LIVING IN PARADISE @ THE LALIT RESORT & SPA BEKAL

Access to a clean and green environment today has become an extravagance rather than our birth right; The Lalit Resort & Spa is a boon in disguise. Located in close proximity of the Nombili River and the point where the Sea meets the river it is amongst the best beach resorts in Bekal. Away from the hurried city life, this stay is an authentic stress-buster.

We arrived at The Lalit Resort & Spa Bekal in time for dinner, after a pleasant flight with Jet Airways to Mangalore Airport and a one and a half hour drive during which I crossed the Karnataka border and found myself in the delightful green surroundings of Kerala. It was my third visit to God’s own country but the first to Bekal. Upon entering resort, you will be welcomed with sights, sounds and scents to stir your soul and replenish your spirit. The staff at The Lalit welcomed us with tender coconuts harvested from their own trees. This has to be the best welcome drink I have ever had – the water was cool, sweet-smelling and delicious.

MY ROOM

My Luxury room was on the ground floor of a two-storey unit and came with a spacious bedroom, spread out garden and bathroom.

I was ecstatic to see JBL speakers in the bedroom, an inviting Jacuzzi in the bathroom and a tranquil view of the Nombili River backwaters from the alfresco section of my room. And how can I forget the welcome cake, cookies and fruits? The room is perfect for 2-3 people as there is a comfy sofa beside the double bed which comes with an elaborate pillow menu. I had found my place to relax, revive and experience total renewal. It’s was like living in paradise!

CHILL ZONE

After breakfast the next day, we explored the resort, enjoying the freedom of riding side-by-side on the complimentary bicycles. Before heading back for the exploration, we asked our dedicated personal butler (known as the Holiday Host) to book a therapist for a pre-lunch Spa treatment.

Like other resorts, Ayurveda is the prime attraction here as well. Yoga is yet another recreational activity offered to guests in this place, but I left that for later. The spa is sumptuous; its wide range of treatments is performed in rooms with beautiful views. On offer is a widespread range of indulging therapies such as the signature Ayurveda treatments to rounded wellness packages managed by professional practitioners and their resident Ayurveda medical doctor. There are many more treatments for simply relaxing and rejuvenating too. The mission at the Rejuve Spa is to deliver spa experiences that are both unique and memorable and are very mindful to use only the most natural skin care products to balance the mind, body and emotions.

OF BOATS AND OARS

Later that evening, at the calm Nombili River, we put on life jackets and leapt into a boat escorted by a boatman.

Curving through the river’s turquoise green length was like an indulgent ushered by the throbbing lap-lap of the oars. The thick bunches of coconut trees gave way to their beautiful shadows on the water, as our boatman propelled with all his strength. Boat rides and other water activities are complimentary for staying guests. After the short boat ride, we walked down to the beach and laid-back at the lenient sand, away from the bouncing waves with revitalizing coconut water…simply awesome!

BESPOKE DINING EXPERIENCES

The Nombili Restaurant, just beyond the reception, showcases culinary art of this enchanted land at all meal times. Apart from this, sprawling on the 26 acres of land surrounded by verdant greenery and long stretches of sandy river banks, the resort offers unmatched dining experiences.

Over several dinners at several gorgeous venues aka by the Sea side, in a Gazebo by the river and by the glimmering pool, I sampled Avial; ulli theeyal, a piquant shallot curry with a hint of coconut; the crumbly and encrusted Malabar paratha, cottony appams, Payasam, Chicken Tikka with good old roti and a remarkable tender coconut panna cotta. And if you want to just chill and hang out in the evenings with then the ‘Nombili Bar’ it is or better still just order room service!!

STAFF AND SERVICE

Always happy to assist smilingly, this made my stay absolutely delightful. ….The Lalit Bekal Resort & Spa has got it right for sure!  Additionally, I had access to gorgeous views of the Nombili River and splendid amenities!

THE MUST DO’S AROUND

BEKAL FORT

The noteworthy and celebrated Bekal fort is naturally the best which this State has to offer. Situated serenely casing 40 acres of land alongside the shores of the Arabian Sea, this massive fort literally takes you down the leaves of history into the 17^th century. 

The dark brick-stone used in its round structure bids a pleasant disparity to the silvery sound of the seawaters and the delicious green of the native flora that nurtures playing in abundance.

KASARGOD

Just a twenty minute drive from the resort, Kasaragod the town is home to a special weaving co-operative society that is well-known for its elegant Sarees.  It was really captivation to watch the old-style way cotton is turned into yarn, and the many dyeing and interweaving processes which lastly significances in the gorgeous Kasaragod Saree. Of course mom and I bought quite a few! On the way back to the resort do not miss buying some fresh Hot Banana chips for friends and family.

A PLANTATION TOUR & LOCAL LUNCH

Well-known for its beautiful Muliyar forest and vapour clothed meadows; the trekking experience is unquestionably amazing, as one also gets to watch goings-on like coconut tugging as well as get acquainted with the plantation land that crops coconuts, figs, tapioca, bananas, pineapple, guavas, cacao, vegetables and spices like nutmeg, pepper and cinnamon followed by a home cooked local vegetarian lunch.

FAST FACTS

Best Way to Reach: The closest airport is Mangalore and Jet Airways offers the best connectivity. The drive to the resort takes about an hour and a half from the airport. The Lalit, Resort and Spa, Bevoori, Bekal, Kasargod District, Kerala – 671319

Reservations and cost: Rooms begin at Rs 15,000 per night, exclusive of taxes. For bookings, visit http://www.thelalit.com/the-lalit-bekal/

Tel: +91-467 223 7777; Email: bekal@thelalit.com

Best Time to Visit: This is an all-year round property and the monsoons add to the attraction of the river and the beach.