Traditional Practice
Ayurvedic Therapies
in Rishikesh
Almost every Ayurvedic therapy begins the same way: oil, warmed to body temperature, and an unhurried pair of hands. What changes between treatments is where the oil goes, how it is held there, and for how long.
At a glance
- 15–90 min Session duration
- ₹500–₹3,000 Price range
- Traditional Practice Ayurvedic approach
- Rishikesh Himalayan foothills
In short
School Lama offers traditional Ayurvedic therapies in Rishikesh including Abhyanga full-body oil massage, Shirodhara, Marma massage and the localised basti treatments. Sessions run from 15 to 90 minutes and are priced from ₹500 to ₹3,000. Each therapy uses warm herbal oils applied in the classical manner.
Body Therapies
Full-body oil therapies performed with warm herbal oils and traditional hands-on technique.
| Treatment | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Abhyanga (Full Body Massage) A traditional Ayurvedic full-body massage using warm herbal oils and flowing, rhythmic strokes. | 60 min | ₹2,000 |
| Deep Tissue Massage Focused technique using herbal oils, working into the deeper muscle layers. | 60 min | ₹2,500 |
| Marma Massage Traditional work on the marma points using measured pressure and herbal oils. | 60 min | ₹3,000 |
| Aroma Therapy Massage using pre-blended aromatic oils chosen with you before the session. | 60 min / 90 min | ₹2,500 |
Head Therapies
Treatments focused on the head, scalp and shoulders, using warm oil held or worked into the scalp.
| Treatment | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shirodhara A continuous, gentle stream of warm oil poured across the forehead — one of the most settling practices in Ayurveda. | 45 min | ₹2,500 |
| Shiroabhyanga A soothing Ayurvedic head massage using warm herbal oils on the scalp. | 60 min | ₹2,000 |
| Shirobasti Warm medicated oil held over the head within a fitted container for a set period. | 60 min | ₹2,500 |
Basti Therapies
Warm medicated oil held over a specific area within a traditional ring of dough.
| Treatment | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Greeva Basti Warm medicated oil held over the neck within a traditional dough ring. | 30 min | ₹1,000 |
| Kati Basti Warm medicated oil held over the lower back within a traditional dough ring. | 30–40 min | ₹1,200 |
| Uro Basti Warm medicated oil held over the chest area within a traditional dough ring. | 30–40 min | ₹1,200 |
| Janu Basti Warm medicated oil held over the knee within a protective dough ring. | 25–30 min | ₹1,500 |
| Prushta Basti Warm medicated oil applied along the back, covering the upper and lower back areas. | 30–40 min | ₹1,500 |
Steam & Cleansing Practices
Traditional sudation and cleansing practices using medicated steam, herbal poultices and oils.
| Treatment | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Nadi Sweda Warm medicated steam directed to specific areas of the body. | 30 min | ₹1,200 |
| Bashpa Sweda A traditional full-body medicated steam practice. | 10–15 min | ₹800 |
| Patra Potli Swedana Warm herbal-filled poultices applied to the body, using the heat and the herbs together. | 60 min | ₹3,000 |
| Nasya Traditional administration of medicated oils or herbal preparations through the nostrils. | 30 min | ₹1,200 |
| Gandusha / Kaval Traditional Ayurvedic oral practices involving holding and swishing oil or herbal decoction. | 15 min | ₹500 |
| Dhoompanam A traditional Ayurvedic practice involving the inhalation of medicinal herbal smoke. | 9 puffs | ₹500 |
| Akshi Tarpana Medicated ghee held around the eyes within a traditional dough ring. | 35 min | ₹1,500 |
Skin & External Therapies
Herbal pastes, scrubs and oils applied externally in the traditional manner.
| Treatment | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Lepanam Application of herbal pastes or poultices to the skin in the traditional manner. | 60 min | ₹2,500 |
| Mukhalepam A herbal-paste facial practice combining traditional preparation with therapeutic massage. | 45 min | ₹1,500 |
| Ayurvedic Facial Massage Gentle strokes with herbal oils, working with the marma points of the face. | 45 min / 70 min | ₹1,500 |
| Ayurvedic Pedicure Herbal pastes, oils and massage for the feet. | 30 min | ₹1,500 |
| Padabhyanga Traditional Ayurvedic foot massage with warm herbal oils. | 30–45 min | ₹1,500 |
| Herbal Scrub A blended natural scrub used to exfoliate and refresh the skin. | 45 min / 60 min | ₹2,000 |
| Honey-Rose Massage A gentle massage blending honey, rose and milk. | 60 min / 90 min | ₹2,500 |
What to expect
- 01 Arrive You will be asked about your general state and any medical conditions before a therapy is chosen.
- 02 Prepare Most oil therapies are performed on a wooden or treatment table, with appropriate draping throughout.
- 03 Experience Herbal oil is used generously and warm, so bring or request clothing you do not mind getting oil on.
- 04 Rest Many treatments are traditionally followed by a period of rest before showering.
Before you book
These are traditional wellness therapies offered for relaxation and restoration. They are not medical treatment and are not a substitute for care from a qualified healthcare professional.
Tell the practitioner about any medical condition, medication, allergy or pregnancy before booking, as some therapies may not be appropriate.
Herbal oils can stain fabric. Wear or bring older clothes.
For neutral background on this tradition, see Ayurvedic Medicine: In Depth from the US National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
Frequently asked questions
What Ayurvedic therapies are available at School Lama?
School Lama offers Abhyanga full-body oil massage, Shirodhara, Shiroabhyanga and Shirobasti head treatments, the localised basti therapies (Greeva, Kati, Uro, Janu and Prushta), Marma massage, and the Swedana steam therapies including Patra Potli Swedana. Individual treatments range from 15 to 90 minutes.
How much do Ayurvedic treatments cost at School Lama?
Ayurvedic treatments at School Lama are priced from ₹500 for shorter therapies such as Gandusha to ₹3,000 for longer sessions such as Marma massage and Patra Potli Swedana. A full price list by treatment and duration is published on this page.
What is Abhyanga massage?
Abhyanga is a traditional Ayurvedic full-body massage performed with warm herbal oil, using long flowing strokes that follow the limbs and torso. At School Lama it is offered as a 60-minute treatment and is the therapy most guests start with.
What happens during a Shirodhara treatment?
During Shirodhara, a continuous thin stream of warm oil is poured across the forehead for a sustained period while you lie still. The pour is unbroken and the room is kept quiet. At School Lama, Shirodhara is offered as a 45-minute treatment.
Do I need to book Ayurvedic therapies in advance?
The booking process and how far ahead treatments should be reserved is currently being confirmed. If you are travelling internationally, contact the centre before you arrive so a schedule can be arranged around your dates.
Are Ayurvedic therapies suitable for everyone?
Not necessarily. Some Ayurvedic therapies may not be appropriate during pregnancy, with certain medical conditions, or alongside particular medications. Tell the practitioner about your health circumstances before booking, and consult your doctor if you are being treated for any condition.