


Tekanda Lodge
Tekanda Lodge
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High above the southern coastline, where salt breezes dance through rewilded jungle, Tekanda Lodge offers more than just rest—it offers connection. Family-run and soul-led, it’s a place where mornings begin with birdsong, days flow to the rhythm of the sea, and every stay supports the local community at the heart of Tekanda’s story.
Tucked high on a jungle-clad hillside, just minutes from Sri Lanka’s golden southern coastline, Tekanda Lodge is a rare kind of retreat—family-owned, deeply personal, and designed to connect you to the natural rhythms of island life. With just six individually styled rooms, this intimate boutique hotel near Ahangama and Kabalana Beach feels like the private pool house of a very stylish friend—laid-back, quietly luxurious, and wrapped in greenery with far-reaching views across rice paddies and rainforest.
Located just 2km (a five-minute tuk tuk ride) from Kabalana Beach, and only eight minutes from the cafés and surf breaks of Ahangama, Tekanda offers the best of both worlds: seclusion when you want it, and the buzz of Sri Lanka’s south coast within easy reach. The historic city of Galle is just 30 minutes away, making this the perfect stop on a tailor-made itinerary or multi-centre Sri Lanka holiday.
At its heart, Tekanda Lodge is about community, sustainability, and soul. The estate’s ten acres—once a working coconut and tea plantation—have been thoughtfully rewilded, with organic cinnamon, tea, and pepper now growing alongside the palms. The lodge itself is built from sustainable local materials and powered primarily by solar energy. Just down the road, the not-for-profit Tekanda Foundation—co-founded by the owners—supports over 300 local women and children through free education and vocational training, including Sri Lanka’s first ever girls’ cricket academy.
Tekanda’s six rooms—four Lodge Rooms and two stand-alone Cabanas—are light-filled and full of character, with handcrafted furniture, calming natural tones, and private verandahs overlooking the valley. Families can pair Lodge Rooms to create an easy, informal suite. The swimming pool, fringed by palms and surrounded by jungle, is the heart of the estate—perfect for a morning dip or watching the pink skies roll in at dusk.
Dining is a highlight—wonderfully laid-back and informal, with daily changing menus served either around the long communal table or in a more private corner of the lodge. Meals showcase the very best of Sri Lankan cuisine, with a strong focus on sustainably sourced local produce and fresh coastal fish, reflecting Tekanda’s proximity to the sea. Many of the ingredients come from the estate’s own gardens or nearby village markets.
Days here unfold gently. Join a sunrise crocodile safari on Koggala Lake, walk through tea fields at golden hour, or explore nearby Galle. Spend your afternoon by the pool or discover the lodge’s community projects. And while there is Wi-Fi, it’s best to download anything essential in advance—the slower pace is all part of the charm.
This is conscious travel at its most graceful: where barefoot luxury meets meaningful local connection, and every stay supports something greater.
Many of our guests travel to Sri Lanka as part of a wider journey, taking in multiple regions to experience the island’s extraordinary diversity. Tekanda Lodge is often just one stop on a much broader tailor-made itinerary. To explore how this hotel might fit into your own bespoke journey, visit the ‘Tailor-Made Itineraries’ tab or get in touch — we’d be delighted to help you make the most of your time on this vast and varied island.
In a nutshell
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Tekanda Lodge Details
Breakfast
Served daily from 8:00 to 10:30am, breakfast at Tekanda is a relaxed and generous affair—and is included in your room rate. Expect a colourful spread of freshly cut tropical fruit, warm toast with homemade jams, curd (a creamy local yoghurt), and a changing selection of Sri Lankan-inspired specials—perhaps an egg hopper, a spiced omelette, or gently spiced oat porridge. Accompanied by cafetière coffee, loose-leaf tea, and refreshing juices, it’s a slow and nourishing start to the day, enjoyed overlooking the jungle.
Snack Menu, Lunch and Dinner
Lunch & Dinner
Lunch is served daily at 13:00, with dinner following between 19:30–20:00 (timings confirmed each day with guests).
