Travel Weekly Australia sat down with Gopal Kumar, group director of wellness development at Kamalaya, to uncover how this Koh Samui sanctuary has become a beacon of holistic transformation.

From its unique integration of Thai traditions to its deeply rooted commitment to sustainability, Kamalaya offers an experience that resonates with both the body and soul.

Here’s what Gopal had to share about this iconic wellness retreat.

Kamalaya Rock Top Villa Pool. (Supplied)

Travel Weekly: Kamalaya has become synonymous with holistic wellness, balancing both medical and spiritual components. How does the resort integrate Thai traditions and culture into its wellness approach to create such a unique experience?

Gopal: Kamalaya is deeply rooted in Thai therapeutic medicine. This goes beyond the Thai massages most people are familiar with. For instance, we’ve introduced a modality called Thai Therapeutic Massage and we also incorporate principles from Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda. It’s not just about relaxation – it’s about understanding your constitution and creating treatments tailored to your needs. We also grow over 20 different herbs on-site and educate our guests about their uses. One standout treatment is the Lanna Abdominal Samunprai Ron Massage, a Thai herbal fire therapy for abdominal health, which dates back to royal traditions. These practices are part of how we honor Thailand’s cultural heritage in meaningful, transformative ways.

TW: Your Life Enhancement Mentors – essentially monks – are integral to Kamalaya’s spiritual component. Can you explain their role and why this concept is so powerful?

G: These mentors have all lived monastic lives and bring a profound depth to their guidance. They’re essentially spiritual psychologists, blending ancient wisdom with modern practices to help guests achieve clarity, balance, and peace. It’s not about religion but rather fostering a deeper connection with oneself. This approach resonates deeply with guests, whether they’re navigating grief, seeking clarity, or simply looking to grow.

Kamalaya Alchemy Tea Lounge. (Supplied)

TW: Sustainability is a key focus for travelers today. How does Kamalaya incorporate sustainable practices into its operations, and how do you see this evolving in the future?

G: Sustainability is part of Kamalaya’s DNA. From the start, we embraced the natural terrain rather than altering it. Our rooms and facilities are designed to blend seamlessly with the environment, preserving the land’s integrity. In terms of food, we prioritize sourcing from local farmers and hydroponic farms, supporting the community and minimizing our footprint. We’ve also incorporated sustainable touches into everyday operations – recycled paper bags, biodegradable straws, and thoughtful waste management systems. It’s all part of our philosophy of conscious living. Sustainability isn’t a trend for us; it’s a way of life.

TW: One aspect that stood out to me was your education initiative for staff. Can you elaborate on how you empower your team and foster their growth?

G: We’re very proud of our Thai Education Accredited Academy, which we established to provide professional training and certification. This means that housekeepers or finance staff with a passion for wellness can train to become therapists and gain nationally recognized qualifications. It’s part of our commitment to nurturing talent from within and ensuring our therapists deliver treatments with consistency and excellence.

TW: Kamalaya has such a high return rate of guests. What do you think drives this loyalty?

G: Around 45–50 per cent of our guests return, which we see as a testament to the transformative experiences they have here. Many guests tell us that Kamalaya is where they find solutions to life’s challenges. For example, one guest who first visited while grieving her mother’s passing returned later to address career overwhelm. She’s now on her third visit, saying Kamalaya is her sanctuary for recalibration. It’s about providing a safe space where guests can reconnect with themselves. Whether they’re seeking peace, creativity, or vitality, we help them rediscover their potential.

Kamalaya Rock Top Villa private Yoga Sala. (Supplied)

TW: There’s a perception that wellness retreats are for people who are unwell. How do you address this and expand your market?

G: That’s a common misconception. Kamalaya is for everyone – whether you’re healing, growing, or simply looking to align with your potential. Our tagline, “Feel Life’s Potential,” reflects this. Health, wealth, and spiritual balance are interconnected. Even if you’re in great health, we can help you elevate it further—whether through yoga, nutrition, or stress management. It’s a 360-degree approach designed for personal growth at every stage of life.

TW: What’s the longest stay you’ve had from a guest?

G: We’ve had several guests stay for up to six months! It’s not uncommon for people to take extended breaks here, especially on our Wellness Sabbatical program, which starts at 21 days. One couple recently stayed for 35 nights on their first visit. These longer stays allow guests to deeply immerse themselves in their wellness journey, often leading to profound transformations.

TW: You’ve mentioned the Wellness Sabbatical program. Can you tell us more about it?

G: We launched the program in late 2019 to cater to guests seeking a longer, more introspective experience. It’s ideal for those taking a career break, transitioning between life phases, or simply wanting to focus on their future. It’s not about checking into a “program” but creating space to reflect, heal, and realign. Guests can customize their stay with treatments, mentoring sessions, and other modalities that support their goals.

Kamalaya Villa Sea View Bathroom. (Supplied)

TW: What role does Kamalaya play in inspiring creativity and productivity?

G: Many guests come here to write books, draft business plans, or map out life goals. The serene environment, combined with our holistic approach, creates the perfect conditions for creativity to flow. It’s not just the treatments – it’s the combination of peaceful surroundings, nourishing food, and expert guidance that fosters this inspiration.

TW: Do you have a favourite guest transformation story?

G: There are so many, but one that stands out is a guest who came after losing her mother. She was overwhelmed with grief and found solace here through our mentors and treatments. On her next visit, she worked through career challenges, and now, on her third visit, she’s thriving. She told me Kamalaya doesn’t provide solutions but gives her the tools and space to find them herself. Stories like hers are why we call Kamalaya a place of transformation.

TW: Finally, what’s next for Kamalaya?

G: We’ll continue to refine and expand our offerings while staying true to our core philosophy. Wellness is an evolving journey, and we aim to remain at the forefront, providing a space for growth, balance, and nurturing the soul. Whether it’s through new modalities, deeper sustainability initiatives, or educational programs, our mission is to help every guest feel their life’s potential.