Melanie discovered yoga's transformational power while traveling in India in 2009. Over the years, she deepened into her practices exploring asana, pranayama, meditation, philosophy, chanting, kundalini kriya as well as Usui Reiki Healing.
She has completed over 700 hours of teacher training across multiple yoga styles and holds a Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology Movement Sciences from San Francisco State University.
Melanie shares a holistic approach to yoga, viewing the different modalities as maps to explore the vast landscapes of our multilayered human experience.
Students describe her teaching style as nurturing, inspiring, and accessible to practitioners of all levels. Her classes will guide you through an embodied journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Having previously taught at Talalla Retreat from 2016-2018, she is returning to share yoga as a path to innate wholeness.
Details of this retreat
We have seven open-air yoga shalas beautifully designed with spacious interiors that allow for comfortable movements and are equipped with all the necessary props. Our organic gardens provide a serene and calming atmosphere, perfect for yoga enthusiasts. Start your day with a leisurely beach walk overlooking a stunning sunrise, or explore the local fishing village to immerse yourself in Sri Lankan culture. At Talalla Retreat we believe in a holistic approach to health and wellness. Our onsite Ayurvedic spa offers a variety of treatments to soothe the mind, body, and soul. Our trained therapists use only natural and organic ingredients to
create personalised treatments tailored to your individual needs.
The main dining area at the retreat space offers panoramic views of the jungle and beach, making every meal a memorable experience. We serve delicious and healthy meals sourced from local ingredients and our onsite gardens, ensuring our guests have an authentic experience of the region.
To further enhance your time with us, the beautiful and refreshing 20-meter swimming pool, coupled with incredible weather all throughout the year makes this property an ideal choice for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Our tranquil surroundings and extensive facilities make us the ideal destination to host your own yoga or wellness
retreat, or any other group event. Our experienced team can help you plan and execute a successful event, leaving you free to focus on guiding your guests towards greater health and well-being. Our guest relations team is dedicated to ensuring that guests have an enjoyable stay and are always available to assist with any queries or requests. Come and experience our unique blend of nature and yoga at our idyllic Talalla Retreat.
Schedule
SAMPLE SCHEDULE*
*Subject to change depending on external factors such as weather and group size.
DAY ONE
Check in
Opening ceremony with intention-setting
Sunset Yin Yoga
DAY TWO
Sunrise Awaking Vinyasa Flow
Workshop
60 Min Massage
Sunset Yin Yoga
DAY THREE
Sunrise Power Yoga, Breathwork & Meditation
Bath house session
Sunset Yoga Nidra
DAY FOUR
Sunrise Slow flow
Workshop
Sunset Yin Yoga
DAY FIVE
Sunrise Playful Vinyasa
Cooking Class
Sunset Breathwork and Meditation
DAY SIX
Sunrise Shaolin Qigong
Temple Visit
Sunset Bioenergetic Qigong
DAY SEVEN
Sunrise Inversions Breathwork & Meditation
Closing ceremony
Check out
Note: Schedule is approximate and may change
Getting Here
Talalla Retreat, Sampaya House, Talalla South, Gandara 81170, Sri Lanka
Directions
Fly into Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo—default choice for most visitors.
Hire a private taxi or shuttle (approx. 2h 20–2h 30, US $100–110), or choose the cheaper alternatives of bus or train.
Accommodation
Enjoy our beautiful sea-view villas, deluxe rooms or private bungalow. All including a private balcony, mosquito nets, desk space, WIFI, ceiling fans and a safe. We also offer air-conditioned rooms.
Sea View First Floor (AC)
Sea View Ground Floor
Sea View Open Air
Deluxe First Floor
Deluxe Ground Floor
Bungalow
Venue & Amenities
A/C in Rooms
Free Wifi
Spa
Sauna
Pool
Towels
Free Parking
Kitchen
Tour Assistance
Hot Tub
Coffee/Tea
Cafe
Restaurant
Fitness Center
Yoga Studio
Housekeeping
Bicycles For Rent
Hidden on Sri Lanka’s untouched southern coast, Talalla Retreat is a place where time stretches, the noise of daily life fades, and nature takes the lead. Set across seven acres of wild, tropical gardens and opening directly onto a quiet, palm-lined beach, this peaceful sanctuary offers retreat organisers an extraordinary setting to hold space for deep rest, renewal, and transformation.
Meals
Menu Types
Vegan
Vegetarian
Pescetarian
Ayurvedic
Includes Meat
Organic
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Nut Free
Enjoy a variety of fresh, and healthy dishes with locally sourced products—Sri Lankan flavors and World cuisine—so you can explore new tastes without missing the comforts of home.