Weight Loss Retreat in Sri Lanka - 5 Essentials

When researching weight-loss retreats, it can get a little overwhelming trying to decide which one is best suited for you. How do you differentiate between them all and how do you know which one will be the best fit? Perhaps a weight loss retreat in Sri Lanka is the answer? Many weight-loss programmes are based on extreme methods that promote restrictions and push you to your physical limits. Most have little concern for your medical or emotional health, promising to help you lose weight but not supporting you in keeping the weight off.

This article aims to provide a little more information on weight loss retreats in Sri Lanka and offer a deeper insight into how to choose a programme best suited to you, your constitution and your medical profile.

Table of Contents

How an Ayurvedic diet can normalise your ideal weight

Many weight-loss programmes just focus on the end goal rather than tackling the root cause of weight gain and unhealthy diets. However, when weight is lost dramatically, it will be regained even faster and so the cycle begins again, further adding to the mental frustrations of the process. In our fast-paced, modern Western world, it is often a stressful lifestyle combined with deeper psychological roots that can affect our relationship with food, health and body weight.

“At Sen Wellness Sanctuary, we believe that weight-loss programmes should not be putting you through painful or extreme conditions. Instead, we believe that the most effective weight loss can be achieved through a personalised Ayurvedic treatment programme that is tailored to your constitution.
It has been continuously proven that short-term, intense strategies are not sustainable for effective weight loss. Moreover, people are often not medically viable for most of these programmes nor are they emotionally supported during them. Our approach is simple and easy to maintain.

As hunter-gathers, humans could only provide one meal a day since we were natural grazers and could only eat what we could find from the land. We would eat fruit, nuts, berries, seeds and on very rare occasions meat or fish. Our bodies have not evolved to eat 3 meals a day, full of sugar, dairy, complex carbohydrates and additives. Our recommendation is to eat 2 meals a day of equal proportion that give space and time for your metabolism and digestive system to re-align and regenerate itself naturally. Intermittent fasting has become a popular, known method that supports this notion. At Sen Wellness Sanctuary we combine intermittent fasting and juice fasting in our detox and weight-loss programmes under very careful observation from our Ayurvedic doctors. This will be supported by our Panchakarma programme,  to help cleanse the intestines and digestive system.”

– Sam Kankanamge, Founder of Sen Wellness

What you can expect from a Weight Loss Retreat?

A weight loss retreat can vastly reduce stress levels and activate the parasympathetic nervous, allowing the body to enter ‘rest and digest’ mode. The ‘rest and digest’ state is achieved through a balanced combination of great quality nutrition, a calm nurturing environment and engaging in various healing or cleansing practices such as Ayurvedic medicine, yoga, meditation, breathwork, sound healing and massage. All of these practices are known to calm the nervous system, boost immunity and enhance wellbeing. A light, clean diet that combines fresh juice and herbal medicines can lighten your digestion, clear the liver and raise the metabolic rate all contributing to effective weight loss whilst keeping the body concentrated on healing. Maintaining a light exercise routine with a healthy diet will also lighten the energetic body and restore energy levels.

We understand that it can be intimidating and a big commitment to come to a detox and weight loss retreat. However, here are 5 things that you can expect from a weight loss retreat:

The 5 Essentials Needed on a Weight Loss Retreat

Support

Whilst on retreat, it is common to meet people who are on the same journey as you. Whether you are bonding over homesickness, the experience of change, the challenge to adapt to routine changes or simply over body aches from daily yoga there is an abundance of support from our therapists, Sanctuary staff and other guests.

Movement

At Sen Wellness we don’t believe in strenuous, intense, physical exercise. This is not a boot camp or a yoga retreat! Instead, our retreat programmes teach you how to align with your body in a way that is accessible to you. We utilise movement as a way to show you how to develop your own strength at your own pace.

Education

We aim to educate and empower you so that you can create positive changes to your dietary habits and cultivate a conscious relationship with food. This will allow you to continue your weight loss journey upon returning home and ensure long-term change.

Freedom

Freedom to clear your mind from the stresses of your normal life and routine, free from judgement or fear so that you can get back to just being you. At the Sanctuary we encourage you to be free, curious and adventurous. You are even free to be nervous, vulnerable and scared. This experience is unique to you.

Ayurvedic Diet

We believe healthy nourishment involves restoring our natural connection with food. We recommend locally sourced ingredients and organic, natural and home-cooked meals with no additives or chemicals. Wheat-free and plat-based recipes are recommended with the addition of fresh fish on occasion.

Best places to go for a weight loss retreat in Sri Lanka?

There is an infinite selection to choose from in countries such as New Zealand, South Africa, and the United States when it comes to certain weight loss programmes. While many encourage a specific focus to lose weight, most should also promote a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

Many programmes include workshops that tackle a wide range of topics such as healthy eating, exercise routines, recipe planning and other tricks and tips for everyday life. However, if you are truly ready to commit to a weight loss programme that will empower you, teach you and most of all keep the weight off then Sri Lanka is the ideal destination. Sri Lanka is the perfect place to reverse your weight gain as you can be immersed in a beautiful, tranquil place finding space to relax and learn about healthy living in paradise.

At Sen Wellness you can enjoy a luxurious retreat that combines yoga, meditation, nature immersion, sound healing, and group healing sessions all year round. Our world-class therapists and teachers ensure that our weight loss retreats and detox retreats stand out. Their special approach is infused with a wide range of holistic treatments and ancient Ayurvedic teachings that respond to a Western lifestyle and each person’s constitution. 

Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
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 | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
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 | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
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 | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
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 | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
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 | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
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 | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
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 | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
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 | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
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 | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
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 | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
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 | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
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 | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
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 | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
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 | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
Lara A.
I stayed in this beautiful sanctuary for almost a week. The place and service is incredible! Highly recommended. I am picky with my food and they accommodated all my needs and never made me feel like my asks were too much or anything. Madu, Samin, Taru, the founder Sam, everyone was so nice and welcoming the whole time. Felt like home away from home ♥️ highly recommended to anyone who wants to reconnect with themselves and rest and recharge.
Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials

Sen Wellness Sanctuary - Award-Winning Wellness Retreat in Sri Lanka

Our approach to weight loss differentiates us from many other wellness retreats and weight-loss programmes. We do not use intense methods that promote strenuous exercise or starvation. Instead, we aim to understand the root cause of weight gain and unhealthy eating habits in every individual who comes to our Sanctuary. We recognise that the Western lifestyle contributes to so much stress and demands on the nervous system, therefore we combine a range of healing modalities to calm the nervous system whilst introducing a light exercise routine, Ayurvedic food, medicine and traditional Panchakarma.

The Final Word

A weight loss retreat in Sri Lanka can be life-changing as you begin to discover more energy, a better sleep pattern, brighter eyes and clearer skin. You will leave feeling like all the vitality and vibrancy has been restored throughout your entire body. Contact us below if you would like to register interest in joining a retreat.

Sen Wellness Sanctuary | Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials