By Shereen Shabnam

In the midst of a fast-paced world, finding true rest often feels out of reach. But my recent journey to Sri Lanka, made exceptional by the warm hospitality of SriLankan Airlines, proved that wellness can begin the moment you check in.

From the exceptional service at Dubai Airport to the genuine Sri Lankan welcome upon arrival in Colombo, every touchpoint with SriLankan Airlines set the tone for a healing escape. The in-flight crew was gracious, the cuisine flavourful with a local touch, and the journey itself — smooth and rejuvenating. With their signature Sri Lankan warmth, the airline truly elevated my travel experience.

My destination? The tranquil and therapeutic Siddhalepa Ayurveda resort, where the ancient wisdom of Hela Wedakama offered more than relaxation — it offered transformation. 

My introduction to Siddhalepa began in Dubai, where the brand launched Hela Wedakama to the UAE market. This Sri Lankan treatment system has quickly gained interest among wellness seekers in the region, praised for its powerful benefits and natural approach to holistic healthcare. Seeing its promise firsthand inspired me to explore the full experience in its country of origin.

This growing wellness wave is part of a broader initiative. The Market Development Facility (MDF), an Australian Government-funded program, has partnered with Siddhalepa Ayurveda to bolster Sri Lanka’s wellness tourism sector. Their collaboration focuses on expanding into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) markets and promoting Hela Wedakama to health-conscious travelers in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman.

The initiative also includes SriLankan Airlines as a key partner, supporting Siddhalepa-hosted familiarization visits for GCC travel trade and media professionals. These immersive experiences showcase authentic Ayurveda treatments, aiming to enhance awareness and positioning of Sri Lanka as a premier wellness destination. It’s a strategic move that not only uplifts tourism but promotes sustainable economic development through the global expansion of traditional healing practices.

From personalized Ayurvedic consultations to oil therapies, herbal baths, and grounding yoga and meditation, the retreat was a masterclass in holistic healing. And the entire wellness journey, from takeoff to treatment, was made seamless by SriLankan Airlines — reminding me that the path to balance begins not just at the resort, but from the moment you choose how you fly.

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