Spiritual and Meditation Tours

The Ridee Vihara International Buddhist Tourism Centre, established in 2018 to celebrate World Tourism Day, is located about 125 km from Colombo at the historic Ridi Vihara cave temple. This centre emerged from the First International Buddhist Tourism Conference, which focused on “A Simple Life and Middle Path for Responsible Religious Tourism Development.” It aims to enhance global understanding of Buddhist philosophy, culture, ethics, and spirituality, serving as a key hub for the future growth of Buddhist tourism in Sri Lanka.

The Rockhill Hermitage is a serene meditation center nestled in the central mountains near Kandy, easily accessible from Colombo. Surrounded by untouched nature, it offers stunning views and the chance to explore Sri Lanka’s lush tropical fauna and flora. As a non-profit institution funded by the Sri Lankan government, it focuses on charitable purposes and is situated on a hillside with separate areas for men, nuns, and women. The monastery is equipped with a natural spring for water supply and is named for the rock formations and natural caves on its grounds, which are used for both residential and meditation purposes.

The 2500th Buddha Jayanti marked a significant revival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, with a renewed focus on Vipassana Meditation. Prime Minister Sir John Kotelawala engaged in discussions about possible actions, and the Burmese ambassador, U Ba Lwin, suggested promoting Insight meditation techniques as a means to bring profound satisfaction to the Sri Lankan people. This led to the formation of the Lanka Vipassana Bhavana Samitiya (Lanka Insight Meditation Society). On July 28, 1955, a Burmese delegation of four monks, led by U Sajata, a close assistant to Mahasi Sayadaw, arrived in Sri Lanka. With their guidance and local support, a meditation center was established in just six months in Kanduboda, a tranquil suburb 25 km from Colombo.

Nestled just outside Kandy, Nilambe is a well-known retreat that offers an immersive and comprehensive program for those seeking a deep connection with meditation and Dhamma. At Nilambe, participants are required to disconnect completely from the digital world—no mobile phones are allowed. Unlike typical retreats, Nilambe does not offer drop-in sessions; instead, you must check their upcoming programs and commit to attending from start to finish. Each day begins with an early morning gong followed by guided meditation. Participants also engage in “working meditation,” where daily chores are integrated into the practice. This retreat is distinguished by its thorough immersion in Dhamma, providing a transformative and focused meditation experience.

Perched atop Kadugannawa Hill with panoramic views of the sprawling valleys below, Paramita Meditation Centre is situated on a former tea plantation. Its terraced hillside, densely forested with old tea bushes, pepper vines, and a variety of fruit and spice trees, attracts native wildlife such as long-tailed macaques, squirrels, and indigenous birds. Designed as a spiritual sanctuary, the Centre offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Colombo, providing a tranquil environment for both resident monastics and visitors seeking to cleanse their souls and connect with nature.

Sri Subodha Meditation Centre is nestled in Sri Lanka’s hill country, enveloped by the lush, misty mountains of the serene valleys of Ambuluwawa, Nilambe, and Peradeniya. This tranquil retreat is home to over 1,500 children who attend the Sunday Dhamma School to study Buddhist teachings and practice precepts. Operated by the Subodharama Sasana Seva Society, Sri Subodharama is a charitable organization dedicated to nurturing spiritual growth and education. The Centre provides a peaceful environment for both meditation and learning, contributing significantly to the local community’s understanding and practice of Buddhism.

Dhamma Kuta is a dedicated meditation center offering Vipassana meditation courses in the tradition of Sayagyi U Ba Khin, as taught by S.N. Goenka. Nestled on a former tea estate situated on a scenic mountain slope, the center benefits from its cool climate and breathtaking views. It exclusively hosts intensive 10-day meditation retreats for both men and women. During these courses, participants adhere to a noble silence, with the exception of scheduled interviews with the teacher. The program includes multiple group sittings each day, providing a structured environment for deep introspection and practice.

The Mahamewna Amawathura Bhavana, originally an old home, has been transformed into a well-known meditation center and now serves as a prominent landmark along the road to Kaduwela. Its popularity has grown significantly, drawing visitors from near and far. Venerable Kiribathgoda Gnanananda spearheaded the transformation, bringing together artisans from across the country. With only the support and generosity of dedicated followers, he initiated the construction of a new building, which now stands as a testament to the collective effort and devotion invested in this sacred space.

For a tranquil retreat, visit Arankele Monastery, a serene sanctuary nestled in lush greenery that offers complete relaxation. Originally an ancient forest monastery, it was not initially intended as a center but has become a significant spiritual site. The name Arankele signifies a hermitage where revered Arahants once resided, including the notable Buddhist monk Arahat Malyadeva Thero. Today, around 18 bhikkhus practice both traditional and modern meditation methods. Established in the 8th century, the monastery features distinctive architecture, with buildings elevated on massive stone platforms connected by stone bridges and surrounded by water troughs to maintain a cool interior. The resident monks, known as Pansukulika, adhere to the vow of wearing robes made solely from rags.

Spanning 20 acres, the meditation centre was founded in 1993 by Ven. Kirama Wimalajothi Thero to address the need for a space that serves both monks and lay people, locally and internationally. Since 1994, the Centre has hosted various Dhamma training programs, and in 2002, it introduced in-house meditation and educational programs, including Dhamma and counseling sessions specifically for women. In 2003, the Centre launched a two-week Temporary Ordination program aimed at providing fundamental knowledge in Dhamma, meditation, and social work.