Meals at Tekanda are quietly memorable—each day brings a fresh, thoughtfully prepared set menu that celebrates the vibrant flavours of Sri Lankan cuisine. Expect dishes like fragrant rice and curry, zingy fish ambul, and gently spiced cuttlefish, inspired by what’s local, seasonal and fresh from the sea.
Guests can choose to dine family-style at the large communal table, or opt for something more private—on their verandah, poolside, or in a quiet corner of the estate. Both lunch and dinner are offered at a sensible fixed rate (excluding drinks), making the experience as effortless as it is delicious.
Between 11:00 and 15:00, a relaxed snack menu is also available, featuring light, tapas-style nibbles with a Sri Lankan twist—perfect for grazing poolside or alongside a fresh coconut.
Good to know: Meals are typically served around the convivial communal dining table on the main verandah, though guests are always welcome to dine privately on their own verandah or in another quiet corner of the communal central living area.
Bar
The bar is open throughout the day for drinks and refreshments. As is typical in Sri Lanka, evenings tend to wind down early—but for those who wish to linger a little longer, an honesty bar is available for late-night sips under the stars. There is an excellent choice of wine, beers and spirits.
Room Service
While there’s no formal room service offering, meals may be arranged on request. Do keep in mind that dining alfresco in this natural setting will attract a few curious jungle visitors—part of Tekanda’s charm, but perhaps best enjoyed from the main verandah or your private terrace.
Swimming Pool
Fringed by swaying palms and surrounded by a tapestry of jungle greens and paddy fields, the pool at Tekanda is as serene as it is scenic. It’s the perfect spot to cool off after a morning walk or simply float beneath the trees. As dusk falls, the skies often turn a soft, cinematic pink—best enjoyed with a drink in hand and nowhere else to be.
Please note: the pool is unfenced and unguarded, and is used at guests’ own risk. For safety, we kindly ask that children under 12 are accompanied at all times.
Packing Tips
Relaxed and easy-going—Tekanda is all about comfort over formality. Light, breathable clothing is ideal, and a good mosquito repellent will come in handy, especially around dusk. Leave the heels at home and pack for barefoot mornings, balmy evenings, and jungle-fringed serenity
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, though as with many rural areas in Sri Lanka, connection can be intermittent at times. We recommend downloading anything essential before you arrive—then leaning into the slower pace.
Arrival and Departure
Check in from: 14:00
Check out by: 11:00
Both are usually flexible, depending on availability — and if your room isn’t quite ready, the team will be happy to store your luggage so you can begin to unwind and make the most of the hotel’s beautiful spaces.
In a nutshell
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Exploring the Local Area
Though Tekanda Lodge feels wonderfully secluded, it is perfectly placed for discovering Sri Lanka’s captivating south coast. Golden beaches, surfy little towns, and some genuinely brilliant restaurants are all within easy reach—just ask your hosts for the latest tips.
Beaches Near Tekanda
Top of the list is Kabalana Beach—a sweeping stretch of golden sand with a mellow vibe and consistently good surf. It’s just 5 minutes by tuk-tuk from the lodge, or around a brisk 25-minute walk through the village and down the hill. It’s also only an 8-minute tuk-tuk ride to Ahangama.
There are a few cafés and beach bars where you can kick back with a cold drink, grab something delicious to eat, and watch the waves roll in.
Several other beaches lie within 20 minutes by tuk-tuk, including Weligama, known for its beginner-friendly surf breaks, and quieter spots where reef protection makes for excellent snorkelling—and even the occasional turtle sighting.
A note on safety: Coastal conditions can change quickly, so it’s always wise to check with Tekanda staff or local beachgoers before swimming. What’s calm and clear one day might be a little wild the next.
Getting Around
For local journeys, tuk-tuks are the most exciting, authentic and practical way to travel—easy to arrange through the lodge or flagged down nearby. Whether you’re heading to the beach, popping out for dinner, or exploring a nearby town, a tuk-tuk is your go-to for quick, fun trips.
