Rukgala Retreat

Boutique · Medadumbara

Rukgala Retreat

Boutique · Medadumbara

Rukgalawatta, Nithulemada, Senarathwela, Digana, 20904, Sri Lanka

Highlights

Yoga, paddleboarding, hiking, dining, and reservoir views

Rukgalawatta, Nithulemada, Senarathwela, Digana, 20904, Sri Lanka Get directions

rukgalaretreat.com

@rukgala_retreat

@iescape

Rukgala Retreat, Near Kandy, Sri Lanka - Explore & Book

"What was once an abandoned house clinging to a cacti-covered rock is now a design retreat enveloped by the grand and green Knuckle Mountains. Rukgala is stylish and serene, an artfully simple place to take a breather. Rooms are glistening clean and contemporary, with views across trees to the lake. A stunning L-shaped pool sits on a hilltop promenade; a divine teak ‘ yoga shala’ is open to lush foliage. Friends sharing a yoga and meditation retreat, or solo travellers who want to read in the quiet lounge – Rukgala is open for both. The healthy meals are inspired by Sri Lankan tradition but given a light touch. Tours are offered to colonial tea plantations, secluded lakeside villages and beautiful temple caves. Hiking, biking and wild swimming are all encouraged. So is total chilling. Rukgala is nestled in a bewitching corner of Sri Lanka that's still a secret to the masses – a truly enchanting hideaway. Highs Peace: set in a hidden, untouristy area of Sri Lanka Great activities: yoga and meditation, guided walks and bike rides, wild swimming and paddle boarding in the lake, Ayurvedic massage 8 stylish rooms: we love the use of bamboo and rattan, popped with bright colours and green plants Delicious meals: largely vegetarian or vegan, pairing Sri Lankan curries with western dishes A perfect 2-3 night breather in a busy itinerary Lows Additional extras (like yoga and bike tours) are charged on top of the room price Though stunning, some design elements in the rooms might not be 100% practical - for example, our roll top bathtub didn't quite catch all the water from the shower. Lake levels can be erratic, due to rainy season and irrigation Geared to group retreats so it may be fully booked from time to time; plan ahead" - Sarah de Vere-Drummond

https://www.i-escape.com/rukgala-retreat

View Postcard for Rukgala Retreat

Minyon

Google

I stayed here for a week, and it was my very first time traveling abroad alone. I arrived with a lot of worries, but every single staff member here was so kind and warm. There were hardly any other guests at first, but I truly loved everyone I met — both the staff and the guests. I had been really looking forward to visiting Rukgala, and this experience exceeded all my expectations. I feel so lucky to have found this place. 🩷 Every day I spent here is a treasure to me. 🪐🌈 I miss waking up every morning to the view of the beautiful greenery from my room. I live in a city in Japan where there are almost no insects, so I was surprised at first — but after two days, the bugs and I became friends. 😊 There are no supermarkets or convenience stores nearby and it's surrounded by nature. I arrived by taxi as per the map, but I got a little lost, so I'll explain. When the road ends, you can also drive by car, but the road is a little steep, so just keep going up the hill. Starting my day with early mornings, peaceful time, yoga classes, a delicious breakfast, and chatting with the staff made each day feel so special. 🍀 I will definitely come back again. Thank you for everything. ♡ I look forward to living a long, joyful life — and I’ll carry this memory with me forever. To all the beautiful souls I met here — may your life be filled with love, light, and endless blessings.✨🌿

valeria Frigerio

Google

My friend and I had a wonderful stay at Rukgala Retreat. The manager and the entire team were absolutely lovely to us – welcoming, kind, and professional. The yoga lessons were excellent, not only thanks to the tranquillity of the location but also to Rose, the talented yoga teacher. Rukgala is a hidden gem: peaceful, clean, and beautifully decorated! Not to mention the delicious food and the outstanding massage we received. We would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a quiet, relaxing experience surrounded by beauty.

Kai L.

