Luxury Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka | World-Class Treatments

There is no better place to enjoy an Ayurveda Retreat than the beautiful island of Sri Lanka. With its lush tropical weather, warm open-hearted people, unspoiled sandy beaches, ancient forests, lush tea estates, timeless ruins, colourful history, amazing wildlife, and distinctive cuisine, no wonder it’s known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean. If you are interested in enjoying an authentic Ayurveda retreat in Sri Lanka, continue reading for more information. 

Over millennia, Sri Lanka has developed its authentic school of Ayurveda that builds upon the Indian school of Ayurveda based on the use of locally grown herbs and other practices. Many travel to Sri Lanka each year to enjoy authentic Ayurveda treatments such as Abhyanga, Shirodhara and Panchakarma (Ayurveda cleanse) for detoxification, rejuvenation and weight loss. Like neighbouring India, Sri Lanka boasts a longstanding history of Ayurvedic and Yoga practice. Originating in India more than 5,000 years ago, Ayurveda is considered by many to be the world’s oldest healing science. In Sanskrit, Ayurveda means “The Science of Life” and is often called the “Mother of All Healing”. This ancient healing modality emphasises the promotion of vitality and understands that health is not merely the absence of disease. Health is maintained by preserving the delicate balance between mind, body and spirit through paying close attention to one’s thoughts, lifestyle, and diet. 

Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
How to choose the best Ayurveda retreat in Sri Lanka?
Table of Contents

How to choose the best Luxury Ayurveda retreat in Sri Lanka?

Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Shirodhara Treatment

Steeped in rich Buddhist history, Sri Lanka is one of the best places to enjoy an authentic Ayurveda retreat. While Ayurveda existed long before the arrival of Buddhism, the contribution of Buddhist thought to this ancient healing modality has been invaluable. The Buddha was also called Maha Bhishak (Great physician), focusing his teachings on the issue of existential suffering in the mind and how to alleviate it through meditation. The science of Ayurveda primarily focuses more on the wellbeing of the body. When these two powerful modalities are combined, they act synergistically, helping one achieve inner balance and sustainable benefits long after the end of a retreat. 

There are many Ayurveda retreat centres located in stunning locations across this beautiful island, each offering unique healing packages and Complimentary services catering to different clientele and budgets. The best retreat centres offer a unique package where individuals can experience the benefits of Ayurveda treatments in conjunction with Yoga and Meditation.

10 Tips to Consider when considering an Ayurveda Program

Here is an expanded list of considerations when researching for an authentic Ayurveda retreat experience in Sri Lanka:

Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Personalised Yoga Classes

What Treatments can I expect in an Ayurveda retreat?

Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Ayurveda Herbal Bath

Ayurvedic treatment begins with an in-depth consultation, where an Ayurvedic Doctor learns more about your current health status, discomforts and areas that you would like to address. To determine your Dosha, your pulse is taken and questions are asked about your digestion and outlook on life. This initial consultation provides the Ayurveda Doctor with information to begin your treatment protocol.

Ayurvedic treatment is informed by the understanding that everything in the universe is composed of five elements: ether, air, fire, water, and earth. These elements combine in the human body to form three life forces (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) known as Doshas, which determine the functioning of the human body. Each individual inherits a unique mix of these three Doshas, with one usually being predominant, and it is believed that health issues are experienced due to an imbalance of the Doshas. 

A treatment plan will be specially designed for you, taking into consideration your unique mental, emotional, and physical make-up, and the balance between your Doshas. 

Types of Ayurveda Treatments

Panchakarma

A key pillar of Ayurvedic treatment is Panchakarma; a detoxification process designed to resolve your ailments and bring restoration and balance to your entire being. Traditionally, Panchakarma is an intensive and demanding programme comprising the following five classical elements: herbal oil enemas, nasal irrigation, therapeutic vomiting, purgation (enemas/laxatives) and bloodletting. If you come from the West, we would recommend staying at a retreat centre that offers modified Panchakarma protocols specially designed to suit your constitution as traditional Panchakarma programmes may not suit a modern lifestyle and Western constitutions. 

