about us
Tucked into the mangrove‑lined shores of Koggala Lake, Lanka Yoga is a purpose‑built sanctuary designed by teachers, for teachers. The shala, guest rooms and garden was mapped out in 2020—right in the middle of a global stand‑still—so that retreats and 200‑hour trainings could finally happen exactly as we always dreamed: spacious, serene and in partnership with the land around us.
our story
Six years of leading teacher trainings across Asia taught founder Stefan Camilleri that a venue can either lift the learning experience sky‑high…or quietly clip its wings. In early 2020 he and co‑founder Jane signed a long‑term lease and broke ground on a centre that ticked every box—light‑filled shala, luxury dorms, plenty of nature to wander into between sessions. Then COVID hit.
Construction pushed on through lockdowns, shipping delays and curfews. Materials arrived by tuk‑tuk when needed; building crews slept on‑site to keep quarantines intact. The setbacks were brutal, but each one forged the resilience and creativity we now share with every guest who steps onto the mat here. By mid 2021 the doors opened—and the first trainees told us we’d built the space they’d been searching for.
our purpose – why we move
We exist to make things better – for the environment, for the students and guests who trust us with their growth, and for the team that pours heart and craft into every retreat.
- Nurture people. Provide training and retreat experiences that send practitioners home clearer, stronger and kinder than when they arrived.
- Regenerate place. Operate in active partnership with our ecosystem, proving that a hospitality business can restore more than it takes.
- Empower community. Offer fair wages, 10% service charge, medical insurance, holiday pay, ongoing education and a workplace rooted in respect and more, so our staff thrive alongside our guests.
When those three threads braid together, yoga becomes more than just movement—it becomes a practice of caretaking the planet and each other.
we care about the earth
We make a considerable effort to minimise any negative impact on the environment and give back more than we take.
our commitment to sustainability
land management
We prioritised preserving green space during the construction of our centre by building the guest block underground and replanting greenery on top. Our active efforts include restoring the wilderness through soil and plant regeneration.
overall design & build
Our new buildings emphasise natural cooling to eliminate the need for energy-intensive air conditioning. Modifications to the original villa aim to reduce power reliance and enhance natural cooling.
water managment
To minimise water usage, we capture, treat, and reuse rainwater. Our taps and showers are designed for water conservation, and solar-powered water heaters are in use. A sophisticated wastewater treatment plant ensures all water is converted into nutrient-rich water for our garden.
power usage & solar
Our approach involves designing energy-efficient buildings, eliminating unnecessary or inefficient lighting, and upgrading to energy-efficient appliances. A 9.5kW solar system covers half of our power needs, reducing our carbon footprint and energy costs.
trash minimisation & management
Our waste management initiative, serving over 70 homes, promotes responsible disposal practices through education, providing tools for safe waste disposal, and facilitating eco-friendly collection and disposal.
growing our own food
Inheriting mature fruit trees and maintaining a vegetable and spice garden, we enjoy fresh produce year-round. Our commitment to sustainability includes using homemade compost, creating a cyclical nutrient loop, and reducing our environmental impact through self-sustenance.
