5-STAR LUXURY HOTELS IN SRI LANKA
- The.Hotel.Scout
- Aug 8
- 10 min read
Updated: Aug 9
Below you will find a carefully selected list of 5-star luxury hotels in Sri Lanka - with photos AND a price breakdown. PLUS, advice on where to stay and what time of the year is best to visit.
SPOILER: Peak seasons vary depending what area of Sri Lanka you visit.
Looking to visit Sri Lanka? You are in for a treat. You will find lush landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, bustling cities, national parks full of wildlife, and of course, beautiful beaches.
I have put together a list of 5-star luxury hotels in Sri Lanka. These are scattered all over the country and feature hotels from beach villas, safari tents, to forest hideaways. There are in no particular order so make sure to check them all out.
WHAT AREA SHOULD I STAY IN:
Sri Lanka is divided up into 9 provinces. See image below. All offering different attractions and things to see. Where to stay is not a simple all-encompassing answer as it depends on what your itinerary is. Here is a quick overview of common areas visited:
Colombo (Western Province)
Best for: Vibrant city life and interesting architecture (colonial heritage)
See/do: Temples, museums (like National Museum of Colombo) and Pettah Market
Bentota (Southern Province)
Best For: A costal town for those who love the water and water sports.
See/Do: Lay on the beach, surf, snorkel, enjoy other water sports, Aluthgam weekly fair, Lunuganga Garden Tour, Brief Gardens, River Safari and or just enjoy the beautiful sunsets over the ocean.
Galle (Southern Province)
Best For: Exploring the charming cobblestone streets, has a great coastal location, and is known for its well-preserved Galle Fort heritage site.
See/Do: UNESCO World Heritage Site - Galle Fort, go to the beach (Unawatuna Beach, Dalawella Beach and Jungle Beach to name a few), Galle Fort Lighthouse, Galle Fort Cricket Ground, and the Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre (please research and choose an ethical one).
Mirissa (Southern Province)
Best For: Coastal location full of surf beaches, palm trees and coconuts.
See/Do: Whale & dolphin watching, surfing, Mirissa Beach, Coconut Tree Hill, Parrot Rock, Secret Beach (not so secret), or go snorkeling in Turtle Bay.
Yala National Park (Southern Province)
Best For: Nature lovers who love exploring, adventure and wildlife.
See/Do: Wildlife Safaris (spot the leopards or sloth bear!), birdwatching, nature walks and the Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya (ancient Buddhist monastery).
Pasikuda (Eastern Province)
Best For: Beach holidays, calm waters and a large shallow coastline. Great base on the east coast.
See/Do: Go swimming, snorkeling and other water sports, Dutch Fort, boat tours, fish market, go on a tour to nearby Polonnaruwa - a UNESCO World Heritage site, and several heritage Museums.
Wilpattu National Park (Northwestern Province)
Best For: Wildlife safaris for a less crowded, more serene experience and diverse landscape.
See/Do: Safaris, birdwatching, natural lakes known as “Villus", overnight stays.
Anuradhapura (North Central Province)
Best for: Exploring and visiting ancient cities, temples and well-preserved ruins.
See/Do: Mihintale, Ruwanwelisaya, Isurumuniya Temple, Abhayagiriya Temple, Vijayarama Archaeological site and the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Temple.
Sigiriya (Central Province)
Best For: Ancient ruins and historical significance.
See/Do: Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Pidurangala Rock, traditional village experience and hiking.
Kandy (Central Province)
Best For: Historical significance, scenic landscapes & religious sites.
See/Do: Temple of the Tooth Relic (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Kandy Lake, Udawattakele Forest, Royal botanical Gardens, Kandy Old Town and the Kandy to Ella Train.
Nuwara Eliuaya (Central Province)
Best For: Tea plantations and scenic landscapes. Known as the hill country. Cooler climate. Old colonial heritage.
See/Do: Tea plantations, Hortons Plains National Park and Worlds End, Seetha Amman Temple, Strawberry Farms, Lovers Leap Waterfall, Moon Plains, Bomburu Ella Waterfall and Gregory Lake.
Ella (Uva Province)
Best for: Outdoor activities, exploring the scenic hilly landscapes. Nature lovers. Laid back charm.
See/Do: Nine Arch Bridge, Tea Plantations, Coffee Tours, Ella Rock, Ravana Falls, Little Adams Peak, Secret Waterfall, Zip-lines, Liptons Seat, Diyaluma Falls, and the Demodara Train Loop & lookouts.
Note:
There are many more things to see and do in each of these locations but hopefully this has given you a good idea of what's generally there.
There are also many other national parks to visit in Sri Lanka depending on what experience you are hoping for. Yala is the most popular (and touristy).
WHAT IS THE WEATHER AND BEST TIME TO VISIT?
If you've quickly googled best time to go to Sri Lanka it would have most likely given you the months December to March. Whilst this is peak season in the southwest coast, Sri Lanka has so many other places to visit where this is not the case. The general overview is: Southwest Coast: December - March East Coast: May-September (August absolute peak) Northeast Coast: May - September Northwest Coast: January - March Central: December - May The cultural triangle: January - March Whilst the peak seasons bring sunshine and less rain, it also draws the crowds and high prices. The off season you will experience monsoonal rains and unpredictable weather, but the landscapes will be vibrant with colour, less people, and lower prices. Meshuan Journeys has put together some really great maps that may help in making your decision of when to go. Scroll left to see all seasons. The maps focus is more on rainfall and sunshine than temperatures but gives a great overview on all the areas.
HOTEL MAP Before we get into the full list, here is all the 5-star luxury hotels in Sri Lanka I recommend located on a map (helpful if you're a visual person, which is me). You can click on the tags to go straight to the hotel or scroll through for the full list. Don't forget that each hotel is color coded to indicate price. For the full price breakdown go to my hotel map page here.
