Where to Stay in Sri Lanka: A Guide to Its Best Accommodations

Sri Lanka offers a variety of accommodations, whether you're looking for an opulent beachfront resort, a serene hillside retreat, or a budget-friendly guesthouse. Here’s a curated selection of the best places to stay across the island.

1. Luxury Resorts & Hotels

For those seeking a lavish experience, Sri Lanka has several high-end resorts offering world-class amenities, infinity pools, and stunning locations.

Best Luxury Stays:

• Amanwella (Tangalle) – A tranquil beachfront escape with private villas and breathtaking ocean views.

• Cape Weligama (Weligama) – An ultra-luxury resort offering panoramic cliffside views and infinity pools.

• Shangri-La’s Hambantota Resort & Spa (Hambantota) – A top choice for a luxury coastal experience with golf courses and spa treatments.

• Ceylon Tea Trails (Hatton) – A unique luxury tea plantation experience in the hills of Sri Lanka.

2. Boutique Hotels & Eco-Lodges

For a more personalized stay, boutique hotels and eco-lodges blend luxury with a touch of local charm.

Best Boutique & Eco-Stays:

• Tri Lanka (Koggala Lake) – A sustainable retreat focused on wellness, with stunning lake views.

• Uga Jungle Beach (Trincomalee) – A secluded, nature-friendly luxury hideaway by the beach.

• The Kandy House (Kandy) – A historic colonial mansion turned boutique hotel, perfect for a peaceful getaway.

3. Budget-Friendly Hotels & Guesthouses

Backpackers and budget travelers can find affordable yet comfortable stays with warm hospitality.

Best Budget Stays:

• Hangover Hostels (Mirissa, Ella, Colombo) – A perfect choice for social travelers looking for a fun and clean hostel experience.

• Ravana Heights (Ella) – A scenic budget-friendly stay near Ella’s iconic hiking spots.

• Thambapanni Retreat (Unawatuna) – An affordable, nature-surrounded stay near the beach.

4. Unique & Off-the-Beaten-Path Stays

For a one-of-a-kind experience, Sri Lanka has treehouses, glamping sites, and heritage hotels.

Best Unique Stays:

• Leopard Nest (Yala National Park) – A luxury camping experience inside Sri Lanka’s top wildlife reserve.

• The Mudhouse (Anamaduwa) – An eco-lodge offering an authentic, nature-immersive experience.

• 98 Acres Resort & Spa (Ella) – A scenic hillside resort surrounded by tea plantations.

5. City Hotels for Business & Short Stays

For business travelers or short stays in major cities, here are some well-located hotels:

Best City Hotels:

• Cinnamon Grand Colombo (Colombo) – A top-tier city hotel with excellent dining and business facilities.

• Mövenpick Hotel Colombo (Colombo) – A modern, stylish stay in the heart of the city.

• Jetwing Jaffna (Jaffna) – A great option for exploring the vibrant northern region.