The UNESCO-listed Galle Fort is 30 minutes away by car and 40 minutes by train, making it a perfect day trip. Wander the cobbled streets, dip into chic boutiques, and pause for coffee or a seafood lunch overlooking the ramparts. The train from Kathaluwa hugs the coastline most of the way, offering beautiful views—and a charmingly slow pace.
Restaurants worth the ride
While there’s nothing within walking distance, there are several standout spots just a short tuk-tuk ride away. It’s always worth checking in with Tekanda staff to see what’s new and redning, but here are a few of our favourites:
- Ceylon Sliders (Weligama)
Stylish, surfy, and effortlessly cool. This café, restaurant, and boutique hybrid is perfect for a post-swim juice or a relaxed evening meal. Expect well-executed, health-conscious dishes, a great bar, and a clientele that looks straight off a magazine cover.
Best for: Dharma juice and stylish souvenirs. - Pickled Pelican (Ahangama)
A friendly, fuss-free beachside bar with Western-style classics like burgers and fries. No Wi-Fi here, so it’s all about the company and the cocktails.
Best for: Casual bites and easy-going drinks. - Uncles (Ahangama)
Hidden behind an unmarked door, this cocktail bar and restaurant brings Colombo cool to the coast. Think speakeasy vibes, serious mixology, and waves lapping at the back terrace.
Best for: A well-crafted cocktail—the “Aunty Agnes” is legendary.
In a nutshell
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Lodge Rooms
Set around a peaceful Sri Lankan courtyard, the four Lodge Rooms each open onto their own private paved verandah with far-reaching views across either jungle treetops or paddy fields. Generously proportioned and thoughtfully furnished, each en-suite room features a cosy sitting area, coffee table, handcrafted wardrobe, full-length mirror, and wooden writing desk.
Rooms are cleverly paired with shared indoor day rooms—complete with sofas, books, yoga mats, and a television—making them ideal for families or friends travelling together. For those seeking a little more space, two Lodge Rooms and a day room can be combined to create a relaxed family suite.
Good to know: If you’re travelling with friends or family and would like to share a day room, please book Rooms 1 & 2 or Rooms 3 & 4, as these pairs sit opposite each other and share an adjoining indoor space- known as a day room.
- Room 1 can be prepared as a double, twin or triple room
- Room 2 is a double room which can have an additional single bed on request
- Room 3 can be prepared as a double, twin or triple room
- Room 4 is a double room which can have an additional single bed on request
Lodge rooms sleep up to three guests.
*Kindly note that Tekanda Lodge welcomes children aged 6 and over.
Cabana Kumbura
Taking its name from the Sinhala word for paddy field, Cabana Kumbura offers a serene and subtly different character to the rest of the lodge. Light-filled and generously spacious, it looks out across sweeping rice fields, with uninterrupted views stretching towards the jungle-covered hills to the north and the quiet hamlet of Thiththagalla to the west. A queen-size bed sits at the heart of the room, complemented by a relaxed sitting area that can be configured with an additional bed if required—ideal for those seeking both privacy and a little extra room to unwind.
Cabana Kumbura sleeps up to three guests.
*Kindly note that Tekanda Lodge welcomes children aged 6 and over.
Cabana Kale
Named after the Sinhala word for jungle, Cabana Kale sits slightly apart from the main lodge, offering a touch more privacy and space while remaining just moments from the pool and sociable communal areas. Its elevated position gazes out across a lush jungle valley—an ideal room choice for those who want to feel gently tucked away, yet still part of the lodge’s easy rhythm. Inside, you’ll find a double bed and two built-in daybeds, perfect for children aged 6–13.
Cabana Kale sleeps up to four guests ( 2 adults and 2 children 6-13 years using built -in daybeds).
*Kindly note that Tekanda Lodge welcomes children aged 6 and over.
In a nutshell
Our guests love
Lodge Rooms
As prices for this beautiful property are fluid and subject to change, we recommend contacting our knowledgeable reservations team for the latest availability and a tailor-made quote.
Many guests travelling to Sri Lanka choose a personalised itinerary or multi-centre stay, which we’ll be delighted to arrange. This can be enhanced with a carefully curated selection of experiences and the added comfort of a private driver and vehicle throughout. All packages include bed & breakfast and a complimentary 3GB eSIM for the lead guest—so you can stay connected from the moment you arrive.
