Kahanda Kanda

An exquisitely unique and private plantation retreat where luxury, nature and quiet sophistication blend seamlessly on Sri Lanka’s southern coast

Set high on a jungle-clad hillside above Koggala Lake, where the air carries the scent of cinnamon and the chatter of monkeys filters through tea leaves, Kahanda Kanda is one of Sri Lanka’s most refined and quietly magnificent boutique hotels. Nestled within a private twelve-acre tea estate just inland from Galle’s storied coast, this intimate collection of twelve suites and villas balances sophisticated design, soul-stirring views and a rare sense of seclusion that feels both deeply personal and exquisitely understated.

Originally envisioned by its British owner as a private sanctuary, Kahanda Kanda has evolved into something quite outstanding; where guests want for nothing. Here, old-world elegance sits effortlessly alongside contemporary comfort. Teak and rattan furniture, hand-picked antiques, and vibrant textiles nod to the colonial planter heritage, while expansive terraces and open-air pavilions invite the outdoors in at every turn. Each of the twelve villas is individually designed, offering a distinct sense of space and privacy; eight enjoy their own private plunge pools with uninterrupted views across the tea plantations and jungle beyond. The Dubu Suite, perched alone on the hillside, is particularly special; a sanctuary within a sanctuary, its private lawn and pool offering perfect seclusion for honeymooners or those simply seeking complete privacy.

Days at Kahanda Kanda unfold with a gentle rhythm, shaped by the soft tropical light and the calming cadence of the surrounding wilderness. Mornings begin with birdsong and a pot of Ceylon tea delivered to your veranda, while afternoons drift easily between dips in the cool, dark infinity pool and leisurely explorations of the estate’s flourishing gardens. The plantation’s original coconut and tea fields have been carefully rewilded, now interspersed with pepper vines, cinnamon, and vibrant tropical blooms. Wildlife thrives here; troupes of monkeys swing through the treetops, bright-feathered parakeets flash by in the afternoon sun, and the evening air carries the distant chants from a hillside temple.

Dining is a highlight and wonderfully reflective of Kahanda Kanda’s relaxed elegance. The open-air restaurant, overlooking the lily pond and paddy fields, serves vibrant Sri Lankan curries alongside fresh coastal fish, Western classics and artfully prepared fusion dishes. Many of the ingredients are sourced directly from the estate’s own gardens or nearby village markets, ensuring a seasonal and sustainable approach. Whether enjoying a long, lazy breakfast of string hoppers and seeni sambol, or dining under a canopy of stars with a perfectly chilled arrack sour in hand, every meal feels carefully curated yet entirely unpretentious.

Beyond the estate, a rich tapestry of experiences awaits. The UNESCO-listed Galle Fort lies just 15 kilometres away, its cobbled streets alive with boutique shops, colonial architecture and vibrant cafés. The nearby beaches of the south coast offer golden sands and world-class surf breaks, while boat safaris across Koggala Lake reveal hidden islands, cinnamon farms and abundant birdlife. For those drawn to the island’s wilder heart, excursions to Yala or Udawalawe National Parks provide memorable wildlife encounters, while guided rainforest hikes at Kanneliya or Sinharaja bring you deep into Sri Lanka’s lush biodiversity.

Wellness is deeply woven into the Kahanda Kanda experience. The tranquil spa pavilion offers a thoughtful blend of treatments, from authentic Ayurveda and Hela Wedakama therapies to Western deep tissue massages, aromatherapy and reflexology, all delivered against a soothing backdrop of jungle views. Yoga and meditation sessions are available for guests seeking to further restore body and mind, while a small gym offers air-conditioned space for those wishing to maintain a fitness routine amidst the tropical heat.

This is a place where time gently softens and the distractions of the outside world melt away. Kahanda Kanda’s adult-only policy (welcoming guests aged 12 and over) adds to its rarefied sense of calm, creating an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and deeply restful. Service is polished but personal, delivered with the kind of gracious warmth that quietly anticipates each guest’s needs without intrusion.

In a country filled with beautiful hideaways, Kahanda Kanda remains one of Sri Lanka’s most treasured boutique escapes: private, poetic and quietly intoxicating.

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. Kahanda Kanda 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.