Sri Lanka is an incredible country to visit with pristine beaches, fabulous food, vivid culture & history, breathtaking wildlife and wonderful people. Over the past few years, I’ve made it my mission to explore as much of the country as possible and have climbed Sigiriya Rock Fortress, surfed in Arugam Bay, gone on elephant safaris in various national parks, taken the scenic train through hill country, practiced Yoga in open-air beachfront pavilions, frolicked down empty beaches in the Southern Province and enjoyed Ayurvedic treatments with experienced Ayurveda doctors.
These things are just the tip of what the country has to offer, and one of my favorite aspects about traveling in Sri Lanka is the incredible choice of hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs available throughout the country. Not convinced? Click here for 10 reasons why you need to visit Sri Lanka now!
I’m passionate about promoting unique and boutique travel experiences, and personally look for comfort, beautiful decor and warm hospitality when I travel. Without further ado here are some of the best boutique hotels in Sri Lanka to book yourself into for your next trip! Make sure you subscribe to the e-mail list as this list will be updated on a regular basis.
Jump to section:
1. Central and North Central Provinces
2. Eastern Province
3. Southern and Uva Provinces
4. Western Province
1. Central and North Central Provinces
The Central Province is primarily in the central mountainous terrain of Sri Lanka and contains popular tourist destinations such as Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura.
– Madulkelle Tea & Eco Lodge in Kandy –
Madulkelle Tea & Eco Lodge is an hour’s drive away from the heart of Kandy, and offers 18 safari-like lodges with the most incredible views over Kandy’s mountain ranges. It is one of the best small luxury boutique hotels in Sri Lanka, and each room has its own private balcony overlooking the tea plantations below and panoramic views of the breathtaking sunsets and sunrises. The climate, unlike coastal Sri Lanka, is dry and much milder, so expect warm days and cool nights. Click here for my full review of the property, and click here to book your stay at Madulkelle Tea & Eco Lodge!
– Rukgala Retreat in Digana –
Rukgala Retreat is a 10-bedroom boutique Yoga and wellness hotel about 45 minutes away from Kandy. It is the perfect place to spend a few days practicing Yoga, getting your fill of delicious and nutritious food, lounging by the pool or taking leisurely strolls by the lake. Sound like your kind of holiday? Read on for why Rukgala is an unmissable Yoga retreat in Sri Lanka, or click here to check current rates and availability at Rukgala!
Things to see and do in the area: Temple of the Tooth, Royal Botanic Gardens, Knuckles mountain range, Kandy lake. Read more about things to do in and around Kandy here.
– Unique Cottages in Nuwara Eliya –
Nuwara Eliya, the “City of Light”, is high up in the mountains and the start line for those hoping to visit World’s End and Adam’s Peak. Nuwara Eliya is also home to Lake Gregory, a reservoir in the heart of the tea country. Unique Cottages offered a comfortable 1 night stay at a reasonable price. The staff are friendly and helpful, and can help to book transport and tours to Horton Plains/World’s End.
Booking tip: If you are planning to stay here, try to avoid the attic room as there is only 1 small window for ventilation. Click here to book your stay at Unique Cottages or click here for more accommodation options in Nuwara Eliya!
– Jetwing St. Andrew’s in Nuwara Eliya –
I also highly recommend Jetwing St. Andrew’s, an elegant boutique hotel set in a restored colonial mansion. The rooms are slightly dated but comfortable, and the on-site restaurant and bar are both fantastic.
For a touch of sophistication check out their afternoon tea set and treat yourself with a glass of champagne (or two) overlooking the perfectly manicured lawn and gardens. Click here to book your stay at Jetwing St. Andrew’s or click here for more accommodation options in Nuwara Eliya!
Things to see and do in the area: Horton Plains National Park, World’s End, Adam’s Peak, Devon Falls, Lake Gregory, visit tea plantations.
