Only the genius of Aman Nath, the multi-faceted Chairman of Neemrana Hotels, could have come up with a name like Glasshouse on the Ganges. Seldom has a moniker been so evocative. If you had never laid eyes on the property, you could still conjure up a serene vison.

The luxurious Glasshouse, set 23 kilometres above Rishikesh, has the most exquisite location along the banks of the Ganges, unmatched in the region to this day. It reopened its majestic doors on December 15, 2020, having used the lockdown to good effect. Post-Covid, the Neemrana team has a renewed focus on guest safety and well-being. There is an exemplary Ganga deck, river-facing pavilions for guests to sit outdoors and bask in the views of the river, a gym, spa, heated infinity swimming pool which will operate as per government guidelines.

The Look
Right from the jaw-dropping lobby—with the funkiest fireplace you ever saw—the property oozes style. Oversized colonial prints of naked fakirs set a quirky tone. The style is best described as Nouveau Delhi, with snazzy fittings paired with soothing tones. And everywhere—true to reputation—glass windows and doors, letting the dappled sunlight come indoors and play. At night, the stairs leading up to the main building are lit up, creating a magical effect. 

The Rooms
The hotel comprises of 20 exclusive rooms and suites with stylish interiors that boast of breathtaking views of the river from the early morning mist to the late evening surreal beauty of the water. The manicured lawns, yoga pavilion, and the ultimate luxury suites on the river with large private terraces and spellbinding views (and bathtubs to boot in a select few) are a great choice for those who want to escape from the chaos of city-life.

Block I overlooks the lawn and lush orchards. Block II is conceived as a beautiful building with six stylish and well-appointed rooms with large, modern bathrooms. It overlooks the infinity pool and has clear views of the Ganges from every room. Block III overlooks the manicured lawns, a yoga pavilion and has clear views of the Ganges from every room too. Block IV comprises of the ultimate luxury suites on the river with large private terraces and stunning vistas. Block V includes two luxury tents which enjoy an emblematic position at the hotel.

The Spa
Called Amrit Kashi, the spa is true to its Sattvik roots and offers authentic Indian treatments to easy away aches and pains or—with treatments like Akashi and Nirvana—to energise. If you ask them, they will tell you that the name Amrit Kashi is based on a core vision to harmoniously unite the five elements: earth, water, fire, air and sky, a “combination which enables a transformational and balancing experience to align mind, body and soul.” The treatments are holistic and use oils which have been made in house. Interestingly, unlike other spas, all treatments commence with a 10-minute steam treatment rather than the other way round. Note that there are no cross-gender massages here. 

The Food
The food is definitely one of the highlights here. The extensive menu has everything from fresh salads to meaty delights. The plating is contemporary and often results in a work of art on your plate. Do allow the chefs to take you on a journey of modern gastronomic delights tailor-made to satisfy every palate with fresh ingredients that are sourced locally. Still not satisfied? The Neemrana team will go the extra mile to organise exclusive private dinner setups by the Ganges for you.

What to Do
The various activities guests can indulge in during their stay include river rafting, adventure sports, temple visits and spiritual excursions, local shopping near the Lakshman Jhula and day excursions or picnics. There are some interesting treks that can be arranged in the vicinity of the hotel itself. Do try and visit the Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh if you can. It’s a popular tourist attraction now. In addition to this, the hotel arranges private yoga sessions and personal Ganga Arti by the banks of the Ganges in the evening.

Tip: Neemrana also offers the more affordable Himalayan Hideaway close to the Glasshouse on the Ganges now.