A Royal Spa Debut
A new spa in India offers lakeside luxury in its tented treatments.
The spirit of Indian royalty comes alive at ESPA at The Leela Palace Kempinski Udaipur in Udaipur, India. Opened last February, the spa features treatment rooms and suites ensconced in traditional Rajasthan-style tents. The facility is separated into two areas—the Haveli Spa and the Lake Spa—both of which overlook Lake Pichola. The palace is located in the Rajasthan region of western India, dubbed the Venice of the East for its intricate waterways.
On the outside, garden passageways created by architect Bill Bensley lead guests to their designated treatment rooms. Once inside, crystal chandeliers, rich-colored fabrics, and the aromas of ginger, clove and lime stimulate the senses.
The Haveli Spa features five treatment tents, aroma-steam rooms made of crystal and anthracite glass, and separate male and female relaxation areas. Patrons can also enjoy lunch and a view on the spa’s rooftop terrace.
The Lake Spa, constructed with couples in mind, includes suites with their own private pools and walled gardens.
Maintaining European ideals and ancient ayurvedic philosophies, the spa menu features Abhyanga Marma point massage (120 mins./$175) and Dosha body therapies (120 mins./$175). Essential and traditional ayurvedic oils, which contain medicinal herbs, are used in each customized treatment. —Stephanie Flores