4 Days Yoga Retreat in Sri Lanka

"I stayed at Kandy Samadhi Center in Sri Lanka this past winter for a yoga retreat. It is a wonderful place, but I wouldn't consider it a yoga retreat. Rather it is a beautiful and peaceful rustic resort that provides yoga. A wonderful place to relax and be close to nature. Staff was extremely welcoming and helpful, and the food was delicious."

BookYogaRetreats.com, edited

"From 1-10 my rating for the Samadhi Kandy center is 11! This place is absolutely magical and my stay here was just perfect. The place was even nicer than I expected. It has a unique location in the mountain and the middle of the jungle, next to a running river that creates the most serene atmosphere. It is a perfect place if you want to reconnect with yourself or spend some special time with your significant other. The food was exquisite, the personnel super nice and the owners were wonderful. Yoga classes in the morning in contact with nature are unique. I experienced nothing like this before. This was definitely a memorable stay and I hope I can come back some day."

BookYogaRetreats.com Website, edited

"My stay at the Kandy Samadhi Center was great! The staff there is very friendly and accommodating. I was one of the few guests there traveling alone that week and they helped make me feel comfortable and welcome. It was also my birthday week and they offered me a free room upgrade, free spa treatment and surprised me with a birthday cake! That was really above and beyond and sweet, and that made my experience there even more enjoyable. Besides that, the yoga instructor was very knowledgeable and provided a lot of personal attention, especially with regard to proper alignments. Knowledge I'll take back home. The center itself is very remote and peaceful. The food offerings were delicious and each meal was a good spread. Comparing my room upgrade to the other mud rooms, I think the upgrade made a big difference as I had much more space and natural light, particularly since I had my own private terrace to wake up to and sip some tea on. All in all, I had a great experience there and I'd highly recommend it to others interested in doing a yoga retreat in Sri Lanka!"

BookYogaRetreats.com Website, edited

"We had the most incredible experience at Samadhi centre!The accommodation, the food, the massages, the yoga and the staff we all amazing! It's so beautiful and the ultimate "getaway". I would definitely recommend staying at Samadhi and hope to visit again someday. Waruna and Yumi were great, kind hosts. I would rate it 10/10. Thank you for all your help and for recommending Samadhi to us!"

BookYogaRetreats.com website, edited

"It was one of those great vacation moments when I arrived to Kandy Samadhi center. I didn't really know what to expect, as I had not vacationed in such accommodation before so I was a little nervous about lied ahead. The experience was exhilarating. Perfect combination of beautiful outdoors, the warmth of the staff made me feel very welcome. The can-do attitude of the staff I think is the biggest selling point of this place. The entire center feels so organic, natural, and in tune with the surroundings of itself. Rooms are big, spacious. There is also plenty to do around without going to Kandy, such as visiting high altitude tea plantations within 10 minute driving distance, walking in the jungle path and river bathing. My only regret is that I had to leave early on my last day. I would recommend at least 5 full days at this center. Yoga teacher is super nice, she will adjust to your ability level and push you just enough to challenge you. It's a very versatile place. Don't treat this place as just for yoga and meditation. It's a great place to stay away from the hustle and bustle of Kandy, and do plenty around it as well. Kanchana, Athula and Saliya all did an amazing job of making my stay comfortable and smooth."

