Neeleshwar is a tranquil area in the less discovered north of Kerala. Far away from the usual tourist circuits, it is made up of empty beaches fringed by coconut plantations, uncrowded inland waterways and lush hillside spice gardens which border the waterways and ocean. A visit here is to see a very different side of Kerala, fragrant spices, ancient arts, discreet temples and charming people. The long beach is clean and great for swimming; deep and safe. The nearby lagoon and backwaters are ideal for short, man-powered, blissfully silent and romantic cruises on one of the very few houseboats to ply the area.