– EKHO Sigiriya in Sigiriya –
EKHO Sigiriya (formerly named Zinc Journey Sigiriya) offers beautifully decorated rooms, incredible service and is right next to Sigiriya Rock. You can even see the rock fortress from the hotel! The hotel staff can also arrange safaris to Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks to spot wild elephants. If you have hired a driver to take you around the island, clean and roomy driver accommodation is available here. Click here to book your stay at EKHO Sigiriya!
– Diyabubula near Dambulla –
Diyabubula means “bubbling fountain” as it is built on top of a natural spring. It opened in 2016 and may be lesser-known to the average traveler to Sri Lanka, but not in the architecture and design community as it was designed by renown Sri Lankan artist Laki Senanayake. The 5 bedroom eco-luxury jungle hideaway was built with sustainability at the forefront, and building materials were upcycled from 100-year-old railway sleepers combined with local timber.
Diyabubula is the perfect retreat if you want to be immersed in nature – it is shaded by dense canopy after Laki replanted the forest 40 years ago, and is filled with the sounds of birds chirping, butterflies fluttering and monkeys jumping from tree to tree. Read my full hotel review here, or check out the various room types (bamboo grove, water villa, tree house) at their website! If you are visiting Sri Lanka as a solo female traveler you’ll love the helpful staff and privacy that Diyabubula offers.
Things to see and do in the area: Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Pidurangala Rock, Minneriya National Park, Kaudulla National Park, Polonnaruwa.
2. Eastern Province
The Eastern Province is made up of the districts of Batticaloa and Trincomalee and is popular for people visiting Nilaveli Beach, Arugam Bay, Pottuvil and Pigeon Island.
– The Spice Trail –
The Spice Trail is a boutique hotel in the thick of it all – right along the main stretch of Arugam Bay. The property has an on-site restaurant, coffee shop, bar and pool. Rooms are extremely spacious for Sri Lankan standards, and equipped with air-conditioners (which you’ll be thankful for because it gets stinking hot in Arugam Bay). If you’re looking for comfortable rooms in Arugam Bay in an unbeatable location, stay at The Spice Trail. Click here for current rates and availability!
– Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing –
Situated in Pottuvil and further away from the main Arugam Bay beach is Kottukal Beach House, operated by Jetwing Hotels, a local Sri Lankan-owned hospitality chain. The property offers beach access, a pool and spacious rooms at a reasonable rate. The hotel is a 15-20 minute drive away from the main strip of Arugam Bay, so is perfect if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the town during the peak season in the east (July to September). Click here to book your stay at Kottukal Beach House!
One thing to note, however, is that the driver accommodation onsite was subpar when we visited in October 2016 (our driver opted to sleep in the van instead) – things may have changed since our visit, so it’s worth calling ahead and asking if you have hired a driver to take you around the island.
Things to see and do in the area: Pigeon Island National Park, Nilaveli Beach, Arugam Bay, Gal Oya National Park. Read more about surfing in Arugam Bay here.
3. Southern and Uva Provinces
The Southern and Uva Provinces are home to beautiful beaches, incredible national parks, parts of hill country, stilt fishermen and Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Most visitors to this region travel to Ella, Galle, Talalla, Unawatuna, Mirissa, Koggala, Hambantota, Matara, Ahangama, Weligama and Tangalle. It’s easy to move around this region by train, car or tuk tuk, so if you only have a few days I would recommend picking 1-2 hotels and venturing out for day trips.
– 98 Acres in Ella –
You can’t really talk about boutique hotels in Ella without mentioning 98 Acres. This stunning property is quite possibly the gold standard in Ella, which is also why it is always booked up – you need to make sure you book early to secure a room! The rooms offer stunning views of tea plantations and Mini Adam’s Peak, the spa is incredible and the food is delicate and very tasty.
It is well worth spending a night or two at 98 Acres in Ella – the location is perfect as it is where the trail to Mini Adam’s Peak begins, and only a stone’s throw away from the Nine Arch Bridge. Click here to check current rates and availability at 98 Acres.