Abhyanga

In addition to Panchakarma protocols, you can also expect to enjoy Ayurvedic massage therapy, known as Abyanga where warmed oils like sesame and coconut are medicated with special herbs best suited to your Dosha. Skilled therapists apply special strokes on the body, promoting relaxation, encouraging lymphatic drainage for detoxification, and focusing on nerve endings of essential organs and energetic points to release blockages and energise your body. 

Vasthi

During Vasthi, a special paste is made using gram flour that is used to create a boundary on a particular part of the body where warmed medicated oil can be poured to be absorbed by the skin. Vasthi treatment can be applied to different parts of the body to alleviate problems associated with the Vata Dosha such as sciatica, herniation, and muscular tension. 

Ayurvedic Herbal Baths

According to ancient Ayurvedic wisdom, bathing has always been considered to be a sacred, healing ritual as well as a form of holistic therapy. Ancient Ayurvedic texts speak of luxurious therapeutic baths with honey, rose petals, milk, and turmeric, followed by skin treatments where the body is coated in rich herbal pastes and floral waters. These herbal baths were specially designed to restore balance to the mind, body, and spirit. 

Shirodhara

Shirodhara is an ancient Ayurvedic healing technique that helps to induce a profound state of relaxation through the rhythmic flow of warmed medicated oil applied over specific energetic points on the forehead. It is often combined with a scalp, head, or body massage.  Shirodhara is an excellent treatment for calming the nervous system, nourishing the hair and scalp, and correcting sleep disorders by activating the pituitary and pineal glands, amongst other benefits.

Ayurvedic Diet

Ayurveda is a holistic medical science that considers the energetic and medicinal impact of food. An Ayurvedic diet is prepared in such a way that balances the three Doshas to help bring harmony and balance to the mind, body, and spirit.  A cornerstone of Ayurvedic cuisine is employing the 6 different tastes in every meal (sweet, salty, spicy, bitter, pungent, astringent). These tastes have different functions and help to activate various aspects of digestion to optimise digestive function.  The aforementioned are just some treatments you can expect when visiting an Ayurvedic retreat centre.

Top 3 Benefits of an Ayurveda Retreat

1. Offers a holistic approach to health
Ayurveda emphasises the cultivation of optimum health and empowers individuals with the information and tools to stay healthy. Unlike conventional Western medicine, it does not treat symptoms in isolation but instead looks at the wider picture to understand how mental, emotional, and physical imbalances can lead to symptoms of ill health such as lethargy, anxiety, and other more chronic ailments such as high blood pressure. Equipped with these tools, individuals can live within timeless principles and enjoy a life filled with health and vitality.

2. Complete Philosophy
Ayurveda is an ancient science with more than 5,000 years of history. It is informed by an ancient philosophy that reminds us that we are more than skin deep and that our thoughts and emotions have a palpable impact on our physical health and wellbeing. Coupled with Yoga and Meditation, Ayurveda provides individuals with all the tools they need to live a healthy, balanced life. 

3. Greater sense of Wellbeing
Ayurvedic philosophy tells us that we are all unique and on our journeys. It encourages us to find love within ourselves instead of comparing ourselves with others. By encouraging us to approach our individual lives in the most personalised way possible, it encourages us to discover our individual needs and work with our bodies with patience and loving-kindness.

Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips

Award-Winning Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka

Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Sen Wellness Sanctuary

Sen Wellness Sanctuary is one of the best places to enjoy a luxury Ayurveda retreat in Sri Lanka. We are a multi-award winning wellness centre, having been featured as ’One of 20 Best Yoga Retreats in the World’ by The Times, ’10 Yoga Retreats in Beautiful Destinations Around the World’ by Travel + Leisure,  ‘Best or a Great Deal’ by Condé Nast Traveller Spa Guide, and were honoured to grace the cover of TASCHEN magazine’s ‘Great Escapes Yoga: The Retreat Book’, just to share a few examples. 

