Reflections with a monk
Get up close and personal with Buddhism in Sri Lanka through a one-on one conversation with a local monk. Conversations on relevant topics, as guided by you, will explore this cornerstone of Sri Lankan culture and your specific interests in philosophy.
Area
South Coast
Type
Community & Culture
Spiritual & Wellness
Who
Adults
Teens
Difficulty
Leisurely
Duration
1-2 Hours
Buddhism is Sri Lanka’s most prominent religion with approximately 70% of the population identifying as Buddhist. It has been practised on the island for over 2,000 years, since the 3rd-century BC. Everywhere you go in Sri Lanka you’ll see temples visited by devotees in respectful dress, monks walking in vibrant robes and statues of Lord Buddha expressing wisdom through his hand positions.
This experience offers you the chance to get under the skin of Buddhism and the unique ways it is followed in Sri Lanka, and create a personal connection with this world-adopted philosophy. Although lasting only an hour or so, your time with the monk is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Meet our Galle Fort host for a quick introductory chat on Buddhism in Sri Lanka before heading to the local temple which sits within the historic fort walls. You will be introduced to the monk before diving into conversation. The monk can speak English, and your host will help translate any complex questions and answers so the conversation flows.
The topics you cover are entirely up to you and your interests. Delve deeply into meditations on philosophy, spirituality and the meaning of life, or take a more straightforward line of questioning into the lifestyle of a monk in Sri Lanka. The monk will be as happy to discuss their personal journey and the history of Sri Lankan Buddhism as meditation tips and living by Buddhist principles for wellness.
During the experience you will have the option to receive a blessing. This is a simple ceremony, but please tell your host if you do not wish to have one – the monk will not be offended. You can also tour the temple to view the striking white stupa and artefacts on show.
You'll need: Comfortable clothing covering your knees and shoulders
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationTekanda Lodge
Tekanda Lodge, set on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, offers a luxurious, intimate retreat with stunning views of jungle and rice paddies. Blending modern design and local charm, it features elegant suites, an infinity pool and farm-to-table dining
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View AccommodationThe Fort Printers
Located in centre of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Galle, The Fort Printers is a charming boutique hotel with 8 rooms and a separate villa with rooms. This chic Galle retreat is the perfect base for exploring Galle and its surrounds.
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View AccommodationKK Beach
Just 12km from historic Galle, KK Beach offers a contemporary retreat on Sri Lanka's beautifully craggy southern coast. This beach front property only opened at the end of 2016 in Habaraduwa and features ten stylish rooms with ocean views.
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View AccommodationAmangalla
Amangalla is a stunning boutique hotel with just 29 individual styled rooms, chamers and suites. Set in the Galle Fort on Sri Lanka's southern coast, it is the perfect place from which to explore.
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View AccommodationCape Weligama
Perched on a dramatic cliff, Cape Weligama looks out over the endless Indian Ocean, where terracotta roofs peek through palms, infinity pools mirror the sky, and the rhythm of waves shapes days of quiet luxury and unforgettable moments.
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View AccommodationNYNE Landesi
A refined boutique hideaway within Galle Fort, Nyne Hotels Landesi combines restored historical charm, personalised service and beautifully appointed rooms for an intimate and cultural stay in the heart of historic southern Sri Lanka.
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View AccommodationWhy House
Why House is a chic boutique hotel near to the beaches of Talpe and close to the historic Galle Fort. With a pool, tropical gardens and welcoming personal touches, this 10-room Sri Lankan hideaway sits somewhere between a villa and a boutique hotel.
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View AccommodationKumu Beach
Kumu Beach is a chic, modern boutique hotel close to Balapitiya Beach on Sri Lanka's south west coast. A short distance from Galle and close to Bentota and Hikkaduwa, there are just ten rooms and suites here, making for a relaxing and stylish stay.
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View AccommodationKahanda Kanda
Kahanda Kanda, one of Southern Sri Lanka's most unique boutique hotels, offers the indulgent luxuries of a private villa with the service of a five star hotel, and is situated near the southern coast not far from Galle.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceAerial Whale Watching
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View ExperienceGalle Fort Tour with a Local Host
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View ExperienceExplore the Kapu Ela River by boat & Cycle through Rural Galle
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View ExperienceVisit a Cinnamon Plantation
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