Neeleshwar Hermitage is a beach lodge with 18 luxurious thatched cottages spread through gardens that contain a magnificent 70ft pool overlooking the sea. All rooms are tastefully done with modern amenities. Neeleshwar is the brainchild of Alistair Shearer, a British historian who built this peaceful, unfussy place where people could relax beside the sea after the rigors of touring southern India. There is a morning yoga class as well as private lessons and full fledged Ayurvedic treatments with resident doctor is available. Hotel guides will take you for a visit to Ayurvedic medicine makers and performances of colorful Theyyam plays and can also arrange backwater cruises in the hotel own rice barge.