Founded by Sam Kankanamge, an exceptional, world-renowned healthcare professional based in London’s prestigious Harley Street Medical District with over 30 years of experience in transforming patients’ health and who has been called ‘the best back specialist in the country’ by The Times (2014), the Sanctuary is the result of Sam’s dream to support people in an even deeper way. Combining his experience working in the West with his Sri Lankan heritage, rooted in Ayurvedic traditions, Sam’s sensitive understanding of these different cultures, mindsets, challenges and needs is reflected in our authentic offerings at the Sanctuary.

Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Yoga and Meditation Classes
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Ayurvedic Treatments
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Salt Water Swimming Pool at Sen Wellness
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Ayurvedic Doctor at Sen Wellness Sanctuary

Booking Enquiry

Name(Required)
This field is hidden when viewing the form
DD slash MM slash YYYY
DD slash MM slash YYYY
What is the primary reason for coming to the Sanctuary?(Required)

Ayurveda at Sen Wellness - Bespoke and Signature Retreats 

At the Sanctuary, guests have the choice between Bespoke and Signature Retreats. Both Bespoke and Signature retreats are tailored to your constitution with the difference being that Signature Retreats incorporate group ceremonies and transformational healing workshops for those looking to immerse themselves on a deeper healing journey with an intimate group of like-minded individuals. 

Bespoke Retreats 

Bespoke Retreats are available all year round and are inclusive of daily sunrise and sunset yoga sessions with our experienced yoga teachers, Ayurvedically balanced meals and treatments, as well as meditation, gong baths, and spiritual concierge sessions with our visiting Buddhist Monk. 

Packages range from shorter stays such as 1 to 7 days, up to 2 weeks, and we are also able to curate longer retreats for individuals looking for a deeper time of contemplation and renewal. 

Upon arrival, you will receive a one-on-one consultation with our Resident Ayurvedic Doctor who will take your full case history and understand your health and wellness goals for coming on retreat. During your time with us, your meals, medication, and daily Ayurvedic treatments will help you get closer to your goals so that you leave us feeling restored and rejuvenated. 

Based on decades of experience working with western constitutions, our expert team has curated our own updated and modified version of Panchakarma treatments to suit a modern lifestyle and that integrate with other holistic treatment modalities to help you gain the greatest results. 

You will also be able to enjoy Ayurvedic herbal baths, Shirodhara, Abhyanga, Vasthi, and other authentic treatments during your stay at the Sanctuary.

Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Gong Bath with a Buddhist monk
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Deep Healing with Yoga Nidra

Signature Retreats 

Signature Retreats are the highlight of our calendar at the Sanctuary and take place four times a year, in harmony with the natural flow of the seasons. Limited to 16 participants, these transformational journeys are hosted by our Founder and renowned healer, Sam Kankanamge, and include personal treatment sessions with him as well as potent group ceremonies and rituals that harness the power of the collective. 

Daily sunrise and sunset yoga led by an experienced yoga teacher, sacred cacao ceremonies, breathwork, group healings, and fire rituals are just some of the experiences you can expect during our Signature Retreats. Alongside group sessions, you will also enjoy personalised Ayurvedic treatments following a one-on-one consultation with our Resident Ayurvedic doctor. 

Gathering a group of special souls for a ten-day journey together, we believe that no group comes together by accident, and that there is always a deeper purpose and intention. Some of the deepest healing can occur when we allow others to be a mirror for ourselves. The group naturally evolves during the retreat; strong connections are made and lasting friendships are formed. 

Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Jessica V.
Stuti Stuti Stuti to the whole team of SenWellness Sanctuary!

In the 10 days retreat I celebrated here my birthday. With being one year older, I now feel 10 years younger, mainly because of all the love, the care, the joy and the special attention they have given me and all of us.

We feel blessed we were able to spend wonderful moments together with you in this beautiful authentic place!
Wonderful ayurvedic treatments, great individual care from the doctors, the tasty food, the yogaclasses, and the lovely people!

