Sanctuary Amadiyana emerges as a new wellness retreat near Auroville

A new wellness-focused retreat, Sanctuary Amadiyana, has opened in the green belt surrounding Auroville, offering a combination of Watsu therapy, Ayurveda treatments, and sustainable hospitality. Developed by CGH Earth, the 23-key property is positioned as a restorative getaway within accessible distance from Chennai.

The retreat is designed as a self-contained space featuring accommodation, wellness facilities, and dining, all integrated into a natural setting with landscaped pathways and native vegetation.

Origins and design philosophy

The property traces its origins to 2012, when it operated as Temple Tree Retreat. It was conceptualised by Nalin Patel as a space for visitors seeking a place to return after meditation at Matrimandir.

The retreat was designed by Auroville-based architect Mona Doctor-Pingel using a bioclimatic approach that responds to light, airflow, and heat. It was later expanded and rebranded as Sanctuary Amadiyana in December 2025 under CGH Earth, retaining its focus on conscious living while adding upgraded amenities.

A signature accommodation, Heiwa, designed by architect Poppo Pingel, follows a minimalist Japanese-inspired aesthetic and includes a private plunge pool and rock garden.

Accommodation and facilities

Sanctuary Amadiyana offers four categories of rooms, including classic, superior, and loft-style units. The rooms are designed with local craftsmanship, featuring hand-painted floral elements, ceramic accents, and verandas overlooking gardens or the pool.

The property layout includes a restaurant, café, swimming pool, Ayurveda centre, yoga and meditation spaces, and a dedicated Watsu pool. Accessibility features have also been incorporated, including a room designed for wheelchair users and step-free access across common areas.

Focus on wellness and Watsu therapy

A key highlight of the retreat is its Watsu therapy offering, a form of aquatic bodywork performed in chest-deep, temperature-controlled water. The therapy involves guided movements aimed at relaxation and meditative states.

The retreat also houses an Ayurveda centre providing traditional treatments such as herbal massages, oil therapies, and beauty treatments including Mukhalepanam and Kesaraksha. Yoga sessions are arranged on request, with structured schedules planned for future implementation.

Dining centred on wellness

The on-site Garden Restaurant serves a “longevity menu” based on eliminating refined sugar, white salt, and maida. According to executive chef Mohammed Shebil, meats are slow-cooked without oil to retain nutrients.

The menu includes vegetarian, vegan, and non-vegetarian dishes, with ingredients sourced largely from Auroville. Offerings range from Tamil thalis to global dishes, alongside desserts made without refined sugar or dairy.

An open-air café, Koi Lounge, serves specialty coffees from regions such as Wayanad, Coorg, and Chikmagalur, along with teas from Darjeeling, Nilgiris, and Assam.

Proximity to Auroville experiences

Located minutes from Auroville, the retreat provides access to the township’s cultural and ecological experiences. Established in 1968 under the guidance of Mirra Alfassa, Auroville is home to a diverse international community focused on sustainable and spiritual living.

Visitors can explore the township through guided tours, pottery workshops, sound healing sessions, and eco-focused shopping. Sites such as the Visitors’ Centre and Matrimandir form central points of interest.

Conclusion

Sanctuary Amadiyana combines wellness therapies, sustainable design, and proximity to Auroville’s cultural ecosystem, positioning itself as a holistic retreat destination near Chennai.

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