In the secluded, landscaped grounds of Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai is nestled a hedonist’s haven. The Dheva Spa and Wellness Centre is Thailand’s first world-class Destination Spa, unique both in concept and its stunning architecture.

The spa is a palatial 3,100 square metre sanctuary embellished with ornate mouldings and sculptures depicting sacred animals and symbolic Buddhist motifs, loyally recreated by 150 Chiang Mai artisans from the original Burmese template in Mandalay, Myanmar. The entire complex took them over three and a half years to complete.

The Dheva Spa’s spectacular exterior is equally matched by the sumptuous interiors, where guests can enjoy impeccable service and a range of treatments drawn from three continents, their origins spanning 4,000 years. At the same time, the spa draws on time-honoured rites which were very much part of the ancient Lanna kingdom, of which Chiang Mai was the royal capital.

The tranquil treatment rooms feature an inspirational décor of Thai silk, polished teakwood and marble tiles, punctuated with authentic Asian antiques. The 18 rooms and suites are designed to offer both individuals and couples a soothing refuge from urban stress and angst, where the journey to wellbeing can begin.

The Treatments

The Dheva Spa and Wellness Centre proudly offers a wide variety of European, Asian and North African relaxation therapies, as well as Indian holistic treatments based on Ayurveda from the Sanskrit meaning ‘science of life’.

Among the many unique features are the Watsu Pool, soothing Vichy showers, elegant Hammams and giant rain showers beautifully appointed among the spa’s dark wood panel chambers.

Popular Thai, Swedish and ancient Indian massage techniques are available, as well as a blissful range of aromatherapy therapies.

Some of these rituals are unique to Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai. Many have their roots in Lanna culture and have been revived by a team of spa specialists and historians. The Tok Sen, or Lanna Massage, is just one example. Once popular in northern Thailand, this stimulating massage technique is rarely practised today.

Tok Sen involves applying warm herbal oil to the whole body and gently massaging the tissue along pressure points. The therapist then takes a light gavel made of tamarind wood and taps rhythmically along the muscles. This even, repetitive motion promotes a hypnotic effect on the mind, thus easing muscle tension and promoting relaxation.

Similarly The Mandalay Experience, lasting three hours and twenty minutes, is unique to Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai. It uses Thai kaffir lime together with the natural Burmese cosmetic thanaka as a gentle body scrub.

Not all treatments are of Asian origin. The Rhassoul is derived from an ancient Arabic cleansing ritual in which the guest lies in a steam room wrapped in mineral-rich river mud that slowly draws toxins from within. As the mud dries, the lights dim and a gentle herbal mist sprinkles tiny droplets of water from the ceiling. The mist helps keep the rejuvenated skin hydrated while the herbs help boost the respiratory system. The ritual ends as the mud is gently washed away by a warm rain shower.

Following in the footsteps of the world-class The Oriental Spa in Bangkok, the therapies at Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai reflect the same levels of excellence while at the same time loyally incorporate northern Thailand’s own unique cultural identity, its graceful charms and gentle pace.

The spa’s health specialist team will customize treatments to meet individual dosha - or body type - needs. The purposely built Ayurvedic suite is dedicated to providing a wide range of time-tested Ayurvedic treatments and therapies.

Other facilities include:

• Herbal garden featuring organic herbs which can be used in treatments or as fresh ingredients in meals
• Yoga and Tai Chi areas
• Outdoor exercise areas
• Ayurvedic meals prepared especially to meet specific dosha needs.

Mandarin Oriental’s holistic approach encompasses spirit, mind and body, and takes into account the whole of one’s life - career, family, social activities, environment, nutrition, exercise, mental frame, spiritual life and astrology. Specialists provide personalized care and attention through effective, natural therapies explaining the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of issues relating to health.

Treatments are custom-made and may combine the use of natural herbs, spices, therapeutic massage and techniques, aromatherapy, color therapy, music, meditation and others.

Guests are taken through a thorough consultation using the latest in diagnostic technology. Diagnosis focuses on healing root-causes of illness, prevention of disease and longevity.

A concise and personalized health plan can also be developed covering diet, exercise, rest, relaxation and lifestyle.

Guests can participate in extended stay programmes ranging from one to 21 days, and retreats of up to six weeks. All are designed to meet individual needs.

Spa Philosophy

The Dheva Spa and Wellness Centre’s Ayurvedic Health Specialist, Dr Sunita Shakhar Mahamuni, has much experience working in alternative medicine and holistic therapies in Thailand and India. She proudly sees Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai as providing services which go far beyond those of a conventional spa centre.

“In our philosophy, and the philosophy of holistic therapists and naturopaths all over the world, it is the overall wellbeing of our guests that is imperative. Our responsibility is to help them help themselves. Ultimately it is a personal journey they take alone, but we do believe it should be an enjoyable one, and one in which we can assist them along the way.

“Here in Chiang Mai, we have a unique advantage over other spas in that we have a facility providing extensive holistic treatments aimed at long-term rebalance, as well as wonderfully indulgent spa experiences which boost the self-esteem and make our guests feel - and look - years younger! Our holistic centre complements the spa, and the Ayurvedic Health Specialist team offers authentic Indian herbal oil treatments with plants grown in our own soil - one of the basic principles of Ayurveda.

“Of course, apart from our unmatched treatments, it is the service at Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai that makes it so memorable. It is all about honouring and respecting the guest. After all, Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai is modelled on an ancient Lanna palace and we want our guests to feel like royalty.”