Six Senses to expand portfolio with Vana acquisition

Global destination and resort operator Six Senses is to expand its property portfolio to include Vana, an iconic wellness retreat in Dehradun, India. 

Joining Six Senses in the autumn, when it will be rebranded to Six Senses Vana, the resort is described as a ‘mindful oasis’ set inside 21-acres of Sal tree reserve in the lush Mussoorie region on the approach to the Himalayas. 

Founded by Veer Singh in 2014, the retreat offers 66 guest rooms and 16 suites as well as  ‘transformative journeys of self-discovery’ with a focus on natural healing. Its integrative approach is based on the combination of traditional practices such as Ayurveda, yoga and Tibetan Medicine with complementary therapies and bespoke daily routines.

Six Senses aims to work with the Vana team to create new experiences to complement the existing offering and bring it to a broader global audience. 

New additions will include Six Senses staples such as the Alchemy Bar, where guests will be able to make their own spa products, and the Earth Lab, where guests will be encouraged to be the change they wish to see. A biohacking facility will also be available, as well as programmes such as Eat With Six Senses and Sleep With Six Senses. 

The retreat’s organic gardens will also be extended so that ingredients can be influenced by the seasons and personal preferences while being themed to the location.

The retreat bar will serve healthy drinks and become a gathering point to ‘activate the ‘we’ in wellness’, while a lifestyle concept store will sell sustainable fashion and spa products. The Cinema Paradiso and courts for various ball games will also be available. 

The healing power of music, art and creative expression will also remain core to Six Senses Vana’s ethos with exhibitions, visiting artists and performances woven into the programming. 

Additionally, sustainability and sensitivity to ecology will remain a driving force at the resort, with both having played a vital role in its philosophy. Energy, water and waste will continue to be managed effectively in LEED Platinum-certified buildings, and all textiles and solvents sourced in compliance with sustainability standards.

Finally, regenerative travel experiences will offer guests a tangible connection to the local community and wildlife projects, infusing their journey with ‘purpose and positive impact.’

“With its ancient healing traditions and spiritual practices, India has long been heralded as the ultimate wellness gateway and, in a gentle but intentional way, this plays to who we are too,” said Six Senses CEO Neil Jacobs. 

“Vana comes to us with a strong philosophy and loyal Vanavarsi clientele manifested by founder Veer Singh. The seed was sown in Veer’s mind through his deep interest in and respect for sustainable farming, traditional wisdom, and nature, which we will continue to nurture under the Six Senses brand.”

“This marriage made in the Himalayas allows us to build on what exists with some of our signature experiences,” Jacobs added. 

Commenting on the acquisition, Vana founder Veer Singh said: “Vana becoming Six Senses Vana is the most natural and logical progression for this precious and beautiful retreat. I am humbled by the care and sensitivity Six Senses Vana has shown to protect and nurture everything good about Vana.

“I’m excited to see how they will deepen and strengthen our current offering and complement it with signature experiences they have successfully tried and tested around the world. I see no reason why Six Senses Vana will not become what we set out to be when Vana first opened: the most iconic wellness retreat in the world.”