Curated Stays in Sri Lanka — A Handpicked Selection
Click on the title of each section to discover a curated selection of unique places to stay in that area of Sri Lanka.
This post offers a general introduction to each region and highlights must-see spots, while the linked guides focus exclusively on handpicked stays.
No need to search elsewhere—these guides are crafted for independent travelers looking for soulful, small-scale stays full of character and charm.
Key Places to Visit in Sri Lanka's West Coast
Negombo: A convenient starting point just 30 minutes from the airport, perfect for relaxation.
Colombo: The vibrant capital with a blend of colonial history, bustling markets, and diverse cuisine.
Kalutara: Known for its scenic beaches and the unique Kalutara Temple, featuring a distinctive circular stupa.
Lunuganga: Geoffrey Bawa’s beautiful garden estate, ideal for a tranquil escape amidst stunning landscaping.
Bentota: Famous for its idyllic beaches and water sports, plus the peaceful Brief Garden created by Bawa.
Kalpitiya: A hidden gem with pristine beaches, great for kite surfing and dolphin watching.
Click here to Discover Unique Hotels and Places to Stay on Sri Lanka´s West Coast
Key Places to Visit on Sri Lanka´s South Coast
Galle Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this historic fort features cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture, offering a blend of history and coastal charm.
Mirissa: Known for its stunning crescent-shaped beach and whale-watching opportunities. Don’t miss Coconut Tree Hill for picturesque views.
Tangalle: Home to secluded beaches like Silent Beach and Rekawa Beach, perfect for a peaceful retreat away from crowds.
Weligama: A popular surf town with a long, shallow beach ideal for beginners, known for its relaxed atmosphere and surf schools.
Unawatuna: Vibrant beach known for snorkeling and diving, bustling with bars and restaurants, ideal for a lively beach experience.
Hiriketiya: Famous for its horseshoe-shaped bay, offering great surfing and a chill vibe for relaxation.
Koggala Lake: A serene lake near Galle, perfect for boat tours exploring cinnamon plantations and birdwatching.
Optional Additions (Inland Attractions)
Yala National Park: A top safari destination known for leopard sightings and diverse wildlife, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Udawalawe National Park: Renowned for its large elephant population, offering memorable safari experiences.
Click here to Discover Unique Hotels and Places to Stay on Sri Lanka´s South Coast
Key Places to Visit in Sri Lanka´s Hill Country
Nuwara Eliya: Known as “Little England,” this town features a cool climate, colonial architecture, and beautiful gardens. Don’t miss the nearby Lipton’s Tea Estate for a tour and tea tasting.
Ella: A charming town famous for its stunning views and outdoor adventures. Visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge and hike to Little Adam’s Peak for breathtaking panoramas.
Kandy: The cultural heart of Sri Lanka, home to the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic. Enjoy Kandy Lake, explore the lush Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, and experience vibrant cultural performances.
Hatton: A small town near Lipton’s Seat, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of tea estates, perfect for serene hikes through the plantations.
Train Journey: Experience one of the world’s most scenic train rides from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, showcasing breathtaking views of tea plantations and rolling hills.
Click here to Discover Unique Hotels and Places to Stay in Sri Lanka´s Hill Country
Key Places to Visit in Sri Lanka´s Cultural Triangle
Sigiriya: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient rock fortress featuring stunning frescoes, a mirror wall, and the remains of a royal palace atop a massive rock. It offers breathtaking views and significant historical importance.
Polonnaruwa: Another UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient city boasts well-preserved ruins, including the Royal Palace and the Gal Vihara rock temple. It provides a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s medieval history.
Anuradhapura: One of Sri Lanka’s oldest cities, filled with ancient Buddhist stupas, monasteries, and the sacred Bo Tree, believed to be a descendant of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. It holds great historical and religious significance.
Dambulla Cave Temple: A complex of five caves adorned with impressive Buddhist murals and statues, showcasing ancient Sri Lankan art and religious devotion amidst stunning natural scenery.
Ritigala: An ancient monastery and archaeological site nestled in a dense forest, known for its unique ruins and serene environment, offering insights into Sri Lanka’s monastic history.
Habarana: A great base for safaris in Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park, where visitors can observe herds of elephants and diverse wildlife.
Click here to discover Unique Hotels and Places to Stay in Sri Lanka´s Cultural Triangle
Key Places to Visit on Sri Lanka´s East Coast
Trincomalee: Famous for its natural harbor and beautiful beaches like Nilaveli and Uppuveli. Visit the Koneswaram Temple for its stunning views, and explore nearby islands:
Pigeon Island: Great for snorkeling and relaxing on pristine beaches.
Sampur Island: Offers rustic nature walks.
Foul Point: Ideal for fishing and enjoying local beaches.
Great Basses Reef: A premier diving location with rich marine life.
Pasikudah: Renowned for its white sandy beach and calm waters, perfect for swimming and water sports.
Batticaloa: Known for picturesque beaches and Batticaloa Lake, famous for its glowing fish. The historical Batticaloa Fort is also worth a visit.
Arugam Bay: One of the top surf destinations in Sri Lanka, featuring great beaches for surfing and a vibrant nightlife.
Kalmunai: A culturally rich city with interesting local life and less crowded beaches.
Kalkudah Beach: Known for its natural beauty and tranquility, ideal for relaxation.
Muthur: A quieter destination with temples and serene beaches, perfect for those seeking peace away from the crowds.
Click here to discover Unique Hotels and Places to Stay on Sri Lanka´s East Coast
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FOR YOUR INFORMATION
This selection is regularly updated, so feel free to revisit it now and then to discover new accommodations I’ll be adding over time. If you find it helpful, please share it with fellow lovers of design and low-key luxury.
As with all my guides, I aim to highlight independent, small-scale accommodations with soul, character, and charm—perfect for the design-oriented traveler who values unique, thoughtfully curated spaces and embraces the spirit of slow travel and a mindful approach to hospitality.
If you know of any special places that you think should be featured, feel free to get in touch—I’d love to consider them.
You can follow along on Instagram for more places and inspiration.
Please share this selection if you enjoyed it. By doing so, you help me reach more people who might find value in these curated discoveries.
The photos featured are carefully selected from the properties’ official websites, social media, or the platforms where they’re listed. Whenever possible, I credit the photographer. I take copyright very seriously and believe strongly in proper attribution.