AYUR YOGA ECO ASHRAM IN MYSORE
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Living in Oslo my husband and I have been to India twice the first time it was for a friend’s wedding in the north and the second was for a south India tour most of which we spent on a houseboat in the backwaters of Kerala sipping on Malibu cocktails, catching fish (in all honesty most of the fish were caught by Raju, the houseboat staff) and counting stars which is interesting when you are on a moving houseboat.
As you all know winters in Oslo turn the city into a white frozen wonderland though it’s not as cold as it looks but you can’t trust the Atlantic winds which can easily crash the temperatures to 25 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 32 degrees Celsius). November to January are the month where most people like us working in the telecom sector go on a winter vacation.
It's been 4 years since our last trip to India not only have we missed the warm beautiful country we have also learnt a lot about Ayurveda and how it could help slow down ageing and help with my husbands back and neck pain he spends too much time staring at the laptop screen at work and when he is not doing that then he is starting at trading charts.
We decided to go to the south of India for a 14 day Ayurveda retreat, we teamed up with Balancegurus to create this amazing list of Beach Ayurveda Retreats in South India it has helped us understand what we should expect and compare different centres and the treatments they offer we created this list with the following criteria
We have taken the liberty to sort this list according to popularity based on reference, online reviews, review quality and the authenticity of treatments and services. Most of what we have mentioned below have been researched online & with the help of team Balancegurus.com hope you enjoy it as much as we did putting it together
Location: Thrissur, Kerala
After reviewing their profile, Sitaram Beach Retreats website and reading 30 to 40 online reviews here is what we like about Sitaram beach Ayurveda retreat Thrissur, Kerala
We found the following review that describes them the best
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Here is what Daria Parkhomenko has to say about Sitaram Beach Ayurveda Retreat Thrissur, Kerala
“Sitaram is a place created with true love and care for its guests, respect to the founder and main doctor of retreat Dr Vignesh who dedicated so much to this all and also his beautiful sister!
One of most important is that you feel at cosy Sitaram like at home and can breath-out from big cities and work stress and receive very personal care not only for your bodily health but also taking into account psychics. I also liked evening lectures by Dr Vignesh.
Our visit was very healing because of these elements together:
We are very grateful to Dr Bhagavaty and Dr Vignesh who persuaded and insisted that my husband should immediately quit smoking (as it was big damage to his heath) and he did!! Dr Bhagavaty was so convincing and resolute!
I wish Sitaram will stay the same family spirit and personal as it’s so valued!” (Source Fb reviews)
Location: Thrissur, Kerala
Nattika Beach and Ayurvedic Resort have quite a few reviews online so it did take us a while. What we like about Nattika Ayurveda Retreat
We found the following review that describes The Nattika Beach and Ayurvedic Resort Thrissur, Kerala quite well
Here is what Ranan has to say about The Nattika Beach and Ayurvedic Resort
“Often when someone goes somewhere memorable and they return the memories are often disappointing. At Nattika nothing could be farther from the truth! If anything it was more amazing than 3 years prior. The service, the personal attention, the healing hands and treatments and of course their amazing "Guru" for yoga and meditation all made us feel like family coming back after too long of a break. No request is too small to be filled, the peacefulness and safety one feels instils a true sense of calm coloured with true Indian hospitality guaranteeing a rejuvenation for whatever might be out of sync. Definitely recommended as a yearly prescription to all-round wellness!” (source Tripadvisor reviews)
Location: Mararikulam, Kerala
What we like about Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort Mararikulam, Kerala
We found the following review that describes them the best
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Here is what Mareike had to say about Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort Mararikulam, Kerala
“I just came back from a week yoga/Ayurveda at the Carnoustie resort. And it's quite hard to get back into reality after such a lovely week being very well looked after and having only people with a smile on their face around us.
It was our first time having Ayurveda treatments and it took a bit to get used to it. As it's not a wellness/spa week. But after a couple of days, we felt very relaxed and finally "arrived". We even wore the outfits they provide every day (you can use for yoga or just wear daily). It's very comfortable and looks also nice - it's perfect as you barely need any clothes then.
It's quite busy days when you also do 2 hours of yoga every day and you have a good/tight schedule. But they are always happy to accommodate changes/wishes etc. You just have to say it. It was probably quite good that it was the end of the low season and not overly busy yet.
We also chose to go for the Ayurveda diet. Food was absolutely delicious and we did not dislike any of the meals. The portion were quite small but we asked for bigger ones and got them automatically every day.
Also any additional wishes are more than welcome at the restaurant. They looked so well after us, we can't thank them enough.
Also the doctors always had an open door and ear for us. My friend started having a problem with her lower back and they straight away helped her and it was gone two days later.
