Kahanda Kanda
Galle

Kahanda Kanda is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Boutique Hotels and our Top 10 Venues for a Wedding or Party

This stunning modern hotel in southern Sri Lanka is one of the most beautiful and luxurious on the island.

Perched on a hilltop amidst 12 acres of its own lush, low-lying tea plantation, striking 360-degree views unfold across velveteen lawns and the surrounding gardens, towards the jungle and distant Koggala Lake, just 20 minutes from Galle. Built as a series of pavilions joined by paths through gardens and lily ponds, it has 12 spacious en-suite villas, most of which stand alone. Each suite is individually furnished with an eclectic blend of antiques and contemporary pieces handpicked by the owner, British interior designer, George Cooper. Seven of the suites come with a private garden and plunge pool.

Throughout the hotel there is a serene ambience which invites relaxation; read a book in the enormous living room or on your private veranda, take a leisurely dip in the 22-metre infinity pool, have a massage, work out in the gym or practice yoga. The dedicated and charming team offer the epitome of five-star service, nothing is too much trouble.

The Dining Pavilion offers an array of cuisine, from Sri Lankan curries, to western dishes and Thai cuisine. Two of the three resident chefs were trained in Thailand and so the Thai dishes here are simply a must-try! The fruits, vegetables and herbs used in cooking are all grown on the estate, with other seasonal produce locally sourced. Cooking classes are available to guests in either Sri Lankan or Thai cuisine. And for special dinners, private dining can be arranged in the gardens of the resort.

There is much to see and do on this corner of Sri Lanka and the list of excursions at Kahanda Kanda are vast. From guided walking tours of Galle Fort to whale watching, bicycle rides, private boat trips on Koggala Lake, and day trips to national parks and rain forests, as well as surfing, temple tours and yoga. You can explore as much as you like, or if you prefer, sit back and soak up this elegant and enchanting resort at your leisure.

Kahanda Kanda’s sister hotel is the newly opened KK Beach. The two hotels, although quite different from one another, work in conjunction with each other and guests staying at either hotel will be offered a free shuttle service between the two.

My favourite thing is to go where I've never been.
Diane Arbus