Relaxing at a resort on Pulinkudi beach

Pulinkudi beach, a 45-minute drive from Trivandrum airport, may not be as well-known as nearby tourist-friendly cousin Kovalam — but that is just what makes this spot the perfect retreat for those serious about their relaxation and recovery. This is where the Surya Samudra resort stands, though it now goes by a new name. Niraamaya, its healing spa, has overtaken the 22 heritage-styled cottage home-from-homes to give the property its new name and new overarching brand image. The recently constituted Niraamaya Retreats now cites the luxurious Surya Samudra (tariffs from Rs 14,000) as its flagship address — though it dubs it Kovalam, there is no such place on that busy beach as the cliff-top site of this resort’s Essence restaurant. Surya Samudra makes an exciting enough discovery for the new initiate into its healthful mysteries, but we’re even more excited for Foxy Lady  — an 8 passenger yacht . Contact niraamaya.in.