10 of the Best Hotels in Sri Lanka

Curated hotels in Sri Lanka: from luxury beachfront havens to tranquil mountain hideaways, these are the best places to stay.

Each of the ten luxury boutique hotels and lodges featured on this guide has been handpicked by our dedicated team of travel aficionados and hotel enthusiasts. We've personally journeyed to Sri Lanka and experienced each place firsthand.

Learn about how we curate our guides here.

Sri Lanka Beach Beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka

KAJU GREEN

Kaju Green

Unawatuna

Kaju Green Eco Lodges is unique eco-friendly Nature resort, hidden away in a jungle setting on a small private island adjacent to the lush green Eluwila Bird and Wildlife Sanctuary. Its a 15 minutes tuk-tuk ride away from the historical Galle Dutch Fort. Seven stylish and environmentally-friendly lodges incorporate contemporary designs with Sri Lankan construction traditions. A variety of activities like kayaking, yoga and pilates as well as free transportation to nearby Unawatuna beaches is offered. Adults-only.

Fort Bazaar GalleFort Bazaar Galle

Fort Bazaar

Galle Fort

Tucked away on a cobblestone lane within the historic walls of the UNESCO-recognized Galle Fort, Fort Bazaar is a testament to patience and architectural reverence. What once was a merchant's mansion underwent a meticulous 11-year restoration journey, transforming it into a delightful boutique haven. With 18 expansive rooms and suites, this sanctuary artfully marries the old-world charm with contemporary comforts.

Each living space is thoughtfully oriented around a serene central courtyard, anchored by an age-old Banyan tree. High ceilings lend an airy spaciousness, while the inviting four-poster beds promise a restful repose. A swimming pool, carefully integrated into the setting, is on the horizon and promises to be a refreshing addition. Fort Bazaar invites you to step into a blend of history and modern elegance, right in the heart of Galle Fort.

PALM Sri LankaPALM Sri Lanka

PALM

Ahangama

Hidden between rice paddies and the coastline of laid-back Ahangama sits PALM, a cutting-edge hotel blending modern design with the natural beauty of the Sri Lankan jungle. The hotel offers a range of amenities, including a fancy restaurant by a lovely pool and a fully equipped Crossfit gym. The architecture is a blend of soothing Sri Lankan minimalism with sustainable design and luxurious amenities. Featuring six spacious A-Frame Cabanas and 2 Deluxe Suites on stilts, with floor-to-ceiling glass, polished concrete interiors, low-lying beds with plush linens, cane furniture, private patios and open-air showers.

Underneath The Mango TreeUnderneath The Mango Tree

Underneath The Mango Tree

Dickwella

Located on the south coast of Sri Lanka, UTMT is many things: a personally run boutique hotel, a highly competent Ayurveda spa , and a high-spirited beachside hotel.

The Austrian owners, Petra and Robert Hollmann, made every effort to create a completely unique kind of hotel. Most Furnishings and fabrics are custom-designed, including lampshades crafted from recycled rice bags. All 22 rooms & villas are equipped with oversized bathtubs, some come with a private plunge pool and Ocean views.

Jetwing Vil UyanaJetwing Vil Uyana

Jetwing Vil Uyana

Sigiriya

Nestled in the quaint village of Sigiriya, Jetwing Vil Uyana invites you to a world where nature and heritage merge. Amidst paddy fields and reed beds, our nature reserve showcases the diverse beauty of five distinct Sri Lankan habitats within the celebrated cultural triangle.

The accommodations are thoughtfully designed, each reflecting its surrounding habitat—be it Forest, Marsh, Paddy, Garden, or Lake. More than just a stay, it's an immersive experience. Here, you'll find a meticulously crafted wetland set against the backdrop of an age-old fortress, offering a serene landscape that gently captivates the senses. At Jetwing Vil Uyana, uncover the richness of Sri Lanka's nature and culture in one harmonious setting.

Living Heritage KoslandaLiving Heritage Koslanda

Living Heritage

Koslanda

Situated deep in Sri Lanka's hill country, Living Heritage Koslanda is more than just a boutique hotel—it's a retreat on 80 acres of land. Committed to sustainability, this place blends the barefoot charm of nature with basic comforts. Its five "Forest Pavilions" give guests a space that's rooted in nature, ensuring a close connection with the green surroundings. The hilltop infinity pool, while simple, offers an uninterrupted view of the valley below—a serene spot for reflection.

The lovely hotel staff will guide guests to the nearby hidden waterfall and river, offering a more private connection with nature, away from the usual tourist trails.

Santani Wellness Resort & SpaSantani Wellness Resort & Spa

Santani

Kandy Region

Santani emerges as a sanctuary for wellness enthusiasts, cradled amidst the captivating hills of the Knuckles Range and bathed in the pristine beauty of unspoiled mountain landscapes. Marrying impeccable minimalist design with top-notch spa and yoga facilities, the resort is crafted to foster harmony and balance.

Guests can delve into a curated selection of packages, seamlessly blending invigorating yoga sessions with soul-soothing Ayurvedic spa treatments. Dining at the resort is a holistic experience, with options ranging from refreshing fruit juices to start the day to calming herbal teas to wind down in the evening. Santani offers more than just luxury—it's a retreat where one can truly rejuvenate, finding equilibrium for the mind, body, and soul.