I will definitely come back.
Until we meet again!
Love, Jessica & Jeroen
🦎
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Cecilia Z.
I had such an amazing experience at the sen wellness sanctuary, the staff was so kind and professional and all the classes and treatments were amazing.
The Sanctuary is located in a natural reserve so you are in contact with all type of animals and just a few steps from the beach, which makes it more special.
I would love to come back at least once a year to this special place.
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Barbara D.
A wonderful experience. The resort offers excellent service with outstanding professionals in every area. Both the treatments and the care provided by the doctors, as well as the yoga and breathing classes, are highly recommended. The location, between a lagoon and a wild beach inside a natural park, makes it unique.
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
kazu y
9月のDragonfly Retreatに参加させていただきました。二度目のスリランカで初めてsen wellnessにお世話になりました。とても静かで穏やかな環境下にあるサンクチュアリ。アーユルヴェーダの先生方、施術スタッフの皆さん、シェフ、ホテルスタッフの皆さん全員が暖かく、とても心地よく過ごすことができました。アーユルヴェーダの背術は期待以上!個人に合わせた施術プランを立ててくれます。私はAC無しのお部屋に宿泊しましたが、清掃も行き届いていてシンプルながら快適でした。ACがついているロッジも見せてもらいましたが、とても素敵でした。そして毎食何といっても楽しみだったのが、絶品お料理!朝の瞑想とヨガ後のキングココナッツも最高です。
蚊に刺されやすい方は、ディートかイカリジン入り虫除けは必須です!

アットホームで素晴らしいホスピタリティに感謝です。ぜひまた伺いたいです。
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Richa S.
Recently visited Sen wellness sanctuary Colombo after finishing my chemotherapy for detoxification & holistic wellness. The centre really justifies its name of being a sanctuary , a healing refuge mentally , physically & spiritually. Plethora of treatments by their well trained staff , continuous guidance & consultations with their qualified doctors , everyday yoga & meditation sessions , all ensured our healthy well being. The food too complimented the same with its nourishing value & pleasing presentations. With its beautiful , green & serene environment it’s the best place to rejuvenate & unwind. We will definitely come back to the experience.
Thanks for all the healing team Sen wellness
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
J. B.
I stayed here for 6 days and I wish I had more days!

I needed a "reset" from the hustle and bustle of New York and I came here without that much expectations. What I found here was a pleasant surprise.

Food - the food was very healthy (not traditional Western salads healthy). It may be challenging for some as other than eggs, no animal protein is provided. However, it was overall extremely healthy - everything was made in house, even sauces and peanut butter.

Treatments - I really thought there would only be 1-2 treatments a day but to my shock, you get 3-5 treatments a day. In addition, you could also do special sessions with the owner (Dr Sam) if he is visiting. My sessions with the team and Dr Sam were incredibly helpful to relieve my anxiety.

Fixed Schedule - if you want to reset and not think about anything, this is the perfect place. Everything is thought about for you - food, activities, daily treatments. Literally all you have to do is show up and relax.

Yoga, Breathwork and Community - Most importantly, I loved the sanctuary because of the yoga and the community. There are sessions with the yoga teacher, a breathwork teacher, and a monk.
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Ana Maria Gaviria E.
A Truly Transformative Ayurvedic Experience
I had the most wonderful stay at this Ayurvedic retreat. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed, cared for, and completely at ease. The staff were not only professional but also genuinely warm and attentive, making me feel like part of their family.

The Ayurvedic consultations were thorough and insightful, with treatments tailored perfectly to my needs. Each therapy session was deeply relaxing, and I could feel my stress melting away day by day. The massages, herbal remedies, and healing rituals were authentic and done with so much skill and compassion.

The food was another highlight – delicious, nourishing, and beautifully prepared according to Ayurvedic principles. I left each meal feeling light yet satisfied, and I could truly feel the difference in my energy levels and overall wellbeing.

The peaceful setting of the retreat made the whole experience even more special. Surrounded by nature, I found the time and space to disconnect, reflect, and recharge. By the end of my stay, I felt rejuvenated, balanced, and more in tune with myself than I have in years.

I can’t recommend this retreat highly enough to anyone seeking deep relaxation, healing, or simply a reset from everyday life.