Yoga was also a very special experience. Coming from London where its practiced a lot like a kind of fitness - this yoga really was for the mind and body and we learnt a lot every day. Not to forget about the big big laughs we also had. Thanks again for the great yoga lessons, they will never be forgotten!
We stayed in an Akund Villa (no pool) and it was lovely. There is also a big swimming pool. We were mostly alone there - guess everyone else has their private pool. The beach was also very nice with the hammocks between the palm trees.
Wherever we went, we were greeted with a smile. Everyone was so helpful and friendly - it was unbelievable.
One of the highlights was the boat trip with the resorts boat. Absolutely a must!
Whatever we needed - nothing was too much for them. They even organised us a car and driver to go to the next town/city to explore the area. For no extra costs.
It was a nice change to stay in a resort where they don't charge you here and there for this and that extra and try to make more money on every corner. There was not any additional costs - and we were even able to check out quite late (thanks again)!
I can't recommend this hotel enough - I wish I could go back tomorrow. It's a very special place with very special people. The people there make the difference - they make this hotel even better.” (TA review)
Location: Varkala, Kerala
What we liked about Krishnatheeram Ayur Holy Beach Resort Varkala, Kerala
Here is what Sabine Coble had to say about Krishnatheeram Ayur Holy Beach Resort Varkala, Kerala
“I am a german Yoga teacher and Ayurveda practitioner form California. I have visited Kriahnatheeram multiple times and intend to continue to do so in the future. This resort and the people who work here provide outstanding service and to live up to the highest standards. Dr. Ajeeb is one of the most amazing and talented doctors and teachers of Ayurveda I have come across in the world! Krishnatheeram is a life transforming experience. I highly recommend a stay in this beautiful resort.
Namaste” (fb Reviews)
Location: Kottukal, Kerala
What we liked about Travancore Heritage Ayurveda Resort Chowara, Kovalam
Here is what Mistry had to say about Travancore Heritage Ayurveda Resort Chowara, Kovalam
“We recently visited and stayed at this lovely hotel
The staff were very hospitable and the food was plentiful and tasty
The decor in the rooms could benefit from being updated but have to say very comfortable
We had a sea view that was wonderful to see first thing in the morning when we opened the curtains
Ayurvedic therapy’s were also available with a Dr that is there too
We had 3 treatments and they were just Devine
We would highly recommend a visit to this hotel and the spa therapy’s are well worth it
We requested a king prawn curry from the chef and he was happy and obliged it was just perfect.
In the rooms there we no iron or board no hair dryer so if you use one I would take one with you
The beach about a 10 minute walk but well worth it
Access is a little tricky but there’s a lift to go down to the beach
Fishermen and boats are visible but we felt very safe there .
So overall we loved our stay here and would go again for sure
Thank you for making our trip such a memorable one” (source Tripadvisor reviews)
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Location: Kovalam, Kerala
What we like about Spa Niramaya Resort Kovalam, Kerala
Here is what a guest had to say about Spa Niramaya Resort Kovalam, Kerala
“I have just returned from a Little Gem of Paradise in Kerala.
we stayed at The Niraamaya Retreat .....and the name is in the title ....retreat .
A small intimate place , a member of the Relais Chateau group.
We were greeted by the manager Mr Devansh Jain , who welcomed us like long lost friends and inviting .
We were also lucky to be upgraded to a beautiful room which certainly added to the wonderful experience .
The retreat is Super personable, discreet and attentive at the same time . situated in the most beautiful bay and quiet swishing coconut palms was all you heard..... as well as a beautiful turquoise sea..the food was exceptional and authentic and the staff truly wonderful throughout the retreat.
The Spa was a delight upon delight .all Ayuverdic treatments personally chosen by their on site Doctor who chose a system for me personalised to my needs .
I never really left the retreat as I was so relaxed it seemed too much effort which is also good as I will need to return to un wind relax....and maybe explore its surrounds the next time, and there will be a next time for sure .
There are plenty of places to stay in Kerala, The Niraamaya is a must in my book .!!!!”
Location: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
What we like about Nikki's Nest Ayurvedic Resort Vizhinjam, Kerala
Here is what Sapetta has to say about Nikki's Nest Ayurvedic Resort Vizhinjam, Kerala
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“Relaxing and invigorating holiday at the same time. I was afraid that three weeks would be too long and that I would be bored, but the days passed in a moment. The environment is really welcoming, the mood is familiar, the organization perfect.
I returned home with a state of mind of serenity and good humor, and with more energy.
The resort is well maintained and the garden is very beautiful, full of flowers and birds and with a wonderful view of the sea. The chalet is well equipped and guarantees perfect privacy. Excellent cleanliness. The dining room with sea view is very cozy. Also the yoga room has sea views and is very atmospheric.
The employees are without exception very friendly and always ready to help.
