In an unexpected twist during their journey back from Australia and Samoa, King Charles III and Queen Camilla made a brief stop in India.
The couple, both seasoned travelers of the subcontinent, took a few days to unwind at the Sukhiya International Holistic Health Centre in Bengaluru, as reported by various Indian media outlets.
This wellness center is known for its offerings of Ayurvedic and homeopathic treatments, alongside yoga and meditation sessions.
The royal couple has frequented this serene sanctuary on multiple occasions, making it a familiar retreat for them.
According to Reuters, their recent stay was part of a private stopover designed to alleviate the fatigue of their long-haul journey back to the UK.
A spokesperson from Buckingham Palace confirmed that the visit was intended to break up the arduous trip, which typically spans over 30 hours and necessitates at least one layover.
The spokesperson emphasized that this detour was not related to any health concerns for the king, aside from the general advice to incorporate suitable rest periods during extensive travels.
The wellness center promotes itself as a holistic destination, aiming to restore balance among mind, body, and spirit.
This philosophy aligns with the couple’s commitment to well-being, particularly following King Charles’ recent cancer diagnosis.
A royal source mentioned that while the stopover was not directly linked to his health, it did serve as a much-needed respite.
Charles and Camilla’s travels come after a significant engagement at the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Samoa, where discussions about reparations for Britain’s role in the transatlantic slave trade took center stage.
This trip marked the king’s first extensive overseas excursion since his diagnosis earlier this year, highlighting the importance of balancing royal duties with personal health.
Upon returning to the UK, the king is expected to resume his cancer treatment.
Despite the challenges posed by his health, plans are already in motion for a regular overseas tour schedule starting in 2025, as confirmed by the PA media agency.
The palace is optimistic about the king’s ability to continue with royal engagements, contingent upon medical approval.
A palace official expressed that this recent trip had been a “perfect tonic” for the king, boosting his spirits and aiding his recovery.
The sentiment echoes across the royal household, as they prepare for what they hope will be a more conventional itinerary for the upcoming year.
As the couple settled into their familiar surroundings in Bengaluru, it was clear that this little getaway was more than just a pause in their journey; it was a chance to rejuvenate and reconnect.