Wellness Retreat with Yoga, Paddleboarding & Hiking in Sri Lanka

The retreat is built around daily movement, time outside, and good food, but it's not a rigid schedule. Each day opens with a guided Vinyasa class at 8 am—led by Rose, one of the retreat's regular teachers—unless you've signed up for a sunrise paddle on the lake. Breakfast follows on the terrace, looking out over jungle treetops to the water. The rest of the morning is yours: swim, read in the library, take a board out, or head up to the rock temples at Bambaragala with a naturalist guide. A climb to the top of Pettigala rewards you with views right across the reservoir to the Knuckles range.

Lunches are a highlight—colourful salads, curries, and fresh local produce. Afternoons are for rest or gentle activity. You can book a massage with Janaki or one of the other therapists the retreat has trained from the local village, try a Sri Lankan cooking class with Kumari in the converted boat shed, or join an art session guided by a Kandyan artist. At around 6 pm, everyone gathers for a calm Yin class as the light fades. Dinner is a communal affair, often served by candlelight, and after that there's usually a fire lit down by the pool for anyone who wants to stay up talking.

What makes this retreat different is its location and the people. Rukgala Retreat is run by a small, welcoming team who live on site. The owner, Anjalika, is hands-on—she'll personally see you to your room and help with your bags on departure. The retreat has hosted over two hundred guests and holds a 4.83-star rating, with particular praise for the food, the peaceful setting, and the quality of the teaching. It's a retreat for people who want a real sense of Sri Lanka, not just a resort experience—you'll walk through rice paddies, hear temple bells, and eat what the locals eat.

What's included

- 3 nights accommodation - 3 daily delicious and nutritious meals - Water, tea, coffee served throughout the day - Welcome drink - Daily group yoga classes - Guided walk to the temple and meditation caves - Nature hikes with a trusted guide - 1 hour treatment - Wifi connection

What's not included

- Airport transfers - Flights - Travel insurance - Visa fee - Additional hikes/visits - Laundry service