Malabar Hill

A jungle-fringed retreat where Moorish detail and tropical stillness intertwine in perfect cadence

Malabar Hill Hotel Sri Lanka is a boutique, nature-led retreat perched above the jungle canopy near Weligama, on the island’s lush south-west coast. Just 2.5 hours from Colombo Airport, this design-forward hideaway offers deep tranquillity and thoughtful luxury. With only 14 villas tucked across its 33-acre estate, Malabar Hill delivers a rare blend of seclusion, character, and style in the heart of Sri Lanka’s wild beauty.

Inspired by Moorish detail and the sultry, tropical essence of its setting, Malabar Hill is a serene sanctuary promising the rare privilege of waking up to a horizon that stretches from paddy fields and rainforest canopy to the Indian Ocean beyond. From its elevated position, the estate gazes across Weligama Bay, while the rhythm of the jungle—birds, breeze, distant surf—replaces the usual distractions of modern life. It is a place to exhale, to wander, and to reconnect with something deeper.

Each of the resort’s 14 villas embodies a refined sense of luxury. The Ocean View Villas gaze across Weligama Bay, their floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening onto sun-warmed terraces with saltwater infinity pools and hand-crafted furnishings. The Wetland Sanctuary Pool Villa is perfectly positioned above a vivid sweep of rice paddies and winding riverbanks, where herons drift and peacocks announce the arrival of dusk. Inside, Sri Lankan heritage is thoughtfully reflected in every considered detail—from sculpted timberwork to textured textiles—framed by a clean, contemporary aesthetic.

At the heart of the estate is Hill House: a restaurant, terrace and bar that captures the very essence of Malabar Hill. Dining here is a sensorial journey through Sri Lanka’s culinary heritage, layered with Mediterranean influences and a strong emphasis on sustainability. Menus evolve constantly, inspired by the freshest market finds, artisan cheeses, seasonal produce, and the daily catch from the Indian Ocean. Buffalo curd from nearby farms, fiery chickpea curry at lunch, grilled amberjack at dinner—each dish is vibrant, refined, and beautifully balanced. With a sommelier-curated wine list and a setting that stretches from jungle to sea, Hill House is nourishment for both body and soul.

The bar, a striking 10-metre statement piece, invites guests to linger over cocktails with 270-degree views across the lush canopy and out to the ocean. Whether sharing a bottle of chilled rose, sipping an arrack sour, or simply enjoying the silence, it is a space that elevates every moment.

Malabar Hill’s 35-metre saltwater pool, elegant Ayurvedic spa, tropical gardens and open-air library offer further ways to unwind, while curated experiences deepen your connection to this extraordinary place. Take a guided nature walk through the jungle, indulge in a sunrise yoga session, or head down the hill for a surf at Weligama Bay. Sustainability is at the core of everything—solar panels, responsible building practices, and a strong partnership with local communities ensure that the resort remains in harmony with its environment.

Above all, Malabar Hill is a place of perspective. Whether you’re seeking creative inspiration, restorative calm, or a luxurious base from which to explore the south, it offers something altogether rare: a bold, beautiful boutique stay where elegance, ecology and experience are held in perfect balance.

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. Malabar Hill 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.