Sri Lanka has it all: roaming elephants, cascading rows of tea leaves, and exceptionally surfable waves. Here are four of the most incredible places to stay in Sri Lanka.
Palm Hotel
Inland from the surf town of Ahangama is one of Sri Lanka’s coolest examples of tropical brutalism. Inspired by London’s warehouses, shipping containers are used for a massive lobby, restaurant, and chill-out pool area with a black industrial steel exterior and a bohemian interior. Their A-frame cabanas mirror the style with black framing and a bright white rattan ceiling. The concrete flooring and counter space add to the brutalism vibe, while the outdoor shower and toilet remind you you’re on a tropical island.
Wild Coast Lodge
Bordering Yala National Park, it’s common to see elephants roaming near your Relais & Chateaux luxury tent. Inspired by historic military tents and a bygone era of luxury travel, these domed oases have standout copper clawfoot tubs, colonial-style decor with teak floors, canvas walls, and sumptuous leather furniture. This safari experience is all-inclusive, with gourmet meals and two game drives per day.
Ceylon Tea Trails
Another extraordinary Relais & Chateaux property is perched above Sri Lanka’s Ceylon tea region. The historic property has five expertly restored tea planter residences with 27 rooms and suites. Each of the butler-serviced luxury bungalows is unique and named after the tea planter who used to live there. They’re clad with teak, four-poster beds, antique fixtures, and tranquil views of the mist emanating over the tea fields.
Amangalla
One of the most important buildings in the 17th-century Galle Fort is home to Amangalla. This colonial beauty is the former headquarters of Dutch commanders and has served guests for over 150 years. Today, it retains its centuries-old charm with original stone steps, hardwood floors, and mosaic tiles. Its newly constructed pool is ultra-chic with a vertical garden and cabanas. Afternoon tea complete with scones and their signature hot chocolate, is a must.
Kahanda Kanda, Sri Lankka
In southern Sri Lanka, just 11 miles from Galle Fort, lies Kahanda Kanda—a 5-star boutique hotel nestled in a thriving wildlife sanctuary. Surrounded by lush bushland, it seamlessly blends luxury with nature. The hotel offers an infinity-edged pool with jungle views, twelve secluded villas featuring personal plunge pools, and private gardens. The KK Plantation Suite, a fan favorite, showcases oil paintings, antique furnishings, and open-air rain showers. Guests can indulge in deep tissue couples massages and snorkeling excursions, immersing themselves in the serene beauty of the Indian Ocean.
Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge, Sri Lanka
Nestled on an idyllic tea plantation, Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge captivates travelers with nineteen serene suites boasting 40-square-meter balconies, bubbling pool jacuzzis, manicured gardens, and culturally infused bohemian-style tents. The coveted Honeymoon Suite showcases chestnut wooden flooring and ambient aged buffet lamps. For a minute of zen, guests can head to The Five Senses Wellness and Spa, which offers personalized consultations, guided meditations, hot yoga classes, and scenic hiking tours. Plus, breathtaking views of the Knuckles mountain range amid undulating folds and lush greenery are at guests’ every turn.
