Question 1

How to get from Colombo Airport to Kelani?

Accepted Answer

Taxi

Colombo Airport is located in Negombo, 20km outside of Colombo.

Taking a taxi is the easiest and fastest way to get to Kelani. It is around 180 km and 2,5 hrs on the highway from Colombo to Madiha.

There are plenty of taxi companies at the airport who all want to drive you.

The cheapest price you could get is around 18.000 LKR (ca. 55€). But the drivers will likely try to charge between 20-24.000 LKR 
This is the first chance to try out your negotiation skills ;)

We will put you in contact with other retreat guests, so you can coordinate to share a ride.

Bus

You can take a highway bus from Negombo to Matara. The buses are air conditioned and can compare to European buses. They cost around 3000 LKR (ca. 10€) and take around 3 hrs.

The buses don't depart from the Airport and you have to take a Tuk Tuk or Taxi to Negombo bus station first. There is a bus at 7:30am and one at 1:30pm.

At the big bus station in Colombo there is a bus going to Matara every hour.

https://bustimetable.lk/negombo-to-matara-highway-bus-timetable

Get off at Matara Bus Station and take a Tuk Tuk or Taxi to

Kelani Retreat
Madiha Rd 11
81000 Polhena

Train

If you have a little more time, you can also travel by train. Public transportation in Sri Lanka is very cheap (but also not very reliable and it might get uncomfortable). Trains to Matara depart twice a day from Colombo Fort, the departure times can be found on the Sri Lanka Railways website. From the train station in Matara it's about 15 minutes by TukTuk. You can always find tuk tuks in front of the train stations that bring you to us. Please note down our address, which you can find in your confirmation email or via Google.

Question 2

Do I need a visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a tourist visa is required to enter Sri Lanka. This type of visa is ideal for stays of up to 30 days and can be extended  if needed. Please ensure that your passport has at least two blank pages and is valid for a minimum of six months from the date of entry. You can apply for the visa online here: https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/ (https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/)
The fees are 50$

Question 3

Can I start the retreat on another day than Sunday?

Accepted Answer

No, our retreats are only offered as full weekly programs from Sunday to Sunday, in order to maintain our high quality standards and ensure everything runs smoothly.
If your travel schedule requires it, you’re welcome to arrive later or leave earlier. However, please note that we are not able to offer a price reduction in such cases.

Question 4

Can I stay longer or shorter than a week?

Accepted Answer

Our retreats are available to book in weekly blocks, running from Sunday to Sunday. You’re welcome to stay with us for as many weeks as you like.
If you need to leave earlier due to your flight schedule, we’re happy to assist you in organizing a shuttle to the airport. However, please understand that we’re unable to offer a price adjustment in case of an early departure.

Question 5

Can I change my package?

Accepted Answer

No, we offer fixed packages that include food, as well as excursions, yoga sessions and self-work. We believe this combination provides the perfect foundation for a unique and enriching week. That said, we fully understand that everyone has different preferences, and participation in all activities is entirely optional. You're always free to choose what feels right for you in each moment.

Question 6

Can I book a single room?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is theoretically possible depending on availability. Feel free to email us at kelaniretreats@gmail.com with your request, and we’ll be happy to check what’s available.
Alternatively, we offer beautiful twin rooms and a four-bed room, both great options for solo travelers.

Question 7

How many guests will be there?

Accepted Answer

There will be a maximum of 16 guests at the house. We will put you in contact with each other before the retreat, so you will be able to coordinate and share your airport transfer.

Question 8

When is check in & check out? What should I do if I arrive earlier or later?

Accepted Answer

Check in for your room is on Sunday at 3 pm, and check out the following Sunday at 10 am. Of course, unless your flight times allow otherwise, you can also arrive before 3 pm on Sunday. You can then spend the time before that around the house and maybe already explore the beach or the surrounding cafes. If you arrive in Sri Lanka before Sunday, we recommend that you book accommodation in Colombo, or in other nearby areas until the day of arrival on Sunday.

Question 9

Why is there only 1 surf lesson included?

Accepted Answer

In our experience, many people want to try surfing. It's part of the Sri Lankan beach life. But many people dont want to focus on it too much. That is why we only include 1 surf lesson. You'll have the chance to try it and if you're hooked, just book another lesson with one of our partners.

Since we love surfing and Madiha is surrounded by lots of good surf spots, we want to invite you to bring your own surf board or rent one at the beach (usually around 3€ per hour) We know the area and are happy to go surfing with you or guide you to the best spots.

Kelani Active Retreat Sri Lanka FAQs