Health and wellness

Body, soul: 2 things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka

A mind-melting massage and a digital detox with Buddhists

Body: Mind-melting massage

Kandy’s cool, hilly climes are a welcome respite from the rest of the country’s searing heat. Stay at The Kandy House, a villa wrapped in a veranda and oozing history, colourful culture and colonial luxury at every turn. In the garden’s ambalama (pavilion), you’ll find a spa bed where the hotel’s Ayurvedic therapist offers a body massage that combines energy healing, promising total relaxation and a sound night’s sleep. thekandyhouse.com

Soul: An enlightening digital detox

An hour’s drive through tiny villages takes you to Nilambe Buddhist Meditation Centre, where peace reigns, literally. Book in for five days or longer and you’re signing up for no talking, no devices. Led by a local monk or nun, you’re up with the sound of the gong at 4.45am for the first of many hours of meditation, interspersed with self-practise yoga, chores like sweeping and gardening, and meals so delicious it’s hard to eat mindfully. It feels like total freedom for the spirit. nilambe.net

Cathay Travell Book

ABOUT

Discovery online brings together all the inspirational travel writing from our two inflight magazines, Discovery and Silkroad. Be sure to look out for the print editions when you next fly with Cathay Pacific or Cathay Dragon.
Discovery Book Silkroad Book