BookYogaRetreats.com website, edited

"My stay at the Kandy Samadhi Centre was a perfect blend of relaxation and toughness that I needed during my first vacation to Sri Lanka. I truly enjoyed the quietness that the Centre provides, being just north of Kandy and being surrounded by jungle and forest rather than other buildings and people. The staff and managers at the Centre were wonderful in welcoming me to the Centre after a long and crazy transfer from Colombo airport and were able to take care of my smallest needs in order to allow me to rest from my long journey.The food was amazing and I never knew that you could make a curry from pineapple and bananas. I am still craving those wonderful dishes and am scouring the internet to find the closest thing to them for me to make them myself. The yoga in the early morning was a great wake up for tired muscles and June was a great teacher who was able to allow me to adjust my poses as needed (I have a wrist injury that prevented me from doing all the poses). She was very knowledgeable about each pose and how it would help our muscles relax to achieve the stretch we needed. I would have loved to just take class with her for more time everyday if I could have. I appreciated the guided tours of a nearby waterfall and a tea plantation that the Centre provided for guests and was just what I needed to help me see the area around the Centre without causing me to feel like I was an ordinary tourist or member of a large group. Lastly, the massages I had were excellent and I don't know when I have had better. The male massage therapist was great at getting to the deep tissue problems that I had and made me feel relaxed and like jell-o after an hour of work. I am telling all of my friends about the Centre and showing them pictures that I took. I fully intend to come back and stay for longer when I next have a chance because I had such a wonderful, relaxing time and can't think of any other way to have a vacation than to have a vacation here."

BookYogaRetreats.com website, edited

"This is the perfect place for complete relaxation. The rooms are lovely - particularly the larger ones high up the side of the valley. Mine was huge, with beautiful furniture and a great bathroom. You can lie outside you rooms watching birds and squirrels during the day and read in your rooms in the evening. All you can hear in the evening are tree frogs. One big bonus for me that there were no insects or any other forms of wildlife in the rooms. The path to the communal eating areas is lit by oil lamps as is the restaurant area. The food is delicious and the fruit and vegetables were beautiful. They did actually have alcohol at the retreat as well as Wi-Fi. The yoga was excellent as were the massages. I had a five-day package which included yoga and a massage everyday which I thought was really good value. All the staff were very helpful and welcoming."

BookYogaRetreats.com website, edited

"My stay in Samadhi was beyond expectations. A truly beautiful and peaceful place, made with a lot of taste! But one should know, it's a place for retreat and disconnection. It's 30 to 35 minutes away from Kandy and be prepared to see some unusual reptiles! Overall great experience. Would definitely go back!"

BookYogaRetreats.com website, edited

"I did indeed have a very pleasant stay. I found the place to be just what I needed for a short rejuvenation trip. The food is very healthy and delicious, and I like the fact that there are minimal varieties on the buffet, but all of them complement one another. The atmosphere of the place is very green and secluded in a good way from the rest of the world. You can sit back and enjoy a good book in your private pavilion while you listen to the sounds of a flowing river. The staff is really nice, especially Jack. Everyone had a smile on their face and I felt very welcome. The yoga was very intensive and Janaka was very attentive that we do all the poses in a way to get out the most benefits from it. I will and have recommended Kandy Samadhi Centre to my friends and family. Hope to see you guys again in the near future!"

BookYogaRetreats.com website, edited

"We had a lovely 4 nights here at the start of our 2 week tour of Sri Lanka. Blew us away. It's a 45min drive from Kandy up in the hills. The most tranquil place we have ever stayed. Rooms were huge and spread about the vast grounds, antiques from ancient Sri Lanka hand picked placed about the public areas and guest rooms. Oil lamps at night light up your way across the old tea terracing lead you to the dining area."

"We spent all our time on site swimming in the rivers, relaxing, chilling. We had a couple of massage which were the best I had ever had and excellent value and also had my first ever Yoga classes which were really stretching. The food was so good. I had never eaten so much vege food, hadn't realized vege was so good. I wish i had had a couple of cooking classes as they blend the spices so well and use little or no chilli in the dishes. (next time)"

"I wish also I had brought a memento antique from the wee shop down stairs because we never found anything else on our travels. (next time). You will love this place. If you have bad knees or you are VERY unfit ask for a room lower down the terrace as it is a climb to the rooms at the top of the terraces. The few staff are the best ever, Waruna and his family are just so nice and make you feel very welcome..We will be back one day!"

Trip Advisor website, edited

"Your first step into Samadhi will be through a remarkably ornate vintage door. It feels as though you're entering a different world; an old world yet unexplored and still full of wonder, unspoiled by human footprints. And you are. Welcome home."

