8 Yoga Escapes in Sri Lanka

A deservedly popular yoga destination, Sri Lanka is blessed with a bounty of beautiful shalas, some of which form part of the island's most magical hotels. If you're dreaming of rising early for classes overlooking the jungle, of deepening your practice with a dedicated yoga retreat, or simply stretching out your body post-surf or day out with the family, you'll find no shortage of special spots to lay out your mat.

We've divided our list of eight of the best yoga escapes in Sri Lanka into sections, beginning with three simpler spots in buzzy south and east coast surf towns. These are ideal for those looking to combine time out on the water with mindful moments on the mat. Whether you're an experienced yogi or surfer, it really doesn't matter — there are few better places in the world to begin!

If you're more tempted by a blissful lakeside hotel with organised retreats and a real sense of seclusion, our selection includes two terrific boutique boltholes, one on the shores of Koggala Lake, and the other tucked beyond Kandy. That part of the island also plays host to Sri Lanka's most famed minimalist wellness resort. Head back towards the south for Galle Fort's grand dame or a tea estate gem, both with highly regarded spas. Happy exploring!

For Surf & Yoga

Hideaway Resort is an east coast institution. A laid-back surf-and-yoga spot hidden in lush gardens just across the road from the beach, this is a brilliant choice for those eager to immerse themselves in the rhythm of Arugam Bay living. Rise early to ride the waves, or for yoga classes in the breezy poolside shala before big smoothie breakfasts. Expect simple rooms and cabins with traditional artwork, open-roofed showers and colourful block printed quilts. The post-surf parties are good fun.
The Kip, another favourite of keen surfers and yogis, sits in lively Ahangama, the south coast's coolest surf town. This lovingly converted villa houses four understated guest rooms and a buzzy café, all decorated with artisanal pottery and rattan lampshades. A mellow hideaway with yin yoga evenings in the courtyard, and easy access to surf breaks and umpteen yoga opportunities.
Salt House sits just metres from the beach in bustling Hiriketiya Bay. A tiny surf cove with famously good beginner waves for much of the year, Hiri has welcomed some superb cafés and eateries. Salt House is a brilliant base for soaking up the best of the area, with simple, airy guest rooms set around a small garden with plunge pool, relaxed eatery, and first-floor yoga shala. Balance out the surf with restorative yoga as monkeys swing through the palms.

For Lakeside Bliss

Tri Lanka, a beautiful eco-retreat on the banks of enchanting Koggala Lake, has 11 guest rooms — largely standalone villas — set around an enormous banyan tree. The best of the minimalist villas have their own plunge pools, and there's an impressive focus on natural materials. Stroll up to the glass-sided yoga shala for fantastic classes before unwinding at the spa or the 21-metre lake-facing infinity pool. A luxurious haven.
Rukgala Retreat is set amidst leafy grounds on the shores of Lake Victoria, around 45 minutes from Kandy. Eight contemporary rooms promise inviting four-poster beds, private balconies with dazzling mountain views, and lovely patterned textiles. Take a yoga class in the teak shala before flavoursome vegetarian or vegan breakfasts on the terrace. Paddle board on the lake, hike through the cloud forest or enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments. A lush setting which also hosts regular yoga retreats.

For a Hillside Haven

Kahanda Kanda, although not far from Koggala and the coast, has a wonderfully secluded feel. Tucked in a 12-acre tea plantation, this jungle-framed oasis offers ten individually designed villas, three with plunge pools. Think old oil paintings, block printed textiles, four-poster beds and antique wooden furnishings. Expect delicious dishes of locally sourced and garden-grown produce, and a strong eco ethos. The yoga shala is superb, set amidst the gardens and perfect for rejuvenating private classes.
Santani Wellness Resort & Spa has a unique reputation on the island as a contemporary wellness retreat. Hidden in the hills above Kandy, it's a dramatic minimalist resort with cantilevered villas, and lots of glass, wood and steel. The spa is a destination in itself, and wellness retreats are individually tailored to each guest, with a focus on yoga and traditional Ayurvedic treatments and cuisine. An adult-only gem.

For Galle Fort Glamour

Amangalla, once the New Oriental Hotel, is Galle Fort's most luxurious property. A cream-coloured colonial-era building, this grand hotel features antique furnishings and big free-standing tubs on polished hardwood floors in 30 rooms and suites. The celebrated Aman group's exquisite touch can be felt at the sumptuous spa, and the exceptional service and cuisine. Private yoga classes are a delight — as is the refreshing swimming pool, rare for the Fort.

STILL NOT SURE?

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Alternatively, check out our list of 9 of the Best Wildlife Hotels in Sri Lanka.
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- Hideaway Resort Ulle, Arugam Bay 16 rooms from £55
  
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  Yoga  -  The open-sided shala is a wonderfully restful space for daily airo, yin and vinyasa classes, as well as transformative retreats
  Surfing  -  Expect some of the island's best surf from May to September at Whiskey Point, Peanut Farm, Pottuvil Point and other top breaks
  Active Holiday  -  A wonderful choice for a surf and yoga break, with daily classes and world-class breaks for guests of all ages to enjoy
  Hideaway  -  A beautiful, restful retreat — choose a bungalow tucked further from the restaurant for a tranquil, romantic escape
  
  An Arugam Bay icon, Hideaway is the place to stay for keen surfers, yogis, couples and families. Seven stylish bedrooms and nine tile-roofed bungalows sit in leafy grounds, across the road from the bay's golden beach. Sip cocktails, or unwind at the pool & yoga shala. A brilliant east coast escape. See More
  
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- The Kip Ahangama (Southern Province) 4 rooms from £99
  
