oh yes, they have valet parking. Another awesome reason to go there ! 

Anything Else?

Chinese Tonight? Head To Sidewok

Lotus Temple

There’s no Delhi guide that doesn’t have a picture of the Lotus Temple stamped on the front page. We’ve got you all the details about what you can do in and around the place so you can make the most of your visit.

Shortcut

Famous for its splendid architecture, the lotus-shaped marvel made of white marble is easily reachable by metro (the nearest stations being Kalkaji Mandir and Nehru Place). This Baha’i house of worship welcomes you with immaculately manicured gardens, nine ponds and a pathway leading to the huge prayer hall where anyone from any creed is welcome to sit and pray or meditate in silence. (Prayer services are held at 10 am, 12 noon, 3 pm and 5 pm). There’s also a library that you can check out.&nbsp;Don’t miss the picturesque sunset view that this place has to offer.
If you’re wondering where to grab a bite post the spiritual visit, head to Nehru Place where you’ll find plenty of eateries at the Epicuria Food Mall. If you still haven’t had enough of the gorgeous temple, we say head for a fancy meal to <a href="https://lbb.in/delhi/royal-china-chinese-restaurant/">Royal China</a> inside the Eros Corporate Tower. It’s got a magnificent view of the temple (and we’re not complaining about the lovely, aromatic Chinese food they do, either).

 Zen Mode On

We love going to such peaceful places that are a respite from&nbsp;all the city chaos. The place is closed on Mondays, and the entry won’t cost you a dime – although you might have to wait a little in the entry queue.
Timings: 9.30 am to 7 pm in summers&nbsp;, 9.30 am to 5 pm in winters 
Price:&nbsp;It’s free

So, We’re Saying...

Revisit The Lotus Temple For A Killer Sunset View, Quiet Time & More

Nithya Shanti

Do you sometimes feel exhausted after you come back from a vacation? Exhausted from maybe from doing too much or wanting to gain as many experiences as possible? The Kalyanamitra meditation retreat by spiritual guru – Nithya Shanti is the perfect way to let go of life’s monotony and ensuring that you feel recharged after a vacation.

Nithya Shanti is a spiritual teacher who conducts weekend meditation workshops {called Joyshops} to help you maintain an eternal state of bliss. I recently attended Nithya’s two week summer retreat at the Chinmaya Vibhooti, just 2 hours from Pune and it gave me the confidence to deal with whatever comes my way.
The daily routine at the retreat was quite intense. The first meditation starts at 5.30am and the day ends at around 9.30pm, usually followed by some board games that Nithya had literally a suitcase full of. So in the two weeks, the maximum sleep one manages to get on any given day is five hours. More sleep would have been nice but my energy levels were just fine despite the fact that I was exercising 1-2 hours a day. The atmosphere at the retreat, the all vegan organic food, the three hours of daily meditation and all of it combined makes for an incredible spiritual experience.
This retreat forced me to listen deeper, abandon all judgments and instead of complaining about things, I’m finding it easier to look at the possibilities and accepting reality without questioning or cribbing. It also helped me understand myself better and taught me how to fully connect with my feelings.

Meditate Away To Zen-mode

The meditation retreat happens on a yearly basis and the location changes&nbsp;every time {it was Uttarakhand last year}. The base&nbsp;price for the retreat which includes everything like&nbsp;food, accommodation, activities etc. starts at INR 35,000 and can vary depending on the room type and the duration of the retreat {think of it as a one-time therapy investment}. For bookings and further information, check out their website or follow their Facebook page.
This recommendation was first posted on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.isayorganic.com/blog/a-summer-holiday-to-meditate/">ISayOrganic</a>.

More Deets

Break Life's Monotony & Peace Out At This Two-Week Meditation Retreat

The Roseate

A short drive from the heart of the city, The Roseate is an urbane refuge that will transport you to a world less travelled.

With eight acres of landscaped greenery interspersed with shimmering water bodies that echo the sounds of silence, it’s hard to believe that you are almost on the National Highway and not in a tropical garden. The largest plunge pool in the city, {which can be accessed from a set of the rooms as well} adds to the harmonious air and you can feel yourself hitting Zen mode in no time. 
For more nirvana time, hop by the Aheli spa on the premises, which promises an array of rejuvenating treatments ideal for metro weathered weary souls.

A Verdant Sanctuary

What’s a reboot without art to arouse and engage? Architecturally inspired by the five basic elements- the resort represents true design harmony. Gigantic columned verandas, 20 feet plus doors and inventive play of a recurring flower motif are some of the elements that strike a pose in all their glory as you soak in the fluid indoor meets outdoor vibe of the property. The aesthetic story get a further touch of drama with elements like a ficus wall element designed with 6,50,000 metal leaves, the spectacular sun-inspired dial that records all visitors as they enter and the stately Isfahan pillars that bear testimony to the understated grandeur of the place. 
The design narrative extends into the living spaces- open, spacious and indulgent dens that encapsulate the utopian aura of your surroundings.

