Ayurveda Retreat in Sri Lanka - 10 Best Tips

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

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.

Sen Wellness Sanctuary

4.7

Based on 105 reviews

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Sen Wellness Sanctuary

4.9

Based on 48 reviews

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I recently stayed at San Wellness Sanctuary in Sri Lanka for nine days to treat my long COVID brain fog and shortness of breath. Overall, my experience at the sanctuary was excellent. The staff and people there were incredibly welcoming and made me feel at home right away. The food was also fantastic - I looked forward to every meal.While I didn't see much improvement in my long COVID symptoms after the treatments, I still greatly appreciate the care and attention I received. The treatments themselves were great, and I felt like the practitioners really knew what they were doing.Overall, I would highly recommend San Wellness Sanctuary to anyone looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating retreat. The location is beautiful, the facilities are top-notch, and the staff is truly exceptional. Thank you for a wonderful stay.

shanto M.

03:41 18 Feb 23

Having known Sam for a few years, I finally made my way to the Sen Wellness Sanctuary in Sri Lanka in Jan 2023. And what an experience it has been. Words (and pictures) will never do justice to the care, warmth, generosity, expertise and the beauty of the 9 days I spent at the Sanctuary.Whether it was the morning wake up with a gentle and persistent "Good morning, Sir" at 5.30 and a hot cup of cardamom tea being held outside my room (till one got out of bed and opened the door), the morning yoga sessions (for the first time I was able to drop into that practice), the pre-breakfast walk to (a good little work out too!) and dip in the rock pool or a gentle raft-ride along the mangrove lagoon, the Ayurvedic doctor customising a daily treatment plan which included 3+ treatments a day, the early evening meditation (or sound healing or Breathwork) sessions, the ceremonies, an opportunity to be with the Reverend Monk or the little mini-excursions they organised, was all really special. Add to this the delicious and locally sourced food, the incredible team, the small community where we ate and checked-in together and the beautiful sanctuary itself and their cabanas. All that one needed was to be embedded in nature, and on the luscious beach, a protected turtle sanctuary (with an opportunity to see the turtle come out and lay eggs!) - which I enjoyed too.I have come back refreshed, rejuvenated and excited to enjoy what 2023 has in store. I will certainly be heading back - perhaps this time also to their sister Forest Retreat center in addition to the Sanctuary. Thank you Sam, Sudheera and the kind, generous and capable team at Sen Wellness.PS: Their selection of reading materials while lazily lounging waiting for the "next" treatment, was a treat and Sam's clinic in London, has been a real blessing and gift too!

Ankur K.

18:41 06 Feb 23

Staying at the Sen Wellness Retreat in Sri Lanka was one of my best experiences from the moment I entered the retreat I was enveloped in all the warmth and love you could possibly wish for. The delicious food, Ayurvedic treatments, relaxing on the comfortable furnishings in the common areas and the well appointed bedrooms. The thrill of enjoying the sunrise while doing kundalini yoga on the golden sand where the turtles had struggled up the beach the night before to lay their eggs. Sunset yoga, meditation and sitting around the fire chatting to my new family is unforgettable - I am planning on returning in November!! A pool would be lovely - Sam had best start digging!!!!

Ann

17:53 26 Jan 23

Thanks to Sen Wellness I'm starting my year completely refreshed from the inside out. It's the most beautiful, serene, welcoming place located between the sea and a lagoon. The team has gone over and beyond looking after every single guest with individual treatment plans and always being around to support. Not to mention the amazing food.. I've only stayed 6 days and would have loved to have some extra days. Can only recommend it and hope to be back again!

Christina B.

14:09 12 Jan 23

Whether you are looking to take a break from the busyness of life, a complete overhaul of the mind, body and soul or just a place to completely relax and get a good sleep, look no further. You have the ability and opportunity to completely unplug here with no outside distractions. Completely rest and rejuvenate at this very private location with super comfortable beds, nutritious food, amazing daily Ayurvedic therapies and supportive staff. It is called a sanctuary for a reason. The only distraction may be your minds addictive behaviors, for most the rabbit hole of the internet. With the limited wifi, you can turn off your phone for your entire stay or limit it to an hour a day. Then you may get to discover what truly makes you happy from within.My partner, Jamie, and I worked here for 3 months as therapists, yoga teachers and hosts. We fell in love with the place and the staff, we now call friends, that we would often here laughing while they worked. Something that we have discovered working at other retreat centers was not the case.We also noticed the pure synchronicity and harmony of the individual guests who showed up. Most of them became, not only friends with each other, but the perfect support persons in their transformative processes and I'm sure many will stay in touch for years to come.Please consider staying here to not only find your light but to turn it up so bright so you can be a lighthouse onto everyone around you. This world needs more light-bearers.Last but not least when considering how long to stay we noticed guests who stayed for less than 7 days felt their time was cut short and were only starting to get into a rhythm. Those who stayed for 2 weeks or longer were completely transformed and were literally floating by the time they left.Jamie and I look forward to coming back, for our own wellness and to support others in finding theirs. OM.

