Shreyas

Romantic, restorative yoga retreat and spa in 25 acres of verdant gardens, an hour north-west of Bangalore

If the idea of an ashram sounds rather spartan, but you're attracted to yoga and spiritual development, this could be your kind of place. Shreyas ('all-round excellence' in Sanskrit) is somewhere between a luxury resort and an ashram: yoga and meditation classes, personalised treatments and veggie food, combined with super-comfy tents and cottages, an ozonated infinity pool and a Jacuzzi.

Owner and founder Pawan Malik is an investment banker, so he knows all about the stresses of city life and how to purge them - as tired corporate types are finding out to their lasting benefit. Set in 25 acres of landscaped gardens filled with palms and bamboo groves, his creation is only an hour from bustling Bangalore, but feels a world away. Under the trees is an open-sided yoga and meditation hall, with an outdoor theatre for group sessions. The atmosphere is decidedly laid-back and there’s no pressure to attend classes; after all, the goal here is relaxation and rejuvenation.

Pawan's Sri Lankan wife Leesha is responsible for the Zen-inspired interiors, with Buddha statues, water channels and stone pillars. Large windows and bamboo blinds let light flood in by day; hurricane lanterns create a magical effect at night. It's a beautiful place to forget (or remember) yourself - a happy marriage of ancient wisdoms and modern comforts.

Highs

• The small size (maximum 25 guests) and tranquil garden setting make it the ideal place to relax and unwind
• This is self-discovery without the dogma - programmes are tailored to your needs following a consultation with the resident doctors, but if you just want to chill out by the pool that's fine too
• The excellent vegetarian food is wholesome and delicious, with ingredients picked fresh from the organic garden
• The contemporary design features watery walkways, open-plan spaces, a stylish pool and plenty of quiet corners
• Classes are small, with individual attention from the smiling instructors - ideal for beginners and improvers

Lows

• The focus on body and soul means no alcohol, meat or smoking are allowed
• The morning yoga class has a 7am start, but there’s no pressure to attend
• Shreyas is more of a retreat than a base for sightseeing, but excursions to Bangalore, Mysore and other places of interest can be arranged
• The noise from the nearby railway line can be a nuisance - you’ll find earplugs on your bedside table just in case