"The rustic charm of Samhadi makes it deliciously unique. Full of old world antique decor and multi style artwork, every nook seems to hold a little surprise or treasure. If you're lucky enough to meet Waruna, he'll tell you his love of antiques is a form of time travel to him. Couple this with the pristine nature you're surrounded by such as waterfalls, mountains, exotic birds and lush foliage- and it's a recipe for pure magic!"

"Samhadi has offerings ranging from Ayurvedic treatments, hiking and fun outdoor adventures, alluring honeymoon suites, yoga and meditation. The food is mostly grown on the property so it's as fresh and healthy as it is delicious! The dining hall sits peacefully atop the river. With the soothing sound of the water, even your meals become a spiritual experience."

"The staff is comprised of the most genuine, helpful, lovely individuals imaginable. They're aware of everything going on at the resort and highly attuned to the needs of the guests. Each night I went back to my room from dinner the path was lit with oil lamps for me. The attention to detail was impeccable and the service was 5 star. I've done a lot of travel this is hands-down the most special place I've been. I'm still dreaming of it. A stay here is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!"

Trip Advisor website, edited

"From 1-10 my rating fos the Samadhi Kandy center is 11! This place is absolutely magical and my stay here was just perfect. The place was even nicer than I expected. It has a unique location in the mountain and the middle of the jungle, next to a running river that creates the most serene atmosphere. It is a perfect place if you want to reconnect with yourself or spend some special time with your significant other. The food was exquisite, the personnel super nice and the owners were wonderful. Yoga classes in the morning in contact with nature are unique. I experienced nothing like this before. This was definitely a memorable stay and I hope I can come back some day."

Trip Advisor website, edited

"We have spent three nights in this beautiful hotel but bit remote. I can not say anything negative about this beautiful place. I would recommend if you go to this place that you don't travel around as the ride to Kandy will take you more than 90 minutes. Go there to chill and simply appreciate the surroundings. The reservation persons were so cooperative and we could well communicated via email and could arrange everything as planned.They will help you in arranging airport pick ups.So far this as been the best place during our journey and I strongly recommend you go. The spa treatments were fine had a great relaxation. Breakfast is great and the food is also excellent and at a very low price considering they could charge you much more considering this is the only option. The staff is also very nice and pleasant.The only dissapointment was there was no front desk and there was no proper uniform for the staff.Other than those i highly reccommend this place to everyone"

Trip Advisor website, edited

"We have spent three nights in this beautiful hotel, but a bit remote. I cannot say anything negative about this beautiful place. I would recommend if you go to this place that you don't travel around as the ride to Kandy will take you more than 90 minutes. Go there to chill and simply appreciate the surroundings. The reservation persons were so cooperative and we could communicate well via email and arrange everything as planned. They will help you in arranging airport pickups. So far this has been the best place during our journey and I strongly recommend you go. The spa treatments were fine and I had a great relaxation. Breakfast is great and the food is also excellent and at a very low price considering they could charge you much more considering this is the only option. The staff is also very nice and pleasant. The only disappointment was there was no front desk and there was no proper uniform for the staff. Other than those, I highly recommend this place to everyone."

TripAdvisor website, edited

"We went straight to Samadhi from the airport and stayed one week which was the perfect way to land in Sri Lanka after 30 hours of travel. We felt extremely welcomed and cared for from the first moment we arrived until our departure by all the staff. The treatments were phenomenal and the food incredibly fresh and delicious. Everyone is so warm and heart centered. We loved the traditional and authentic atmosphere and decor. We felt like we went back in time. "

"There is a paradisical waterfall a short walk away through the jungle where we could swim and relax. We loved the spacious room with an outdoor bathroom that had a view of the trees and sky. We had sublime time down by the river, the perfect place to meditate. We can't say enough good things about Samadhi and the staff. We highly recommend doing the daily treatment package. You will be transformed and transported"

TripAdvisor website, edited

"After a lot of travel through Sri Lanka, leaving me weary and fatigued, I was totally blessed and amazed to arrive at this Wonderful sanctuary of the soul. Many thanks to the hosts Jack and Athula and all the other gracious staff. The Ayurveda treatments were both restorative and beautiful. The food was very healthy and delicious. The accommodation infused elegance into a splendid natural setting. Only when I finally met Waruna, the creator of this unique resort, I did understand the deep spiritual energy and intention in which it is embedded."