Thanks to all the staff , Dr Chamodi, Madu,Sam , Alex and Mariana ! This place is in my heart i will definitely come back !
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Marion F.
I was part of the Golden Summer Retreat at Zen Wellness Sanctuary, and it was a truly beautiful time for me. The sanctuary is a magical place, located between a lagoon and the ocean, right in the middle of nature. The sea is wild, and the beach is empty, clean, and natural – perfect for long walks after morning yoga, watching the sunset in the evening, or looking up at the stars at night. Everything was very well organized. The Ayurvedic treatments were excellent, and the team of therapists did a really wonderful job.
The food was really excellent, and meals were always shared together, which created a warm sense of community. This makes the retreat also very suitable for solo travelers, as it is easy to connect with others. There were also many extra activities. One special highlight for me was the trip to the beach in the afternoon, where we practiced breathwork at sunset – an unforgettable experience. I also enjoyed the meditations, the visit of a monk, and the different workshops, which were all very enriching.
I especially loved the yoga classes with Mariana, as well as her breathwork session, which was a completely new and powerful experience for me. Overall, I spent a truly wonderful week at Zen Wellness Sanctuary, full of new impressions and experiences. I am very grateful for this time and would like to thank the whole team for everything.
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Mel D.
My daughter and I stayed at Sen and participated in the dragonfly retreat. We had both been grieving the loss of a loved one and the time here helped us to heal and gather the necessary tools to continue to heal when we returned home. All of the staff were caring and knowledgeable in their practices and the food was something you need to experience. We are planning on coming back. Thank you Sen for having us.
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Maks B.
While I was searching for a place for the perfect getaway, away from distractions and noise, I came across SEN. The reviews about this place were overwhelmingly positive, with only a few that slightly worried me. I wanted to clarify them so that anyone visiting afterward wouldn’t have to wonder about these points beforehand.

This is a magical place for both body and soul, mainly because of the wonderful and kind people working there, its unique location, and the harmony it exudes. I came here seeking relaxation, but I received so much more. The day begins with yoga. I read that many people didn’t enjoy these classes, but I had a completely different experience—they were excellent in my opinion. Suitable for everyone, they teach a love for the practice.

The food is exceptional varied, healthy, and perfect for a full detox, thanks to the head chef who is amazing and whom I warmly greet. The meals are incredibly good, diverse, and fresh. This is definitely a detox-focused diet, but it delivers great results.

The most important part of my stay became the care provided by Dr. Chamodi and her team. She is amazing and invaluable, taking care of every detail of your stay in line with Ayurvedic practice. Throughout the day, various treatments are offered, all of top-level quality. The massages and their Sri Lankan ambiance became something I deeply miss. Special greetings to Rasange, though the entire team is truly excellent.

SEN is a place with minor flaws, but they are minimal compared to what it offers. If you want to be fully prepared, here’s a tip: you need to be certain about the length of your stay, as management reserves the right not to negotiate the rate set upon arrival. So it’s worth deciding in advance how long you want to stay. Initially, I thought 14 days might be too long, but it turned out to be a wonderfully rejuvenating period.

Additionally, it’s worth bringing products other than Sri Lankan mosquito repellents, as there are many mosquitoes. If you prefer your own yoga mat and want it very clean, bring it along. The only aspect that could be improved is the beach towels and new yoga mats—they need replacement, but this is completely natural. This is a place strongly focused on wellbeing, so it may not bother you at all they are really good but could be little better. I was without mine and it works really fine so don't worry. Its an info for extra pedantic characters and their comfort zone.

Someone mentioned that massage towels are dirty, but that is not true. I checked and discussed this, and it simply isn’t the case. The cleaning stuff is amazing. Thank you guys. U are doing good job.

These are my only two notes. Otherwise, I want to say that this place is truly worth visiting. It has its own microclimate and energy. Located in a completely secluded area, if you value a private beach and being close to the sounds of the sea, this might be the best place in the world. I highly recommend it. Once again, I want to thank the entire team, both the doctors and all the staff, who ensure this place is so exceptional from management, the team from London, to every single employee. I adore you for your energy. Never lose it.
I believe we will meet again soon. Maks
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Fi W.
I came here for a 10 day retreat and experience haven, a sanctuary, and a sacred space where I could rest, restore, and do some deep inner work.

