The Slow Path: How Sri Lanka Is Emerging as a Haven for Sustainable Tourism

HEALTH

In the age of over-tourism and fast-paced getaways, a different kind of travel is quietly taking root and Sri Lanka is poised to lead it.

With its tea-covered hills, surf-ready coastlines, and centuries-old wellness traditions, the island offers more than postcard beauty. It offers balance. More travelers and locals are discovering that the best way to experience Sri Lanka isn’t in a rush, but with intention- slowly, mindfully, sustainably.

This shift is most visible in the rise of yoga retreats, now flourishing across hilltops, coasts, and jungle sanctuaries. Once niche, yoga tourism is shaping Sri Lanka’s sustainable travel identity and attracting a growing global community of wellness seekers.

So when asked how to explore Sri Lanka? Our answer: go to a yoga retreat. Whether you're a resident looking for a mindful staycation or an international guest arriving without a plan, this is a journey worth taking.

One such experience is Reconnect, a week-long retreat led by Limetree Yoga’s Shirin Akbar, in collaboration with Mindful Retreats, this July at the eco-conscious Sama Retreats. Perched above the sea on a rocky outcrop, Sama is known for its preserved century-old buildings and low-impact design.

Shirin, a classically trained teacher, leads daily Hatha and Vinyasa sessions focused on breath, alignment, and ease. The ethically aligned itinerary includes Ayurveda massage, rainforest hikes, kayaking, sound healing, a plant-based Sri Lankan cooking class, and a reflective walk through Galle Fort.

It’s not just a retreat- it’s a recalibration.

Reconnect runs July 10–16, 2025.

Bonus for Pineapple Press readers: A complimentary 1-hour private yoga session (USD 50 value) with promo code: PineapplePress.

Bookings: +94 714278230

Email: limetree.retreats@gmail.com