There was a marvellous radiance on the face of my host, Maheshwari, as she welcomed me to Maitreyi.  And the ‘cosmetic’ that made that radiance possible could be 2 things, I concluded: the bracing weather of this hill-fringed resort, or more importantly, the spiritual rejuvenation of mind and body that this place exudes everywhere!

The wisdom of the Vedas (ancient Hindu philosophy) permeated every aspect of my stay here, an eco-friendly, and spiritual and cultural retreat set on 25 verdant acres, in rural Tamil Nadu. Particularly the architecture and design (by Niranjan of Design Tree) - every detail, big or small, is Vaastu-compliant i.e., follows an ancient Vedic science of architecture that observes strict rules of layout and placements, and the use of eco-sensitive building materials, to be in complete harmony with nature.

There are 11 rooms across 5 cottages here, and you can stay in single rooms or double rooms, all very reasonably priced, despite the ‘luxury’ of space and the superior amenities. The setting is idyllic, with the misty Annamalai Hills right outside your window.

Ideal for those seeking new meaning in life through meditation (Maitreyi specialises in TM, or Transcendental Meditation, made popular to the Western world through Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.) Those interested in India’s Vedic Culture, the simple living-high thinking way of life of India’s wise old ancients, will find great rewards in the daily rituals and discussions. Yet even if it’s just pure simple peace you seek, in a place that deeply respects nature, come here. The walks and views and dancing peacocks will keep you entertained.

By promoting Indian culture through a very focussed Vedic way of life, by heightening traveller’s awareness of nature, by many everyday-ways of preserving the sensitive eco-system, this resort is a shining example of practiced responsible tourism.