Best Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka - 10 Best Tips for an Ayurvedic Retreat

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.

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

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:

Do they offer consultations with the Ayurvedic Doctor and give Personalised Treatments?
Do they offer Authentic Ayurveda Medication and Treatments (eg. Panchakarma, Abhyanga, Shirodhara, etc.)?
Can you get an Ayurveda Herbal Bath?
Do they advise on the Ayurveda Diet?
Is there Yoga Classes offered?
Do they advise on the Ayurveda Diet?
Do they offer Sound Healing?
What are the Natural Surroundings like?
Are there any Cultural and Natural Excursions?
Do they have a reputation for Warm Hospitality?
What Packages do they offer for Different Budgets?

What Treatments can I expect in an Ayurveda retreat?

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 - Award-Winning Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka

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.

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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.

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.

Excellent

Sen Wellness Sanctuary

4.7

Based on 162 reviews

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pia

What a wonderful discovery! The retreat was so much more than we expected - on so many levels. Great yoga, excellent ayurvedic therapy and treatments, really good food - and amazing company. What a wealth of experiences we have taken home with us. Sam and his team were very kind and attentive and the other participants were all so special and warm hearted. We recommend this sanctuary to anyone who wants to enrich their lives and move forward.

cindy F.

A uniquely magical experience. From the moment you leave your shoes by the lotus pool to receive the warm welcome of a garland and king coconut, a sense of kindness and care envelops you.This is heartfelt. Every dish you eat is prepared with a knowledge of what will nourish your body and soul. Every treatment is administered by skilled practitioners who have taken the trouble to understand your individual physical and emotional state and to restore balance and harmony from the inside out.The sounds of this stunning enclave, hidden away down a winding track where peacocks strut and monkeys gambol, are those that evoke both stillness and awe. The sea declares its majesty and power on a peerless beach that nesting turtles call home. The constant and gentle swish of the lagoon and rustle of the trees that bound this space in natural seclusion, soothe and transport you to a deep place of calm.This is one of nature’s sacred spaces.Respect and honour for this is the ethos that guides life in this beautiful oasis which shines from the hearts of the remarkable team. Skilled in so many arts from Ayurvedic medicine and therapy, yoga, reiki, sound healing and, with simplicity and grace, a level of hospitality and care that is humbling.The mishap or the unusual request is met with unruffled efficiency. (My glasses broke and instead of facing a week in a blur and the prospect of navigating an airport when scarcely able to read a sign, an impeccably restored pair of spectacles was returned to me in the shortest possible time - leaving me to wonder if an optician had been spirited out of a ring or a lamp!)My experience at Sen Wellness will be an abiding memory. I will carry away in my heart the echo of the sea, the voices and faces of beautiful people who made such a soulful sojourn possible with huge gratitude to everyone of them for all the skill, knowledge, compassion and care that were the key ingredients of this delightful interlude.(And on the subject of ingredients, I will also carry away the tantalising Sen Wellness cookbook, so the adventure continues…)

Sarah S.

Sen Wellness Centre is a truly magical place. I came here in need of healing and I found it. The staff are incredible. The treatments are incredible. The food is incredible. The rooms are incredible.

Chithrananda De A.

Me and my wife spent three nights at the Sen Welness sanctuaryWell managed place , both Ayurvedic doctors and therapists are excellentExcellent food and service by all teams who involvedExcellent hospitality and great support by the manager TonyBoth yoga teachers Sandya and Anna are excellent , we both enjoyed all sessions from beginning until end.We both enjoyed though out our stay,Food , yoga , excellent Ayurvedic treatment (best compare to what we had in the past in many other places and countries ) We will come backSarah and Chithrananda De Alwis

Nerea C.

