Rukgala Retreat

Introduction

Yogis and those with a love of the outdoors should take a close look at Rukgala Retreat. This intimate boutique hotel aims to unite travellers who have a shared passion for wellness, fitness and adventure through a range of exciting outdoor activities, high-quality yoga classes and relaxed communal dining. Set on the edge of the scenic Victoria Reservoir and surrounded by the spectacular Knuckles Mountain Range, there are opportunities for kayaking, paddle-boarding and hiking, either done independently or led by the in-house naturalist. Guests can also visit the nearby tea factory and ancient cave temple. A small swimming pool and stylish ensuite rooms, each generously-sized and decorated with warm wooden furnishings, are peaceful spaces for relaxation at the end of day full of activity.

Accommodation

Rukgala Retreat has eight rooms, split evenly between the Top House and more private Garden Cottage.

Top House Double Bedrooms: Set atop the rock that puts the ‘gala’ in Rukgala, these rooms have a small balcony with views of the pool and lake beyond and are furnished with a king-sized double bed, comfortable chair and desk. The ensuite bathroom has a sink and shower and opens out to the terrace as well.

Top House Twin Bedroom: As above but with twin beds instead of a king-sized bed.

Top House Family Room: A spacious room with four single beds – two four-poster and two standard – ideal for families or a small group. This room is also ensuite with great views and has the addition of a small private sit out.

Garden Cottage Double Rooms: These rooms all have a pretty mezzanine space with extra single bed, ideal for children or just as a peaceful meditation spot. The main room has a queen-sized double bed and comfortable seating and a characterful ensuite bathroom with a bathtub with overhead shower.

Garden Cottage Twin Rooms: As above but with twin beds (standard) instead of a queen-sized bed in the main room. These rooms also have the mezzanine area with additional single bed.

Facilities

Yoga underpins Rukgala Retreat, with twice daily yoga classes led by passionate expert instructors. Rukgala pride themselves on offering yoga sessions that are enlightening and restorative, and the shala is a tranquil space that allows guests to absorb the beauty and serenity of their surroundings. The in-house naturalist can take guests kayaking and paddle-boarding on Victoria Reservoir or hiking through the hills of the Knuckles Mountain Range which are covered with tea estates, waterfalls and cloud forest and are home to a variety of diverse plants and animals. There is also a small swimming pool. Dining is communal (although private meals can be arranged) and is largely vegetarian fare. Alcohol is not available.

Why We Like It

The restful atmosphere, varied activities and high-quality yoga.

Location

Rukgala Retreat is in Digana on the shores of Victoria Reservoir, surrounded by the picturesque Knuckles Mountain Range which boasts some of Sri Lanka’s best walking trails. Kandy is less than an hour away by car.