Introduction
"There is a path that lives within you.
It is ancient. It is eternal.
It does not begin with your feet, but with your heart remembering."
The Sacred Path is a devotional retreat—a ceremonial return to the truth of who you are. Held in the holy lands of Kataragama, where gods and ancestors whisper through river and forest, we gather to walk the inner terrain of spirit, breath, and being. Here, amidst temples, rituals, and the wild grace of nature, we do not seek God—we remember we are God.
We walk and receive from the sacred land of Sri Lanka and her people—a land alive with ancient traditions, elemental wisdom, and spiritual devotion. By honoring and recognizing the deep inner healing powers of this island of mystic splendor, we bow to her role as a living teacher and medicine keeper. Her rivers cleanse. Her stones speak. Her forests remember. And we listen.
This is the land of Sri Lanka—a mystical jewel in the Indian Ocean, revered for generations as a sanctuary of sacred energy and inner renewal. It has long guided seekers, pilgrims, mystics, and wanderers back to the wisdom of their own divine self. Sri Lanka does not just hold ceremony—it is ceremony.
By immersing ourselves in the essence of this sacred place, we merge with the vibrant heartbeat of its ancient energy, resonating with the pulse of the earth and the whispers of the divine. As we journey through its landscapes and connect with its spirit, we awaken to the innate wisdom that flows through us, recognizing our interconnectedness with all beings and the universe at large. In Sri Lanka, we find not only a destination but a sanctuary where the soul is embraced, healed, and reborn in the eternal dance of existence.
Meet Your Retreat Leader: Sala
Sala is a queer mystic, visionary yogi, artist, and father whose life is a living ceremony. After decades of hiding, the birth of his daughter awakened his truth: that love is the ultimate path to liberation. His practice is rooted in devotion, ritual, ancestral wisdom, and deep presence. As founder of Salasbananas Yoga & Arts Studio in Sri Lanka, Sala holds spaces that welcome all bodies, all stories, and all identities back into wholeness.
Sala's work bridges the sacred with the everyday, inviting each participant to awaken their inner fire and reclaim their divine spark. Through movement, mantra, meditation, and art, he guides others to soften into the medicine of their own becoming.
Click on the links bellow to find out more about sala.
"We have Lived an amazing experience with Salas during a 10 days yoga and meditation retreat. It has been so much more than just that. A soul healing experience in magnificent surroundings, a body rejuvenation thanks to fantastic vegetarian food, massages and Ayurvedic advises. I could only recommend it! Thank you Sala!"
Review by retreat guest Natalia ferrer aragones
About the Venue: Gem River Edge Eco Sanctuary
A serene eco-lodge nestled in the sacred town of Kataragama, Sri Lanka. Surrounded by lush nature, unique biodiversity, and the soothing flow of the holy Menik River, it offers a sanctuary for spiritual seekers, nature lovers, and mindful travelers.
Gem River Edge
Rooted in sustainability, the lodge embraces eco-friendly practices, supports local communities, and preserves the natural beauty of its surroundings.
Gem River Edge features an organic farm based on permaculture principles, inviting guests into a rhythm of peace, presence, and planet-centered living.
Rooms & Cottages
With unique and eco design to enable you to recharge with a sense of calm serenity. Stylish natural surfaces, earthy tones, and rustic builds welcome you into deep rest. Each space is provided with fans (no AC), large comfortable beds, and spacious verandas—all with a view of the surrounding jungle garden.
Restaurant & Lounge
Made from mud and palm leaves, the open-air dining and lounge area invites deep relaxation, vibrant conversation, and delicious communal meals. It's an ideal place for unwinding, journaling, or simply being.
Sacred Practice Areas
A cozy hut meditation shala invites quiet reflection and breathwork, while a large open ground beside the private temple serves as the sacred land for yoga, ceremonies, and movement practices.
Gem River Edge is more than a venue—it is a portal to serenity!
At Gem River Edge your experience is lovingly shaped by the care, presence, and spirit of Muna and Carla.
Muna is the creator, organizer, and joyful spirit who makes everything flow seamlessly at Gem River Edge. With a deep love and knowledge of Sri Lanka’s culture and nature. A strong visionary ideas and dedication and forward-thinking approach. He have made a real impact by creating this paradise.
Carla is part of the heart of the resort with a creative energy. Originally from Portugal, she brings a gentle, positive and passionate presence to Gem River Edge.
