Located in the embodiment of tranquillity that is the peaceful and serene Peacock Valley, on the outskirts of the hustle and bustle of a city like Pune in the Indian state of Maharashtra, Swastik Wellbeing is a wellness resort that intertwines ancient Indian healing wisdom with modern science.
The name ‘Swastik’ finds its origins in Sanskrit, where sw means ‘well’ or ‘auspicious,’ ast refers to ‘being,’ and ik signifies ‘things associated with’. Together, Swastik represents all things auspicious and associated with wellbeing. Channelling this philosophy, Swastik Wellbeing offers a holistic approach to life that nurtures five key dimensions – health, wealth, love, bliss, and spirituality, leading seekers toward a life that blooms in abundance, joy, and inner peace.
Hotel
The resort is neatly divided into five distinct zones called vihars that all come together harmoniously. Set against the beautiful landscape of Khadakwasla Lake, the main Anand Vihar is a vibrant space that ensures physical and mental wellbeing. Inspired by the fire element, it ignites the spirit and nurtures the soul. The facilities available in this space include Ninadika (a sound healing space), Vyayam (a gym), Smitam (a poolside lounge), Rasa (a restaurant), Sama (an outdoor seating area), Sangithi (auditorium), Sukh Kund (watsu pool), Anand Kund (swimming pool), Parichay (diagnostic centre), and a consultation room.
At the Utsav Vihar, creativity and nature come together to enhance spiritual and artistic growth. This space offers seekers the opportunity to explore yoga, music, dance, and more. The open amphitheatre, Rang Mandal, and the reflexology path, Anant Mandal, provide spaces where seekers can engage with their creative and spiritual sides, enhancing their journey toward self-discovery.
And finally, Dhyan Vihar represents the spiritual core of Swastik. This sacred space is designed to support seekers in their pursuit of deeper contemplation and personal growth. The central structure, Dhyan Mandir, is a column-less, 11,000-square-foot meditation hall that promotes ascension of energy. Surrounding it is the Nakshatra Van, a zodiac garden that aligns with cosmic energies, providing an ideal environment for spiritual practice.
Room
To call the living quarters at Swastik mere rooms or suites would be doing them a disservice. Called Sukh Vihar or ‘happiness abode,’ with its 61 individual villas (34 are operational at the moment), the living space at the resort offers a tranquil retreat inspired by Mother Earth.
These guhas (cave-like structures) blend seamlessly into the natural landscape, offering both luxury and a deep connection to nature. The minimalist design of the three room villas, plus a balcony, adorned with earthy tones, creates a peaceful and contemplative environment where one can relax and reconnect with oneself. Packed with all the modern conveniences (sans distractions like a TV or music system) and luxurious bath and toilet amenities, the villas are a sybarite’s dream come true.
Food and drink
With a cuisine philosophy echoing the credo of ‘food as medicine,’ the all-vegetarian, tea, coffee and alcohol-bereft meals and beverages served here mirror the healing goals Swastik seeks to achieve for the duration of your stay. Shunning the concept of in-room dining and available only at Rasa, the resort’s main restaurant, all three meals are served at fixed times of the day and come pre-set (three or five courses) using organic and process free ingredients.
So, white sugar here is substituted with natural sweeteners like honey and coconut jaggery. This even translates into the fats used in the preparations. Wherein only the finest, healthy and beneficial fats like A2 cow’s milk ghee, virgin coconut oil and other cold-pressed oils are used.
Proving that healthy needn’t be boring, the dishes here span everything from local Indian dishes like stewed lentils served with cassava rotis and brown rice kheer for dessert to riffs on international classics. These take the form of a delicious roasted head of cauliflower with a saffron yoghurt and mushroom stroganoff teamed with herbed millet alongside horse gram soup. The last one being a well-known remedy to both prevent and banish pesky renal stones.
Spa and wellness
Called ‘Ayu Vihar’, the gargantuan standalone spa is the heart of physical rejuvenation at Swastik. Combining the wisdom of Ayurveda, naturopathy, Western medicine, and alternative healing sciences, this state-of-the-art facility offers a sanctuary for those seeking physical healing and balance. The design of Ayu Vihar, with its interwoven infinity symbols, reflects the timeless essence of health. Inside, seekers can explore therapies that range from the traditional Kerala Ayurvedic abhyanga to the relaxing Balinese massage in separate spaces dedicated for men and women.
The space includes Aaram (tea lounge), Vishram (relaxation room), Purvam (pre-therapy room), Pashcham (post-therapy room), Nisargam (naturopathy), Surya Kund (hot tub), Chandra Kund (cold pool), Lavanam (salt cave), Navam (massage room), Ayuram (Ayurvedic therapy room), Saham (couple’s massage room), and Akasham (terrace lounge) to take in the calm atmosphere while sipping on a post therapy elixirs like the yummy apple juice and ginger shots.
To do
Not that you will ever feel like stepping outside the oasis of calm that is Swastik Wellbeing, a resort that seems to have it all, but if you do, there’s lots to do in and around the city of Pune. Explore the historical Aga Khan Palace and Shaniwar Wada, or stroll through the lush gardens of Sinhagad Fort. For nature lovers, the picturesque Mulshi Lake and Bhira Dam are perfect for a weekend getaway. The Osho International Meditation Resort offers tranquillity amidst the city buzz.
Venture to nearby Lonavala for stunning hill views and waterfalls; discover the rich cultural scene at the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, or indulge in local cuisine at the many street food stalls. Pune’s blend of history, nature, and culture makes it a must-visit destination.
In a nutshell
Swastik Wellbeing is no ordinary wellness resort, it is a journey to unravel life’s highest possibilities. Every experience here is specially designed by experts and masters to bring about a semblance of balance, growth, and harmony through the most important dimensions of life as described in the ancient Sanskrit texts like the Vedas and Puranas.
Whether it is physical rejuvenation, emotional growth, or spiritual awakening, Swastik takes one through a transformative journey that nourishes the mind, body, and soul. As you are offered a heartfelt signature chant of ‘Aatma Naman‘ (my soul acknowledges your soul), that all staff members greet you with here, the journey begins, creating a connection of respect and presence.
Getting there
Swastik Wellbeing is situated on the outskirts of Pune near the Army cantonment of Khadakwasla. Daily, direct flights to Pune are available from all over India and a few international cities like Dubai, Bangkok and Singapore. The resort is a half hour drive away from the Pune International Airport. From Mumbai, which is a prominent international aviation hub, Pune is a very pleasant three-hour drive via the expressway. The resort is happy to arrange transfers either from the Pune airport or from Mumbai at an additional cost.
Factbox
A minimum stay package at Swastik Wellbeing is for three nights, with rates starting at £1,710 + taxes for double occupancy. This exclusive package includes all meals and personalised wellness therapies prescribed by a team of expert masters and doctors.
Address: Peacock Valley, Kudje, NDA Road, Khadakwasla, Pune-411023, Maharashtra, India.
Phone: +91-8820245460
Email: reservations@swastikwellbeing.com
Website: swastikwellbeing.com
Resort photography courtesy of Swastik Wellbeing.