A truly world class experience.

I have never been somewhere that has offered so much care, love and attention both to me and the details of how they make the entire experience deeply personal and special

The treatments were of an extraordinarily high calibre, The food crafted with so much care, I felt very held by Sam, Mariana, Alex and the rest of the Sen team who are all really spiritual and caring people.

For those travelling alone, I can only tell you that it is a very safe place and you will be deeply welcomed
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
beatriz S.
Our experience in Sen welleness sanctuary has been beautiful, I could say life changing. Special mention to the entire team that work here, they are all very professional and kind.

The sanctuary’s location is at a stunning place between the rekawa lagoon and the beach in the south of Sri Lanka.
10/10, highly recommend it 🩵
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Pilar M.
Such a wonderfull and life changing experience. The whole team is welcoming and excellent professionals. Beautifull space, wonderfull location and nature. Very well prepared programme and treatments. Totally recommended.
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Stephanie Marinus - Learn Earn & R.
I cannot express my gratitude deeply enough for the experience I had at Sen Wellness Sanctuary. After flying all the way from Canada, it took just three days for Dr. Sam and his compassionate team to give me my life back following my young brother's death. Upon reaching out, I learned the sanctuary was fully booked, but after hearing my plea for help, they somehow made special room for my boyfriend and I. It was an act of profound compassion that set the stage for our entire experience. While my soul was doing the hard work of healing from grief, my body was continuously comforted with restorative Ayurvedic treatments. The daily massages, herbal soaks, and curated therapies were a constant source of peace, a beautiful reminder that while the inner work was difficult, I was being cared for on a physical level. The sanctuary's dedication to holistic well-being is truly unparalleled. In a testament to this, they brought in a Buddhist monk for spiritual teachings, and on a separate occasion, when a turtle nest was discovered, they called in a conservation officer. We were able to help the newborn turtles make it safely to sea, an experience that was as spiritual and healing as any of the treatments. Dr. Sam and his team have created more than just a retreat; it's a sanctuary for the soul, a place where profound healing is not just possible-its inevitable. Sen is forever in my heart
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Kirstin S.
Truly a beautiful experience- one week here feels like a month in the real world. Allow yourself the gift of disconnection to connect with what matters, yourself & community. People are kind, treatments are wonderful, food is delicious, pacing is calm. No pressure to do much of anything- the healing is intuitive just by existing. Thank you! I can't wait to come back here!
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips

Located near the pristine Rekawa Nature Reserve in the Southern province of Sri Lanka, Sen Wellness Sanctuary is the perfect Indian Ocean destination to enjoy Ayurvedic treatments and immerse yourself in the healing benefits of nature. Designed and built with sensitivity to our natural surroundings and land, our cabanas are reached by a raised wooden walkway to allow for the natural flows of animal migration, and offers glimpses of a rich array of birds and wildlife among the trees.  Encounters with the wild are a daily occurrence, with wild monkeys, peacocks, and turtles all nearby.

The Rekawa Nature Reserve is one of the few places in the world where you can observe marine turtles in their natural habitat. Five out of seven of the world’s marine turtle species, many of which are now endangered, are found in Sri Lanka and return to their natal beach here each year to lay their eggs. These include the leatherback, green loggerhead, olive ridley, and hawksbill turtles. Previous guests have witnessed this spectacular moment where the cycle of life renews itself, and many count it amongst their more magical moments. 

During your stay, you can also enjoy free canoe excursions on Rekawa Lagoon, flanked by majestic emerald mangroves that are rich in wildlife. 

Surroundings at Sen Wellness

Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Surroundings at Sen Wellness Sanctuary

Environmental and Social Sustainability 

Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips
Turtle Conservation Project

At Sen Wellness Sanctuary, we truly care about the environment and support our local communities. In November 2019, we launched an exciting initiative to plant 10,000 mangrove trees within Rekawa Nature Reserve. 

