Sri Lanka's Cultural Heart

Enjoy Colombo at your own pace. After a leisurely hotel breakfast, you can start your day with a walk in the tranquillity of nearby Viharamahadevi Park, or be immersed in the country’s fascinating history and culture at Colombo National Museum just across the park.

While it’s easy to lose track of time when exploring, make sure to save an hour of your day for your included 60-minute rejuvenating head, neck, and shoulder ritual at Spa Ceylon—one of the city’s leading Ayurveda day spas.

After breakfast, embark on a private drive through Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle. Explore the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with ancient wall and ceiling murals dating back to the 1st Century BC.

Next, visit Uga Ulagalla in Thirappane, a serene nature retreat close to a host of famous sites and national parks. The resort features 25 elegantly appointed pool villas on 58 acres of lush gardens, offering a tranquil ambience and abundant wildlife.

Later, you may like to relax by the Olympic-sized pool, or perhaps head to the on-site day spa for an indulgent treatment. The resort also offers a range of activities, including cycle tours, horseback riding, kayaking, and nature walks. In the evening, you could choose to enjoy fine dining at the resort’s restaurant, Liyawela.

After breakfast, you have some time to enjoy at your own pace. Later, embark on a guided visit to the resort’s organic gardens and surrounding farmlands. Learn about the health benefits of consuming fresh seasonal produce, the traditional method of slow clay pot cooking that preserves both flavour and nutrients, and an introduction to the world of herbal medicinal plants and how they can be used to treat common ailments.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy however you please. You could choose to have a cocktail or mocktail by the pool, or perhaps relax in the privacy of your private pool before capping the night with dinner at the restaurant.

In the morning, set out on a journey to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Sigiriya Rock Fortress (aka Lion Rock). Your 200-metre hike will be rewarded by the unparalleled 360-degree view of the surrounding jungles and hills, and an up-close-and-personal look at the palace’s remnants that tell the story of the remarkable vision and dedication behind its creation.

Please bear in mind that ascending to the summit requires a reasonable level of physical fitness and is not mandatory.

In the afternoon you’ll return to your accommodation where you can spend the rest of the day relaxing and enjoying all the amenities.

After breakfast, you’ll be driven to Santani Wellness Kandy where your well-being takes centre stage. Upon arrival, you'll receive a personalised wellness consultation with the resident doctor who will conduct a body type analysis for a bespoke experience. You may also select a personalised meal plan if you wish; a non-juice detox diet, raw juices and smoothies, an Ayurveda diet, a low-carb Keto meal plan, or simply beautiful traditional Sri Lankan fare.

Santani provides an ideal environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. Your minimalistic Mountain Chalet, reminiscent of ancient Buddhist meditation retreats, invites you to unwind, reconnect with nature, and embark on a holistic journey towards wellness.

You’ll also have access to the spa’s thermal salt bath, steam room, and sauna. Shared Hatha yoga sessions are offered every morning and evening, allowing you to enhance your physical flexibility and mental relaxation. But the best bit by far is that 90 minutes of personalised Ayurveda and spa treatments are included daily, allowing you to recharge your mind, body, and spirit.

Each day, you can engage in optional guided nature walks and lifestyle discussions providing you with valuable insights and guidance for maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle beyond your retreat experience.

If you’re keen to explore more, there are a host of day tours and excursions that can be arranged by the resort, including hikes, mountain biking and waterfall visits.

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. Your luggage will be handed over to Sri Lanka Airport staff who will check it in, take you to immigration, and escort you to a private lounge where you can rest until you board your flight.