Your Guide to Yoga Retreats in Sri Lanka
June 1, 2023
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What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you think about Sri Lanka? Hold that thought, because once you finish reading this post, you’ll realize how much you didn’t know about this marvelous country.
OK, if you thought of Sri Lanka as a land of diverse culture, beautiful beaches, rich wildlife, ancient ruins, friendly people and delicious tea, then, congratulations! You guessed it right. However, there’s so much more you can still learn about this precious jewel in the Indian Ocean.
In this article, we’re sharing why this country has become one of the most popular destinations for yogis in recent years, which are the best places for a yoga retreat in Sri Lanka, as well as some hand-picked retreat options.
Why is Sri Lanka special for yoga?
Image credit: Rukgala
With about 70% of the country's population following the Theravada Buddhism teachings, you can easily find quietude and calmness in Sri Lanka. So, it’s not difficult to imagine why it’s home to some of the best yoga retreats worldwide. That said, you should also know some specific highlights that are closely related to yoga.
For example, Sri Pada – meaning the sacred foot – is a hallowed mountain well-known for its footstep-shaped mark at the summit. Christians and Muslims believe it is Adam’s footprint from when he first stepped on Earth after being kicked out of paradise. Buddhists think that the footprint belongs to Buddha, while Hindus consider it to be Lord Shiva's footstep.
Whichever your faith is, there’s no doubt this is a special place to be. Just think about how amazing it is to be on a mountain that’s so sacred for all the main religions in the world. Moreover, assuming that the footprint is actually Buddha’s or Lord Shiva’s, it makes it even better for yogis.
Another unique place to visit during your trip to Sri Lanka is Anuradhapura, where you can find the oldest tree planted by humans – Sri Maha Bodhiya. Not only is it a 2,300-years old Bodhi tree, but it’s also said to be the child of the Bodhi tree under which Lord Buddha achieved enlightenment. Who knows? Maybe Sri Maha Bodhiya has the same magic as her mama tree to help you find inner peace.
Lastly, a peculiar relic, the tooth of Lord Buddha, can be found in the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy. But before you get too excited to see this precious piece, know that you don’t actually get to see it. Nonetheless, you can take part in the Esala Perahera (Festival of the Tooth) which takes place during the summer
It’s a massive celebration consisting of a colossal procession with over 5,000 dancers, drummers and fire jugglers all wearing elaborated traditional costumes, and up to 100 embellished elephants. It’s such an important event, that people from all across Sri Lanka head to Kandy just to witness it.
Want a picture of how it is? If you ever watched the Aladdin movie, just think of the moment when he’s entering Agrabah pretending to be Prince Ali and you’ll get an idea of what to expect.
A little bit of history and other things to do in Sri Lanka
Image credit: Saraii Village
Legend says it all started in the 5th century BC when an Indian Prince named Vijaya, accompanied by 700 followers, discovered the island today known as Sri Lanka. Since then, astonishing cities, palaces, temples, monuments and gardens have been built.
The country is a natural paradise. Though it’s just slightly larger than the US state of West Virginia, it hosts 504 species of birds and 125 mammal species including big animals such as elephants, leopards and whales. So, if you’re a safari enthusiast, make sure to visit the Yala National Park in Hambantota or head to Mirissa for whale and dolphin watching.
Other activities you can do to complement your yoga holiday are trekking, surfing hiking, rock climbing, deep-sea fishing, diving and hot air ballooning. Or, why not indulge yourself with the vivid flavors of Sri Lanka’s cuisine? You can try one of the most popular dishes – Fish Ambul Thiyal – a sour fish curry, which is very spicy, yet very delicious!
Best places for a yoga retreat in Sri Lanka
Image credit: Sundaram Yoga Sri Lanka
Once you set foot in Sri Lanka, you’ll realize that there’s a sense of serenity all across the island. It doesn’t matter if you’re in a village, a big city or on a beach; you’re bound to feel it! If you choose the coastline for your retreat, you’ll bump into scenic views, gorgeous sandy shores and pristine waters. Some of the most popular beaches you’ll want to visit are:
- Matara, known for having many gorgeous ancient forts and a wide variety of yoga retreats.
