FEATURE

Floating above the landscape, Trebartha East – The Round House is an architectural masterpiece set in the heart of a cinnamon plantation. Designed by award-winning architect Dr. Narein Perera, this boutique hotel is a one-of-a-kind retreat in Sri Lanka, seamlessly blending with its natural surroundings.

FEATURE

You may already have a pool (good for you), but no tropical experience is complete without going on a pool hop. At Pineapple Press, we believe in the fine art of sip-and-swim. From sleek infinity edges overlooking the ocean to lush jungle hideaways where the drinks are just as refreshing as the water, we’ve rounded up seven standout spots.

FEATURE

In the heart of Ahangama, a quiet shift is taking place. Sarana, a community space dedicated to art, wellness, and culture, is enriching how travellers engage with Sri Lanka’s traditions.

Along the island’s southern coast, where tourism pulses through beachside cafés and boutique hotels, the cultural essence of Sri Lanka can sometimes feel overshadowed.

ENTERTAINMENT

1. Soul Lanka Festival, 1st and 2nd March

2. Sunset Sessions, Abode by the Beach, Fridays March

3. Batik Workshop, Sarana, 15th March

4. Sunday Sessions, Soul and Surf, Sundays March

ENTERTAINMENT

This March kicks off with the Soul Lanka Festival, bringing much-needed mindfulness and introspection. But things heat up fast, with back-to-back parties, hands-in-the-air dance floors, and epic island adventures. Blink, and you might miss it! This is your ultimate guide to the month ahead.

CULTURE

If you’re in Sri Lanka during Navam Poya, you’ll notice a shift in pace. Shops close, temples fill with devotees, and a sense of quiet reverence settles over the day. While Poya is a significant religious observance for Buddhists, it’s also an opportunity for visitors to experience an important part of Sri Lankan culture. With insight from the team at Sarana, a wellness and community space in the south, here’s how you can engage with the day respectfully.

ENTERTAINMENT

This February, the renowned Galle Literary Festival returns, drawing acclaimed writers and cultural enthusiasts to the historic fort, while beach clubs and boutique venues up and down the coast promise a season of music-fuelled celebrations. For those looking to balance revelry with wellness, an array of yoga, Pilates, and high-energy workout sessions offer the perfect counterpoint to the festivities, ensuring that February is as invigorating as it is indulgent.

ENTERTAINMENT

6 pm, Thursday 6th February

In the quiet hum of a handloom, Shamji Vankar Vishram Valji weaves fabrics that carry stories of Kutch, India—a centuries-old craft rooted in artistry and emotion. On February 6th at 6 pm at Tallentire House, there will be a lecture and demonstration on the mastery and philosophy of slow textiles and sustainability. From February 6th to 9th, during the Galle Literary Festival, Shamji will also be in residence at Tallentire House.

HEALTH

This week, southern Sri Lanka is buzzing with opportunities to reset, recharge, and refocus. Whether you’re looking to stretch out the stress of the week, boost your strength, or find a moment of calm, we’ve curated the best health and wellbeing classes happening near you. From yoga flows by the beach to high-energy pilates sessions, there's something for every fitness level and lifestyle. And the best part? We’re keeping tabs on all the best classes so you don’t have to. This calendar is updated weekly, so check back to stay in the loop. Whether you're a fitness newbie or a seasoned yogi, there’s a class that fits your vibe – and your schedule. All you need to do is show up.

ENTERTAINMENT

1st & 2nd February

It started as a ripple of an idea—an alternative to Sri Lanka’s rising surf competition scene. It quickly swelled into Cove Surf Jam, a vibrant celebration of surf culture that goes far beyond the waves. “We wanted something non-serious,” explains Ed Templeton of Soul & Surf, the event founder. “A gathering that dove into the alternative sides of surfing, music, and community.”

ENTERTAINMENT

6th to 9th February, Galle

Renowned as one of South Asia’s most vibrant literary events, the Galle Literary Festival returns to Galle from February 6 to 9, 2025.

Words by Donnie Madden

OPENING

Walking into Wild feels like stepping into another world. Tucked away in the lush greenery of Ahangama, this jungle retreat offers a menu of wellness experiences, including a sauna, ice plunge, and jungle spa treatments.

1. Tropical Tempo at Petti Petti

2. Clay workshop at Mah-Roc

3. Seafood Night at The Charleston

4. Iroko Saisa at Trax

ENTERTAINMENT

The new year has arrived, and with it, the unmistakable buzz of Sri Lanka humming back to life. From hands-on clay workshops to sizzling Cuban nights, 2025 is already shaping up to be something special.

LIFESTYLE

A gift guide for those who leave things to the last-minute. Here are our top five picks for presents that will secure your spot as No. 1 gift giver

FEATURE

The festive season is synonymous with abundance – tables brimming with food, gifts stacked under trees, and streets lit with glittering displays. But as we indulge in the joy of the season, it’s also a timely moment to pause, reflect, and give back to those who need it most. In a world that often feels stretched, there are organisations quietly working to rebuild lives, uplift communities, and heal the planet.

HEALTH

With an abundance of classes available, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. Separating the diamonds from the dust is no easy feat, but we’ve taken on the challenge to help you make the best choices.

1. New Year’s Eve at The Social

2. New Year’s Eve at Ropewalk, Galle Fort Hotel

3. Mixology Night at Jungle Kade, Wednesdays

4. Christmas party at The Shack, Friday 13th

As December unfolds, with 2024 fast receding into the distance, it's time to give the year one last hurrah before bidding it farewell.

From festive Christmas parties to electrifying New Year's Eve bashes, this is your ultimate guide to the month ahead.

HEALTH

Sri Lanka’s southern coast has arrived as a destination for wellness seekers, offering a diverse array of yoga retreats set against lush jungles, pristine beaches, and tranquil rice paddies. With options ranging from beachside studios to jungle sanctuaries, finding the perfect yoga class can be tricky. Here, we explore 10 standout studios that capture the spirit of Sri Lankan serenity and rejuvenation.