Immerse yourself in a rejuvenating yoga retreat at Ulpotha, a serene sanctuary nestled in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. Located at the base of the Galgiriyawa Mountains, Ulpotha is known for its exceptional natural beauty and tranquility. The unique retreat spans 20 acres, surrounded by lush green paddy fields and a lotus-ringed lake. It is a perfect setting to support yogis in developing their practice.

Ulpotha is reminiscent of a traditional village, offering elegant simplicity and enjoyment of the natural environment. Guests stay in adobe houses surrounded by flowers and trees, with opportunities to swim in a lake adorned with water lilies. The biodiversity is extraordinary, with a variety of flora, fauna, and birdlife, and occasional visits from gentle wild elephants.

The retreat is designed for yoga students with at least one year of Iyengar yoga experience. Each day includes early morning pranayama (mindful breathing) or meditation, followed by morning asana practice. Quieter afternoon sessions will focus on seated postures, inversions, and restorative yoga.

With five hours of daily practice, there will be ample time to rest, explore, and swim. Ulpotha also offers a comprehensive program of Ayurvedic treatments and massages from highly experienced therapists (additional to the retreat price).

A retreat highlight will be a day-trip exploring the Cultural Triangle’s famous sights. These include visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple; lunch and swimming at a Geoffrey Bawa-designed hotel; viewing sunset from Sigiriya Rock; and dining at a traditional Sri Lankan hotel.

Entrance fees and meals for the day trip are additional to the retreat price.

Accommodation at Ulpotha consists of ten nights in traditional wattle and daub huts nestled among tropical trees and shrubs. The huts are twin-share with modern, clean open-air showers. The sandy paths between dwellings are shaded by coconut palms and fringed with vibrant hibiscus, sunflowers, and marigolds.

The absence of electricity encourages guests to live to by the natural rhythm of the day. Light provided by candles, lamps, and lanterns gives the retreat an ethereal nighttime atmosphere.

Ulpotha offers organic vegetarian meals prepared traditionally without chemicals or machinery. Guests enjoy three delicious meals daily, along with juices, herbal teas, pure spring water, coconuts, and snacks.

The retreat runs from August 18th to August 28th and costs $3180 NZD. Tessa will provide travel suggestions post-booking. Flights, and transfers (arranged for guests) are not included in the retreat price.

To reserve your place, register interest or for further enquiries, please email tessa@wellingtonyoga.co.nz