Designed To Inspire

Savour organic home grown produce at Kiyan, the all-day diner that offers world cuisine with a European bias, and serves up a stellar Grilled King Prawn, a zesty Pomelo Salad and comforting Polenta Cakes.
For an unmatched Oriental ride, step into the elegant Chi Ni and allow much acclaimed Chef Ban to regale you with his wondrous creations. We can still taste the Miso Soup nuanced with slivers of ginger, a delicate dish of Steamed Lobster, perfectly plump and pungent Wasabi Prawns, Bean Curd tossed with Enoki and Shitake Mushrooms and a Splendid Yoghurt that married sweet with sour for a delicious effect.

Nourish With A Fine Flourish

Escape the humdrum of mundanity with a stay at the blissful and inspiring Roseate and return refreshed. 
Where: The Roseate New Delhi 
Samalkha, NH-8, New Delhi 110037
Tariff: INR 12,000++ onwards for an advance purchase for two adults.

So, We're Saying…

City Blues Getting To You? This Stunning Hotel Offers The Perfect Escape

Casa Delhi

Casa Delhi is an eco farm retreat near Faridabad that offers&nbsp;healthy organic&nbsp;meals, lets you stay in mud huts, experience the farm life through activities like&nbsp;cow milking, pottery and even hosts meditation classes.&nbsp;Basically, it is the idyllic weekend getaway every city-tired soul who is short on time (or leaves) could do with.

Living in cities can be frustrating, and not being able to escape the city grime once in a while&nbsp;can be far worse. Thankfully,&nbsp;the&nbsp;lovely camps and retreats that have emerged around town in the past couple of months are making things a lot easier, and one such eco-retreat is Casa Delhi (more great options never hurt, right?).
Set approximately 40&nbsp;kms from Delhi in the midst of lush green pastures, peacocks and butterflies, this self-sustaining farm is helping people experience the good, countryside life. You can milk cows, pick organic fruits and veggies for your fresh vegetarian meals, get your hands dirty&nbsp;at their pottery classes and meditate away to a zen mode with help of their certified instructors.
Casa Delhi&nbsp;offers village style&nbsp;eco-huts (both private and shared) that look and feel&nbsp;every bit pastoral, but come with all the comforts we love about home like WiFi and attached bathrooms. It's also fancy in the sense that they've got a common plunge pool, a lounge bar (woot woot) and even a badminton court. They’re more than happy to organise movie and game nights upon request, but we’d actually be more excited about the Bollywood dance classes that your whole family can take (hey, dance is a killer way to bond).&nbsp;Bird-watching&nbsp;sessions, mustard oil tours, local school visits and cooking classes are other fun ways through which you can keep yourself occupied at this farm.

Casa Delhi only serves organic vegetarian meals, so that might be a bit of a bummer for all meat-eaters.&nbsp;

What Could Be Better

You can go here for day trips too, but we recommend that you spend a weekend to best experience a bit of everything this farm has to offer.

Pro Tip

Live The Farm Life & Eat Organic Meals At This Retreat Less Than 2 Hours Away From Delhi

RedMat Pilates

This little Pilates studio hidden in Nirvana Country's Courtyard Market used to be Nirvana country women's best-kept secret. And for good reason! But that secret is now out and so thank heavens they have a new studio on Golf Course Road as well. Run by the enthusiastic and inspiring Taru {You must ask her how she got into fitness, it's an enthralling story that is bound to inspire you to start planking}, this studio has made Pilates fun and accessible to all those seeking a strong core.

They used to have fewer class options earlier but now with more instructors and a brand new studio on Golf Course Road, you will have several choices of time slots and classes to choose from.

What Could Be Better?

If you have had an injury or are looking for individualized attention ask for the private class options. They are expensive but worth it! 

Besides Pilates, they keep doing interesting fitness related workshops and challenges. Care to try Yogalates? {A blend of Yoga and Pilates to get you in that zen mode} How about a wellness workshop to transform how you feel? Or perhaps planks challenge with your besties? Follow their Facebook page for all the latest updates -
{ https://www.facebook.com/redmatpilates/ }.

Adore Your Core With These Fun Workouts At RedMat Pilates

Dalhousie

Khajjiar

Looking for the perfect escape away from the humdrum of urban life but feel that a cash crunch is dragging you down? Well fret not, because an escape to the lush green hills and breathtaking mountain views of Dalhousie and Khajjiar can recharge your city-drained souls on a budget for four – five days.

