Kahanda Kanda, Colombo

25 May 2016

Words: Andrew Nagy / Images: Kahanda Kanda

While most people head to Sri Lanka for a beach holiday, a visit to Kahanda Kanda in Galle proves that the jungle option can be a relaxing alternative. Set on a working tea estate and only two-and-a-half hours from the airport, this boutique offering has 10 individually designed villas – three with their own pool and each offering a charming mix of colonial-style and contemporary touches.

The largest, and oldest, villa is the Dubu suite. A stunning antique Jogo house from Java, its dark wood interior is only bettered by the stunning gardens it resides in.

Spend your days trying yoga or cookery classes, have a massage or simply stay by the pool, watching all manner of animals pass by – geckos, rabbits and a whole menagerie of birds are the norm. When the sun sets, head to the restaurant overlooking Koggala Lake for a cocktail and fantastic, locally sourced, meal. It’s fair to say you’ve had worse days.

kahandakanda.com