– Ella Mountain Heavens in Ella –
For amazing views of the Ella mountain gap, stay at Ella Mountain Heavens, a cozy boutique hotel high up in the hills. Make sure you get a room with a balcony overlooking the mountain gap, and park yourself outside while admiring the sunset from the comfort of your own room. Click here to book your stay at Ella Mountain Heavens or click here for more accommodation options in Ella!
Things to see and do in the area: Hike Mini Adam’s Peak, visit a tea factory and plantation, swim in Ravana Falls, check out the Nine Arch Bridge. Click here for my guide to spending 2 days in Ella.
– Talalla Retreat in Talalla (or Thalalla) –
Talalla Retreat is conveniently located near the southernmost point of Sri Lanka which makes it a great place to base yourself to explore the Southern Province. The rooms, while basic, are comfortable and the rates are reasonable given it offers a pool as well as direct beach access – it’s one of the best beach hotels in Sri Lanka. The hotel also hosts daily Yoga classes and surf lessons for anyone hoping to try their hand at catching a wave. Click here to book your stay at Talalla Retreat!
Things to see and do in the area: Dondra Lighthouse, Hummanaya Blowhole, Paravi Duwa Temple, Mulkirigala Raja Maha Vihara Rock Temple.
– Sam & Lola’s in Hiriketiya –
Independent travelers who are looking for a boutique luxury experience and privacy should look into Sam & Lola’s (my property) in Hiriketiya. The twin villas have been lovingly designed by us and filled with carefully curated decor and furnishings – most of which were handcrafted by local artisans and carpenters. Our space affords guests the perfect balance of barefoot luxury and privacy as well as unrestricted access to what Sri Lanka has to offer.
Sam & Lola’s can be found in Dikwella town and is the perfect base for your trip if you are looking for some of the best surf beaches in Sri lanka, easy access to beach cafes and restaurants and plenty of tropical views. We are sandwiched between two of the most beautiful beaches in south Sri Lanka: Hiriketiya beach and Pehebhiya beach. At Hiriketiya you’ll find a string of beach cafes and fun waves for beginner to intermediate surfers; the horseshoe-shaped bay is protected from wind and swell which makes it a perfect year-round swimming spot. You can check availability and book via AirBnb here and here.
– Zephyr in Talalla (or Thalalla) –
Zephyr is a boutique 4-room beachfront villa down the road from Talalla Retreat. If you’re looking for a more intimate and quiet getaway in Sri Lanka, check yourself into this property. The on-site restaurant serves up some of the best food and cocktails in southern Sri Lanka, and the service is top notch. Make sure you order ahead if you want to have Sri Lankan hoppers for breakfast.
Don’t feel like swimming in the ocean? Head downstairs to the private pool and order some poolside mojitos. The rooms at Zephyr are spacious and airy, and are also equipped with air conditioning units for those extra steamy Sri Lankan afternoons. As there are only 4 rooms at Zephyr you really get to unwind and relax – make sure you book ahead as they do fill up fast. Click here to book your stay at Zephyr Talalla!
– Fort Printers in Galle Fort –
Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a great place to wander around. I would recommend that you stay the night at The Fort Printers, a converted heritage hotel in the heart of Galle Fort and one of the best small luxury hotels in Sri Lanka. The rooms are tastefully decorated and extremely spacious. Click here to book your stay at stay the night at The Fort Printers!
Things to see and do in the area: Book a massage at Spa Ceylon, sip on a cup of tea at the Amangalla, visit the old Dutch Hospital, do some shopping at Barefoot Gallery and Stolen Paradise Clothing, spend some time strolling through the town, see the iconic Galle Fort Lighthouse and walk along the fort wall for panoramic coastal views. Read my full guide to Galle Fort by clicking here.
– Eliyanth Udawalawe in Udawalawe –
Udawalawe National Park is one of the most popular parks to visit in Sri Lanka for wildlife lovers. It is home to a large population of Asian elephants and elephant sightings are almost guaranteed. Book yourself into Eliyanth Udawalawe, a small hotel that offers incredible value for money. The rooms are spacious and clean with a private balcony overlooking the river, the safari jeep driver/spotter is professional and the manager is incredibly helpful if you need any help booking transportation.
