In Conversation with Mithun Payankool, Resident Manager, The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal

Nestled between Kerala’s tranquil backwaters and the Arabian Sea, The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal offers a seamless blend of luxury, wellness, and authentic regional experiences. Home to the renowned Swasthya Retreat, the resort combines Ayurvedic healing, personalized hospitality, and immersive cultural experiences to create meaningful stays for leisure, wellness, weddings, and corporate retreats. In this exclusive interview, the Resort Manager shares what makes the property unique, its commitment to sustainable tourism, and the vision for positioning The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal as one of India’s leading luxury wellness destinations.

What makes The Lalit Resort & Spa Bekal a truly unique destination for guests?

The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal offers a distinctive blend of luxury, wellness, nature, and authentic Kerala hospitality, making it one of the most unique destinations in the region. Nestled between the serene backwaters and the Arabian Sea, the resort provides a tranquil escape where guests can reconnect with nature while enjoying world-class comfort. What truly sets the resort apart is Swasthya Retreat at The Lalit Resort & Spa Bekal, our signature wellness retreat, which combines traditional Ayurvedic therapies, yoga, meditation, and holistic healing programs curated by experienced wellness experts. Whether guests are seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, or a transformative wellness journey, the resort offers personalized experiences tailored to their needs. Beyond wellness, the resort features spacious suites and villas, private backwater experiences, curated culinary offerings inspired by Kerala’s rich heritage, and immersive cultural activities that allow guests to experience the destination beyond a typical holiday. Its idyllic setting also makes it an exceptional choice for destination weddings, romantic getaways, family vacations, corporate retreats, and bespoke celebrations. At The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal, every stay is thoughtfully crafted to deliver meaningful experiences, blending luxury with wellness, sustainability, and the warmth of genuine Indian hospitality.

How does the resort showcase Kerala’s culture and heritage?

At The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal, Kerala’s rich culture and heritage are woven into every aspect of the guest experience. From the resort’s architecture inspired by traditional Kerala design to its lush coconut groves, serene backwaters, and natural landscapes, every element reflects the timeless charm of the destination. Guests can savour authentic Kerala cuisine prepared using locally sourced ingredients and traditional recipes, offering a true taste of the region’s diverse culinary heritage. The resort also curates immersive cultural experiences, including traditional music and dance performances, local art and craft displays, and destination-inspired activities that provide a deeper connection to Kerala’s vibrant traditions. A key highlight is Swasthya Retreat at The Lalit Resort & Spa Bekal, where centuries-old Ayurvedic healing practices are combined with yoga, meditation, and holistic wellness therapies, allowing guests to experience one of Kerala’s most celebrated cultural legacies.

Additionally, the resort encourages guests to explore the region through curated excursions to iconic attractions such as Bekal Fort, local villages, backwater cruises, and nearby cultural landmarks. These experiences enable visitors to discover the authentic spirit of Kerala while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a world-class resort.

What has been the most rewarding part of leading this beautiful resort?

The most rewarding part of leading The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal has been the opportunity to create meaningful and memorable experiences for our guests while working alongside a passionate and dedicated team. There is immense satisfaction in seeing guests leave the resort feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and connected with the beauty of Kerala.

It has also been incredibly fulfilling to position the resort as more than just a luxury destination. Through our focus on wellness at Swasthya Retreat at The Lalit Resort & Spa Bekal, authentic Kerala experiences, and personalized hospitality, we have been able to offer guests a place where they can truly relax, recharge, and reconnect with themselves. Equally rewarding is empowering our team to deliver exceptional service every day. Watching them grow professionally, embrace our culture of heartfelt hospitality, and consistently exceed guest expectations has been one of the highlights of my journey.

Ultimately, knowing that we have created lasting memories whether for a wellness retreat, a family vacation, a destination wedding, or a special celebration is what makes leading this beautiful resort truly gratifying. Every positive guest experience reaffirms our commitment to delivering world-class hospitality with warmth, authenticity, and care.

How do you motivate your team to consistently deliver exceptional guest experiences?

RM reply: At The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal, we believe that exceptional guest experiences begin with an engaged, empowered, and motivated team. My approach is to foster a culture built on trust, respect, collaboration, and continuous learning, where every team member understands the important role they play in creating memorable moments for our guests.

We encourage open communication, recognize and celebrate outstanding performance, and provide regular training to enhance both technical skills and service excellence. Equally important is empowering our associates to take ownership and make thoughtful decisions that delight guests, ensuring every interaction feels genuine and personalized.

I also believe in leading by example being present, approachable, and actively involved in daily operations. This allows me to understand the team’s challenges, provide timely support, and reinforce our shared commitment to excellence. At a wellness-focused destination like The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal, we emphasize genuine care, empathy, and attention to detail. When our team feels valued and inspired, they naturally extend that same warmth and care to our guests. This people-first philosophy has helped us create a culture where exceptional hospitality is not just a standard, but a way of life.

How is the resort contributing to sustainability and responsible tourism?

At The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal, sustainability is an integral part of our philosophy of responsible luxury. Nestled amidst Kerala’s pristine backwaters and lush landscapes, we are committed to preserving the natural beauty that surrounds us while delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Our initiatives focus on reducing our environmental footprint through efficient energy and water management, responsible waste practices, and minimizing single-use plastics wherever possible. We also celebrate Kerala’s rich cultural heritage by supporting local artisans, sourcing fresh local ingredients, and offering authentic Ayurvedic wellness experiences rooted in traditional healing practices.

Beyond environmental stewardship, we believe responsible tourism is about creating a positive impact on the local community. By generating local employment, partnering with regional suppliers, and encouraging guests to experience the destination in a meaningful and respectful way, we strive to ensure that tourism benefits both our guests and the people of Bekal.

Our goal is to offer a luxurious yet conscious travel experience where every stay contributes to the preservation of nature, culture, and community for generations to come.

What is your vision for the future of The Lalit Resort & Spa Bekal?

Our vision is to position The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal as India’s leading luxury wellness and experiential destination, where guests can reconnect with nature, culture, and themselves. We aim to continually elevate our guest experiences through personalized hospitality, authentic Ayurvedic wellness, and sustainable practices, while showcasing the unique charm of Kerala to travelers from around the world.

What is your favourite spot within the property and why?

My favourite spot at The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal is the tranquil waterfront overlooking the backwaters. It perfectly captures the serenity and natural beauty that make the resort so special. Whether it’s the peaceful sunrise, the gentle breeze, or the calming sounds of nature, it’s a place where guests can truly unwind and reconnect with themselves.