The Oberoi Sukhvilas

Just outside the northern city of Chandigarh, the Oberoi Sukhvilas is a palatial destination spa nestled among 8,000 acres of protected forest.

• Private sunrise yoga in a forest clearing
• The romantic Royal Tents with private pools
• Guided meditation sessions with live sitar music

At the Oberoi Sukhvilas, every guest feels like a VIP. Upon arrival at the grand gateway, a guard with an impeccably curled mustache opens your door and ushers you into a landscaped courtyard—the first of many—while petals flutter down from an open window. Pale cream Mughal facades are complemented by pops of color in the gilded gates and bright bougainvillea, while domesticated geese, guinea fowl and turkeys—alongside wild peacocks—roam the grounds.

The property is surrounded by an 8,000-acre nature reserve that is home to peacocks, deer and the occasional leopard. This serene forest setting inspired the Oberoi brand to build their first wellness resort at Sukhvilas (“sukh” is a Sanskrit word meaning “good space”). The 12,000-square-foot spa features elegant archways, open courtyards and sparkling fountains. The spa program is rooted in the ancient Indian medicine of Ayurveda, though eastern and western treatments are also on offer.

Guests can choose among seven- to 21-day wellness programs in Ayurvedic rejuvenation, digital detox, weight management and more. The holistic programs are customized by the in-house Ayurvedic doctor in order to fit each guest’s goals, encompassing Ayurvedic cleansing rituals, oil massages, yoga, meditation and dietary modifications. Travelers seeking a shorter spa getaway will also be happy at the Oberoi Sukhvilas, where days can be filled with à la carte treatments, yoga classes, meditation sessions and leisurely lunches by the pool.

The 60 rooms, suites, villas and tents combine colonial-style furnishings, such as four-poster beds and chandeliers, with Mughal elements. Rooms are spread across three blocks: Bagh, Spa and Forest. The most central is the Bagh block, situated near the lobby, main restaurant, gym and pool. The Spa block offers a convenient location for guests on a busy wellness program. The Forest block is the most removed and is home to the unique “Royal Tents,” inspired by the tents used by caravans during the days of the British Raj. The best tents come with private pools. A second restaurant is also located here, featuring Punjab dishes and live music at night.

Guests interested in exploring the forest can set out on a wildlife-spotting walk with a naturalist guide or embark on a more challenging guided hike. Those looking to venture off property should visit the city of Chandigarh, the first planned city in India. Designed by Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier, the city is decorated with his signature "Open Hand" sculptures. Travelers with an interest in urban planning and architecture should take a tour of the city and Le Corbusier’s UNESCO-registered Capitol Complex.

Solo travelers, couples and friends looking for a quick spa getaway or a longer wellness retreat in lavish surroundings. The property is adult-oriented, but a kids’ play area will keep young children occupied while parents enjoy the spa. The Oberoi Sukhvilas is a good place to get an introduction to Ayurveda, or to simply recharge at the end of a busy India itinerary.

Two or three nights for a short spa getaway, or seven nights for a full wellness retreat.

There are several flights from Delhi to Chandigarh daily. The property is a 45-minute drive from the airport.