This is also a great hotel for you if you’re looking to visit the nearby Elephant Transit Home which looks after orphaned baby elephants and returns them to the wild once they are rehabilitated. The one thing to note is that they only accept cash, but there are nearby ATMs that you can use. Click here to book your stay at Eliyanth Udawalawe or click here to look for other accommodation options in Udawalawe!
Things to see and do in the area: Go on a safari in Udawalawe National Park, visit the Elephant Transit Home Orphanage.
– Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle in Tangalle –
Looking to add a touch of luxury to your Sri Lanka trip? Book a stay at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle, a 5-star property offering beautiful rooms, beach access, incredible dining facilities and wonderful hospitality. Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle is one of the best boutique hotels in Sri Lanka and a fantastic place to relax and rejuvenate. It is also a great base for day trips around the southern coast or a safari in Yala National Park. Click here to read my full review of the property, or click here to book your stay at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle!
– Shangri-La’s Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa in Hambantota –
Shangri-La’s Hambantota Resort & Spa is probably one of the best beach resorts in Sri Lanka. It opened last June and is the newest luxury venture to open its doors in southern Sri Lanka, and is also the largest resort in country at nearly 60 hectares (or 150 acres). Aside from the incredible rooms, the hotel offers a plethora of facilities and activities including a trapeze, trampolines, fitness centre, 18-hole golf course, Ayurveda spa, children’s playroom and cultural artisan village. Click here to read my full review of the property or click here to book your stay at Shangri-La’s Hambantota Resort & Spa!
– Jetwing Yala in Yala –
If you plan to stay overnight in Yala, there are a number of boutique hotels and tented safari camps. I stayed at Jetwing Yala in October 2017 and loved the property. The rooms are spacious, the food is delicious (they have 2 restaurants and a beautiful cocktail bar), beach access as well an incredible pool. Wait for it – the pool has a swim-up bar! So you can lounge by the pool with cocktails after your morning safari. Click here to book your stay at Jetwing Yala.
– Mahoora Tented Camp in Yala –
If you want to be closer to nature, stay at Mahoora Tented Camps to go glamping in Yala. The campsite is just a 10-minute drive away from one of the main Yala National Park entrances, so you can be one of the first people to drive into the park when it opens at 6 AM in the morning. The rooms are spacious and well decorated, as well as extremely clean. Bathrooms are attached to the tent and the tents are equipped with fans (but no A/C) for those steamy Yala days. The real highlight at Mahoora is their staff – each and every person is warm, helpful and always smiling. Click here to book your stay at Mahoora Tented Camps in Yala or click here for more accommodation options in Yala.
Things to see and do in the area: Go on a safari in Yala National Park.
– Cape Weligama in Weligama –
It honestly doesn’t get any better than Cape Weligama. Cape Weligama is owned by Dilmah Tea, a quintessentially Sri Lankan homegrown brand that is no stranger to luxury. We absolutely love the warm hospitality at Cape Weligama, and their rooms are elegant, spacious and fabulous. For sun-downers head to one of their sunset viewing platforms, before moseying over to the bar for more cocktails crafted by their award-winning mixologists. The food is exquisite and you will be spoiled for choice with an array of classic Sri Lankan as well as Western-style menu offerings. Staying at Cape Weligama may be a bit of a splurge, but it is worth every penny. Click here to check current rates and availability at Cape Weligama or read my full hotel review here.
Southern Sri Lanka is one of the most beautiful places in the country. Click here for more ideas for what to do in Sri Lanka’s deep south or head on over here for the most stunning beaches along the south coast!
4. Western Province
The Western Province is where you will find Colombo, the country’s capital city, and Bandaranaike International Airport. This is likely where you’ll start or end your Sri Lanka trip, and there a number of great hotel options in this area.
