CGH Earth has announced the launch of Sanctuary Amaidiyana, a 23-key resort and spa located on the tranquil fringes of Auroville, designed as a space for holistic well-being that brings together wellness, art, conscious cuisine, and immersive cultural experiences. Named after the Tamil word for peace and tranquillity, the retreat reflects CGH Earth’s philosophy of sustainability, authenticity, and community engagement, offering guests an environment where stillness unfolds naturally within one of India’s most creative and contemplative landscapes.
“At CGH Earth, we believe every space can tell a story when shaped with care,” said Michael Dominic, CEO & Managing Director, CGH Earth, adding that Sanctuary Amaidiyana has been envisioned as a quiet refuge that restores balance while encouraging creative expression, with architecture that is deeply connected to the land, cuisine rooted in seasonality, and wellness integrated as a lived experience.
Designed by Auroville-based architect Mona Doctor-Pingel, the property features contemporary yet grounded architecture, with every element—from doors and metalwork to ceramics and bas-reliefs—crafted by local artisans, while hand-painted artworks by Auroville artists give each room a distinct identity. Among its key highlights are Heiwa, a minimalist wellness space conceptualised by Poppo Pingel, and a dedicated Watsu pool, one of the few purpose-built warm-water therapy sanctums in India, maintained at 32–34°C and housed under a dome inspired by ancient building traditions, designed to enable deep physical and emotional relaxation.
According to George Joseph, Vice President – Operations, CGH Earth, the retreat brings together multiple dimensions of well-being into a single integrated experience, combining Ayurveda, yoga, meditation, and curated local engagements such as e-bike trails, sustainable workshops in Auroville, and heritage walks in Pondicherry. The culinary programme follows CGH Earth’s conscious cuisine philosophy, featuring organic produce from its in-house kitchen garden along with artisanal products from Auroville, and menus that range from traditional Tamil flavours to wellness-focused gourmet offerings and coastal seafood.
With Sanctuary Amaidiyana, CGH Earth continues to strengthen its approach to purpose-driven hospitality, positioning the retreat not just as a place to stay but as an experience centred on calm, creativity, and meaningful connection with both self and surroundings.
