Sri Lanka: Body & Soul

Ayubowan and welcome to Sri Lanka. Enjoy a warm A&K welcome and private transfer to your luxury hotel.

Wallawwa

Travel overland to the ancient UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple, widely believed to be one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in the world. The shrine rooms at Dambulla sit beneath a massive stone outcropping that rises above the green plains: filled with paintings and sculptures from Sri Lanka’s evolving artistic styles. Wander through the ancient cavern, past the huge collection of Buddha statues, and bask in the cool serenity of the temple. Continue to your tranquil chalet, where you can cool off in your private plunge pool. This evening, indulge on organic cuisine at the elegant restaurant or perhaps choose to dine on your private deck.

Ulagalla Resort | Meals: BD

Take a packed breakfast to Anuradhapura for either a calming meditation session or a music therapy session with an expert. In a blissful state, continue to the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura, which have served as a pilgrimage site since its discovery over 200 years ago.

Two colossal dagobas (stupas) — each the size of the Pyramids — dominate the sacred city, with its vast remnants of temples, sculptures, palaces and water reservoirs. Admire the 'Samadhi' Buddha statue and receive a blessing near the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree — the oldest tree planted by man.

Your last stop is at the peak of Mihintale, Sri Lanka’s cradle of Buddhism. Come with vigour and walking shoes: visitors can climb the 1843 granite steps that lead up the monastery complex, ending in a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside.

Ulagalla Resort | Meals: BD

Wake up early to experience Sigiriya Rock Fortress at dawn. The rock itself is a lava plug left over from an ancient, long extinct volcano. This UNESCO site requires a moderate level of fitness to reach the summit, but once you do it is worth every second. You’ll find sprawling palace ruins surrounded by an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs and cinematic views.

This afternoon, head to the Ritigala Mountain Monastery. Wander through peaceful forests on ancient pathways to the mysterious Ritigala ruins and learn the legend of how the unique ecosystem here was created by the Hindu god Hanuman. Along the way admire the birdlife, and cool down under the thick overhead canopy, as you discover staircases through the jungle, stone bridges, raised platforms and tranquil courtyards.

Ulagalla Resort | Meals BD

This morning you have a rare opportunity to practise alms giving to the local monks. You’ll be invited into the home of a local family where you can assist (optional) in preparing a traditional meal of three to four dishes. You’ll then join the family in ‘Dana’ — the practice of cultivating generosity — by giving the dishes to the village temple. Stay for a humbling sermon based on the teachings of Buddha, and allow the monks to bless you with cords around your wrist. As you enjoy your newly bestowed merit sample the breakfast dishes after the monks have finished.

Continue overland to Kandy, where you’ll visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Observe a ritual performed by the resident monks to the sound of drums and the smells of incense and jasmine flowers. Afterwards, meet Rahju, a contemporary artist and musician in his private gallery. Allow him to show you how yoga and meditation form a large part of his creative process. Finally head out into the tranquil hills that surround the city to your luxury wellness retreat.

Santani Wellness Resort | Meals: BD

Spend the next two days enjoying a gentle detox. Start each morning with a group Hatha Yoga session using asanas and breathing techniques to calm the body, mind and spirit. Your stay includes a personalised meal plan designed to detox the body. Options include a diet with raw juice & smoothies; an Ayurveda diet to balance the body’s six tastes — sweet, salty, sour, pungent, bitter and astringent; a low-carbohydrate Keto diet; or hearty and traditional Sri Lankan fare. You’ll also receive a daily wellness treatment as part of a program tailored to your specific needs.

During your stay, fill your lungs with fresh air and get the blood flowing as you explore the dramatic valleys and surrounding jungle. Whether by car, on foot or by bicycle, go in search of serene rivers, cascading waterfalls, natural pools, mesmerising birdlife and incredible vistas. For something less active opt to explore some local temples and villages or discover how tea leaves go from the plant to your cup at a tea factory.

You may like to indulge in additional Ayurvedic treatments or spa therapies of your choice (additional cost). Your wellness consultant can recommend a personalised therapy to relieve stress, gain mindfulness, detox and cleanse.

Santani Wellness Resort | Meals: BLD

Transfer to Colombo Airport for your onward flight.

Meals: B