The time spent in every nook and corner of Dalhousie is not just a sight for sore eyes but can invigorate your very soul back to life. Sip on piping hot chai amidst the Panchpulla Waterfalls, witness the surreal sunset at Shubhash Chowk, marvel at the sight of the mighty Peer Panjal mountain range or be mesmerised by the breathtaking view from the Dainkund Peak.
Just a few hours away from Dalhousie is Khajjiar – the mini Switzerland of India. What we love about Khajjiar, other than the fact that there’s zorbing, paragliding and all sorts of exciting activities, is that the place with its lush green meadows, surrounded by flocks of sheep, beautiful cottages, hills and high Deodars, looks like a film set straight out of a Bollywood movie {Kuch Kuch Hota Hai was shot here}. You’re sure to experience the best of the hills on a budget as you can trek, enjoy a fun picnic under clear blue skies, even take the best nap of your life in the midst of the tranquil grounds near the Khajjiar lake and also get pictures clicked with cutesy, furry rabbits.

Why Should I Go?

When in Dalhousie, browse through the bustling Gandhi Chowk Market and the Tibetan Market for locally handcrafted shawls, lamps and knick-knacks or eat at the quaint Cafe Dalhousie which takes you back in time with its colonial British interiors and serves stellar Fish and Chips, Chole Bhature and Reshmi Kebabs {impressed by the variety?}. Not far behind is Kwality Restaurant which is wining for its Chicken Saag.
Also, you can stay at budget hotels like <a href="http://www.alpshoteldalhousie.com/">Alps Resort</a>, <a href="http://hoteldalhousiegrand.in/">Hotel Dalhousie Grand</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Chobhyal-Cottage-1471882126380200/">Chobhyal Cottage</a> that might not be extremely glamorous but provide all the basic amenities to ensure an oh-so-comfortable stay.

What Else?

City life can be overwhelming. We suggest that you pack your bag and a good book, switch off your phone {or at least try to} and head to Dalhousie & Khajjiar for a three-four day relaxing holiday to get your zen-mode back on.

So, We're Saying...

Book hotel rooms way in advance to get the best deals and plan a trip preferably during the off-season {July-Oct}.

#LBBTip

Surreal Scenes & Mountain Meals: Road Trip To Dalhousie In Under INR 6,500

The Grand Dragon Ladakh

Located at a height of 11,562 ft., The Grand Dragon Hotel, Ladakh is a cosy mountain abode decorated with traditional Ladakhi artifices, offering surreal views of the lofty Himalayan peaks and providing you with all the amenities to make you feel at home {perhaps, an even better home}.

The Grand Dragon Hotel which is minutes from the airport and is situated in heart of the city center, incorporates the Ladakhi Rabsal tradition to its architecture {visible in its balconies and windows} and is adorned with the stunning paintings of Ghulam Mustafa -the first modern artist of Ladakh {taking a stroll around the place is a delight in itself!}. 
The hotel offers 82 spacious yet cosy rooms, all having unearthly views of picturesque landscapes, where you’d want to spend entire days just soaking in the beauty of the mountains, reading a book with a cup of hot chocolate or just Instagram-ing away to a lit social media feed.
The fitness freaks will be pleased to know that there’s a fully equipped gym with cardio machines, sauna and steam rooms and also, massage chairs. At The Grand Dragon, you have the rare opportunity to meditate with the backdrop of the Himalayas and get rid of all the stress the city life has been weighing you down by. 
In case you’re the staying-in type of vacationer, all the rooms at the hotel have LCD TV with satellite channels, free Wi-Fi and inside the hotel game room, there’s a billiards table, a tennis table and they also host film screenings, art exhibitions and shows to keep you entertained.

Comfort At Its Best

When in Ladakh, you can take a jeep safari across the rugged deserts tracks, experience the authentic Tibetan culture during festivals, shop for homemade yak cheese, Pashmina shawls, Tibetan prayer wheels at the local markets {or at the Hotel souvenir shop} and soak in the beauty of the place which is any photographer’s paradise.
Ladakh also offers opportunities for adventure sports like rafting, trekking, rock climbing, motorbike rallies, camping by the lakes, etc., all of which are experiences to be ticked off of any traveller’s bucket list.
And to keep you happy & well-fed throughout your mountain adventures, the hotel offers a range of cuisines, from local thukpa soup and momo, to the regular Indian, Chinese and European dishes. 
You can also enjoy a comforting cup of coffee at the Zasgyath coffee shop’s open terrace in the hotel where one can view the beautiful Stok mountain range. A more intimate dining area – Tusrabs will take visitors back to ancient times through the black and white photographs lining the walls depicting the Ladakh of yore.