Nine Skies DemodaraNine Skies

Nine Skies

Demodara (Ella)

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka's Hill Country, Nine Skies emerges as a radiant gem—an intimate boutique tea bungalow offering a sanctuary of just five meticulously designed rooms, each framing entrancing vistas. Perched amidst emerald tea plantations, this haven overlooks distant temples and majestic peaks that gently roll down to the architectural wonder of the famed Demodara train Loop. The estate is adorned with meticulously curated gardens alive with a symphony of birds and butterflies, best admired from the cooling embrace of the infinity pool or the bungalow's generous terrace.

Each room epitomizes luxury, boasting expansive interiors graced with regal four-poster beds and windows that capture the vast panoramas beyond. While the tranquility of the surroundings may entice guests to linger, Nine Skies is strategically positioned near iconic landmarks like the Nine Arches Bridge, Little Adam's Peak, and Ella Rock. Personalized touches further enhance the guest experience. Expect daily turn-down services, impeccable butler attention, and thoughtful amenities such as picnic lunches, and handy backpacks and hats available for borrowing.

AmanwellaAmanwella

Amanwella

Tangalle

Nestled on Sri Lanka's sun-drenched southern coast, a meandering path through verdant jungle unveils the serene beauty of Amanwella in Tangalle. The resort's architectural design, influenced by the iconic modernist Geoffrey Bawa, stands as a minimalist tropical masterpiece. Each of its 30 contemporary suites boasts private plunge pools and terraces that face the shimmering sea.

Regarded as one of the most stunning in Sri Lanka, the captivating 50-meter-long infinity pool provides unparalleled views of the vast ocean. This is complemented by an expansive 800-meter stretch of golden sandy beach right at the resort's doorstep. True to Aman's philosophy, Amanwella embodies the essence of "barefoot luxury" and elegant simplicity.

Wild Coast Tented LodgeWild Coast Tented Lodge

Wild Coast Tented Lodge

Yala National Park

Nestled on the fringe of Yala National Park, Wild Coast Tented Lodge is a secluded safari retreat on Sri Lanka's untamed southern coastline. This luxurious lodge boasts cocoon-like accommodations, masterfully crafted in a dome shape using robust French canvas.

Stepping inside, each tented suite transports you to a bygone era of grand expeditions: soaring arched ceilings, rich teak floors, plush leather chairs, and freestanding copper bathtubs. Select suites even offer their own private plunge pools for an intimate escape. The camp is also home to an open-air restaurant, perfectly poised by a unique infinity pool. Every stay is complemented with game drives into the heart of Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka's richest biodiverse treasures.

Best time to visit Sri Lanka

Generally, Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons that affect different parts of the island at different times of the year. The southwest monsoon season occurs from May to September, affecting the southwestern and central regions of Sri Lanka, including popular destinations like Colombo, Galle, Ella and Kandy. During this time, these areas experience heavy rainfall, high humidity, and rough seas, making it less ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

PerfectGoodAverage

The northeast monsoon season occurs from November to February and affects the eastern and northern parts of Sri Lanka, including Trincomalee, Jaffna, and Batticaloa. During this time, the weather is generally dry and sunny, making it an excellent time for beach activities and outdoor exploration in these areas.

Dondra Lighthouse Dondra Lighthouse, the southernmost point in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka travel advisory

We know that traveling to a new destination comes with its set of queries and doubts. Our FAQ section is designed to answer the most frequently asked questions about traveling to Sri Lanka, helping you to plan your trip.

  • Do I need a visa to vist Sri Lanka?

    Most foreigners require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering Sri Lanka. Tourists obtaining an ETA are typically granted a 30-day stay in Sri Lanka, though extensions can be sought once inside the country. The ETA application process is usually done online, with a simple form and a fee. Upon approval, the ETA is valid for six months from the issue date, but the maximum duration of stay for a tourist ETA is 30 days from the date of entry.

  • Should I rent a car in Sri Lanka?

    Yes, you can rent a car in Sri Lanka. However, we recommend considering other modes of transport for a more authentic and hassle-free experience. Navigating the local roads can be challenging if you're unfamiliar with Sri Lankan driving conditions. For longer journeys, we suggest opting for transfers. For shorter distances and local exploration, tuk-tuks are a fantastic choice. If you're thinking of heading into the hill country, the railway between Ella and Kandy offers a picturesque and memorable route that you might find captivating.

  • Where do I find the best beaches?

    In our journey across the beautiful island of Sri Lanka, we've discovered some of the most pristine beaches that you simply must visit. Let's start with Mirissa, a tranquil paradise where you can bask in golden sands and even catch sight of majestic whales during the right season. Not far from the historic city of Galle, there's Unawatuna, a crescent-shaped beach lined with palm trees and known for its coral reef and sublime sunsets. We'd also recommend the laid-back charm of Bentota, perfect for both sunbathing and water sports. If you're looking for a less frequented spot, the untouched beauty of Nilaveli in Trincomalee awaits you. Finally, Arugam Bay, on the island's east coast, is a surfer's dream, offering some of the best waves in the world.

Tea plantation Tea plantations in the Hill Country