Handpicked Hotels

Sri Lanka’s Unique Hotels We Love

Sri Lanka’s hotel scene is one of awe by many Asian destinations dozens of its size, and it is no surprise the island fits the bill for every kind of discerning traveler. You will find brilliant accommodation with a diverse mix and style that is distinctly the country’s own. Whatever your preference, there is no doubt Sri Lanka has some of the most amazing hotels in Asia.

In the eclectic capital of Colombo, if your preference is the upper echelons of luxury bolt holes, there is a wide selection of 5* plus hotels of international brands to make your luxury holiday extraordinary. Then there is a selection of unique hotels showcasing the island’s iconic landmarks from its colonial past, former homes of merchants, Govt agents, Prime Ministers, and royalty, now host guests like never before has opulence met history with such panache as in the lovingly restored converted hotels, a work of art and exclusive designs.

How about the eco-friendly jungle lodges, restored tea estates, beautiful beach resorts, and intimate accommodation oozing with Sri Lankan style? They offer more than just a hotel bed and board.

Bland, impersonal chains are not our cup of tea and are not for our travelers. Instead, we work with Sri Lankan hotels that offer a sense of place. The smaller, boutique-style accommodation gives you more charm, more vibe, and more opportunities to meet the real Sri Lanka, get a real flavor of the place, and get up close to Sri Lanka’s world-famous hospitality. Many such properties push the boundaries of hospitality and introduce another level of buzz to the country.

Take a look at the number of accolades Sri Lanka’s accommodation providers have stacked from some of the world’s elite in the travel and hospitality industry.

Handpicked Hotels - Our Role as Sri Lanka Specialist

We believe the right accommodation can enhance your connection with the destination, especially combined with brilliant service. We love to help you find that goal and hotels in Sri Lanka that stay with you for all the right reasons! And if you want to mix it up, no worries, we can offer plenty of options.

In our many years of travel in Sri Lanka, we have had the opportunity to stay at countless hotels, big and small, grand and personal, new and heritage. We spend our time in Sri Lanka visiting them and revisiting our favorites to find the ideal hotel deals to include in our itineraries and ensure that the properties we recommend, meet our high standards.

On this page, find reviews of the many places we have stayed in Sri Lanka, our personal favourites, the details about what you can expect from these hotels, and some of the things we love about each property.

This is, by no means, a definitive list of hotels we love in Sri Lanka. It is an ongoing list, and not all our favorites have yet been featured here. We will continue to refine and add to this list! And hoteliers in Sri Lanka, if you are interested in getting listed and get exposure in the North American travel marketplace, reach out to us HERE.

Where the jungle meets the Indian Ocean

The rugged landscape and empty beach are the perfect facade to Sri Lanka’s only Relais and Chateaux Resort. Wild Coast Tented Lodge beckons you deep into Sri Lanka’s jungle. Here, nestled within intimate Cocoons, you’ll discover a profound connection to nature. Surrounded by the untamed wilderness of Yala National Park, exhilarating game drives and walking safaris reveal leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and plentiful birds.

Wake up to the Call of the Wild

Beautifully positioned between the serene tranquility of the Indian Ocean and the natural wonders of Yala National Park, Jetwing Yala rests within an uncharted patch of coastal wilderness at the end of Sri Lanka’s southern shoreline. With convenient accessibility to both the road and the sea, this unique hotel offering Sri Lankan hospitality remains comfortably connected amidst the coastal wilds of our tropical island.

Maniumpathy – Grand old heritage home for five generations

Located in Colombo’s central Cinnamon Gardens district, property has been restyled into a luxurious seven room boutique hotel. Maniumpathy is a stately home with a history spanning over a century, the structure has evolved in stages. This is reflected in its subtly contrasting architectural elements that may be apparent to appreciators of Sri Lankan colonial era architecture.

The Galle Face Hotel – Colombo’s Iconic landmark

Established in 1864, The Galle Face Hotel embraces its rich history and legendary traditions, that resonate with old and new generations of travellers alike. South Asia’s Grande Dame stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s colonial heritage and modern independence. Renowned globally, it seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary elegance, offering guests a unique experience of timeless grandeur.

An unforgettable escape to a historic hotel with a storied past

In the heart of Colombo’s most elite neighborhood is an abode steeped in history. The home of Prime Ministers, legend and Royalty, Tintagel Colombo is now a work of art, combining exclusive designs, antiques, detailed embellishments in the suites, contemporary paintings and a lovely blend of old world decor and impeccable service.

Discover the Island’s Capital

Looking over the upscale neighbourhood of Cinnamon Gardens, Jetwing Colombo Seven is perfectly positioned between the cosmopolitan city center and upcoming luxuriant suburbs. This Colombo 7 property puts you in close proximity to a number of urban experiences – be it shopping, dining, or simply sightseeing.