Embark On Mountain Adventures

Almost every traveller has Leh, Ladakh on their travel bucket list and we’re kind of saving up {both our leaves and our money} too to experience the best of the mountains India has to offer. Bonfires under the clear night sky, lessons in Buddhism at high altitudes and meals amidst the mountains is not something that you can experience everyday {especially in a city like Delhi}. Leave all the hustling behind, regain your zen-mode and book a room at <a href="http://www.thegranddragonladakh.com/">The Grand Dragon Ladakh</a> for the trip of a lifetime.
We all need some TLC once in a while and The Grand Dragon won’t disappoint.

Enjoy Himalayan Views, Mountain Meals & Local Ladakhi Experiences At The Grand Dragon Hotel

Coast Cafe

The Tea Room From Blossom Kochhar

Yeti - The Himalayan Kitchen

Mia Bella

Elma's Bakery, Bar & Kitchen

In the age of Snapchat and Instagram, going out for coffee dates in beautiful cafes is incomplete if the world hasn’t seen it on your stories. For those who love not just good coffee, but also pretty decor, we’ve rounded up a list of the most beautiful-looking cafes in Hauz Khas Village. Obviously, your Insta feed will be LIT.

Modern and minimal, their bay windows, pristine white setting, and soothing music straight-from-the-shores are utterly charming.The Californian tacos are a must-try, along with the Malabar paranthas and the appams. Also, if you manage to get a space in their outdoor section, you’ve hit a photography jackpot.

With an old-world charm, soft lighting and a relaxed vibe, you’ll find that this cosy place is the perfect spot for reading {there are ample books on their shelves}, working, catching up with your BFF and of course, clicking away. Along with good food and beverages, they are dedicated to serving you ‘good vibes only’.

With a peaceful mountain aura, brick walls with Tibetan masks, mandalas, Buddhist prayer flags and wheels, you can expect feeling zen as soon as you step into their space. Go there for their yummy Himalayan menu which includes Gyuma, Choila, momos and the famed Nepali Thali.

Imagine soft sunlight falling through yellow curtains, blue seating, a lot of bouquets, colourful cushions and a view of the lake, all spanned across three floors. To add to the list, they take extra care in making their dishes and drinks just as presentable, if not more {even the crockery matches with their decor!}. We highly recommend their Traditional Tiramisu to bring your feed to life.

Click That Cake And Eat It Too: We've Found The 5 Most Insta-Worthy Cafes In HKV

Marble Art Palace

Baaroq

Fennel

Amore Di Casa

MG Road is host to a whole world of interior design stores. We strolled down the street and handpicked our favourite pieces that are certain to grab eyeballs in any home. Ranging from quirky and unique to reasonable and practical, “these are a few of our favourite things.”

Marble Art Palace is a treasure trove, with statues, sculptures, garden furniture and beautifully-carved decorative items. In particular, we love their Buddha statues that will lend tranquillity to your home. The store has every conceivable design and size. Handcrafted and affordable, like this one, we recommend upping the zen quotient in your home, pronto!
Where: 22 MG Road, Sultanpur
Price: Starting at INR 2,500 for the smaller statues
Contact: +91 9818220089

Whether you’re looking to add signature elements and pieces to your home or office, Baaroq’s lifestyle and home decor products are a good bet. In particular, we love Baaroq’s eclectic collection of doorknobs. Ranging from an edgy skull to a pretty shell design, they have it all. Head on here for a wide variety of door accessories and you’ll be spoiled for choice. Opening the door was never this much fun!
Where: 49 MG Road, Sultanpur
Price: Starting at INR 4,000 for lever door handles {for a pair}
Contact: 011 41022767

This brand specialises in stainless steel pieces; in fact the name itself translates to ‘art of stainless steel’. Their diverse range is amazing, bringing to our notice just how beautifully furniture can be reinvented with steel. They have an extensive collection of cutlery, tea cups and pots, all characterised by contemporary designs and modernity.
Where: MG Road
Price: Starting at INR 1,045 for tea cups and pots
Contact: +91 9650601181

Their products are handpicked from all over the world: Italy, Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom, Paris, Malaysia and even our very own Dilli. Every piece at Fennel has a unique energy and will add a dose of vibrancy to your house. In particular, we love their vase collection that is reasonably priced but also super glam.
Where: Khasra No 348, Sultanpur, MG Road
Price: Starting at INR 700 {approx.} for ceramic vases
Contact: +91 8860044422

#LBBPicks: Oh-MG Road’s Furniture Offerings Under INR 5,000

The Coral Tree Homestay

Admit it. You and bae have been planning to sneak a night away not too far and Agra is just comfortable because it’s a short road trip. Right? So next time that plan materialises, park yourself at this homestay that’s green, loved by birds and literally six minutes from the Taj Mahal.