Google

5 stars for- Location Rooms Value Service Sleep Quality Staff professionalism & responsiveness Restaurant & Food Cleanliness Yoga Sound Healing Massage First time visiting Sri Lanka, (not sure what to expect), The resort manager Rose promptly clarified my email enquiries. 3 nights at the Garden cottage- Room was quiet & happy with good designs- sufficient lighting for reading, bedside charging points (UK type), large open wardrobe with low shelf for lots of luggage space (2 big and 1 cabin). The Victoria lake was just a few steps away, I enjoyed my 1st time paddle-boarding; peaceful waters. The hike to Bambaragala temple was challenging; The hiking guide Bosco from Rukgala was kind & helpful. The Yoga teacher Rose was great with her Vinyasa & Yin Yoga classes- quiet, clear diction, clear instructions, good airy energy, patient, nice voice, super stamina... Her Sound Healing with Tibetan Singing Bowls was excellent- impressively calming. The lake view from the restaurant was picturesque, a friendly & relaxing getaway. The food's interesting & nice, with some daily menu changes. Room tips- 1. bring your own mozzie repellent vaporisor. 2. bring your own hairdryer; if not, the big standing fan (provided inside room) works too.

Matthew

Google

Rukgala Retreat is my favourite place to stay in Sri Lanka; a home away from home, a place that feels familiar & comfortable immediately. The views of the mountains and lake are insane, the house/villa is clean, modern & sits right in the middle of the Sri Lankan nature. You can hire kayaks/paddle boards, there are daily yoga sessions, a swimming pool, access to bikes, massages, cooking classes and nearby walks. This is an ideal place to relax, recharge & switch off. The true selling point however are the staff who make the retreat what it is - they are so friendly, approachable and hard working. Nothing is too much trouble. They honestly went above & beyond, from food choices, helping with activities, arranging transport, chatting to us about Sri Lanka, always smiling. Thanks to everyone at Rukgala for making my Mum's 70th so memorable.

Alli G

Google

I spent a week at Rukgala Retreat on a bespoke personal retreat package, and it was honestly the highlight of my Sri Lanka trip. The staff — led by Rose, the yoga teacher and manager — are the kindest, most thoughtful people I met in the country. It felt like a boutique home-from-home with only a few rooms, which made the service feel personal and almost akin to "princess treatment". Every day was perfectly balanced: two yoga sessions (gentle but grounding), plus an activity like hiking, paddleboarding on the lake, or kayaking. The food was just as special — a personal chef checks in with you daily and cooks the most nourishing, delicious meals. I also visited the sister plantation and tea factory, organised by the hotel. The retreat is the kind of place where you can switch off completely. Surrounded by lush nature, I felt serene and genuinely healed after my stay. It was quiet during the off-season, but the rain barely interrupted — just one day of showers that passed quickly. For the level of care, activities, and food, it’s amazing value for money. I’d recommend this to solo travellers (you’ll meet people but still have your own space), anyone needing a reset, or those who just want to feel deeply looked after.

Keith Grasmann

Google

If six stars were possible I would rate as such. Sublime experience. Great yoga. Great staff - Vinot!!! The chef can make everything and do it superbly! Great communication and all was as advertised. Easy to get to.

Lena Scholz

Google

We had the most amazing time at Rukgala Retreat—everything was absolutely perfect! From an incredible cooking class and delicious food to the breathtaking hikes and exceptional rooms, every detail was thoughtfully curated. The yoga experience was beyond words. Rose is an incredibly talented teacher—one of the best we’ve ever had, and we’ve done plenty of yoga! We stayed for a week and honestly did not want to leave. If you’re looking for a place to relax, recharge, and be inspired, Rukgala Retreat is it. Highly recommend!

Noortje Riedstra

Google

The most magical place in Sri Lanka. Absolutely loved staying here for 3 nights enjoying the beautiful rooms, yoga, nature, hikes and amazing staff. Could not recommend more, also for solo travelers!! Will be back!