Are you looking for a unique overnight stay in Sri Lanka? Look no further, we have found ten unique hotels that can make your trip extra special. Most Asian countries are known for offering affordable accommodations by Western standards, and Sri Lanka is no exception. Here, you can stay in a unique location with breathtaking views or with a hospitable family for a reasonable price. We provide you with the necessary inspiration and best-hidden gems, such as a cool treehouse in the jungle or a lodge overlooking a beach full of palm trees and the Indian Ocean.
Note: We provide a price indication using dollar signs. Prices vary greatly depending on the season and how far in advance you book. For almost all of these hotels, it’s best to book early if you plan to stay.
Stay in a Treehouse Without a Door or Walls
An overnight stay in a treehouse is a dream for everyone, right? We kick off this list with a very adventurous stay in Sigiriya, where this treehouse can be your temporary home. There’s no door and no walls, just a roof and a mosquito net. It’s a true experience to sleep almost outdoors, falling asleep to the sounds of nature. And don’t worry, staying here is very comfortable. The treehouse at Back and Beyond is equipped with all the amenities.
Location: Sigiriya
$$$ – Check PricesStay at a Farm with the Friendliest Locals in Sri Lanka
Some places are special because of their unique design, breathtaking views, or special facilities. But this hotel owes its uniqueness not only to its outward features. At Blue Mountain View, you’ll stay on a Sri Lankan farm run by the kindest owners. Not only are they passionate about their craft, but they also want to tell you all about it. During your stay at the organic farm, you can take a tour or attend cooking classes taught by the owner’s mother. For the latter activity, you’ll of course use vegetables from their own garden, which you can also pick yourself. In short, for the ultimate Sri Lankan farm stay, this is the place to be.
Location: South of Dambulla on the route between Sigiriya and Kandy
$ – Check PricesSleeping with a View of Sri Lanka’s Most Famous Bridge
Chances are, you’re planning to visit Ella during your trip to Sri Lanka. This village, located along the famous railway line that runs through Sri Lanka, is a must-visit and the perfect base for many fun activities. One of the highlights is undoubtedly the Nine Arch Bridge, where the famous railway passes over. The towering bridge, with its nine impressive arches, is a real attraction. What makes New Cabin Ella so special is its location. From your balcony, you’ll have a direct view of the bridge, surrounded by the stunning nature of Sri Lanka. You won’t find a more spectacular view of this unique piece of architecture. This is truly a remarkable overnight stay.
Location: Ella
$$ – Check PricesStay in a Luxury Design Lodge in a Green Oasis
Whether you’re a fan of modern design or not, every concrete structure amidst the greenery of the jungle takes on a special appearance. And the accommodation at Kaju Green Eco Lodges is no ordinary concrete building; you can confidently call it a design lodge. And all of this in the midst of a tropical plant oasis. This place feels a bit like a luxury spa resort in the middle of nowhere, complete with a spectacular swimming pool, yoga deck, and lounge area with views of the tropics. It might not surprise you that this hotel comes with a slightly higher price tag than you might be used to in Sri Lanka, but this unique overnight stay is totally worth it.
Location: Unawatuna
$$$$ – Check PricesWake Up to the Most Beautiful View in Sri Lanka
Sometimes, all you need is a cozy, beautifully furnished, clean room and a breathtaking view. Country Homes is such a hotel, offering cozy and comfortable rooms, but it’s especially known for its view. You’ll spend most of your time here on your balcony, equipped with lounge chairs to gaze at the mountains and horizon for hours. Conveniently located near Ella, this hotel is the perfect base for any traveler who wants to visit the popular village but prefers to stay in a quiet location.
Location: Ella
$$ – Check PricesExperience a Unique Overnight Stay in a Luxury Lodge Right on the Beach
Sri Lanka is not only known for its tropical jungle, but its coast is also beautiful and worth visiting. Tangalle is a small coastal town in southern Sri Lanka. Here, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy a great ‘vacation’ while traveling. Think of a white beach full of palm trees, many restaurants with fish on the menu, and azure blue sea. If you want the ultimate sun-sea-beach stay, head to the beautiful Seven Turtles, a modern hotel just a stone’s throw from the beach. From some rooms, you can even see the waves.
Location: Tangalle
$$$ – Check PricesStaying in a Modern Bungalow in Nature
This overnight stay is a bit off the beaten path in Wilpattu, in the north of Sri Lanka. The modern lodges of The Backwaters mostly have glass walls (for a lovely view) and are equipped with all comforts. Equally remarkable is the location, close to Wilpattu National Park. This makes this accommodation the ideal base for a safari in Sri Lanka. However, you can also enjoy the surrounding nature without going on safari. You can go kayaking, hiking, stargazing, take a boat ride, or spot birds. Either way, you’ll be one with nature here for a few days.
Location: Wilpattu National Park
$$$ – Check PricesStay and Swim at the Edge of the Rice Fields
Staying amidst the rice fields might be something you’d associate more with Indonesia, but there are plenty of rice fields in Sri Lanka too. And as you can imagine, that creates a spectacular landscape. Rice Rice Villas is located at the edge of an expansive rice field, providing a unique view of the green fields from the pool. You’ll sleep in one of the bungalows scattered across the property, connected by wooden walkways. A truly exceptional place!
Location: Tissamaharama (the base for Yala National Park)
$ – Check PricesUnique Overnight Stay near Yala National Park with Complimentary Evening Safari
For the adventurers among us, the glamping experience at Mahoora Luxury Camp, on the edge of Yala National Park, might be the ultimate stay in all of Sri Lanka. While the hotel deserves a spot on this list simply for its tents and unique grounds, the activities you can do there make this accommodation extra special. Your stay includes an evening safari with an experienced guide. Additionally, the hotel organizes cooking classes, so-called ‘jungle dinners’ around the campfire, and evening walks. One thing is for sure: you won’t be bored here.
Location: Yala National Park
$$ – Check PricesRelaxing by the Pool Amidst the Palm Trees
Amidst all the safaris, hikes, and jungle adventures during your trip, you’ll want to plan days where you don’t have to do anything at all. Well, we’ve found the ultimate place for that too. The name of the hotel – Good Vibes Villa – pretty much says it all, but once you see the photos of the pool, garden, and wellness area, you’ll truly understand why we recommend this hotel. This is where you want to spend a few days doing absolutely nothing, just lounging by the pool, swaying in view of the palm trees, and treating yourself to a massage.
Location: Unawatuna
$$ – Check Prices