The chaos around the monument’s streets can sometimes get a bit overwhelming. This is precisely why Vandana and Gopal’s cosy lil’ house is perfect. After your fill of the Taj Mahal’s frenzy, it takes you in and soothes you like the best, most fragrant bubble bath. You can pop open a wine bottle and sip it in the garden or use the greens to kick start your morning with feel-good yoga… Whatever makes you feel Zen. 
The warm {but unintrusive} house hosts are sure to remind you of the good part of your summer vacations where TV time wasn’t moderated and you could stay up way beyond bed-time {yay to their no strange house rules policy!}.
We love the sunny gardens where the birds hang around singing and chirping all day only second to the library that’s choc full of travel books. Add to these winning touches delish home-cooked meals and we don’t know what’d make you reconsider.
Of course, if bae and you like a little before-bed TV time, there’s free wi-fi as well.

The Host Protocol 

Take the hosts up on the offer of taking you for a bird walk where the Taj Mahal will be in constant view. They’ve both got amazing travel experience and people’s skills {not to mention, interesting intel that only locals have access to} to make this memorable.&nbsp;
Find more info. and book here.

So, We're Saying... 

Road Tripping To Agra? Stay At This Gorgeous BnB That’s Close To The Taj Mahal

Vayu - Design For Living

The breezy, white design store in Bikaner House, Vayu Design For Living, will make you lose sense of time as you discover handcrafted finds that belong in an artfully restored ancestral home.

A place that had once become a glorified bus stand for Jaipur buses is now a stunner thanks to Vasundhara Raje who resolved to get this iconic place the attention that it deserves.
The story from rags to regalia wrote itself as the amphitheatre here got a facelift, a restaurant decided to set up shop and an art gallery started hosting shows.
In short, a new cultural centre was ready to host hipster events including photography exhibitions, film screenings, fashion pop-ups and jazz concerts. While the whole building looks utterly gorgeous, we’re going to focus on the store that makes us go weak in the knees each time we visit.

The Big Story

Dave Chang and Vivek Sahni, the two people behind this venture are connoisseurs of all things heritage. So each thing that rests on Vayu’s white cabinets has a story of great craftsmanship waiting to be discovered.
The best part is that in this effort to celebrate the past, it manages to reinterpret conventional masterpieces, making them seem valuable and oh-so-lovable in modern times.

Vayu So Beautiful?

A curated space full of classy artifacts like stationery, home decor, apparel, paintings and more, this one has us feeling Zen-like after a bad day. Maybe it’s the big French windows. Maybe it’s the fragrance that this place wears or maybe it’s just the thought of being surrounded by so many things we’d love to take home… but shopping at Vayu is an experience.

Calm One Calm All

Save Up For A Day Of Indulgent Shopping At Vayu In Bikaner House

Juru

It calms you down, helps you focus on your breathing, tones your body, enables mental and physical strength, improves flexibility – there are so many reasons we love yoga. And we love our morning stretches, late night meditation, practicing asanas, and now we’re ready to take our passion for yoga to the next level. We’ve turned to the experts at JURU Yoga, who’ve designed a range of products and accessories that’ll  help you make healthier, happier choices. And with their belief in the holistic balance that yoga brings to your life – you can trust them blindly for all your needs!

BUY NOW

A yoga mat is not only essential for the routine, but a symbol of motivation to practice and integrate yoga more in your life. <a href="https://www.juruyoga.com/product-category/mats/">JURU yoga mats</a> are eco-friendly, sustainable, bio-degradable, comfortable and unique! We’re crushing on these mats because they’re perfect in every way – lightweight, portableic material, anti-slip, non-toxic and have a self-cleaning surface that’s anti-microbial too. Made from premium European cork from Portugal and natural rubber from Kerala, there are five different mats  – <a href="https://www.juruyoga.com/product/juru-shakti-cork-mats/">Shakti</a>, <a href="https://www.juruyoga.com/product/juru-mandala-cork-mats/">Mandala</a>, <a href="https://www.juruyoga.com/product/juru-dhyana-yoga-mat/">Dhyana</a>, <a href="https://www.juruyoga.com/product/juru-harita-cork-yoga-mat/">Harita</a> and <a href="https://www.juruyoga.com/product/juru-bhoomi-yoga-mat/">Bhoomi</a> – that suit the needs of different kinds of yoga practioners to enhance alignment and explore the asana. Good quality products and accessories are essential for a healthy life and a fulfilled yoga practice, and these mats will motivate you to move towards a holistic and fulfilling lifestyle.

