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midlife Programme
Sri Lanka Itinerary
women's empowerment + yoga + hiking
This soulful journey through Sri Lanka invites you to slow down, tune in, and connect, with yourself, with others, and with a culture that’s both ancient and alive. From tea fields to temples, from morning yoga to women’s empowerment projects, every moment is designed to nourish and inspire.
Tekanda Lodge, Ahangama
Arrival
Welcome to Sri Lanka – Leap style. You’ll fly into Colombo, where you’ll be picked up and transferred to Tekanda Lodge, just up the hill from the hip coastal town of Ahangama - renowned for its pristine surfing beaches, and a tuk tuk journey away from the historic fort of Galle. Tekanda is a stunning hilltop retreat set on a private tea estate, offering panoramic views of the jungle and paddy fields - utter heaven.
On arrival, you’ll be greeted by Richard and Charlie Pembroke the backbone of this adventure before a dip in the infinity pool, and a stroll around the tea, cinnamon and coconut palms before a sundowner and delicious supper.
Tekanda Lodge
Yoga + Women’s Empowerment Centre
Your time at Tekanda will be a blend of contribution, and cultural immersion bookended with an early morning yoga session overlooking the lush paddy fields and energising swim at the beach, perfectly framing a day spent at Gamata Athak, a women’s empowerment centre founded by Charlie and Richard Pembroke.
Gamata Athak
The inspiring centre aims to equip local rural women with skills in cooking, computing, dressmaking, and conversational English, empowering them to access job opportunities in the local tourism industry. You’ll play a key role in this by teaching Western-style cooking and conversational English in creative ways, helping bridge the gap between textbook knowledge and practical application. These skills are crucial for women seeking employment in restaurants, cafes, and hotels - giving them financial independence in a traditionally male dominated family structure.
However, it's a two-way exchange. In return you’ll engage in a rich and meaningful cultural exchange as the women share their traditional recipes, stories, and customs, offering you a deep connection to their community and a greater appreciation of their way of life.
Yoga
Each morning begins with yoga on the open-air terrace at Tekanda, overlooking sweeping views of the surrounding paddy fields and jungle canopy. Led by a brilliant local instructor, the sessions are energising yet grounding, designed to awaken your body, calm your mind, and set the tone for the day ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or simply stretching for the first time in years, this gentle, joyful practice is a key part of your renewal. It’s not about performance, it’s about presence. By the time you return home, you’ll feel stronger, more connected, and more at ease in your body.
Time out
Sri Lanka’s renowned beaches are ideal for both beginners and experienced surfers, with private instructors guiding you every step of the way. But Ahangama Beach also offers the perfect opportunity to simply unwind, relax, and watch the sun dip below the horizon. We promise there will be plenty of time to recharge - whether it’s exploring the historic Fort of Galle, visiting local tea plantations, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment by the pool at Tekanda.
Central Highlands
Central Highlands + Elephant Safari
Today marks the start of your second phase as you leave the coast behind and head into Sri Lanka’s breath-taking Central Highlands, with a stay at the charming Amba Estate. Perched above the Ravana-Ella Waterfalls, Amba offers stunning views of Ella Rock and Lipton’s Seat.
However, there’s no rush to get there - your journey will include a thrilling stop at the famous Udawalawe National Park, renowned for its impressive wild elephant herds.
Udawalawe is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see elephants in their natural habitat. The park is home to some of the largest herds of wild elephants in the country, and it’s not uncommon to encounter these majestic creatures up close as they roam freely across the park’s vast, open grasslands and forested areas.
The park’s unique ecosystem provides a rich environment for elephants, along with an array of other wildlife, including water buffalo, crocodiles, monkeys, and a variety of bird species. Be sure to pack your binoculars and camera for this unforgettable wildlife experience - Udawalawe is a photographer’s paradise.
After your exhilarating safari, you’ll continue your journey to Amba Estate, where you’ll settle in for a relaxing evening. A gentle one-hour hike through a dramatic 50-acre forest reserve awaits, where you’ll explore hidden caves, discover thundering waterfalls, and finish with a sundowner at a ridge overlooking Ella’s Rock. This perfect blend of light physical activity and relaxation sets the ideal tone for the next phase of your journey.
Central Highlands
Ella’s Rock Hike + Tea Tasting
The next day, you'll step things up with a more challenging four-hour hike, climbing over 400 meters to the top of Ella’s Rock. This is where the real magic happens. The climb offers the perfect opportunity to reconnect with your adventurous spirit, challenging yourself in new ways that keep both body and mind sharp.
The reward at the summit? A breathtaking panoramic view of Ella’s Gap and Little Adam’s Peak - an awe-inspiring reminder of the beauty that awaits when you push yourself beyond your comfort zone. After reaching the top, the descent back to base will feel like a walk in the park, and a rewarding lunch will be waiting for you.
In the afternoon, you’ll unwind with a tea tasting at Amba Estate. By the time you return, your body will be energised from the hike, and your mind refreshed by the stunning vistas and vibrant culture. Moderate fitness is required, but that’s what makes this adventure so powerful. It pushes you just enough to feel challenged and accomplished yet remains accessible for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness.
Colombo
Lipton’s Seat + Galle Face Hotel
Your adventure ends with a special breakfast picnic at Lipton’s Seat, where you’ll be treated to even more stunning views. Perched high above the tea plantations, you’ll take in the breath-taking landscape before heading back to Colombo for a final night of celebration at the iconic Galle Face Hotel, a historic colonial gem on the seafront.
Once in Colombo, you’ll have time to explore the vibrant city, with its blend of colonial charm and modern energy. Wander through the bustling streets, visit the local markets, or enjoy a relaxing stroll along the waterfront. The city offers a rich cultural experience, and you can soak in its diverse atmosphere before your adventure wraps up.
The day culminates at the Galle Face Hotel, where you’ll relax and reflect on your incredible journey. It’s the perfect way to wrap up an adventure that not only tests your physical abilities but also nourishes your sense of adventure and achievement. It’s an experience that rejuvenates both body and mind - essential for those of you in midlife looking to stay youthful, energised, and inspired. For supper, we recommend the oh-so-stylish Paradise Café.
Colombo
Relax + Transfer Back to the Airport
On your final day, you’ll have time to relax and unwind after your incredible journey. Take the morning at your own pace - whether it’s enjoying a leisurely breakfast, soaking in the last of the vibrant Colombo atmosphere, or simply unwinding at the hotel.
Later, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home, carrying with you the memories of a transformative adventure - one that has challenged your body, rejuvenated your spirit, and filled you with inspiration for the next chapter.
Invest in you with a life-changing Midlife Leap
High five your inner self, fuel your mojo and return home enriched with a guaranteed sense of achievement. And that’s a promise.
