Kamalaya

About Kamalaya

Kamalaya is a holistic wellness sanctuary on the peaceful southern coast of Koh Samui, surrounded by tropical gardens and views across the Gulf of Thailand. Founded in 2005 by John and Karina Stewart, the retreat was created around a centuries-old meditation cave once used by Buddhist monks. Its name means “Lotus Realm,” reflecting a philosophy of personal growth, renewal and reconnection. Rather than following a rigid model, Kamalaya develops personalized wellness journeys around each guest’s goals. An initial consultation helps shape an individualized schedule that may draw from naturopathy, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, mindfulness, massage, yoga, fitness and one-to-one mentoring. Programs particularly support guests experiencing stress, anxiety or burnout, as well as those pursuing healthy weight management and broader wellbeing. The retreat integrates Eastern healing traditions with contemporary assessments and Western wellness practices. Its multidisciplinary team includes naturopaths, medical professionals, registered nurses, nutrition specialists, life-enhancement mentors, yoga teachers, fitness instructors and practitioners of Thai, Chinese and Ayurvedic therapies. Kamalaya is a non-12-step wellness retreat rather than a conventional addiction rehabilitation or medically managed withdrawal facility. Nature is central to the experience. Rooms and villas are distributed across a lush hillside leading toward the beach, while open-air treatment spaces, pools, walking paths and yoga areas encourage time outdoors. Healthy chef-prepared cuisine, restorative spa treatments and daily movement or meditation classes complement the private sessions included in each guest’s program.