Arjuna D.

19:05 24 Nov 22

My sister and I went to Sen Wellness Santuary in November 2022. The experience was far more than we expected. The Ayuverdic treatments were so rejuvenating, the food was delicious, plant basic and organic, the morning breathing, meditation and yoga were just what we needed to kick start the day with the right intention and mindset. Also, the community connection is better than any other wellness place I have been to. The location of the sanctuary is between a forest, a lake, and the ocean, so you get the best of the 2 worlds. Highly recommended should you want to slow down from your busy schedule, connect with yourself and renergise 😀

Lamees A.

07:30 21 Nov 22

What an incredible, transformative week at Sen Wellness. A beautiful coccoon for the soul, in such a beautiful location. It's hard to describe what happens here, with the great yoga sessions, personalized Ayurvedic treatments, workshops, meditations, ceremonies, and mindful diet...it just all works together to provide a healing experience, one which expands the mind and heart, and gives the soul room to breathe. Stress lines and wrinkles noticeably vanished from everyone's faces over a few days, bodies began to unfold and stand strong once more, and smiles continued to grow day after day. Everyone at the center was incredibly kind and attentive, and it was a joy every morning to greet them. Madhu at the main desk was a ray of sunshine, Dr Harnika radiated peace and warmth, and all the therapists and kitchen staff took such good care of us. A very special thank you to our yoga teacher (and SO much more) Jamie, who helped to create a safe and nurturing space while helping us to free our bodies and minds. She is an exceptional guide, and a powerful beam of light, helping strangers from all over the world turn into a supportive community. And such deep gratitude for Arjuna who has what can only be described as the most healing hands, who helped me work through my chronic pain of 10+ years in such an intuitive manner - I'm still speechless!!Thank you so much Sen for helping so many people in deeply personal ways. 🙏

Jonathan Z. L.

14:57 25 Oct 22

Thank you Sen Wellness for providing an outstanding stay for Jon and myself. It really felt like a warm cocoon, a safe space to be guided towards our essence, to feel nurtured, grounded, healthy, and to be allowed to just be. The yoga was very integrative to all levels, and Jamie helped us understand and integrate the true meaning of yoga beyond the classes. The ceremonies led by Jamie and Arjuna were so great and genuine heart openers for people from all walks of life. Arjuna’s massages were out of this world, and with a lot of love.Beyond this, the whole staff was incredibly friendly - every single one of them.Madhu’s smile simply unforgettable. Best wishes and we will hopefully be back very soon!!

Manuela C.

14:54 25 Oct 22

I did not write a comment immediately after my retreat because I was looking for the perfect words to describe the beautiful and deep experience I lived at Sen Wellness Sanctuary. You might choose this place because you feel in a certain way but independently of the cause that might bring you there the truth is that you will leave with a clear, light and peaceful body and soul. At Sen Wellness Sanctuary I felt that everyone works towards making that space a home away from your home. The kindness and perfectionism that the staff provides is rare to find. By investing in Sen Wellness Sanctuary you are also investing in the community. The owner's philosophy of making the staff a priority really made the difference for me.The beautiful classes and ceremonies provided by Jamie Sol are undoubtedly memorable. I felt an immediate connection with the teachers and there are lessons that I for sure won't forget. Starting from the interior to the exterior, all Ayurvedic treatments brought me the feeling of floating. I felt many times that I was reborn over and over again. And I can not end this review without mentioning the unity created in the space between its architecture and nature to really create a unity between the all. I left with a tight heart because I really felt at home. The morning tee watching the sunrise from the cabana, the long walks between the empty beach and the immense lagoon, yoga while the sun goes up, the delicious (really delicious) food, the laughs, the sound of birds and monkeys playing around, the chat and meditation with the monk, the sky filled with stars, the reading by the pool, the long conversations, the sunbath by the stairs while waiting for treatments. The many many smiles. Oh I could go back in a glimpse.

Paula Alves S.