- Unawatuna, a place of golden sand and calm blue waters, famous for turtle nesting and Ayurveda retreats.
- Weligama, a lively fishing town that’s also home to several beach resorts. Famous for its boutique hotels with a big number of wellness centers offering from traditional Ayurvedic treatments to luxurious holidays.
- Arugam Bay, one of the best surfing spots across the world. Here you can greatly improve your yoga skills by joining a yoga and surf retreat.
If you’re interested in combining surf and yoga, here are 3 things you need to know before your first surf and yoga retreat.
Image credit: The Kandy Samadhi Center
However, if you prefer to stay in a city, head to Kalutara, a perfect location for a yoga vacation where you can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere while performing your favorite asanas. It also has one of the most famous sacred and devotional Buddhist sites in the country, Kalutara Bodhiya.
Another option would be Kandy in central Sri Lanka, surrounded by tea plantations and home to the Kandy Lake, which is a perfect place to meditate while strolling around. This city is also famous for having sacred Buddhist sites such as the above-mentioned Temple of the Tooth.
A popular thing to do when visiting Kandy is taking a train trip to Ella; it’s considered one of the most beautiful rides in the world thanks to the lush tea plantations and impressive landscapes that surround the railroad.
Top Yoga Retreats in Sri Lanka
Yoga, Trekking, Cooking, and Reforestation Retreat in Kandy, Central Province
- Yoga Styles: Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin
- Skill level: All levels
- Availability: June 2023 till April 2024
- Duration: 4 days
Immerse in nature on this affordable yoga retreat in Sri Lanka. Located just 19km (12mi) from Kandy, it is secluded enough to provide a true ecotourism experience. Furthermore, by attending this retreat you’ll contribute to the Forest Healing Foundation.
You’ll enjoy two yoga classes a day, five sessions in total during your stay, which include meditation as well. Chances are you’ll be accompanied by wildlife such as monkeys and deer during the lessons.
You’ll also interact with the local communities, visit villages, trek through the jungle, swim in a waterfall, and enjoy a local cooking lesson.
The package includes three delicious meals a day featuring authentic Sri Lankan dishes cooked on a hearth in clay pots, as well as Western dishes. Local fruits, vegetables, and spices are used in preparing the meals. You’ll also get unlimited tea and coffee.
Private Surf Camp and Yoga Holiday in Mirissa, Southern Province
- Yoga Styles: Hatha, Aerial
- Skill level: All levels
- Availability: June till December 2023
- Duration: 15 days
This 15-days private surf camp and yoga holiday in Mirissa is an excellent choice if you want to travel with your family or a group of friends. The group of 6 people will have exclusive rental of the villa.
The highlights include 12 yoga classes, 12 surf sessions, and 3 relaxing massages. However, the program is completely flexible. You can do the activities when and as you like.
Enjoy morning yoga in the shade of palm trees and sunset yoga on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. Aerial Yoga is also held twice daily, on the rooftop overlooking the jungle!
A standard breakfast is included every day, which can be either continent or traditional Sri Lankan. You may pay for lunch and dinner at the resort. Or you can check out the many restaurants lining the beach.
Natural Detox and Yoga Retreat in Kalutara, Western Province
- Yoga Style: Hatha
- Skill level: All levels
- Availability: All year round
- Duration: 15 days
Detoxify your body and mind during this 15-days yoga retreat in Sri Lanka.
On arrival, you’ll have a consultation with the Ayurveda doctors. Based on the assessment and your wellness objectives, the doctors and therapists will work with you to help achieve optimum results during your stay.
The program includes daily yoga and meditation, daily Ayurveda detox treatment, workshops, and cooking classes. You’ll also take walks in the plantation, paddy fields, and around the village.