Lay It On Me

Need some R&R during your yoga routine, JURU has a range of pillows for you so you can get the most out of your session. We recommend getting the JURU <a href="https://www.juruyoga.com/product/eye-pillow/">eye pillows</a>, that are great for Savasana and deep relaxation. Made of cotton and filled with flax seeds, the pillows provide a gentle pressure to cool and relax your eyes. They’re super easy to maintain, as the pillows come with a removable cover that can be washed and pressed for multiple usage. They even have <a href="https://www.juruyoga.com/product/yoga-knee-pillow-2/">knee pillows</a> that reduce or eliminate knee discomfort, so get the cushioning and support you need for your joints. Check out the <a href="https://www.juruyoga.com/product/juru-yoga-headstand-pillow/">headstand pillow</a> as well, ideal to help with stability and to give you perfect traction.

Rest, Rejuvenate & Relax

While you start your session on a mat, make sure you use <a href="https://www.juruyoga.com/product/yoga-blanket/">blankets</a> to protect your knees in postures like camel pose, cat-cow pose, among others. Made from 100% hand-woven cotton, these provide comfort, warmth, grip and stability for long durations. You can even fold it during meditation and pranayama or use the blanket for shoulder support in shoulder stand or for deep relaxation in savasana.

Cover Up?

<a href="https://www.juruyoga.com/product-category/bolsters/">JURU bolsters</a> come in rectangular and cylindrical shapes, and we believe they’re essential for those who practice yoga regularly.  They help in deep relaxation and provide the necessary support for restorative poses. With easy-to-wash covers and stitched on handles on the side for convenience, get them to take your session to the next level.
Tempted to shop for more accessories? We don’t blame you! JURU products are restoring yoga to it’s roots, with organic and eco-friendly essentials that can withstand years of practice and add comfort, strength and support to your routine. 
Check out their <a href="https://www.juruyoga.com/">website</a>. Follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JURUYOGA/">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/JuruYoga">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juruyoga/">Instagram</a> for exciting updates and information.

Bolster Loving

Zen & The Art Of Yoga: Take Your Routine To The Next Level With These Eco-Friendly Products

Norbulingka Institute

Norbulingka Institute is a unique place where Tibetan culture is preserved and persevered. Cocooned with Buddhism, the place is an enveloped with serenity and calm.  As you enter, you would find a plethora of greenery and a beautiful cafe as well. 
Butter tea is a MUST have in here. There are also studios and workshops where Tibetan artists work and teach their craft. A shrine for Buddha for you to meditate and a gift shop too if you want to indulge in some zen therapy.

How Much Did It Cost

Best To Go With

Tibetan Culture and more

Ojaswi Himalayan Resort

Ojaswi Himalayan Resort is everything your small {or big} family needs for a hill vacation. First, it’s not Nainital. Plus, the cottages and views are lovely, the authentic Kumaoni food is delish and there are adventure activities {think rock climbing and rappelling} for the young and restless not too far from here.

If coordination or directions isn’t your family organiser’s forte, know that reaching and staying at this resort will require very little. It’s well-connected and you can drive for nine hours {with nine breaks, maybe} to this boutique property that’s plonked at a lovely spot in Mukteshwar.
The comforts you seek when travelling with a biggish group will be sorted right from taxis to meals and hot milk at an ungodly hour or even activities. The nature-loving folks can stare at the Nanda Devi peaks and drink endless cups of chai. The healthier lot can sign up for morning yoga that can also be arranged in the middle of the Shitla orchard. For the easily bored, there are treks, cycling trails and rock climbing. Or, you can take sibling rivalries to the many board games the resort has – table tennis, carom, video games and more. 
In short, life’s sorted for everyone.

To Each His Own 

Terrace, viewing decks, balconies and even garden sit-outs… We love how most cottages come with their own green patch where you can lounge around for hours and catch up on family gossip. If your lazy bones need a little more pampering, book yourself at the spa. The tiny tots, meanwhile, can stay occupied at the activity area.
If we were you, we’d sign up for a lake tour for sure. Like we said, there’s enough to do both at the resort and around. We leave the itinerary to you because hey, who are we to decide what your ultimate fam bam should look like.
#LBBTip: Carry your own small speakers if you all like music too much but just make sure you aren’t disrupting the valley’s peace too much.

