While the resorts and classified hotels get their routine clients, the traditional exponents of massages are also doing roaring business.

Ambi Asan, a fourth generation traditional expert in massaging, says though he now advertises his services, he has got a large number of clients by word of mouth publicity.

"I use herbal oils that I prepare and my massage is just for a minute or two. For best results, clients have to come and stay near my house and have to apply my oil throughout the day. The results are visible in a week," said Asan, who stays close to the famed Kovalam beach near here.

The state health and tourism departments are conducting surprise checks at all resorts to see that fly-by-night operators under the disguise of ayurveda do not take tourists for a ride.

Ayurveda believes in the treatment of not just the affected part but the whole body. According to experts, it is a natural way to refresh oneself by eliminating all toxic imbalances in the body and thus regain resistance and good health.