Sri Lanka Yoga Retreat
Ahangama, Sri Lanka
22nd - 28th February 2026
Sri Lanka has been on my hit list for a while now and I’m beyond excited to have found the perfect venue for my next retreat. It has everything you could want, breath-taking views, serene surrounding and luxury accommodation. Add in a soul-nourishing schedule of yoga, incredible food, and unforgettable experiences, and this has all the makings of the best retreat yet.
The Venue
Kurulu Bay, meaning “bird island” in Sinhalese, is a fitting name for this tree-shaded sanctuary overlooking Sri Lanka’s largest and most scenic lakes. This boutique hotel sits on the shores of Koggala Lake, just outside Ahangama and a five-minute drive from the coast. Surrounded by lush greenery, every element has been thoughtfully designed to offer space, privacy and tranquillity, with a focus on health and well-being. Standalone suites and cottages are scattered across the grounds, blending seamlessly with nature.
While Koggala Lake’s beauty is undeniable, it’s not suited for swimming, but with the choice of two inviting pools, I think it more than compensates. The main pool, located beside the restaurant, puts you at the heart of the action, with a sun-lounger-lined deck, glimpses of the lake through the trees and poolside service to keep you refreshed. For a more peaceful retreat, the upper pool offers a quieter spot for solitary laps. Book yourself into the Two-Bedroom Villa, you’ll also enjoy the added luxury of a secluded plunge pool of your own.
Getting here may require a flight, but sustainability is at the core of Kurulu Bay. Water- and energy-saving measures are in place, recycling policies minimize waste, and single-use plastics are nowhere to be found. Even green waste, including fallen leaves, is composted and used in the hotel’s gardens.
The Food
The Kitchen at Kurulu Bay embraces a sea-to-table philosophy, where mindful attention is given to the highest quality ingredients. Fresh seafood and sustainably harvested produce from the surrounding area are prepared in an open kitchen using organic oils and ingredients, resulting in simple yet elegant dishes with a distinctive touch from the chefs.
Seasonal and locally sourced, the menu evolves with the rhythms of the island, ensuring each dish reflects the region’s best offerings. Framed by spectacular views over Koggala Lake and complemented by a fine selection of beverages, dining at the Kitchen is a sensory experience that goes beyond the plate.
Extending this ethos, Kurulu Bay’s poolside bar offers a sociable setting to enjoy classic cocktails, soundtracked by birdsong and the occasional splash—an effortless blend of nature, luxury and relaxation.
The Yoga
While yoga āsana (the physical practice of yoga on the mat) will be a large part of the retreat, we will dive much deeper into the full practice of yoga through philosophy, mantra, pranayama, meditation and reflection.
There will be two daily yoga practices, the morning class will be more of a dynamic and energising practice combining prānāyāma, meditation and āsana followed by a more soothing and relaxing practice in the evenings.
Over the course of the week we will explore different philosophical and physical focuses in order to explore the spectrum of what yoga has to offer. There will also be plenty of time to ask questions and delve into areas of personal interest.
The Excursions
I've organised two incredible excursions to add a touch of adventure and give you a deeper glimpse into the local culture and landscape, experiences that are designed to complement both your yoga journey and your time away. Exploring a new destination isn't just about seeing the sights, it's about immersing yourself in its energy, embracing its rhythms and discovering how its natural beauty and traditions can deepen your sense of presence.
Sunset Cruise
We’ll embark on an idyllic, private sunset cruise from Mirissa Harbor and sail away, off into the horizon, creating unforgettable memories filled with exquisite luxury. Sailing through Weligama Bay and Mirissa Beach, we’ll get to experience the stunning beauty of the southern Sri Lankan coastline and on the return journey, enjoy a refreshing swim in the warm tropical waters or even try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding as the sun sets. This cruise also includes afternoon snacks and complimentary refreshments.
Cultural Excursion
First, we’ll visit the family-owned Handunugoda Tea Estate, renowned for its artisanal production of luxury teas. Unlike mass-produced varieties, Handunugoda crafts its collection by hand, using traditional methods and sourcing high-quality whole-leaf tea. Set in an eco-friendly environment, it showcases biodiversity, cultivating tea, cinnamon, vanilla, and pepper amidst lush greenery, all while addressing climate challenges. After a guided tour of the plantation, we’ll enjoy a tea appreciation program, followed by a complimentary slice of cake and a pot of tea, with a variety of teas available to seduce the senses.