– Colombo Hotel by Ceilao Villas –
This stylish family-run hotel has just 6 rooms, which makes it a perfect place to retreat to after a long day of sightseeing. Colombo Hotel by Ceilao Villas also offers 2 pools for you to cool off in (a smaller upper-tier dipping pool and a larger lower-tier pool) and breakfast on-demand anytime before noon. It’s perfect for couples traveling together, and if you are traveling with your family the hotel also offers larger rooms with a living room area complete with sofa and extra single bed. Click here to check current rates at Colombo Hotel!
– OZO Colombo –
OZO Colombo is a trendy hotel in the city that offers a great rooftop bar and pool facing the ocean and incredibly comfortable rooms – trust me when I tell you that the mattresses here are lifechanging. The decor is modern and the drinks are great – what more could you need? Click here to book your stay at OZO Colombo!
– Mount Lavinia Hotel –
Mount Lavinia is a quiet suburb just outside the heart of Colombo city. Colombo is not exactly well known for picturesque beaches, so this colonial heritage hotel is a good option for anyone looking for easy beach access near the city. Though the rooms are a little dated and could do with some sprucing up, Mount Lavinia Hotel is one of the best luxury hotels in Colombo, and is popular with families with young children as well as history buffs who are interested in staying in a little piece of history.
The main building dates back more than 200 years and was once the residence of the British Governor assigned to Sri Lanka in the early 1800s. The hotel also offers market tours, boat rides on Bolgoda Lake and a fitness centre. Ask them about visiting the secret tunnel below the hotel, and definitely book a room with an ocean view. Click here to check current rates and availability at Mount Lavinia Hotel!
Things to see and do in the area: Visit Barefoot Gallery, fly a kite at Galle Face Green, see the Red Mosque, visit the Gangaramaya and Seema Malaka temples. Click here for my guide to exploring Colombo in 1 day!
– Jetwing Ayurveda Pavilions in Negombo –
Located just half an hour away from Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport is the bustling seaside town of Negombo. Though Negombo is not typically high up on the list of places to visit in Sri Lanka, it is home to Jetwing Ayurveda Pavilions, a leading Ayurvedic retreat and hotel in the country. Though it has no beach access, it goes offer a beautiful pool and Ayurveda spa. The hotel’s location is convenient and offers incredibly easy access to the international airport. Click here to read my full review of the property, or click here to book your stay at Jetwing Ayurveda Pavilions!
– Anantara Kalutara in Kalutara –
Located along the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, Anantara Kalutara joins its sister property, Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle, as the newest Anantara hotel in Ceylon. Located only an hour and a half away from Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, Anantara Kalutara is a wonderful retreat that will make your troubles seem so far away.
You can’t go wrong with the quality of service at Anantara properties, and the level of hospitality at Anantara Kalutara is no exception. If you want to truly feel pampered on your vacation, then look no further than Anantara. Click here to read my full review of the property or click here to book your stay at Anantara Kalutara!
– Avani Kalutara in Kalutara –
Avani Hotel is also managed by Minor Group, the parent company of Anantara. Avani Kalutara is located right next to Anantara Kalutara, and is a slightly more low-key property if you want a beach-side resort but a slightly lower price tag. It has direct beach access (note: the beach is public, as there are no private beaches in Sri Lanka) but the beach is not safe to swim in during the off season from May to about August. It does, however, have a pool, and the service is impeccable – their staff kindly arranged for a late check out as my flight wasn’t until midnight, and served me mojito after mojito as I got some work done at the bar. Like Anantara Kalutara, it is only 90 minutes away from the international airport in Colombo. Click here to check rates and availability at Avani Kalutara!
– Villa Dominikku in Negombo –
This small boutique guesthouse is located 15 minutes away from the international airport in Sri Lanka. Though it is basic, Villa Dominikku is perfect if you have an early flight/late arrival or need a safe, clean and tastefully decorated transit hotel in Sri Lanka. The owner, Dulshan, and his wife are extremely accommodating, friendly and they have a beautiful home. If you are a solo female traveler in Sri Lanka this is a great place to stay in Negombo and the owner can organize cheap airport transfers on your behalf. click here to check current rates and room availability at Villa Dominikku!
