When most people go on holiday, they intend on enjoying nothing but the best of rest and relaxation. On trips to exotic getaways such as Sri Lanka, many wish to indulge in soothing yoga retreats - one of the better ways of getting into your zen holiday mood. So, whether you envision your vacation in the country as something akin to Julia’s Robert’s adventure in Eat, Pray, Love, or even something a little less jazzy, yoga is an activity for one and all. On that positive note, let’s dive into some of the best yoga retreats for beginners, experts, and everyone in-between, on your holiday in Sri Lanka.

The 7-Day 'Journey to Balance' Yoga and Meditation Retreat

With the promise of finding balance within yourself and the world around you, join a calming getaway on the warm sands of the Hiriketiya Beach. With highlights including cooking classes specialising in Sri Lankan cuisines, daily Yin and Yang balance focused meditations, and an excursion to the country’s breathtaking holy shrines, this retreat, is one designed to perfectly re-calibrate and bring balance to your energies. Give yourself the ability to step back from physical, emotional, and mental distractions with the different type of yoga practices this package promises. The fresh, vegan meals that are an integral part of this experience, will also leave you feeling revitalised and rejuvenated at the end of the seven days. Unplug, unwind, and immerse yourself in the peace and quiet of deep meditation you can’t find anywhere else.

‘Sun, Sand, and Tea’ Yoga Adventure Retreat

If you find yourself interested in unwinding in Sri Lanka’s lush tea estates, this experience is one of a kind. This 8 day retreat, includes luxurious massages, day trips to tourist hotspots such as Kandy, Galle, and other sightseeing tours, among others. Apart from the seriously zen daily yoga sessions, participants can also look forward to well-prepared meals, comfortable accommodation, kayaking, as well as scenic trekking experiences. The retreat is structured to move from one picturesque destination to the other, with attendees being able to soak up the sights and sceneries of the the famed hill country, followed by the idyllic coastal havens of the south of the island. With different types of yoga and meditative practices, achieve the inner peace you’ve been searching for with the Sun, Sand, and Tea Yoga Adventure Retreat.

10 Day "Raise Your Vibration" Emotional Detox Retreat

Practising primarily the Kudalini yoga method, this retreat is perfect for those interested in some seaside therapy. With accommodation located just a hair’s breadth away from the stunning Indian Ocean, participants enjoy the very things Sri Lanka is famous for; sun, sand, and sea. Given the way the itinerary of the programme is structured, it allows for ample time and opportunity to either spend time in solitude, or interact with your fellow attendees and find a sense of peace and companionship on your next trip to Sri Lanka. Numerous day trips are also part of the schedule, so you can also expect adventures to various parts of the island as part of your experience. With the promise of helping you slow down and unplug, expect to get in touch with your surroundings and finding true inner peace on this relaxing retreat.

7 Day Surf, Pilates, and Yoga Retreat

The 7 Day Surf, Pilates, and Yoga Retreat, is perfect for those that aren’t keen on early morning wake-up calls or gruelling fitness session, characteristic of health-focused bootcamps. Promising a well-balanced experience through your seven day stay, key activities include safaris, cooking classes, and mind-altering massages. For those keen on the fitness aspect of the retreat, daily yoga, pilates, and boxilate classes are offered, for better overall health by the end of your stay. On top of this, make the transition into the diet of your dreams easier than ever, with the healthy and wholesome meals offered at the retreat. Upon returning home, participants can expect to find themselves perfectly centred and at peace to meet life and its challenges, head-on.

Yoga & Ayurveda Retreats in Ulpotha's jungle paradise

Offering up participants the chance to discover mental resilience and strength, this getaway in Ulpotha, is perfect for weary souls. Find the goodness in life’s simplicities and disconnect from daily life on this scenic retreat. With world renowned yoga instructors to guide you through your reorienting journey, participants can immerse themselves in the best of meditative practices, while soaking up the the rich history and heritage of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, where the retreat takes place. The retreat lasts for a total of two weeks, with each week promising new sights and new experiences. Individuals looking for a restful vacation, would do well to head to Ulpotha’s jungle in search of peace and quiet.