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  Surfing  -  Hone your surf skills on the beginner breaks of Weligama Bay, or ride the waves at Kabalana, Sticks or Marshmallow surf points
  Art Classes  -  Get creative with painting, drawing or pottery-making at fabulous artists' workshops held at The Kip throughout the year
  Hideaway  -  A little slice of calm surrounded by leafy gardens & the scent of sandalwood, all within easy reach of the beach
  Romantic Break  -  Intimate & romantic, guest rooms invite couples to unwind in blissful tranquility with long garden breakfasts
  
  A gorgeous hideaway in lively Ahangama, with three guest rooms set in a restored villa, and one garden studio. Thoughtfully curated spaces feature artisanal pottery, rattan lampshades & potted palms, all reflecting the mellow ethos of this charming little hotel, to which guests return again & again. See More
  
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- Salt House Hiriketiya 8 rooms from £66
  
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  Yoga  -  Enjoy complementary morning and afternoon yoga classes in the treetop shala, with monkey and birds just moments away
  Beach Life  -  With beach lounging, surfing and yoga, this is a blissful beach break for sandy-toed holidaymakers
  Surfing  -  Borrow complimentary boarsd to surf the waves at gorgeous Hiriketiya Bay, a short walk from Salt
  Groups  -  Book the two-bedroom suite if travelling with friends and family, or the four-bed dorm
  
  Undoubtedly the top spot to stay in hip Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka’s latest southern surf haven. With a simple contemporary style, jungle-view yoga and pool-side cocktails beneath the palms, Salt has laid-back boutique bliss nailed. See More
  
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- Tri Lanka Koggala (Sri Lanka) 11 rooms from £250
  
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  Hotel boats for hire  -  Private boat trips on the lake are magical, with flitting birds, slinking crocodiles and houses emerging from lush vegetation
  Cycling  -  Hop on the hotel's bicycles to zip through the villages, along narrow lanes and lakeside paths as you explore the area
  Total relaxation  -  There are few spots as serene in Sri Lanka - morning yoga completes the vibe
  Romantic Break  -  Private treetop cottages make this an ideal romantic escape
  Recommended by  -  I Escape, Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  Boutique eco-hideaway near Galle Fort, 11 rooms, mostly in separate villas enveloped in lush greenery. Sleek wood-and-stone restaurant terrace offers top-notch fusion fare, plus views across Koggala Lake. A romantic haven. World class yoga and excellent spa also make it the ideal detox escape. See More
  
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- Rukgala Retreat Kandy (Senarathwela, Digana) 8 rooms from £222
  
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  Total relaxation  -  Eat well, enjoy spa treatments, and start the day with a yoga class - it doesn't get much more relaxing than this
  Active Holiday  -  For outdoor enthusiasts, there are a wide range of activities to partake in from kayaking to hiking
  Restaurant  -  There's a focus on vegan and vegetarian cuisine (mostly Sri Lankan) but meat and fish dishes are offered on request
  Great walks  -  There are a wide range of hiking trails (guides are available)
  Recommended by  -  I Escape
  
  Indulge in restorative rejuvenation at Rukgala Retreat - or "shelter on the rock", situated in a beautiful and still pretty unknown part of Sri Lanka, 45 minutes from Kandy. A boutique hotel meets retreat space making the ideal sanctuary for yoga teachers, students and those just keen to escape. See More
  
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- Kahanda Kanda Koggala (Sri Lanka) 10 rooms from £261
  
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  Honeymoons  -  A beautiful honeymoon escape with romantic private villas, superb candlelit dining, and a rejuvenating spa
  Yoga  -  The onsite yoga shala is ideal for private early morning yoga overlooking the jungle and fluttering birds
  Weddings  -  A popular venue for exquisite weddings, planned by a fabulous team and held in magical surroundings
  Cooking classes  -  Take fabulous cooking classes with the team, learning to make delicious Sri Lankan specialities
  Recommended by  -  I Escape, Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  Up in the tea-leaf covered hills surrounding Galle, Kahanda Kanda is a lover’s retreat. Comprised of ten private suites, tucked away in lush grounds, decorated in a luxurious and modern décor. With private dining, spa treatments and plenty of activities this is one for hopeless romantics. See More
  
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- Santani Wellness Resort & Spa Kandy (Sri Lanka) 20 rooms from £463
  
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  Spa breaks  -  An exceptional destination spa complete with comprehensive hydrotherapy facilities, traditional Ayurvedic treatments & more
  Great walks  -  Take long walks through the property's 48 acres of jungle and rice fields, which promise impressive views
  Total relaxation  -  An adults-only first-class spa with minimalist design in the marvellous mountains - perfect for relaxing
  Yoga  -  Rise early for energising or restorative yoga sessions, either privately or with a group
  Recommended by  -  Tablet, Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  A contemporary wellness centre situated in the picturesque hills above Kandy. The clean, minimalist architecture is not only very pleasant on the eye but also helps create a zen atmosphere. With healthy cuisine and blissful wellness packages created for each guest, this is a truly special place. See More
  
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- Amangalla Galle (Sri Lanka) 30 rooms from £429
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Charming heritage suites, an indulgent spa and delicious dining make this a great couples' break
  Yoga  -  Private yoga classes are a wonderful way to start the day in a beautiful part of Sri Lanka
  Spa breaks  -  Aman's sensational spa, The Baths, promises rejuvenating treatments in a striking setting
  Cooking classes  -  Fabuous cooking classes are a brilliant way to hone your Sri Lankan culinary skills
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape
  
  Galle's top address. Cast your worries aside as you are taken care of by the world renowned Aman group. Located in a handsome, white colonial building you'll find chic interiors and suites crammed with period pieces and beautiful bathrooms. Elegant dining and a sumptuous spa complete the picture. See More
  
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