Looking for even more hotel options in Sri Lanka?
Booking.com allows you to filter your search by destination, facilities (desperate for a pool? Done!), rates and much more. Most hotels also offer a flexible cancellation policy so that you don’t lose out if your vacation plans change.
Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? These are some must-read guides:
- Here are some important things you should know before you go to Sri Lanka
- Head on over here for the perfect 2 week itinerary for first-timers to Sri Lanka
- Check out some of these beautiful places to visit in Sri Lanka to get inspired
- Or click here for the full collection of Sri Lanka travel and destination guides
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This article contains affiliate links. If you choose to book using these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my website by using these links. I was hosted at some of these properties as media, however, I only recommend products and services that I have had positive personal experiences with, and think you would love too.
Sri Lanka has never been on my bucket list. However, it does seems like I need to change that (by seeing pictures on IG). If I will visit Sri Lanka one day, I’m sure to go back at this blog post! (:
It wasn’t really on my travel radar, but I first visited in 2015 and fell in love. I hope you get to visit!
such a small country packed with beautiful things to see! can’t wait to get there soon!
Let me know how your trip goes, Jen!
I’ve been reading a lot about Sri Lanka, the scenery looks fantastic. I’ve not read much on the luxury hotel side so this is really useful. Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle in particular looks amazing!
If you get a chance to visit, make sure you book a pool villa at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle! The hotel is incredible and the villa isn’t too much more expensive than a standard room. Thanks for taking the time to read this!
Hi Flo, Greetings from Sri Lanka. Feeling excited to read another blog post about our motherland and thanks for promoting Sri Lanka too. Your blog posts have been really impressive and I have read your previous blog posts as well about Sri Lanka. All were filled with lots of information and really worth a read them. Your photography has been so well done as well. Keep posting. Happy Travels.
Thanks so much for taking the time to read this, Malith! Absolutely love your motherland and am excited to be spending even more time there this year! Really love your website as well – happy travels!
Those are really nice accommodations. I love the fact that most of them are close to Mother Nature….mountains, the surf, rock formations, and more. We would definitely love to stay here for a week or two.
The nature in Sri Lanka is breathtaking – waterfalls, mountains, tea plantations, national parks, Ceylon has it all!
We have a friend who have always invited us to visit the Sri Lanka and now thank to your post we know why.The place you reviewed looks so cozy, perfect to enjoy the experience!
You must visit Sri Lanka before it gets insanely busy! It’s an amazing country with so much to offer.
I am so glad I came across this post because we are in the process of researching Sri Lanka for a week-long trip this year. All of these hotels look fabulous. You have given me a great start…I may pick some of these.
Let me know if you want any additional travel tips for Sri Lanka, Punita! I’ve written a bunch here: https://www.yogawinetravel.com/travel/sri-lanka/
Wow! This brings back so many amazing memories of my trip to Sri Lanka and especially Sigirija. But back then, I had to resort to budget hostels… nowadays I would be tempted to check out one of the places you recommended 🙂
I hope you get to go back to Sri Lanka and that you get to try one of these places out!
wow, all of the reviewed hotels look amazing! my friend is going to south of Sri Lanka in few months. i will share this article with her.
I hope she finds this list helpful!
All of these are absolutely stunning! Still haven’t been to Sri Lanka, but maybe this is the year. My favourite is Galle Fort, it’s beautiful!
I hope you get to visit Sri Lanka soon! Galle Fort is a really charming little town to explore.
Wow ! such an interesting list of Boutiques in srilanka. Wish we could get this before our trip 🙂 Nonetheless, Gives few more reasons to visit srilanka and stay at these amazing places.
Thanks for taking the time to read this, I really enjoyed putting this together!