Top 5 luxury hotels of Sri Lanka

The Sri Lankan east coast is the most untouched lands in the whole island due to the 30-year war that happened. But now it’s all doors are opened to you with their warmest welcome to enjoy the tranquil, soul-soothing scenery, culture and most hospitable gestures of people. There are some truly exceptional and boutique luxury hotels in Sri Lanka, which take full advantage of her wonderful scenic diversity. Here are some of our best choices to make your stay more comfortable, luxurious and memorable.

Ceylon Tea Trails

Fall under the quiet spell of Ceylon Tea Trails, whose five historic, tea-planter bungalows are enveloped in the emerald landscapes of Sri Lanka’s cinematic tea country. Perched more than 1,000 metres above sea level, with uninterrupted views of the rolling hills, glossy tea trees, or tranquil Castlereagh Lake, the bungalows immerse guests entirely in nature. Nature is the muse here, rightly taking centre stage – but the bungalows are steeped in history, too. The story of Ceylon Tea Trails is inextricably interwoven with that of the pioneering British and Scottish planters who saw the early promise of fortune in these lands, firstly via ill-fated coffee, and then via tea. Each of our five bungalows originally housed 19th- and 20th-century tea planters and their families. In tribute to these early adventurers, bedrooms are named after their former residents, interiors riff on the region’s past, and the bungalows’ colonial elegance remains, thanks to meticulous restorations.

The Amanwella

The 5-star Amanwella resort in Tangalle, Sri Lanka, is a single-storey beachside oasis set in a wild, rugged and remote landscape. Each of the 30 freestanding spacious suites has their own private pool and 180 degree view of the coastline. The resort is best for relaxed beach retreats, and cultural and wildlife encounters. Guests are provided with access to National Parks including Udawalawe and Bundala which are offering sights of elephants, crocodiles and birdlife. If they want to relax, they can enjoy the spa – the massages and body treatments, are available in the privacy of the Suites.

Wild Coast Tented Lodge

Wild Coast Tented Lodge, adjacent to the Yala National Park, is renowned for its leopard population. This spectacular luxury tented lodge is situated on a rugged, empty beach, overlooking the Indian Ocean. Starring locally sourced, recycled materials, the 28 eco-conscious Cocoon Rooms and the bamboo-clad bar and restaurant were ingeniously fashioned by local fishermen, specially up-skilled for the task (and now equipped with an alternative source of income). Utterly rooted in its rugged setting, Wild Coast Tented Lodge gives back to its community, allocating 10% of profits to social justice projects and the environment, via the MJF Charitable Foundation and Dilmah Conservation.

Taj Bentota Resort & Spa

With a stay at Taj Bentota Resort & Spa in Bentota, you’ll be on the beach, just steps from Bentota Beach and a 4-minute drive from Kaluwamodara Bridge. Truly a space to soak in the very spirit of Sri Lanka. Walk through lush gardens under swinging palm enjoying the sand the surf and the ocean breeze all around you. And in between our stylish rooms sire to offer stunning ocean views with private sit-outs or terraces. The cerulean waters cinnamon spices and carved elements of the local architectural traditions are combined to give a sense of place to the visitor.

The Amangalla

Amangalla is a luxury hotel with just 31 guest rooms and suites, located in Galle, Sri Lanka, and set within Unesco-protected Galle Fort, a centuries-old fortified enclave. The surroundings are complemented by a serene swimming pool with private shaded cabanas enclosed within the 200 year-old exotic gardens. Amangalla is the best choice for combining city, coastal and countryside pursuits and it’s historic, dignified ambiance suits occasions of all kinds, whether it is an intimate festivity or a charmed wedding. The relaxation part of the stay is taken to another level by on-site Ayurveda specialist offering personalised treatment programmes, five treatment rooms and two hydrotherapy suites in the spa complex, The Baths.

Parinita Salaria

Parinita Salaria is Co-Founder of Indus Bound. Indus Bound is an award-winning, specialist boutique travel company offering bespoke, luxury private India tours and tailor-made India holidays. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.