Arrive to the Sen Wellness Sanctuary is like to get into a piece of heaven. It’s much more than a place to relax, it’s a truly and deep journey. It awakes your feelings, heals your emotions and takes care of you nourishing from the amazing treatments to the delicious food.Surrounded by the purest nature, you will find calm and joy in this place. The yoga classes and the meditations were such an experience, all the activities were part of the learning and all the staff is the best you can imagine: kind, warm and with such a good energy.Sometimes you have to slap yourself to check that you are not dreaming. It’s such a magical place that you won’t leave never. It’s just possible to be grateful and hope to come back again.

abrar “Abrar” M.

Had the pleasure spending 10 days golden summer retreat , i cam all the way from Saudi arabia with open heart , However, the experience exceed my expectation.The resort well decorated full with love , peace and care .Antonio with his hospitality and his smile takes the experience to another level.Sam and Frances no word can describe the love and passion they have 🦋.The treatment team and the Doctor gave us all the attention and treatment team was amazing.Many thanks for all people who work at the kitchen and especially for the chef the food was delicious and healthyThank you Sam for this beautiful place and community.Definitely i will come back again and again to recharge my self and soul with love and peace 💓🦋

Adel H.

Had the pleasure spending two weeks at Sen Wellness. My wife and I had the best of time there with all starting from Sam, Frances, Antonio and the whole team. The treatment team the doctors gave us all the attention and treatment team were great. Rasanga was extra fantastic. Will come back again.

Response from the owner: Dear Adel, Thank you for sharing your satisfaction with all that the Sanctuary space offers. The team are delighted to have hosted you both, and deeply appreciate your trusting us during your journey of Ayurveda and Yoga. We are looking forward to welcoming you and your wife again soon ! May you continue to explore and experience the benefits of your time here. With gratitude.

Angmo A.

I visited last year December in the end of my second trimester and it was probably the best decision I took . The retreat and personalised treatments were exactly what my body needed after working non stop through the year.The staff was very professional and the therapists were knowledgeable and prolly the best Iv experienced in my extensive travels across the world. The food was nutritious and flavoursome. The space was like a sanctuary for us like minded souls who had all gathered there to heal our bodies and minds.The rooms were beautifully and very thoughtfully done up. We absolutely loved our little cabana and loved walking on the private stretch of beach every day. All in all everything was top notch and we hope to be able to return someday again. Special mention to Dr Sam and Sudheera for arranging everything so seamlessly .

Response from the owner: Dear Angmo, thank you for sharing your experience at the Sanctuary. It is wonderful to hear of your satisfaction of the overall offerings, and intention to return - we look forward to welcoming you again !With gratitude.

Sifra S.

I stayed at Sen for a 10 day signature retreat at the end of April/beginning of May and it was an absolutely life changing experience for me. If you are contemplating this and if you are able to go, I would definitely highly recommend just booking and going for it! It's the best gift you can give yourself.I set the expectations bar quite low since I was in deep grief after losing my partner 2 years earlier. I was heartbroken, traumatised, depressed and just completely worn out and in dire need of a shift. I booked this trip as some sort of last resort and was hoping to come away with at least some more energy.And boy, did it deliver. The location, the place itself, all members of the staff, and the immersion in nature are simply amazing. The treatments are great, the food is awesome and the vibe is oh so relaxed. The communal table was filled with laughter and lovely chatter at each delicious meal. The attention to detail and just the care of everyone working at Sen is truly amazing and very healing.You feel carried while you are there, not having to worry about what you'll prepare for dinner or booking a treatment, everything is arranged for you. You just have to decide what you'll wear to yoga and then you simply show up to yourself and to nature.I felt very much at ease being there on my own. Everyone lets each other be so if you want to spend time alone you absolutely can, but you can always join others at the pool or for an excursion if you feel like it. It never felt off or weird, it al just flowed naturally for everyone who was there.After a few days I started feeling a shift and really properly started feeling relaxed and at ease for the first time in ages. The excellent massages, my wonderful cabana room, the food, watching turtles hatching on the beach, the care of the doctors, resort manager and waiting staff, it was all heart warming and oh so powerful.When you are there everything is taken care of for you but thankfully I left with many tools on how to take things forward. Being able to sample various yoga and meditation styles and rituals gave me the bearings to integrate this more in my busy day to day Western life. I left with a new mindset, wonderful memories and more energy than I had in years. I'm now, two months later, still committed to following the Ayurvedic lifestyle guidelines as I feel a lot more relaxed, energetic and at ease in general.Thank you, Sen! I'm looking forward to coming back sometime soon to freshen up and rebalance again.Sifra