The package also includes three daily Ayurvedic meals. The food is vegetarian and the majority of the food comes from the plantation’s organic gardens.
Yoga, Paddle-Boarding, Massage, and Hiking in Digana
- Yoga Styles: Vinyasa, Yin
- Skill level: All levels
- Availability: May till December 2023
- Duration: 4 days
Indulge in a serene retreat in Digana, where you can escape your daily routine and immerse yourself in rejuvenating activities such as yoga, paddle-boarding, massage, and hiking.
Situated in the tranquil hills of Sri Lanka, you’ll be staying at a beautiful accommodation. Rukgala offers eight guest bedrooms with private spaces and picturesque views.
Immerse yourself in a rejuvenating program that combines invigorating morning yoga or a sunrise paddle on the lake. You’ll also have ample time to explore local villages and temples, blissful relaxation with massages, and inspiring art therapy.
In addition, the retreat includes an excursion that takes you on a guided hike to the ancient Bambaragala rock temple summit of Pettigala. Here, you can bask in the ancient Buddhist monasteries and breathtaking panoramic views.
This wholesome package includes delicious healthy vegetarian meals of traditional Sri Lankan and Western dishes. You’ll also be served fresh king coconuts after your morning yoga classes.
Relax & Unwind in Mirissa, Southern Province
- Yoga Style: Hatha
- Skill level: All levels
- Availability: June till December 2023
- Duration: 8 days
Treat yourself to an amazing yoga experience in a beach town on Sri Lanka’s south coast. It’s the perfect setting to boost your practice with the personalized guidance of professional yoga instructors.
You’ll be just a hop from the beach, at the quiet end of busy Mirissa Beach. Facilities at the camp include a café, restaurant, chill-out lounge, hammocks, snorkeling equipment, and more. You’ll stay in one of the six rooms, aptly named after surfing moves and yoga postures.
The program, suitable for all ages and fitness levels, includes 12 yoga sessions, 3 surf sessions, daily breakfast, and dinner, as well as one relaxing massage.
You’ll also have plenty of time to explore the beautiful surroundings and join different optional activities such as tea factory visits, turtle watching, or city tours.
Quick facts and tips for your holiday in Sri Lanka
Image credit: God Vibes Villas
Sri Lanka isn’t as cheap as you would expect compared to other countries in South Asia. If you’re looking for an affordable trip, consider traveling during the monsoon seasons between May and September in the southern and western regions, and between October and January in the northern and eastern areas. However, if you don’t mind hitting the peak season, you can plan your trip between December and March and you’ll probably have more retreats available.
Keep in mind that unless you’re from the Maldives, Seychelles or Singapore, you need to get a visa to enter. But don’t let this discourage you, it’s easy to obtain it through an online application process that you can find directly on Sri Lanka’s website.
Know that Sri Lankans are among the friendliest people on the planet and could be quite humorous. For example, they like to put a “hotel” sign outside restaurants, cafes and bars (which can very much confuse tourists) just because they think it’s funny.
Likewise, they’re sort of upside-down when it comes to saying yes or no with their head. To show consent, they shake their head from side to side and when they nod it means no. Make sure you don’t mix up body language! But if it turns out too difficult to keep up with their gestures, don’t worry, many people speak and understand basic English.
Finally, here you have a few easy words in Sinhala you can learn to make your trip more enjoyable:
- For “hello”, you’ll say Ayubowan, which means “may you live for long”.
- For asking “how are you?”, Kohomadha.
- To thank someone, Istuti.
- And for saying “okay”, you’ll say Hari Hari.
All in all, Sri Lanka is a delightful destination to visit, with great cultural heritage, tranquil blue waters, incredibly diverse wildlife, great cuisine and lots of adventure sports to try. It’s so vast and beautiful that you’ll never want to leave!
Are you a first-timer? There are several yoga retreats in Sri Lanka for beginners!