Rice and an array of curries and sambols served on a leaf

Sri Lankan kitchen

Cooking Class

Learn to cook rice and curry the Sri Lankan way, from scraping coconut to tempering spices, then sit down to eat it.

What you’ll cook

A Sri Lankan rice and curry is a spread of small dishes: perhaps a dhal, a vegetable curry, a green leaf mallum and a fiery coconut sambol, alongside rice. You’ll learn how fresh coconut, curry leaves, pandan and roasted spices give each dish its character.

How it works

  • Start with the ingredients, often picked from the garden or bought locally
  • Scrape coconut and press coconut milk by hand
  • Cook in traditional clay pots
  • Finish by sharing the meal you’ve made

Tips

  • Tell us about allergies or dietary needs when you book. Most dishes are easily made vegetarian.
  • Ask for the spice level you prefer.
  • Bring a notebook or ask for the recipes.

Prices, timings and inclusions vary by season and operator — ask our front desk for current details and to book.

Photos

Nelu Villa from the air, with Sigiriya Lion Rock on the horizon

Your stay in Sigiriya

Plan Your Stay

Choose your dates, tell us who’s travelling, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Nelu Villa, Sigiriya