Response from the owner: Dear Sifra,Thank you for sharing your experience at the Sanctuary, with lovely moments captured. We greatly appreciate your trusting in us to facilitate your Ayurveda and Yoga journey. The team are delighted to hear of your satisfaction with the service and facilities, and very much appreciate your sharing of the deep healing and rejuvenating experience had - may you continue to integrate the ayurvedic lifestyle for your health and harmony. We are all looking forward to welcoming you again soon !With gratitude.

Rebecca T.

An experience that changed me forever!I can't even begin to thank Sen Wellness enough. I came to this retreat with the will to change, and it is here that I learned to inhale what's good for me, exhale all the toxins and past traumas, and let my body breathe and be free. Living in a nature reserve helped me reconnect with nature and overcome my fear of animals and insects. In this place, I found the link between my body and mind and reconnected on all levels.The treatments and medicines definitely aided in the healing process, and the food was nourishing for both the body and soul. The staff were phenomenal, and I can't thank them enough. Special thanks to Francis, who listened and took care of every detail, Irina, who made me fall in love with yoga, and all the professional therapists, especially Tini, whose smile brightened my day and whose positive energy boosted me into becoming a happier person.So much love for this place.Rebecca

Response from the owner: Dear RebeccaThank you for joining us at the Sanctuary, we are so pleased to read of your experience. The team are delighted to hear of the sense of support, comfort and inspiration received whilst on your Yoga and Ayurveda journey. The pictures have truly captured your embrace of the Daily rhythm and offerings the Sanctuary provides - thank you for sharing these moments with us. May you continue to explore and enjoy your practices!We hope to welcome you back again soon. With gratitude.

Ute K.

My recent stay at the Sen Wellness Sanctuary in Sri Lanka was an extraordinary experience that exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with warm smiles and exceptional service by the friendly staff, who went above and beyond to make my stay comfortable and memorable.The Sanctuary is nestled in a beautiful natural setting, with lush greenery and a stunning beach just a stone's throw away. Each morning, I woke up to the soothing sounds of nature, feeling completely rejuvenated and at peace.The cuisine at Sen Wellness Sanctuary was a highlight of my stay. The delicious local dishes, prepared with fresh, organic ingredients, were a true delight for the senses. Every meal was a culinary adventure, showcasing the rich flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine.The personalized Ayurveda treatments were simply outstanding. The expert practitioners took the time to understand my individual needs and tailored the treatments to promote healing and wellness. The therapies were not only incredibly relaxing but also highly effective, leaving me feeling revitalized and balanced.Adding to the holistic experience were the blissful meditation sessions and professional yoga classes. The meditation sessions provided a deep sense of tranquility, helping me to connect with my inner self and achieve a state of complete relaxation. The yoga sessions, led by a highly skilled instructor, were both invigorating and restorative, accommodating all levels of experience and enhancing my overall well-being.Overall, my time at Sen Wellness Sanctuary was a perfect blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and holistic healing. I highly recommend this sanctuary to anyone seeking a transformative and blissful retreat in Sri Lanka. I can't wait to return!

Response from the owner: Dear Ute,Thank you for sharing your Yoga and Ayurveda journey with us, It was a pleasure to meet and host you. We greatly appreciate your sharing of the experience had and are delighted to read of your satisfaction. The team are pleased to hear that your expectations were exceeded - having left feeling rejuvenated, connected and at peace with nature and yourself. We look forward to welcoming you once again ! May you continue to explore and enjoy the connections made from your time here. With gratitude.

Marylyn W.