11:42 20 Oct 22

I had a wonderful stay at Sen Wellness Sanctuary. I was traveling solo and honestly this retreat was more than I thought I ever needed. Everything - from facilities, food, treatments was just great. You can feel this amazing hospitality from the moment you step through their gates.What is important to mention - I am on a strict gluten free diet and the kitchen staff took every effort to accommodate my dietary requirements. They even made a special GF cake for my birthday!Big shoutout to Jamie and Arjuna - such a lovely teachers and mentors - I have learned so much from them about yoga, meditation, energy healing and more.To the whole staff (and especially the ones I was not able to say goodbye to) - thank you from the bottom of my heart. People are the ones who make places special and you were all so incredible and kind. I received so much love and care when celebrating my birthday there - something I will cherish forever.Everything was organized with lots of care. My transfer from and to the airport was very smooth. The area is very safe and honestly I can't recommend the retreat enough.

Bożena T.

15:45 18 Oct 22

My retreat at Sen Wellness Sanctuary was exactly what I needed after 2,5 years Covid with full time home working. I was tired, both mentally and physically. As I wanted to completely disconnect from my day to day life, I chose for the 14 day package. It was the best thing I did to recover from these 2,5 years.The staff at Sen Wellness is very friendly and welcoming, from yoga teachers to the kitchen staff and therapists. I had an excellent yoga teacher Jamie, who also guided the ceremonies. We did a fire ceremony, water ceremony and a new moon ceremony. The new moon ceremony was very special. It was like Jamie sensed what I needed. Movement, dance, energy, joy, life! Perfect!The food was excellent, every meal a great variety of dishes. Even the few days that I had the luxury to be the only guest, I had at least 7 dishes for lunch and dinner.I loved the treatments, my favorite was the shirodhara. This oil treatment you have to experience. Words cannot express this experience, you float, lose track of time and space. And let's not forget the joint treatment, loosening your whole body.The yoga classes went beyond the physical postures. There was a lot of attention for both body and soul, with breathing exercises and meditation. And let’s not forget joy. The last day we went at sun rise to the beach to take pictures of my achievement. It was not about the achievement, it was about the joy of life we shared together.A retreat at Sen Wellness is a treat and transformation for body and soul.

Gerti van L.

14:41 16 Oct 22

I attended to summer retreat and this center offered me so much more than I expected. First of all, I was not sure at all of travelling to Sri Lanka from Canada, but all is good, you can travel with no fear, it was a perfect experience, from beginning to end.I have been taking care of from the most caring, knowledgeable, open hearted, and wonderful people that have made my journey at the center a exceptionnel experience.You can trust, that this center will bring you what you need, at the perfect timing in your life.

Sonia C.

18:20 11 Sep 22

I stayed at Sen Wellness for the special golden summer retreat in August 2022. It was everything I was looking for: expanding my knowledge of yoga, meditation and Ayurveda. More importantly, it helped me connect with myself. The people that have built this amazing place between the ocean and jungle are so kind and welcoming. Everything is taken care off and the staff really ensures you get a wonderful experience. The food is amazing and I never felt healthier. The yoga and meditation teachers Jamie and Ardyuna who were there at the time, made the experience even more special. With their knowledge and experience, the experience was even more special. Thank you Sen Wellness for helping me connect with myself on a deeper level. I would highly recommend this relaxing and special experience to everyone.Even though Sri Lanka was in the middle of an economic crisis while I was there, this did not affect my trip in any way. The country is safe to travel to and I would recommend everyone to do so!

marleen blanson H.

09:15 04 Sep 22

Everything at the highest level.A unique, authentic place at the highest level.Atmosphere, ambience, food, treatments, doctors, yoga, accommodation - ideal place for retreat for body, soul and mind.5 nights there is an absolute minimum:)Thank you Sen Wellness Sanctuary and see you soon

Dominika M

18:02 20 Jun 22

Sam and the team and SEN Wellness have done a fantastic job of creating a space for healing, rejuvenation and connecting to natureI spent 10 days at the sanctuary in April and to this day I am still struggling to put the experience in to words that could do it justice..!The whole experience there was truly magical - from the location and immersion in nature, the daily structure, community with other guests, the food, yoga and cacao ceremony. Not only was there opportunities to experience and heal during the stay but I also felt there was so much I was able to learn and take away / take back in to 'normal' life to continue the process.Litsa - the yoga teacher during our stay - was incredible at holding space and taking the group where they needed to go as a collective and really opened my eyes to another depth of yoga that I didn't know existed.I'd recommend SEN Wellness Sanctuary in a heartbeat and felt privileged to witness and be a small part of the the transformations I saw in people through their stay. Thank you!

Grant M.

00:09 19 Jun 22

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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

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.