Rhino & River Launches Nature-Led Wellness Inspired by Mayong's Healing Heritage

Rhino & River Wildlife Retreat & Spa, set between the Brahmaputra River and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam, has launched a new range of nature-led wellness offerings inspired by the traditional healing heritage of neighbouring Mayong. Pobitora is known for holding the highest density of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros on Earth, with over 107 rhinos inhabiting just 38.8 square kilometres.

Designed to complement active days spent exploring the wild, the treatments include individual body and massage therapies tailored to calm muscles after a safari, exfoliating botanical scrubs and body wraps, and plant-based facial therapies using regional hydrosols and botanical extracts. Mindful movement practices, including pranayama, yoga nidra and guided meditation, are integrated into guest stays, with multi-day wellness immersions ranging from three to five days.

Rooted in Mayong's healing heritage

The retreat does not claim to recreate sacred age-old Mayong rituals; instead, it weaves the region's botanical wisdom into modern spa services. Some treatments feature native leaves, roots, flowers and medicinal plants sourced from Assam and the broader North-Eastern region. Massage treatments use warm natural base oils, such as sesame and sweet almond oil, infused with indigenous herbs and complemented by essential oils including lavender, geranium and bergamot. Body scrubs combine almond meal, shea butter and botanical ingredients, while facial therapies use plant-based hydrosols, botanical extracts and natural mineral clays. Treatments begin and end with simple grounding rituals such as pranayama and meditation, and local heritage is expressed through regional decor, natural textures, indigenous aromatherapy blends and treatment titles rooted in Assamese tradition.

Personalised nutrition

The spa offerings are paired with a personalised nutrition programme. The day begins with warm herbal drinks, seasonal fruits, a light breakfast and optional morning yoga or breathing sessions. Lunch features fresh local vegetables, seasonal Assamese produce, whole grains, plant-based proteins such as lentils and beans, salads and light herbal beverages. Coconut water, regional herbal teas and light snacks follow in the late afternoon, and dinner is an early, easily digestible meal of clear vegetable soups, steamed local greens and light grains. Every menu is customised around dietary requirements, intolerances, allergies, lifestyle habits and personal wellness goals.

The Nirban Spa

At the heart of the retreat lies the Nirban Spa, conceptualised with local materials, open spaces and gentle natural lighting. Facilities include private treatment rooms, dedicated couples' suites, steam and thermal spaces, open-air relaxation zones overlooking river views and forest foliage, and a yoga and movement pavilion for daily yoga, pranayama and private meditation.

“The wellness experience at Rhino & River leaves a lasting impression because of its integration with Pobitora’s natural landscape. It serves as a natural addition to the guest experience. The wellness offerings enhance the thrill of wildlife exploration with moments of quiet restoration,” said Vikas Agarwal, Managing Director and CEO of SM Developers. “By celebrating the healing heritage of Mayong, prioritising clean regional nutrition, and grounding every treatment in the quiet majesty of the Brahmaputra, we hope to provide a well-rounded wilderness journey where nature herself becomes a partner in our guests’ physical and mental restoration.”