TripAdvisor website, edited

"The place really is a magical location. Our house was in the top of the hill at this amazing place. We were looking for a calm and relaxing stay after a lot of travelling, Samadhi was perfect for us. We bathed in the stream at the bottom each morning and walked to the large waterfall on Sunday for a swim. The great local food served in amazing area full of oil lamps and antiques is delicious. If you want a memorable and unique experience with bathrooms that are bigger than most bedrooms, relaxed surroundings, great fresh food, stunning wild life, and great hosts then I would recommend this paradise."

TripAdvisor website, edited

"I had a wonderful experience at The Kandy Samadhi Centre! It is a great place to relax and enjoy Yoga and Ayurveda sessions. The location in the jungle was fantastic and quiet, the room was beautiful and every day I heard the sound of the river and birds, at every meal I got simple, delicious and varied food. The staff was very friendly and helped me to arrange the airport transfer and the tour of Kandy. Ayurveda treatments were of very high quality, I recommend them; I enjoyed a lot also the yoga lessons among nature. Finally I felt I was lucky to find this place. Samadhi people, greetings from Italy!"

The Khandi Samadhi Centre website, edited

"Experience had during my stay at Samadhi is unforgettable. It was a very serene location and all the different views from different rooms added extra pleasure to my journey. The garden was well-maintained and all the vegetables were taken from their organic herb garden so that I could have fresh and healthy food. They served Sri Lankan dishes and the restaurant was an open to outsiders so I had perfect meals with amazing experience of nature. I had two yoga sessions during my stay at Samadhi from which I had total relaxation for my mind and body. I also had a Shirodhara treatment during my stay. The doctor at Samadhi was very kind and gave me a very good consultation. The staff members were also very friendly and provided great service. I recommend this amazing place for everyone. Go and have the same amazing experience!"

TripAdvisor website, edited

"It's in a lovely spot and sprawls right up a mountainside with lots of vegetation all around. There was also a pretty stream below and some lovely views. Be prepared to walk up and down a fair bit - but it's all part of the experience of the place. We had a warm welcome, and the staff were friendly and helpful. We had an enormous room with two large double beds, and a charming old-style bathroom. It was cool enough during the day and warm enough at night, and we felt like we pretty much had enough privacy. The dinner and breakfast at the restaurant was enjoyable local cuisine - it's not entirely veggie so there's something for everyone. And they'll manage to serve you beer and wine if you ask. We would strongly recommend you do the walk to the pools and waterfall - be shown there by a guide and then he'll leave you on your own. I highly recommend you do it for a few hours and it's easy to make your way back on your own. We had an afternoon massage which was quite an experience. It was thorough and pleasant. We didn't end up doing any of the yoga sessions which wasn't an issue - you can quite happily stay without being involved with it. Overall can highly recommend for a slightly different and off the beaten track stay."

TripAdvisor website, edited

"After a hectic few weeks exploring Sri Lanka the Samadhi Centre was the perfect place to stop for a few days and just relax. The rooms are simple but beautifully decorated with antiques, and the setting is stunning - nestled in the jungle overlooking a river. We did yoga (excellent classes), went for a walk along the road (too many leeches for hiking for us), had wonderful massages and read lots. The food was a highlight, the best curries we've had and so much variety. And the staff were fantastic, so friendly and helpful."

TripAdvisor website, edited

"Our family of three stayed at Painters Pavilion and simply loved it! The room was very specious with two double beds and a lot of wonderful art decoration and antique furniture. Bathroom (with shower and bath tub) was very specious and views from our entrance patio not bad either. Walking around the retreat we could notice other Sri Lankan inspired art pieces all around.The hotel is a short ride (25 minutes) from Kandy city itself, situated in the beautiful green hills and with very kind management. Yoga classes and Ayurveda massages available, too. Homemade Sri Lankan food wasn't bad either. Wi-Fi available on one of the rooftops (right above our room where we stayed)."

