Ayurvedic treatments in Kandy: which spa to choose?

Ayurveda, or the science of life in Sanskrit, is an ancient medicine that originated in India. Dating back to the Vedic period, a thousand years before Christ, this traditional medicine is rooted in the Vedas, a collection of sacred texts from ancient India.

Still taught today through the transmission of knowledge, but also studied in the country's medical faculties, this knowledge is passed down from generation to generation. Ayurvedic medicine has 3 pillars: maintaining health, curing illness and fulfilling oneself as a person.

Ayurvedic medicine is a vast and complex discipline that few people fully understand. Simply put, it is based on 3 categories of metabolisms and constitutions, called "doshas". Traditionally, the "doshas" are the basic energy of human beings.

• Vāta: kinetic energy, which refers to the elements air + ether
• Pitta: energy of transformation, which refers to the elements fire + water
• Kapha: energy of cohesion, which refers to the elements earth + water.

In ayurveda, each person's treatments are chosen according to their doshas.

Ayurvedic medicine has several ways of treating symptoms. Depending on the case, internal cleansing or a change in eating habits may be recommended. Massages are often recommended for their instant and rapid effect.

Ayurvedic massages are therefore very popular with Sri Lankans and tourists alike.

"After visiting temples and doing activities every day, I really needed a break. On a rainy day in Kandy, I went for a massage. It did me a world of good! Léïa, during her week in Kandy.

Green Chaya Spa

Green Chaya Spa is a clean and reliable ayurvedic massage centre. After making an appointment, which can be done directly by phone or on their website, a taxi will pick you up wherever you are in Kandy. During your first consultation, an ayurvedic professional will do a quick check-up and establish the state of your body. He or she will take the opportunity to determine your dosha and choose the best treatment for your metabolism.

Address: No 15 Hantana Housing Scheme Rd, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka

Opening hours: 9.30am - 11pm, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 9.30am - 10pm, Tuesday.

Suwa Asapuwa

Suwa Asapuwa offers Ayurvedic treatments in simple, clean surroundings. Ayurvedic massage, oil baths or steam baths, the nature of the treatments depends on your prior consultation with an Ayurvedic professional. After the treatments, the staff will offer you a moment to recharge your batteries and a rejuvenating herbal tea. The centre is located in the heights of Kandy, south of the lake.

Address: 147 Rajapihilla Mawatha, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka

Opening hours: 9am - 11pm, every day except Sunday.

Santani Wellness Resort & Spa

Just 1 hour from Kandy by taxi, Santani Wellness Resort & Spa offers top-of-the-range massages and treatments, accompanied by an ayurveda professional. In an idyllic setting, you can enjoy Ayurvedic treatments and massages, yoga classes, a sauna, a swimming pool and incredible views of the mountains from the terrace.

Bookings can be made by telephone or on the Santani website.

Address: Arantenna Estate, Werapitiya 20908, Sri Lanka Times: please contact the hotel for spa opening times.