We’ll also visit a Turtle Farm that offers a unique experience, blending education, conservation and a deep connection with nature. The farm plays a crucial role in protecting endangered sea turtles and during our visit, we’ll witness first-hand the efforts dedicated to conserving these magnificent creatures, from hatching to safely releasing the hatchlings into the ocean. If we’re lucky (depending on the timing of the baby turtles), we may even have the rare opportunity to see them being released into the ocean.
Accommodation Options
All of the luxury accommodation options have been thoughtfully designed to provide a serene, calm and elegant escape. Each room features complimentary WiFi, air conditioning, a ceiling fan, a kettle with a selection of local loose-leaf teas, glass-bottled water, plush bathrobes and slippers, and handcrafted local bath products.
Treehouses
Quietly nestled at the back of the property and perched on a hillside, the Treehouses are a secluded choice for peace-seeking folk. Their elevated position provides sweeping panoramas of Koggala Lake while ensuring added privacy. Raised above the surrounding foliage and enveloped in lush greenery, these tranquil hideaways offer views that stretch over the lake and the pool at the back of the property.
Generous natural light spills through large windows, seamlessly blending the indoors with the natural surroundings. Each Treehouse features a king-size bed, an ensuite bathroom, and a private outdoor seating area, with either lake or pool views—or both.
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Garden Suites
Located at the front of the property, the Garden Suites place you closer to the action, just steps from the main pool and restaurant. These suites open onto lush, landscaped gardens, with distant views of the tranquil lake. A refreshing breeze drifts through the large patio doors, creating a seamless connection to nature, one that extends to the ensuite bathroom.
Each Garden Suite features either a garden or lake view and includes a double or twin beds, a separate lounge area, an ensuite bathroom and a private outdoor seating area.
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The Cottages
The cottages are thoughtfully scattered across the landscape, each with its own distinct character. One embraces a modern, contemporary design, while the other two showcase vernacular architecture with half-flat tiled roofs. Despite their unique styles, all cottages share uninterrupted views of the lake.
Each cottage features either a garden or lake view and includes a king-size bed, an ensuite bathroom, and a private outdoor seating area.
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Kurulu House
The Kurulu House is a beautifully designed residence by renowned Sri Lankan architect Channa Daswatte, blending 1960s Florida architecture with tropical Bawa traditions, the house features a spacious, high-ceilinged living area, and two double bedrooms. Traditional materials and elements are thoughtfully integrated throughout the space, enhancing its unique character and each airy bedroom has a double bed and en-suite bathroom.
So what's the deal?
Besides structured class and meal times, the retreat will also include an opening and closing ceremony and two excursions. The rest of the retreat is yours for the making and what you do with it can be decided each day that you wake up. Whether it’s heading down to the beach for a dip in the sea or a surf lesson, indulging in ayurvedic treatments at the onsite spa, relaxing in a sun-lounger with your head buried in a novel or exploring the nearby temples and surrounding areas.
This retreat is far more than a holiday. When we break free from routine, we open up the door to discover freedom, independence, connection and transformation within ourselves. It’s the time that we dedicate to putting ourselves first, that really allows us to grow and heal, and what a perfect intention of prioritising yourself and your wellbeing to go into the new year with.
Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat to unwind and recharge or looking to embark on a journey of holistic wellness and yogic immersion, this retreat offers the perfect escape in the lap of nature. Experience the beauty and tranquility of Sri Lanka's coastline while enjoying luxurious accommodations and rejuvenating experiences tailored to enhance your sense of well-being.
What’s included?
- 7-day luxury yoga retreat
- 6 nights’ accommodation
- A daily menu of delicious and nourishing food (excluding one evening in which we will go out for dinner)
- Daily Yoga Classes
- Opening and Closing Ceremonies
- 1 x Sunset Catamaran Cruise
- 1 x Cultural Excursion
- Towels and toiletries
- Sunshine, laughter and connection
What’s not included?
- Flights to Sri Lanka
- Airport Transfer
Investment
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Treehouse - SOLD OUT
Private room £1695
Garden Suite
Double or Twin shared room £1295
Cottage
Double or Twin shared room £1295
Private room £1695
Two Bed Villa
Double or Twin shared room £1295
Private room £1850
Kurulu House - SOLD OUT
Private room £1595
Prices are listed per person. A £350 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your booking. Payment plans are available. Lets chat about it.
For all bookings and enquiries, please contact me directly at sammy@sammyrainbowfurnival.com