With its world-class beaches, beautiful landscapes, and laid-back atmosphere, Sri Lanka is definitely a fantastic destination for a yoga holiday. Whether you want to deepen your yoga practice, unwind for a few days, or learn how to surf, you will find the right retreat for you in this beautiful Asian country. To help you find the right experience for you, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best yoga retreats in Sri Lanka for 2023. But first, let’s see what the Pearl of the Indian Ocean has to offer.
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Why choose Sri Lanka for your next yoga retreat
The pristine beaches, amazing food, and fantastic climate are just some of the many reasons to consider Sri Lanka for your next yoga retreat. Here are just a few more to definitely convince you:
Gorgeous flora and fauna
Sri Lanka is home to an abundance of flora and fauna. In fact, with its 22 national Parks, this country is definitely one of the best destinations for seeing wildlife in Asia.
It also has many beautiful nature trails, stunning waterfalls, and misty mountains. This is why you can easily find yoga retreats nestled in nature where you can rejuvenate for a few days.
Do you want to see whales and dolphins? Head to Mirissa and you’ll have a good chance of seeing these lovely animals. On the coastline, you’ll find five of the seven species of sea turtle in the world.
Easy access to the waves
Sri Lanka is a world-famous surfing destination. The country is split into two halves, but there will always be good waves somewhere.
During the months of November and April, the best area of the country to be surfing is the southwest coastline. Between May and October, head to the east coast in Arugam Bay.
The country has a variety of surf breaks, for both beginners and more experienced surfers, making Sri Lanka an excellent destination for yoga and surf retreats.
Buddhist heritage
Buddhism is the main religion in Sri Lanka and has always been an important part of the culture and history of the country.
You will find many ancient places of worship, some of which are inscribed in the Unesco World Heritage Sites. The most popular site is probably the Dambulla cave temple complex, a sacred pilgrimage site. It is also home to Buddhist mural paintings that cover over 2,100m² and 157 statues.
If you’re in Kandy, don’t miss the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which is home to the relic of the tooth of the Buddha.
One of the main benefits of going to a yoga retreat in Sri Lanka is that some of them include temple visits, which can give you a great insight into the Sri Lankan culture.
10 transformative yoga retreats in Sri Lanka in 2023
We chose the following yoga retreats for this post according to our own experience, customer reviews, and value for money. Below, you’ll find 10 of the best yoga retreats in Sri Lanka in 2023.
1. 4 Day Yoga, Trekking, Cooking, and Reforestation Retreat in Kandy, Central Province – Polwaththa Retreat
Credit: Polwaththa Retreat
Located in the middle of nature near the city of Kandy, Polwaththa Retreat offers the perfect setting for a peaceful yoga retreat. This beautiful yoga holiday includes two daily yoga sessions, meditation classes, and extra activities. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced yogi, this retreat caters to all levels.
Mornings are for yoga classes and in the afternoon you can join the activities planned for you by your host. During this retreat, you will enjoy a waterfall trek, plant trees, and even have a cooking lesson.
As for accommodation, you will be staying in a private lodge in the middle of the jungle. Also, you will be served three delicious meals per day and have access to coffee and tea. Last but not least, you must be fully vaccinated to join this retreat.
Overall, this retreat is perfect for individuals who want to rejuvenate in Sri Lanka in the company of like-minded people.
2. 14 Day Detox and Yoga Holiday in Kalutara, Western Province – Plantation Villa
Credit: Plantation Villa
Next on our list of the best yoga retreats in Sri Lanka is this two-week detox yoga holiday in Kalutara. Here you can relax, focus on your well-being and enjoy some peace and quiet. This retreat is all about balance, mindfulness, and rejuvenation.
This experience includes daily guided yoga and meditation sessions, Ayurvedic treatments, and organic meals. It’s the perfect getaway for those who want a unique holistic holiday in Sri Lanka.
This beautiful retreat also includes discussions about yoga, walks around the local village, and a trip to the paddy fields.
On the first day, you will have a consultation where you can set up wellness objectives for your stay. This retreat is perfect for individuals willing to press pause and enjoy some quiet time surrounded by nature, tropical flora, and fauna.
3. 8 Day Surf, Meditation, and Yoga Holiday in Hiriketiya, Southern Province – The Salty Pelican
Credit: The Salty Pelican
This 8-day yoga retreat organized by Salty Pelican takes place on the beautiful southern coast of Sri Lanka. This surf and yoga holiday includes two daily yoga sessions, meditation classes, and five days of surf lessons.
This retreat is designed to help you relax and restore your energy in a laid-back environment. To help you accomplish your goal, you will be guided by qualified and understanding instructors.
The retreat has its own poolside restaurant where you’ll be served breakfast daily. There are also two group dinners offered in your package, including a delicious BBQ dinner. Fresh drinking water is available all day.
If you really want to learn how to surf, rejuvenate and explore Sri Lanka’s beautiful nature, you’ll love this yoga retreat in Hiriketiya.
4. 9 Day Relaxing Yoga Holiday in Ahangama, Southern Province – Villa My Way
Credit: Villa My Way
If you dream of visiting the southern province of Sri Lanka, head to the Villa My Way in the beautiful town of Ahangama. The goal of this beautiful retreat is to heal your body, mind, and spirit through yoga and meditation.