Not A Dull Moment 

Feel The Mountain Breeze & Channel Your Inner Zen At Ojaswi Himalayan Resort In Mukteshwar

Chamba Camp Thiksey

Recently, I flew to the top of the world {read 13000 ft} to Ladakh for my first experience of glamping or glam camping, at that height. I’ve stayed in luxury camps before, but this was different. This was a concept where the camp was on a schedule, and would move to various destinations to cover important events and festivals in India, and soon the subcontinent. Quite simply, here was a chance to stay in luxury at places where premium accommodation, and sometimes even basic accommodation, was hitherto unavailable. Now, to the concept of glamcamping or glamping. The immediate imagery of camping is that of basic canvas canopies with common sand-pit or chemical toilets and baths from buckets, or, like a super-efficient camp improvised, a large canister with a perforated funnel at the end, manipulated from the outside to facilitate a shower. But that was many years ago, and that too where camping was a necessity – rafting camps by the rivers where anything permanent was not permitted, and the fragile river bank had to be protected; trekking camps to allow for flexibility, space and time constraints. It was very early in the 21st century that camps became a concept – and glamping arrived in India! Jungles were the first choice as a venue, set close to the buffer zone forests, and camps emphasized keeping the outdoors in and just enough cover to keep the elements out, and attached bathrooms with running water and plumbing was an unprecedented luxury. Slowly, amenities improved, and camp sites became destinations, making camping more of a design concept.

What is it about camping that is so romantic, even though glam camping stuck to its venue year after year? For me, the slight uncertainty and unexpectedness of a campsite, along with the amount of improvisation in terms of furniture and décor, made it very intriguing – and what is travel without a bit of mystery! The first camp I stayed at was Chhatra Sagar – exquisite and personal, set atop a dam overlooking a large reservoir; every tent set on the embankment given impartial space and a view of the lake. Picture windows opening to magnificent views as you lie in bed, and exploring the rural countryside as per the activity of your choosing… else a book and a drink are all you need. Bathrooms are slate enclosed, with perfect plumbing and powerful showers. This was even better than many of the star hotels I had stayed at! Then Churat Kothi, a jungle camp in the very heart of central India, on a large acreage filled with Mahua trees, sal and teak and other indigenous flora, offered accomodation in large canvas tents. The linen was in flaming colours, and a straw mat made the carpet – a lone peacock feather was the singular decorative feature on your bed side table. This was glamcamping in the forests. We heard a bit of the outdoors inside – langurs feeding on mahua flowers in March and their drunken leaps on tent tops, and deer staggering on fermented mahua flowers. Each tent had a small high sit-out, and one could hear and see more of the outdoors. All these now make for beautiful memories! When The Aman arrived in India, camping standards hit a new high. And then the Oberoi camps – Vanya Vilas in Ranthambhor was the new bench mark. Still no camp, however glamorous and luxurious, can afford to lose sight of the campsite, for spectacular location is the basic foundation of glamcamping.
Glamcamping  has been steadily evolving – The Serai, Jaislamer brought Zen to camping – large clean lines, space, sky, light and water reflecting the desert. I am promised more and more concepts and further innovations; Indian hospitality looks up to the camping concepts in Africa; they are, I’m told and have seen in photographs that speak volumes, something else. A camp that moves and provides world class service and luxury is a first for travel lovers and glampers in India. For me, it began at 13000 ft!
About Shoba Mohan | A traveler by passion, Shoba Mohan is one of those lucky people who is in love with her work. Having spent over a decade in the industry, she is the founder of <a href="http://rareindia.com/" target="_blank">RARE- Destinations & Experiences</a>, a company that promotes experiential travel, and will be sharing her Travel Diaries with LBBD.

Discover the Wild, in Style

Blue Terra Spa

Four Fountains De - Stress Spa

Adara Beauty & Wellness

Aura Day Spa

Levo

We all need some downtime every few months {if not more often}, and what better way to relax and unwind than a vigorous massage—to both relax and feel ready to take on the world.
Not sure where to start? Check out this list of spas in Gurgaon.

One of the most well-known spas in Gurgaon, Blue Terra offers Ayurvedic as well as Swedish and Balinese massages, with a special focus on pain management. So if you have back troubles or are simply too tired to move, make a trip here to sort it out.

Four Fountains targets various problems you could be dealing with—fatigue, anxiety, sleep deprivation or immunity issues—and offers treatments accordingly to help you through it all. They also have a special bride-and-groom package, as well as several membership plans for regular clients.

Based on Tibetan Buddhist peacefulness, Alaya takes our nirvana quite seriously. Everything from the terri-cotton robes to the essential oils used in therapies, are as close to natural as can be {scrubs use organic almonds, coffee or sugar} so your state of zen works on multiple levels.

