Escape Into Nature at Coco Shambhala Maharashtra

The Coco Shambhala – Ayca Spa is the perfect way to welcome the monsoon as you indulge in some deeply relaxing treatments.

Bindu Gopal Rao

Tucked in the quiet coastal town of Sindhudurg in Maharashtra, Coco Shambhala is a retreat that is ensconced in nature and overlooks the stunning Bhogwe Beach. With its tropical environs, the four villa property is all about a luxury, private getaway that is peppered with all things good – including a relaxing spa.

Tropical getaway

Nestled in the extraordinary region of Sindhudurg, this spa sanctuary is designed for complete relaxation. From booking to departure, every detail is meticulously attended to, ensuring you can unwind fully. “Our property, influenced by the land’s healing energy, emphasizes natural beauty and simplicity. Committed to preserving the stunning natural landscape, we built without machines, respecting the natural slope and existing trees. Our structures are surrounded by indigenous tropical plants and can be dismantled without harming the land. Inside, the spaces reflecting a modern take on local architecture, blending seamlessly with the tropical setting,” says Giles Knapton, Founder and Director, Coco Shambhala.

Viewed from the sea, the property looks like part of the village, honouring the land. “We embrace low volume, high impact tourism, attracting guests who value and respect the area’s beauty and culture.”

The Décor

Coco Shambhala celebrates the connection of spaces to nature, providing a therapeutic experience from the moment you enter the property. The 4 private villas allow one a close up heady interface with lush kaleidoscope of tropical greens stretching out to the majestic Arabian sea beyond. “For the spa we wanted an understated entrance within the lush jungle gardens to gently cocoon the guest providing a sanctuary for relaxation. The colour scheme and material are one throughout with a polished organic surface with rounded edges bringing a sense of calm,” says Knapton.

Training cues

“Our team comprises residents, retrained for hospitality, providing an authentic experience of Sindhudurg’s warmth and hospitality. At our spa, every element enhances relaxation and a deep connection with nature, offering an unparalleled escape to tranquillity,” adds Knapton.

The staff are from the local villages and trained in-house to ensure a connection to the place, a consistency in the experience and to provide skills and training within the local community.

Treatment methods

Coco Shambala’s inhouse spa is all things cosy and it is a great idea to book yourself an appointment here. The products used in the spa are by the paraben free brand Ayca that prioritises the use of natural ingredients.

The nourishing and nurturing body massages done here use signature blended massage oils, which calm the mind completely and refresh the body gently. “In this experience we use various pressure point massage techniques to promote physical and psychological well-being. A nourishing formula of sunflower and wheat germ is carefully blended with pure essential oils and applied to the skin for these treatments,” says Knapton. Alternatively you could begin the treatment with a cooling body massage. The pure aloe vera gel used, helps soothe sunburn and hydrates the skin. The products used in the spa are by the paraben free brand Ayca that prioritises the use of natural ingredients.

The treatment

I chose the Invigorating Body Massage – the menu said this was “for those who are feeling the stress” and I connected with that instantly. The treatment begins with a consultation and I am then shown my treatment room. My therapist uses an oil blend containing pure essential oils of Frankincense, Orange and Grapefruit that is massaged into the body to revitalise and stimulate both the body and mind thereby balancing the flow of energy. All three essential oils used in this massage are known for their energising, uplifting, and stimulating qualities. I found my masseur competent and able to use the right pressure suited to my liking. The deeply relaxing ritual takes about an hour at the end of which I am completely relaxed and ready for a steam. It helps that the steam and shower is attached to the therapy room. A warm cup of green tea with honey is the perfect way to end this session.