4-Day Wellness Escape with Yoga, Paddleboarding, and Hiking in Sri Lanka's Hill Country

The retreat runs for four days and three nights, with a schedule that balances activity and rest. Each morning, unless you've opted for a sunrise paddle, there's a guided Vinyasa yoga class at 8 am, led by one of the resident teachers like Rose. After breakfast, you might join a guided hike to the Bambaragala rock temple and monastery, or head to the lake with Akash to explore on a paddleboard.

The property itself is a mix of a main house and a separate garden cottage, set on the edge of the Victoria Reservoir. The main deck looks out over jungle treetops to the mountains, and there's a pool, a library, and a fire pit for evening gatherings. Afternoon activities include art therapy with a Kandyan artist, a Sri Lankan cooking class with Kumari in the boat shed, or a massage with Janaki or another of the local therapists trained by the retreat.

Rukgala is run by Ruk and his team, who have built strong ties with the surrounding village. Local women have been trained in massage techniques, and village cooks lead the cooking classes. The retreat aims to give guests a genuine connection to the area, not just a sanitized tourist experience.

Yin yoga classes are held in the early evening as the sun sets, followed by a candlelit walk back to the house for dinner. The food is a highlight—fresh, flavorful, and rooted in local ingredients. The retreat's location at around 600 meters altitude means the weather is usually comfortable, and power cuts occasionally happen, but they're part of the charm.

What's included

- 3 nights accommodation in a private room - 3 daily delicious and nutritious meals - Water, tea, and coffee served throughout the day - Welcome drink - Daily group yoga classes (2 per day, Vinyasa and Yin) - Guided walk to the temple and meditation caves - Nature hikes with a trusted guide - 1 hour massage treatment - Wi-Fi connection - Use of pool and other facilities

What's not included

- Airport transfers - Flights - Travel insurance - Visa fee - Additional hikes and visits - Laundry service - Extra massage treatments - Cooking class (optional, available at extra cost)