I visited Sen Wellness for the spring awakening retreat in early April this year.The retreat was very rejuvenating and I got to meet amazing women who had joined the retreat.It is my second time to visit the Sanctuary and I can't begin to explain how peaceful, rejuvenating the surroundings are.The diet follows Ayurvedic principles, mainly vegan, and vegetarian lots of herbs and indigenous vegetables. Good for the digestive system. You can immediately feel the difference.The spa treatments are very good too, I specially enjoyed the herbal steam bath.A very special thank you for the manager Sanath. He was very quick to solve any problems issues that arose and always followed up to ensure that the guests were satisfied and happy.The staff in general are extremely polite, attentive and very kind. As a solo traveller, this Sanctuary will make you feel at home.Hope to be back soon.!

Response from the owner: Dear MarylynThank you for sharing your experience as a solo traveller, we are so pleased to have welcomed your return visit to the Sanctuary and to hear of the feeling of comfort during your stay. It is wonderful to read your satisfaction with the natural surrounds, food provided and service offered. We greatly appreciate your trust in hosting you on this 10 - day Yoga and Ayurveda wellness journey. We hope to see you again soon ! With gratitude.

Claire W.

I have just completed a 10 day retreat at Sen Wellness and having researched many options, I was drawn to this but it was way beyond my expectations, it was amazing. The yoga by Frances and the monk was incredible, the doctors were kind and helpful and all the staff could not have been more helpful. Special mention to treatments from Tanisha and the manager Sanath who got me out on the beach one evening to see the mother turtles. A dream come true in so many ways, left feeling refreshed,so much healthier in body and mind!! I would highly recommend to anyone who needs a reset.

Response from the owner: Dear ClaireIt was wonderful to host you and to read of the special time had at the Sanctuary. Thank you for sharing your yoga and ayurveda journey with us, and for your recommendations to those looking to rest and refresh - such lovely moments captured. The entire team are happy to hear that the experience exceeded your expectations, and that the natural surrounds offered the chance to connect with the wildlife ! We warmly wish you a continued joy filled practice upon your return home and look forward to seeing you again.With gratitude.

Michael B

My stay at Sen Wellness was absolutely amazing all-round. Sen is a beautiful place, in the middle of nature with a serene atmosphere. I had a deeply relaxing, inspiring and unforgettable stay at Sen.I stayed for three weeks in April/May 2024. The Yoga and meditation classes were great and even as a (complete) beginner, I felt very well supported. Also the therapeutic sessions were fantastic and effective. The food is delicious and rich in variety, which was very welcome for my longer stay.As I was traveling alone, I much enjoyed the close-knit group and personal feeling at Sen. Meals are enjoyed sitting together around a large communal table, allowing you to connect and meet.The staff is just fabulous - everyone, from the gardener, kitchen staff, to the therapists and managers (to mention just a few), really cares to make you feel well. Whenever you need something, they help you. Everyone greets you always with a smile.I would like to thank the whole Sen team for an amazing experience, and I am sure to be back here in the future

Response from the owner: Dear MichaelThank you for sharing your yoga and ayurveda journey with us at the sanctuary, a special and unforgettable experience that you have captured so nicely in the photos. It is with great pleasure to read of your satisfaction with our offerings, and to have watched such such warm and close connections blossom at the communal dining table - always so special to see this.We hope to see you again soon !With gratitude

britta B.

I had a wonderful stay and participated in the Signature Retreat. The resort is located in a very beautiful nature reserve. There is a beautiful beach for long nice walks and you also can see turtles.Meditation and Yoga were very also so good as were the ayurvedic treatments. I love it.The Signature Retreat led by Sam is a great, inspiring journey in itself - I can highly recommend.The ayurvedic food was delicious and the staff is great.I hope to go soon again to this wonderful place.Mandy thanks to Sam and his team at Sen Wellness Sanctuary. Britta

Response from the owner: Dear BrittaThank you for joining us at the Sanctuary - It was a pleasure to host and facilitate your experience during the 10-day retreat. May the yoga and ayurveda journey continue to inspire you upon returning home. We hope to see you again soon.With gratitude

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

Environmental and Social Sustainability

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. “