RetreatBird

Retreats in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's retreats sit on the palm-lined beaches of the south and west coasts and in the green hill country around Kandy. The retreats below run from 3 to 10 days. Tips and FAQs ↓

Retreats in Sri Lanka: coast, hills and monsoons

The south coast, from Galle east past Ahangama towards Talalla, mixes yoga with surf, while the west coast around Bentota has wide beaches and a shorter drive from the airport. Inland, Kandy, the old royal capital, sits among Buddhist temples and spice gardens, with the tea country rising beyond it.

The island has two monsoons. The south-west monsoon, from about mid-May to October, brings rain to the south-west, while the north-east monsoon, from December to March, mostly wets the north and east. The south and west coasts are driest roughly from December to April.

By type, this page includes yoga retreats, wellness retreats and yoga teacher training. Starting prices run from $250 to $1,198 per person, and the median is $760.

Length
3–10 days
Median length
6 days
Starting prices, per person
$250–$1,198
Median starting price
$760

Before you book

  • Apply for Sri Lanka's Electronic Travel Authorization before you fly, through the official ETA site.
  • At temples, cover your shoulders and knees, take off your shoes and hat, and never pose for a photo with your back to a Buddha image.
  • Ask how long the transfer from the airport takes; the south coast can be a long drive from Colombo.

Frequently asked questions

How long is a retreat in Sri Lanka?

Most often 4 to 6 days: 4 of the 6 centres here offer one of that length. Lengths here run from 3 to 10 days.

When is the best time for a retreat in Sri Lanka?

For the south and west coasts, roughly December to April, when the south-west monsoon is over. The east coast is driest in the middle of the year. The hills around Kandy are green and mild all year, with rain in both monsoon seasons.

How much does a retreat in Sri Lanka cost?

Starting prices for retreats in Sri Lanka listed on RetreatBird run from $250 to $1,198 per person, and the median is $760. Each retreat sets its own price; check what it covers.

Should I choose the coast or the hills?

The coast suits people who want the sea, surf lessons and warm evenings; the hills around Kandy suit those who want cooler air, temples and walks through villages and tea estates.

Do I need a visa for a retreat in Sri Lanka?

Foreign visitors need an Electronic Travel Authorization before arrival, applied for through the official ETA site. The rules and fees depend on your nationality, so check them before you book flights.