How do I tell an authentic Ayurveda centre from a spa that does 'Ayurvedic massages'?

A few signs that you're looking at a treatment centre rather than a spa menu:

1. A doctor's consultation decides your treatments. Look for qualified Ayurvedic physicians (in India, usually a BAMS degree or higher) on the team.
2. Minimum stays. Real programmes run for days or weeks, not 60-minute sessions. Vaidyagrama, Kalari Kovilakom and Prakriti Shakti all start at around two weeks.
3. Diet is part of the treatment. Expect a prescribed vegetarian diet, not a buffet.
4. House rules. Many authentic centres are alcohol- and smoke-free, and some ask you to keep phone use low. Prakriti Shakti doesn't allow alcohol, cigarettes, coffee or tea at all.
5. Medicines are made or sourced specifically, and the plan changes as you respond.

A spa can be lovely for relaxation, just don't expect it to work like a treatment programme.

If you've done a programme, share where and what it was like: that's the most useful thing for the next person.