Highlights of this experience include daily yoga sessions, meditation practice, and a visit to a tea plantation. You’ll even have plenty of free time to indulge in peace. This retreat is great for individuals who want to unwind and experience the exotic landscapes of Sri Lanka.
The retreat includes daily breakfast and dinner. As for accommodation, you can expect to stay in a cozy bungalow surrounded by coconut palms. Additionally, the host provides free bicycles which you can take to explore the local area.
5. 8 Day Balance Package with Yoga and Surf Lesson in Mirissa, Southern Province – Surf & Yoga Mirissa
Credit: Surf & Yoga Mirissa
This beautiful women-only surf and yoga retreat is one of the most affordable in Sri Lanka. Whether you want to reduce stress or improve energy levels, this retreat will help you reach your goals.
Your program includes six yoga sessions for all skill levels, six surf lessons, and daily breakfast and dinner. During this retreat, you will practice Hatha yoga with Yoga Alliance certified teachers.
The accommodation you’ll be staying in is a beautiful house with a jungle as the backyard. Here, monkeys roam around freely. You can choose to stay in a shared or private room. Facilities at the camp include a restaurant, surf shop, and even a book library.
6. 8 Day The Surfer Beach Camp – Yoga and Surf Camp in Weligama, Southern Province – The Surfer Weligama
Credit: The Surfer Weligma
Perfect for beginners, this week-long retreat will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself into a gentle surf practice and introduce you to the benefits of yoga. On this retreat, you learn how to surf and leave your stress behind.
Highlights of the retreat include six days of surf and yoga practice, daily breakfast, and seven nights accommodation. You’ll be coached by professional and experience surfing instructors from all over the world.
The Surfer Weligama offers different types of rooms which are perfect for singles, couples, or families. On top of that, you’ll be able to enjoy the swimming pool on the property. There’s nothing better than a dip in a pool after a day of surf and yoga.
7. 5 Day Yoga and Ayurveda Honeymoon Holiday in Kandy, Central Province – The Kandi Samadhi Centre
Credit: The Kandi Samadhi Centre
Are you looking for a honeymoon experience that includes yoga lessons? Then, this is the one for you. This package is perfect for couple who want to enjoy some quality time together and rejuvenate in a natural environment.
Your program includes four yoga classes, a trip to a local waterfall with a picnic, and a full-body massage for two. You will practice Hatha yoga. On top of that, you’ll get to stay in a lovely room overlooking the paddy fields. This retreat offers the perfect setting for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The price of this experience includes daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You will be served delicious meals made with organic food.
Don’t miss this retreat if you want to share a wonderful experience with your loved one in Sri Lanka!
8. 7 Day Total Bliss Yoga Holiday in the Mountains of Kandy, Central Province – Welikande Estate Wellness
Credit: Welikande Estate Wellness
If you’re looking for a blissful yoga retreat, try this 7-day yoga holiday in Kandy. Located within the Knuckles Mountain Range, this retreat offers the perfect setting to take some time off for yourself.
Highlights of this retreat include daily yoga and meditation lessons, and daily activities to explore the local area. Yoga classes take place in the beautiful yoga shala overlooking the mountains.
You will be served delicious plant-based food three times a day. Snacks and drinks are also included in the price, so you definitely won’t go hungry on this retreat. Overall, this retreat is one of the best in Sri Lanka.
9. 8 Day Stress Release Ayurveda and Yoga Retreat in Balapitiya – Atmosphere Ceylon
Credit: Atmosphere Ceylon Sri Lanka
Do you want to learn more about Ayurveda? Then, you’ll love this amazing yoga retreat in Balapitiya. This retreat is an invitation for those who love yoga, and those seeking to overcome imbalances in their bodies.
The goal of this retreat Is to cleanse and heal your physical body. Daily yoga classes and swimming sessions will help you do that. You will also benefit from rejuvenating Ayurveda treatments.
This retreat doesn’t host more than eight participants at a time which means you will be treated as if you’re part of the family. You will be served three delicious meals each day based on your needs.
10. 5 Day Ayurveda, Meditation and Yoga Retreat in Kalutara, Western Province – Plantation Villa
Credit: Plantation Villa
Last on our list of the best yoga retreats in Sri Lanka is this 5 day yoga holiday organized by Plantation Villa.
This amazing retreat takes place in a rural village and is perfect for adventurers. You will be staying in a stunning colonial home, where you’ll be able to relax and restore. The property features an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, and a yoga shala.
Highlights of this retreat include daily yoga and meditation classes, cookery classes, and Ayurvedic treatments. It truly is a fantastic retreat where you’ll rejuvenate your body, mind, and soul.
On this holiday, you will be served fresh and healthy meals, cooked with organic ingredients that are sourced locally. Guests are even invited to join in on harvesting activities in the right season.
Bottom line
Sri Lanka is definitely one of the best Asian destinations for a yoga retreat. With its beautiful beaches, amazing food, and incredible nature, Sri Lanka offers the best setting for a relaxing holiday.
Whether you want to deepen your yoga practice or simply unwind in a quiet place, you’ll definitely find the right yoga retreat for you in beautiful Sri Lanka
Have you ever been to a yoga retreat in Sri Lanka? Let us know in the comments below!
Are you looking for another destination? Check out more retreats in Bali, Ubud and Nepal!
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