Ulpotha is a unique venue of total peace and calm, located at the base of the Galgiriyawa Mountains, in the jungle heartland of Old Ceylon in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. Rebuilt on the layout of a deserted traditional village, Ulpotha covers a 20-acre site cradled on one side by low mountains and a lotus-ringed lake, and on the other by emerald-green paddy fields.

This haven of exquisite natural beauty is a secluded hideaway where you live in elegant simplicity, close to nature, in adobe houses nestled amongst flowers and trees, and swim in a lake surrounded by beautiful rock formations.

The biodiversity of Ulpotha is extraordinary, with flora, fauna and bird life of dazzling variety.

During your stay you can swim in the lake, go bird watching, make use of the on-site bikes and of course relax in one of the many hammocks and hanging beds that dot the grounds, or rest in the lovely ambalama beside the lake.

Life at Ulpotha is both simple and luxurious as we live and practice closely with nature while being genuinely cared for by the local 'guardians’.

The retreat is suitable for yoga students with at least one year of Iyengar yoga experience.

We will start our day early with meditation, followed by morning asana practice. Quieter afternoon sessions will focus on seated postures, inversions, pranayama (mindful breathing) and restorative yoga. With five hours of daily practice, there will be ample time to rest, explore, and swim in the beautiful 'tank'.

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 half day-trip exploring the Cultural Triangle’s famous sights.

Accommodation at Ulpotha consists of ten nights in traditional wattle and daub huts nestled among tropical trees and shrubs. The huts are mostly 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.

To reserve your place, register interest or for further enquiries, please email tessa@wellingtonyoga.co.nz . Tessa will provide flight and travel suggestions post-booking.

Terms and conditions of booking: The deposit secures your place on the retreat and is non-refundable. 50% of the full retreat price is due by 28 Feb 2026 and the balance of the retreat is due in full 12 weeks before the retreat starts. Cancellations within 12 weeks of the retreat cannot be refunded unless I find someone else to take your place.

Taking out travel insurance at the time of booking is recommended.

The retreat price does not include flights, ayurveda and spa treatments or airport transfers (which can be arranged for guests). Entrance fees and meals for the day trip are additional to the retreat price. Booking is taken as acceptance of these conditions.