TripAdvisor website, edited

"I enjoyed my stay here so much. I love the remoteness, I love the serenity. The rooms are all amazing. When I booked they said they could only accommodate me if I was OK in changing rooms. So I stayed in number 12 mud house, then was upgraded to the honeymoon suite for the same price. Both rooms were amazing. Number 12 was so quiet near the river. Very peaceful. The honeymoon suite was just breathtaking. All the staff have been warm and friendly, and they communicate very well as a team. I highly recommend a stay here. I also did yoga which was great and worked us all very well. I also had some fantastic massages too. Both from the male and female therapist.The food is wonderful and ample to keep you very satisfied from morning to evening. Enjoy!"

TripAdvisor website, edited

"Dirt on bed inside adults mosquito net (looked like large animal droppings). Dead stinking decaying gecko on floor under desk in kids bedroom. Long steep uphill walk at night in the rain, some 500 meters to our room. Kids rooms had no mosquito nets and they were disturbed all night by large bugs and a hornet. The view was wonderful and the food was interesting and carefully done. However, at the amount paid for one night (for two adults, three kids in two rooms), this was very much overpriced."

TripAdvisor website, edited

"It is definitely not a place to go to with young kids. We had a room with windows covered only by straw mats which meant it got quite cold at night. Despite asking for blankets several times, we were not given extra blankets. The breakfast was very ordinary. Also we were given no warning at all about the place being infested with leeches as a result of which all of us including our children were bitten by leeches while following what they call a jungle path. The place is only for those who are looking for adventure and no comfort. The people were nice to be fair. And it is a definite a "no no" for those with kids younger than 10, I would say."

TripAdvisor website, edited

"This jungle centre has the most amazing rooms. Spacious and serene filled with antiquities of Sri Lanka. A walk from your room to the restaurant through the jungle is exciting. With a river that can be bathed in running through, this centre is idyllic. Yoga classes, meditation, massage and treatments daily. A beautiful candle lit restaurant make this the ideal getaway for friends, lovers and family as well as solo travellers. The buffet style local food is delicious and beautiful. A trip to the tea plantation is a must, the journey of the leaf from the bush to our pot makes every mouthful that much more enjoyable. A visit to the waterfall is breathtaking."

TripAdvisor website, edited

"We stayed at Kandy Samadhi Centre for one night after three nights in the hustle of Kandy. It was a welcome change. The trip up the mountain by taxi is very winding, took about 40 minutes and cost us 3,500 rupees. We were warmly greeted by our host Jack and taken to our pavilion (we were upgraded for free as it wasn't busy). It was quite a steep climb but the room was spacious and cool. Ensuite had a cool old deep bath in a rock walled room. We had lunch, dinner and breakfast at Samadhi, and a late afternoon yoga session. The food was extensive and delicious. We fell asleep with fireflies lighting up our room - magic! Friendly dogs seemed to watch over us during the night, and slept outside our door.The downside for us was the cost of the food. We had pre-paid for bed and breakfast and were shocked when the bill for lunch, dinner and yoga was 12,000 rupees. This was way above our experience anywhere else in Sri Lanka."

TripAdvisor website, edited

"Impeccable service, really beautiful rooms with a lot of character and a genuinely peaceful atmosphere. It's not particularly cheap, but worth the extra dollars in my opinion. The massages and yoga classes are good quality. You should know that drinks are not included in the price of the meals - they didn't tell us that in advance. The Wi-Fi wasn't working when we were there."

TripAdvisor website, edited

"We stayed here for two nights this week. Amazing location and unique accommodation in the middle of the jungle. It truly was one of the most beautiful places we have stayed. Great scenery and walks, you fall asleep to the sound of running water and the wildlife around you. Just a couple of warnings; this hotel is truly remote, the food was great, but no real choice, no air con or fans so very warm at night, no Wi-Fi or any media, if it rains, the rooms and your belongings will get damp. That said, we would totally recommend this hotel to anyone who wants to get back to nature."

TripAdvisor website, edited