Sri Lanka

This Sri Lankan adventure is all about blending purpose, connection, and a bit of soul-stirring fun.

Imagine starting your days with sunrise yoga on a hilltop, surrounded by lush tea fields, grounding yourself for the day ahead. From there, dive into meaningful moments at the Women’s Empowerment Centre, where you'll be sharing skills and swapping stories with inspiring local women.

As you explore the Central Highlands, spotting wild elephants and hiking to jaw-dropping views, you’ll find yourself stretching beyond your comfort zone in the best way possible. By the end, you’ll leave with a refreshed spirit, a heart full of new connections, and memories that bring a smile—a reminder of Sri Lanka’s magic and the adventure you embraced.

Welcome to Tekanda Lodge—a stunning hilltop retreat on a private tea estate, where lush jungle and paddy fields stretch as far as the eye can see. Relax in the infinity pool, savor gourmet meals from a private chef, and dip your toes into nearby surfing beaches. With daily yoga on a panoramic platform, Tekanda Lodge is your calm and inspiring base for a journey of rejuvenation and connection.

A Typical Day at Tekanda

Mornings at Tekanda begin with peaceful, pre-breakfast yoga led by Astrid on the hilltop platform. As the sun rises over the landscape, you’ll ease into mindfulness and calm. Afterward, it’s time to head to the Gamata Atak Women’s Empowerment Centre for a meaningful morning of teaching and learning.

At Gamata Atak, created by your hosts Charlie and Richard Pembroke, you’ll share essential skills with local women—teaching cooking, conversational English, and practical tips to help them build careers in tourism. The focus is on real-life skills that will support them in securing jobs in restaurants, cafes, and hotels.

In return, these incredible women will open up their world to you, sharing traditional recipes, stories, and customs that bring you closer to the heart of Sri Lankan culture.

After your morning at the center, head back to Tekanda for a freshly prepared lunch and some downtime. The afternoon is yours: revisit the centre, lounge by the pool, or try surfing at the nearby beaches, famous for their waves and welcoming to both beginners and seasoned surfers.

As evening settles, unwind with a sunset yoga session to reflect on the day’s experiences. In your free time, you can explore the charming streets of Galle or savor a sundowner, letting the magic of Sri Lanka’s culture and beauty sink in fully.

Accommodation

The focal point of the lodge is a super stylish living area, with panoramic views, A large infinity pool sits just below surrounded by palms and tropical flowers.

Five large en-suite double bedrooms in the main lodge sit off the central courtyard. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms and private verandahs. Think rustic chic.

Shared accommodation only. Room configuration: 3 rooms have a double and a single bed. 2 rooms have 2 single beds. .

Food

Utterly delicious. Breakfast, lunch and supper included, prepared by head chef Rana using the freshest tropical produce available. Expect a combination of plant-based dishes with some fish, seafood and meat. Vegan and vegetarian diets available. Rana promises to integrate the very best of mouth-watering Sri Lankan cuisine with global influences.

If you choose to eat out then that is not included.

Your journey continues in the breathtaking Central Highlands, where you’ll stay at Amba Estate, a charming, community-run organic farm perched above Ravana-Ella Waterfalls with sweeping views of Ella Rock and Lipton’s Seat. At Amba, you’ll discover the farm’s artisanal teas, coffees, spices, and preserves while learning about its inspiring work with local educational, economic, and environmental initiatives.

Elephants + Hikes + Challenge

On the way to Amba, you’ll pass through Udawalawe National Park, home to some of Sri Lanka’s largest wild elephant herds. Keep your binoculars handy for an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Once settled, your first evening begins with a gentle one-hour hike through a 50-acre forest reserve. Explore hidden caves, listen to the roar of waterfalls, and end the hike with a sundowner at a ridge with a stunning view over Ella’s Rock.

The next day is for those ready to take on a bit of a challenge. A four-hour hike awaits, climbing over 400 meters to the top of Ella’s Rock. The view at the summit is nothing short of magical, with sweeping vistas over Ella’s Gap and Little Adam’s Peak—a beautiful reminder of what’s possible when you step beyond your comfort zone. After your descent, enjoy a leisurely lunch in Ella town and take in the local culture. A moderate fitness level is required, but the sense of achievement is worth every step.

On your final morning in the highlands, enjoy a breakfast picnic at Lipton’s Seat, where the stunning views offer the perfect farewell to this remarkable region. From here, it’s back to Colombo for a celebratory night at the Galle Face Hotel—a fitting close to an adventure that’s challenged, inspired, and enriched your spirit.

Accommodation

Amba’s old estate farmhouse, and the two neighbouring bungalows operate as full-service guest houses. The accommodation is simple, yet cozy and everyone will be in twin rooms.
https://www.ambaestate.com

Galle Face Hotel in single rooms. https://www.gallefacehotel.com/

Food

Amba
All meals will be provided, cooked by the lovely ladies who were all former fieldworkers from the village, and as much as possible, use the ingredients sourced from the organic farm or neighbours in the valley. Breakfast usually includes Sri Lankan specialities like hoppers or dosai. For lunch, they typically serve a lighter farmhouse meal, like quiche and salad or soup and roti but will provide picnic lunches for those on hikes, and the default main course at dinner is rice with delicious village-style curries.

Galle Face Hotel
Supper is extra but breakfast included.