Few hotels celebrate Sri Lanka as joyfully as Living Heritage Koslanda, a bijou boutique hotel set in 80-acre grounds in the island’s southeastern Hill Country. From the authentic timber and stone buildings - each created in harmony with astrology by local craftsmen engaging age-old techniques - to the communal ambalamas, jaw-dropping scenery and standout local food, this place lets Sri Lanka’s traditional style and spectacular scenery sparkle.
Living Heritage is a feast for mind, body and soul, and ideal for couples and families seeking peace and seclusion. Edging a sacred forest grove that's home to migrating elephants during the summer months, it has just 6 spacious rooms, each with a distinctly Sri Lankan aesthetic. Cresting a hillock, the swimming pool is incredible, and its far-reaching views over paddy fields, hills and rural estates are some of the best you’ll find anywhere in Sri Lanka (the area is known locally as God's Country). The extensive grounds provide plenty of motivation for activity, including treks to a secluded waterfall for wild swimming, river walks, tree planting and spice-garden tours. Tea estates are a short drive away.
Highs
- A perfect balance of authentic local hospitality and an informal atmosphere, allowing you to really relax and unwind. If you need a little time out, this is the place to do it
- Swimming in absolute seclusion in the crystal-clear waterfall
- Enormous suites with lovely verandas (ideal for yoga) and private plunge pools
- We enjoyed the Sri Lankan food (chicken and beetroot curry, with zesty grated coconut sambol) at lunchtime
- Plenty of wildlife to see: monkeys, mongoose and birds, plus elephants in the summer
Lows
- The hotel is remote, and feels it, which might not be to everyone’s taste; it's a 45-minute drive from the nearest train station (Haputale)
- Some guests say the dinner menu is rather unimaginative and Western (and there are no other restaurants in walking distance)
- No air con, but we found ceiling fans sufficient
- Expect leeches on walks during the rainy season
Best time to go
Koslanda is lush and green year round. The summer months of May to September are dry, with warm but not scorching temperatures - much like an idyllic European summer. This is a great time for waterfall bathing and trekking, and also coincides with the elephant migration season. During the rest of the year, expect sunshine and showers, although Koslanda is generally drier than the rest of the Hill Country.
Our top tips
Pack a few good books, hiking boots, and you might want to bring your own alcohol/snacks as the selection available is very limited.
Location
Living Heritage Koslanda is a rural hideaway, a 45-minute drive from Haputale’s train station in Sri Lanka's southeast Hill Country.
By Air:
Colombo Bandaranaike is the closest international airport (146km) - a good 5-hour drive away. Click on the links below for a list of airlines.
From the Airport
The hotel can arrange private airport transfers or you could take the slow yet incredibly scenic Hill Country train from Kandy, Ella or Colombo to nearby Haputale, and arrange a pick-up from there. If you want to hire a car and driver for your entire trip, enquire through our Tailormade Tour Operator.
Detailed directions will be provided when you confirm a booking through i-escape.
More on getting to Sri Lanka and getting around
Airports:
- Colombo Bandaranaike 146.0 km CMB
Other:
- Beach 95.0 km
- Shops 4.0 km
- Restaurant 1.0 km