Work Got You Stressed? Unwind & Pamper Yourself At These 8 Spas In Gurgaon

ML 05 Cafe

Hoitea Toitea

Living Roof

Dylan's Cafe

Cafe Shillong

Hashtag

The Grub - Cafe & Bakery

Shillong is a beautiful city, encircled by tall pine trees, a beautiful climate and some really good cafés, whose ambience is made all the more better by the various shade of the city. So, strap in and read more about our favorite cafés in Shillong.&nbsp;

This is a breathtaking wonder! Situated amidst lush greenery, every picture taken at this cafe is Instagram-able. Named after the local vehicle registration number, this café exudes charm and cuteness. Located in the outskirts of Shillong, ML05 is a biker and traveller's paradise. Margarita Pizza at ML-05 Café is a must-try.

If you seek absolute peace and calm within city limits, this is the place to be. This café serves some of the most delicious food in Shillong and specialises in exotic blends of tea. Even though we are not avid tea drinkers, this place has managed to make us start liking tea.&nbsp;&nbsp;The café shares the space with the Crinoline swimming pool (named after Crinoline Waterfall), adding up the experience of having your meal. We recommend the Zen Collection of teas and every possible food item on their menu.

Another cafè with amazing interiors and ambience, great location and more importantly lip-smacking food. This cafè has everything to keep you engaged until your food is ready—a pool table, live musical performances and board games. Outdoor seating offers the comfort of a quiet meal. We recommend that you try the shakes, coffee and pastas here. This cafè can also be your home when you are on a vacation. (Registered on OYO).

When In Shillong, Here Are 7 Cafes You Should Check Out

Shangri-La's - Eros Hotel

A Chinese fine dine restaurant, Shang Palace at Shangri-La’s Eros Hotel is finally operational, and the menu is a delight for meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Think barbecue skewers, dim sums, grills, cold cuts and potent cocktails.

Beijing Roasted Duck, Pork Belly With Garlic and Chilli Sauce, Steamed Seabass

Chow Down

Anunaki, Asian Apple Sour, Zen Garden

Sip On

Their generous portions, as well as their beautiful al fresco area complete with a mini waterfall for when the weather’s nice

Winning For

We’re not talking about Katy Perry’s claim to fame. Shang Palace’s appetiser menu is truly diverse. Not only do they have an impressive selection of dim sums, Yunnan and barbecue skewers, but also a small section on cold appetisers, of which the pork belly with garlic and chilli sauce called out to us the most. Don’t think twice before ordering this, especially if you like spice.
Other highlights involved the deep fried cod fillet {this comes with garlic and spiced salt, and is a must-order for all seafood fans}, the Mapo tofu spring roll, and, our favourite, the Beijing roasted duck, which involves of a huge chunk of roast duck being brought to the table, shredded in front of you and rolled up into pancakes. Served with hoisin sauce, this dish had us quacking about it for days. What we loved even more is that they take the leftover duck meat, saute it with some veggies and serve it with crisp lettuce.
If all of this at one go is a little too adventurous for your palate, the steamed chicken wonton and Dai-style crispy-fried chicken with fried rice might be a better option for you; it’s comfort food at its best.
For main course {if you get there at all}, the steamed sea bass with red and yellow schezwan pepper is the way to go.

Hot And Cold

Shang Palace: Doing Duck Rolls, Pork Belly & Saké Cocktails Right

Dhamma Sota

Dhamma Sota is a centre that organises regular residential courses for Vipassana, an old meditation technique rediscovered by Gautam Buddha. It’s believed to be a universal remedy for all ills and an aid to make you see things as they really are.


When so much of our time goes into cleansing and taking care of our bodies, it is only fair that our minds get the same treatment. We say, sign up for a course of Vipassana, a meditation technique that’s super effective in disassociating you with the worries of the past or the future and staying focused on the current moment instead. The teachers will make sure that it is not as complicated as it sounds. And, once you take baby steps towards perfecting this technique, you’ll notice it’s many benefits – it’s known to combat depression, increase focus and help you feel Zen.


Why Vipassana? 

Now that we’ve told you everything you stand to win if you do commit to a Vipassana course, here’s exactly what the next step needs to be. Dhamma Sota, a centre in Rahaka village, Sohna, organises regular 1o-day residential courses throughout the year at both centre and non-centre locations. All the expenses are covered by donations so you aren’t even going to spend any money {no extra charges for food and accommodation either!}. 
To make the most of the course, participants are expected to follow a prescribed code of discipline, learn the basics of the method, and practice sufficiently. The more you practice, the greater the feeling of liberation. You’ll get there slowly, but surely. The key is to just hang in there through high and low days. 


Convinced Yet? 

The focus of the course will be mostly on practicing what you learn, and not theory. So, no need to worry about having to drown deep in books {Phew!}. Details regarding the courses and their respective locations are given on their website.
Want more info? Call their office between 10 am to 5.30 pm except on a Sunday. 


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