In 1982, on the serene banks of the Nethravathi River in Dharmasthala, Shanthivana was established, literally meaning “forest of peace”, with just 20 beds. It was India’s first independent Yoga and Nature Cure Hospital. The hospital began with a simple philosophy – cure without medicines, heal through nature, transform through lifestyle. Using only hydrotherapy, mud therapy, fasting, diet therapy, yoga, and massage.
Today, the primary Shanthivana campus in Dharmasthala spreads across 53 acres of green sanctuary. The hospital operates 24/7 with 300 beds, offering treatments for Diabetes, hypertension, obesity, asthma, arthritis, chronic pain, skin disorders, digestive disorders. And also treats lifestyle diseases such as – stress, depression, insomnia, fatigue, metabolic syndrome, coupled with post-operative recovery. Costs are remarkably affordable, a 21-day intensive program that would cost Rs. 2-3 lakhs at urban wellness centers costs Rs. 50,000-80,000 at Shanthivana, making it accessible to middle and lower-middle-class Indians.
SDM Yoga and Nature Cure Hospital Shanthivana, Dharmasthala
