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
17th 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.