150-year-old village chieftain’s mansion with rich history

Ulagalla Resort offers a touch of traditional elegance and aristocracy, a unique experience of luxury amidst a natural, remote, and uninhabited environment. A gem amongst Sri Lanka’s boutique hotels, it is nestled in a sprawling 58-acre lush green garden with a mansion (walawwa) at its center, rich with cultural heritage and historical significance. There are 25 villas with private pools, cautiously designed and built to maintain the ecological balance of the surroundings.

A Timeless Retreat on the Pekoe Trail

Set amidst misty mountains and lush tea estates, Heritance Tea Factory blends heritage and exclusivity in a restored 19th-century tea factory located on the 22nd stage of the Pekoe Trail in Sri Lanka. At an elevation of over 2000m above sea level, discover experiences steeped in history and nature, scenic views. Include this retreat on any curated journey featuring Sri Lanka’s vibrant tea country.

A Bawa Masterpiece in the Heart of the Cultural Triangle

Designed by renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, Heritance Kandalama is set in 211 acres of protected forest in Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, UNESCO listed Sigiriya as your
backdrop. This iconic hotel blends modernist design principles with a deep reverence for local heritage and environmental sustainability. Ideal getaway for immersive cultural experiences to destination weddings and authentic Sri Lankan dining.

A Garden of Lakes – an exclusive sanctuary on Earth

Built upon 28 acres of reclaimed agricultural lands, immerse yourself in this multiple award-winning cultural sanctuary surrounding a purpose-built wetland in the shadow of an ancient fortress, nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sigiriya and bordering ancient kingdoms to the abundance of natural reserves, you will find yourself in perfect harmony with one of a kind stays in another iconic landmark.

Discover Galle, slip into the languor of Sri Lanka’s south coast

One of Sri Lanka’s most original colonial residences converted hotel. If high ceilings, wooden floors, high sash windows and four-poster beds, embodying the romance of days gone by, then this is your ultimate destination.
Amangalla lies within the ramparts of Sri Lanka’s 17th- century Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering views of the harbour on one side and the hotel’s lush gardens and swimming pool on the other, this historic masterpiece presents a perfect base from which to uncover southern Sri Lanka’s cultural riches.

A luxury cli1op resort in Southern Sri Lanka

Cape Weligama, is the second distinguished member of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux family in Sri Lanka, stands proudly on Sri Lanka’s southern cliffs, offering an unrivalled coastal retreat. With luxurious villas and suites boasting breathtaking ocean views, world-class cuisine, iconic pools, and golden beaches within easy reach, every detail promises an unforgettable escape. The perfect escape with older kids and for discerning families.

Five Historic bungalows in the heartland of Ceylon tea

Ceylon Tea Trail’s historic tea bungalows are set in the verdant central Highlands. Scattered across 5,000 acres, each bungalow has five or six rooms and is set between 4km and 15km apart, offering its own unique setting and charm. The essence of Ceylon Tea Trails is captured inside, elegant bedrooms, a lounge, library, dining room and bar entice guests to slow down and take in the sweeping valleys outside. Each bungalow is adorned with fascinating photographs, antiques and vintage wares for a glimpse into Ceylon’s 20th-century plantation past.

Asia’s # 1 Resort – Condé Nast Traveller Award winner 2024

Where Nature Meets Luxury in the Heart of Sri Lanka

Nestled high on a ten-acre estate amidst lush spice and tea gardens, Aarunya, a boutique hotel in Kandy, offers a serene sanctuary. An award-winning collection of private pool villas combines modern design sensibilities with Sri Lankan authenticity, providing guests with exclusive amenities,
personalized service, and breathtaking views. Each villa is crafted for comfort, featuring a blend of world-class facilities and local charm, ensuring a stay that’s as enriching as it is luxurious.

Winner of Sri Lanka’s Leading Boutique Hotel 2024 at the World Travel Awards

East Coast Serenity & Barefoot Luxury

Nestled on the island’s east coast village of Pasikuda, alongside an endless stretch of picturesque ivory shores and clear, shallow waters, Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa is unique; built in the charming style of the ‘wadiya’ or Sri Lankan fishing village, enter, and feel time trickle to a standstill as you unwind in soothing serenity by the lapping waves. Breathe in the fresh, ocean air as you immerse yourself in the ancient heritage of the island’s fishing folk, amidst a secluded paradise of sun-kissed, barefoot luxury.

Offering the best of tropical beaches and exotic wildlife

Set amongst the golden sand dunes and the lush greenery bordering the Yala National Park, All-inclusive Uga Chena Huts blends Sri Lanka’s most celebrated features – its tropical beaches and exotic wildlife. This has been designed with its surrounding tropical jungles, watering holes and the Indian ocean in mind. Enveloped in a world of scenic splendour and exotic fauna, there are 18 luxury ‘huts’ on 9 acres of land that offer awe-inspiring views of the surrounding wilderness and seascape, privacy and seclusion.