The cook is really extraordinary: every day he prepares a wide range of delicious and always different dishes. Great attention is also paid to the composition of the dishes according to Dosha or nutritional needs. Fresh fruit is also delicious.
The area of the Ayurvedic clinic is very well cared for. There is a pleasant and airy medical consultation room, an infirmary and a dispensary where personalized medicines are prepared for each guest. The treatment rooms are extremely clean and well equipped.
The pool is beautiful and well equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas and towels, but I preferred to spend my time on the beach watching and listening to the sea.
The treatments are simply fantastic: one better than the other, relaxing and energizing at the same time. The therapists are very professional and very friendly and show great attention to all the needs of the guest.
It is also excellent that there is a short consultation with the doctor every day before the treatment.
I also loved the yoga classes offered four times a day. During my stay three teachers took turns and they were all very good (Lallu is the one I personally liked the most). Doing yoga every day changes your life!
In the immediate vicinity there are some interesting shops: a couple of tailors (the nicest is the one on the right, but if you want more complicated jobs better the tailor behind the German Bakery in Kovalam Beach), a store specializing in singing bowls (of really excellent quality) and a Tibetan store with lots of choice, honest prices and a very nice owner.
In addition, inside the resort Maria and Nikki have just opened a small shop that sells clothes of excellent workmanship and taste, traditional toys, soap, scarves and other choosen items: a great place to go shopping, especially since the proceeds are used to finance the care of stray dogs.
If you are attracted by the idea of a relaxing, recreative and regenerating holiday and you like the idea of a family-run resort, which while certainly not the most luxurious in the area, is charming, lovingly maintained, perfectly organized and permeated by a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel immediately at home, then Nikki's Nest is for you. And the beach is undoubtedly the most beautiful in the area!
A tip: if you need something, don't be afraid to ask: they will do their best to help you. For example, you can request a mosquito net on the bed, bring a thermos of tea in the room. or report any complaints to your doctor or therapist who will provide immediate treatment.
Finally I would like to thank in particular my dear therapist Bindhu, the providential and ubiquitous Arun and the girls in the dining room, the kind and impeccable Dr. Praveen and Dr. Geeta, and finally Maria and Nikki, whom I had the pleasure to meet and who are really friendly, welcoming and enthusiastic.
I'll be back - I don't know when, but I'll be back!” (TA review)
Location: Kottukal, Kerala
What we like about Ananda Lakshmi Ayurveda Retreat Kottukal, Kerala
Here is what Francik had to say about Ananda Lakshmi Ayurveda Retreat
“Perfect place for a body and soul recovery! You will not have a buffet, so if you are on a weight loss plan, this is very helpful. The food is vegan, very good and you have a personalised daily dosha based menu. Everybody is concentrated on hydrating your body, so there’s unlimited access to bottled water and herbal or masala water. The rooms are spacious and clean and room service invisible. Get a room with an air-conditioning, as the nights can be very hot and it’s good to cool off after a trip to Kovalam Beach or Trivandrum or Kanniyakumari (Cape Komorin), Neyyar River (Backwater) or even after a day by the pool.
The people are wonderful, honestly smiling and helpful. We received full support from John the manager in organising our friends birthday. The giant size Black Forest cake was better than in many European cake stores and the wedding-like garland was something that the beneficiary will never forget. The cake, the flowers and the rented sari was complimentary from Ananda Lakshmi, so thank you again for making my ideas come true.
The elderly garden woman with her diy umbrella sun protection hat smiling her Suprabhatam ( good morning), makes you wish for such joy at her age. It’s a place that has the best yoga and meditation teacher (at least during my stay in March 2019). Greeting the sun every morning at 6:30 might be a bit too early for someone loving to sleep late ( that is me!!!!), but Surya Namaskar on a terrace with a wonderful ocean view is an unforgettable experience.
Most of the treatments are very relaxing but drinking medicated ghee is very challenging
The daily treatment plan includes those that are carried out every day, like the oil based full body massage and those repeated 3 to 5 times. I recommend Sirovasthi – medicated warm oil being rhythmically poured over your head. It’s a treatment for those overworked and nervous. I could have it every day. This treatment combined with your ability to meditate can give you inner peace and calmness.
I plan to go back and would do it even as a single visitor!!!
My best to: Dr.Priyendhu ( called the lady doctor), John the manager, Chitra my therapist, Aneesh the waiter, the Chef and all the wonderful people that accompanied us during our stay”
Top 8 Beach Ayurveda Retreats in South India recap :
These are only some of the places we really liked the whole list of Beachside Ayurveda Retreats in South India. The most popular Ayurveda treatments in India are Ayurvedic rejuvenation and Panchakarma. Now we can't wait for the winter holidays to go back to India and enjoy the seaside luxury and the best of what Ayurveda has to offer.
