Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa Uttarakhand

Stayed here for three nights with a group tour. The hotel is absolutely lovely, set above the banks of the holy River Ganges. Rooms are spacious and very comfortable with great linens, and amenities, with a beautiful array of complimentary teas. Unfortunately, drinking water is provided in small plastic bottles, which is not in keeping with the brand’s sustainability commitment. If they are able to provide Kohler bath fixtures, it would seem that they could utilize sophisticated Elkay or other technologies. Similarly, toiletries are provided in tiny plastic containers, rather than in large refillable ones. All rooms face the river and have Himalayan foothill views beyond. Rooms are located in the main building as well as other smaller buildings that cascade down towards the river. The pool and spa are located “over” the river. The hotel provides daily free yoga classes, sound healing, high tea and evening Ganga arti ceremony on the banks of the river. Restaurant food was very good, and we ate primarily at the Rock Flour, which offers an ample breakfast buffet. In addition to Indian food, it also offers Western food (as one expects of the Taj brand). I had a relaxing massage upon arrival, as well as a foot massage and a head massage on my second day. Services were good, but uneven - depends upon the therapist. The spa has a sauna and steam but could use some updating of decor. Staff were lovely, but appear to have had difficulty keeping up with the demands of our group. The fitness room was spacious and clean; I would like to recommend that they offer some lighter hand weights to accommodate female guests.

I thoroughly enjoyed my experience and had a lovely stay, particularly appreciating the delightful pubble beach pizza. The exceptional staff member, Akshay, crafted a remarkable drink with fresh leaves, making it an outstanding experience!