Mangroves are particularly effective when it comes to carbon off-setting because they absorb three times as much CO2 from the atmosphere compared to most other trees. They also play a crucial role in promoting biodiversity, offering an ideal habitat and food source for a wide variety of species, from shrimps and fish to water monitors and birds. 

In addition to their role in combating climate change and promoting biodiversity, this project also supports 50 local families who depend on the rich supply of fish and shellfish in the mangroves for a large part of their livelihoods. 

This project is also a collaboration with our local community; Rekawa villagers are paid to run tree nurseries where the young mangroves can be prepared and looked after until they are ready to be planted. After the planting, local farmers look after the trees, helping them to reach maturity. 

People come from all over the world to visit Sri Lanka and we have a responsibility to balance our carbon footprint. We hope that our project will become a model to inspire other small businesses like ours to set up tree planting initiatives in their communities. 

The Final Word

In the enchanting island nation of Sri Lanka, you’ll find the perfect blend of ancient wisdom and modern luxury in the form of Ayurveda retreats. These wellness sanctuaries offer guests the chance to immerse themselves in the time-honored practices of authentic Ayurveda treatment, a holistic healing science rooted in ayurvedic texts that aims to restore the body, mind, and spirit to optimum health. With a myriad of picturesque retreats nestled amid sandy beaches, timeless ruins, and verdant tea estates, Sri Lanka is one of the most beautiful destinations for a rejuvenating wellness experience.

The Ayurveda Panchakarma program, a cornerstone of Ayurvedic treatment, is a popular choice at these retreats, encompassing detoxification, rejuvenation, and healing techniques such as Shirodhara and Abhyanga. Many Ayurveda retreats in Sri Lanka, including Amuna and Talalla, also offer 10 yoga classes, meditation sessions, and picturesque nature reserves to further enhance your wellness journey.

One of the first Ayurveda retreats in Sri Lanka, Surya Lanka also prides itself on its authentic Ayurvedic cuisine. Prepared by skilled kitchen staff and tailored to each guest’s dosha, or body type, these nourishing meals are an integral part of the detoxification process. Guests can enjoy their meals in the serene al-fresco dining area, surrounded by the natural beauty of Sri Lanka.

While the focus is on Ayurvedic healing, these luxury Ayurveda retreats provide ample time for leisure, allowing guests to explore the island’s treasures, from sandy beaches to tea estates and nature reserves. For those seeking a less intensive Ayurveda treatment, Ayurveda ‘healing’ and Ayurveda ‘light’ programs offer shorter, more flexible options.

No matter which Ayurveda retreat in Sri Lanka you choose, you can expect a blend of authentic Ayurveda practices, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional hospitality, all in the service of your health and wellbeing. Whether you are looking for the perfect rejuvenation getaway or a transformative experience to address specific health concerns, an Ayurveda retreat in Sri Lanka will leave you feeling refreshed, revitalized, and inspired. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing as you enjoy the best of Ayurveda in the enchanting paradise of Sri Lanka.

There are many Ayurveda retreats in Sri Lanka to choose from, and a lot to consider depending on time and budgetary constraints. However, if you are looking for an authentic Ayurveda experience set within stunning natural surroundings, with an established reputation for excellence, then one retreat stands out from the rest; Sen Wellness Sanctuary. To find out more or to get a tailored treatment plan for what you need, contact Sen Wellness Sanctuary by clicking here.

Condé Nast wrote of Sen Wellness Sanctuary, “Highly sought-after London-based osteopath Sam Kankanamge has brought the success of his practice home to Sri Lanka. The result is a one-of-a-kind Ayurvedic immersion on the south coast of the island. Guests come here, to the mangrove forest of the Rekawa Reserve sandwiched between a pristine beach and lagoon, to disconnect, take stock of their lives and embrace the healing power of nature. Weight loss, depression, skin disorders, insomnia, stuck in a rut? Nothing is too much or too little for Dr Harshi Anuradha, who diagnoses your dosha after you’ve given her the lowdown on your life. “

Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka – Top 10 Tips