Call us 01784 817720 or email us info@discerningcollection.com

Prices are quoted per person based on two people sharing. If your party is larger, an additional bed for a child or supplementary guest may be available on request and will be charged in line with the property’s policy. Please contact us prior to booking to discuss your requirements.
Cabana Kumbura
As prices for this beautiful property are fluid and subject to change, we recommend contacting our knowledgeable reservations team for the latest availability and a tailor-made quote.
Many guests travelling to Sri Lanka choose a personalised itinerary or multi-centre stay, which we’ll be delighted to arrange. This can be enhanced with a carefully curated selection of experiences and the added comfort of a private driver and vehicle throughout. All packages include bed & breakfast and a complimentary 3GB eSIM for the lead guest—so you can stay connected from the moment you arrive.
Call us 01784 817720 or email us info@discerningcollection.com

Prices are quoted per person based on two people sharing. If your party is larger, an additional bed for a child or supplementary guest may be available on request and will be charged in line with the property’s policy. Please contact us prior to booking to discuss your requirements.
Cabana Kale
As prices for this beautiful property are fluid and subject to change, we recommend contacting our knowledgeable reservations team for the latest availability and a tailor-made quote.
Many guests travelling to Sri Lanka choose a personalised itinerary or multi-centre stay, which we’ll be delighted to arrange. This can be enhanced with a carefully curated selection of experiences and the added comfort of a private driver and vehicle throughout. All packages include bed & breakfast and a complimentary 3GB eSIM for the lead guest—so you can stay connected from the moment you arrive.
Call us 01784 817720 or email us info@discerningcollection.com

Prices are quoted per person based on two people sharing. If your party is larger, an additional bed for a child or supplementary guest may be available on request and will be charged in line with the property’s policy. Please contact us prior to booking to discuss your requirements.
In a nutshell
Our guests love
The Tekanda Foundation
Tucked away in the village of Kathaluwa, just a short journey from Ahangama, the Tekanda Foundation is a quietly powerful initiative that’s already making a meaningful difference in the lives of local women and children.
Launched in January 2023, the Foundation began its work with a heartfelt mission: to support and empower rural communities through access to education, sport, and life-enriching skills. Its first milestone was the opening of a girls’ cricket academy, swiftly followed by the creation of an educational empowerment centre that opened its doors in October of the same year.
Lovingly named “Gamata Athak”—which translates to “A Hand to the Village”—the centre was established in collaboration with the Foundation of Goodness, one of Sri Lanka’s most respected charities dedicated to narrowing the rural-urban skills gap. Our Ahangama Village Heartbeat Centre (VHC) is the 18th of its kind in Sri Lanka, and it’s already become a vibrant hub for learning, creativity, and community connection.
Since opening, the VHC has welcomed more than 300 local women and children, offering a diverse curriculum of free courses that include:
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English
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ICT
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Maths
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Science
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Tamil
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Dressmaking
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Cookery
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Dance
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Badminton
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Girls’ Cricket
While participation is completely optional, guests are warmly invited to visit the centre or, if inspired, to get involved—whether that means reading with children, assisting with an English class, or simply meeting the local families and gaining a deeper understanding of daily life here.
The Foundation’s girls’ cricket academy is a particular source of pride. In a country where cricket is a national passion, opportunities for girls—particularly in rural areas—remain limited. The Tekanda Foundation’s programme now provides regular coaching to over 60 girls aged 8–15, supported by a full-time academy manager and two part-time coaches. For many, it’s the first time they’ve been able to train, play, and dream big.
If you’re a cricket enthusiast, or simply curious, you’d be most welcome to stop by—or even lend a hand with coaching if you’re keen. Just let us know in advance, and we’ll happily arrange it.
There’s no expectation to participate—but if you do choose to visit, we believe you’ll come away feeling inspired by the warmth, resilience, and potential of this remarkable community.
In a nutshell
Our guests love
Tekanda Lodge Experiences
Tekanda Lodge Experiences
We’re delighted to offer a selection of meaningful, memorable experiences that can be arranged locally during your stay at Tekanda Lodge. These thoughtful additions bring you closer to the rhythm of the land, the local community, and the natural beauty that surrounds the estate. Please enquire with us prior to departure or contact the lodge team locally for more information, availability, and bookings.
Tekanda Lodge Estate Tour
Set on a working tea, coconut and cinnamon estate, Tekanda Lodge offers the opportunity to explore the land on a guided walk through cultivated fields and secondary jungle. Learn how tea is picked, how cinnamon is peeled, and how organic produce is grown using traditional techniques. The estate also nurtures its own tropical kitchen garden, brimming with citrus, herbs, vegetables, and spice plants—perfect for guests curious about local farming and sustainability.
Night Swimming with Fireflies
For something quietly magical, guests can enjoy a night swim under the stars as fireflies flicker across the hilltop pool. With the lights switched off and the jungle humming around you, this is an experience that feels otherworldly. On Poya evenings (Sri Lanka’s monthly full moon), the hills are bathed in soft silver light—an ideal time to take a peaceful moonlit dip and reflect under the open sky.
Private Visit to Wilhena Tea Factory
Located just 10km north of Tekanda, the Wilhena Tea Factory is where Tekanda’s own tea is processed. Thanks to their close relationship with the factory, guests are able to enjoy a rare behind-the-scenes tour during morning production hours. Walk among the rolling, drying and sifting machines, take in the rich aromas, and experience one of the most authentic tea encounters available in Sri Lanka.
Visit to ‘Gamata Athak’ – The Village Empowerment Centre
Named by the local community, Gamata Athak translates to “a hand to the village” and is part of the incredible Tekanda Foundation. This educational centre offers free training and enrichment to over 350 local women and children. Guests who wish to visit the centre are warmly welcomed, with the option to sit in on classes, meet the inspiring team, or simply observe how tourism and community can co-exist meaningfully.
Sunrise Crocodile Safari on Koggala Lake
Adventurous travellers will love this early morning wildlife experience. Just 10 minutes from the lodge, guests can embark on a tranquil boat safari across Koggala Lake in search of the elusive Sri Lankan crocodile. With a freshly prepared breakfast served onboard as the sun rises over the jungle-fringed waters, it’s a serene and unforgettable way to start the day.
Tekanda Girls’ Cricket Academy
Run by the Tekanda Foundation, this pioneering academy trains over 100 local girls from nearby schools. If you’re a cricket fan—or simply curious—you’re welcome to visit, meet the team, and, on occasion, even join in a match. It’s a joyful way to witness the impact of the foundation first-hand and connect with the community through sport
In a nutshell
Our guests love
Tailor-Made Itineraries
Sri Lanka is a land of remarkable variety — wild national parks, timeworn temples, emerald tea country, and golden coastlines. For many of our guests, the most rewarding way to experience the island is through a thoughtfully crafted, multi-centre itinerary that captures the distinct character of each region.
We are proud to present a selection of our favourite handcrafted itineraries, curated from our own on-the-ground discoveries. However, these are just a flavour of what’s possible — designed to be the beginning of a conversation. Every journey is bespoke, built entirely around your interests and at a pace that suits you best.
We work exclusively with a handpicked collection of boutique hotels — including this one — and trusted, English-speaking private drivers who bring the island’s culture and landscapes to life. We also offer access to a bespoke range of experiences that are otherwise unavailable to the average traveller, giving our guests the chance to experience Sri Lanka in a way few others can.
Whether it’s exploring sacred cities, spotting elephants on a boat safari in Gal Oya, or winding through the tea country by vintage train, our itineraries are designed to take you far beyond the ordinary. Your stay at this property can be part of a much wider adventure — one that’s entirely tailored to you.
Sample Itineraries
Classic Sri Lanka
Highlights Of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka En Famille
Flavours Of Sri Lanka
Get in touch to discuss your tailor-made itinerary across Sri Lanka with The Discerning Collection: info@discerningcollection.com or call us: 01784 817720