03⚫ The Six Weligama
07⚫ Uga Ulagalla 08🟣 Aarunya Nature resort 09🟣 Taru Villas Villu, Wilpattu 10 🟣 Uga Bay 11 ⚫ Cape Weligama 12 🟠 The Flame Tree Estate & Hotel 13 🟣 Taru Villas Maia 14 🟣 Hilton Yala Resort 15 🟣 Malabar Hill 16 🟣 Kirana - A Santani Villa 17 🟠 Eraeliya Villas & Gardens 18 🟣 Water Garden Sigiriya
19 🟣 Anantara Peace Haven Tangelle
20🟣 Sun Siyam
HERE ARE 20 5-STAR LUXURY HOTELS IN SRI LANKA:
1. ⚫CEYLON TEA TRAILS - NORWOOD
Located in amongst Sri Lankas UNESCO World Heritage Central highlands. Stay in a historic tea bungalow with panoramic views of the Hill Country, a personal butler, chef and private pool.
Largest sleeps Max 12
Norwood, Central Province
AUD $860-$10900+
USD $560-$7110+
EUR €520-€6570+
Per night
2 nights minimum
ALL INCLUSIVE
2. 🟣TREBARTHA EAST, THE ROUNDHOUSE - AHANGAMA
A uniquely designed architectural masterpiece, Trebartha East is a 4-bedroom boutique hotel that sits atop a 12-acre cinnamon plantation. From here you can enjoy the 360-degree views over the rice paddies, the jungle, and even a glimpse of the Indian Ocean in the distance.
Max 3
Ahangama, Southern Sri Lanka
AUD $430-$1110+ USD $285-$730+ EUR €240-€620+ Per night
3.⚫THE SIX - WELIGAMA
Stay in one of the six exclusive beach villas which boast total beach frontage. No two villas are the same, but all offer private pools, butlers and a truly luxurious experience.
8 Max
Weligama, Southern Sri Lanka
AUD $720-$3400+
USD $475-$2250+
EUR €405-€1910+
Per night
4. 🟠MISS CEYLON - UNAWATUNA
Miss Ceylon is a five-star retreat designed with a blend of colonial, industrial and vintage styles. Featuring large loft style accommodations set on a 10-acre estate.
Max 4
Unawatuna, Southern Province
AUD $230-$650+
USD $150-$425+
EUR €130-€365+
Per night
5.🟠CINNAMON LIFE AT CITY OF DREAMS - COLOMBO
Only newly opened near the end of 2025, Cinnamon Life city of Dreams is a large hotel offering skyline city views of Colombo, ocean views and a location right in the heart of the city. Featuring 2 cantilevered ballrooms, rooftop pool, 12 restaurants, and over 1000 pieces of art which were created by Sri Lankan artists.
Max 3
Colombo, Western Province
AUD $250-$2500+
USD $165-$1640+
EUR €140-€1400+
Per night
6.⚫WILD COAST TENTED LODGE, RELAIS & CHATEAUX - YALA
An eco-friendly 5-star luxury tent experience located near the Yala National Park. A place for those that want to experience being immersed in the nature of Sri Lanka but not forgo any comfort. There are 28 cocoon like tents, some which offer views over the Indian Ocean. Fun fact: The shape of the cocoon tents actually forms the shape of a leopard's paw, which is the symbol of Yala National Park
Max 2 adults 2 children
Yala, Southern Province
AUD $1500-$2930+
USD $975-$1910+
EUR €845-€1645+
Per night
NOTE: Price is ALL INCLUSIVE & includes 1 safari game drive
7.⚫UGA ULAGALLA - TIRAPPANE
Uga Ulagalla is a boutique hotel centered around a 150-year-old mansion. Located among the paddy fields are 25 spacious villas, each with private pools. Great location to access close by UNESCO sites and National Parks.
Max 3
Tirappane, North Central
AUD $590-$1330+
USD $385-$865+
EUR €330-€750+
Per night
8.🟣AARUNYA NATURE RESORT - ALAWATUGODA
At Aarunya Nature Resort you will find a collection of private pool villas spread out among the trees. Relax and renew yourself at the Aarogya Wellness Centre - a luxury spa and wellness center located on the estate. They can even tailor specialized wellness retreats.
Max 5
Alawatugoda, Central Province
AUD $800-$2670+
USD $520-$1740+
EUR €450-€1500+
Per night
9. 🟣TARU VILLAS VILLU - WILPATTU
Located at the edge of Wilpattu National Park, Taru Villas offers 7 eco luxury chalets, each with their own private plunge pool. It's said to be the best choice for a luxury stay in the area.
Max 3
Wilpattu, North Western Province
AUD $620-$1350+
USD $400-$880+
EUR €350-€760+
Per night NOTE: Price is ALL INCLUSIVE
10. 🟣UGA BAY - PASIKUDA
Boasting a picture-perfect location on the beach front of Pasikuda Bay, Uga Bay is a great choice for a summer holiday. There are 46 rooms, including some with ocean views. Spend the day at the infinity pool, take part in some water sports, or relax at the underground spa.
Max 3
Pasikuda, Eastern Province
AUD $335-$1160+
USD $220-$755+ EUR €190-€650+ Per night
11.⚫CAPE WELIGAMA, RELAIS & CHATEAUX - WELIGAMA
Cape Weligama is perched atop a promontory giving you incredible views overlooking the Indian Ocean and surrounding landscape. A member of Relais & Chateaux, Cape Weligama offers luxury villas, poolside living, world class cuisine, and golden sunrises viewed from the privacy of your own villa.
Max 5
Weligama, Southern Province
AUD $710-$3360+
USD $460-$2190+ EUR €400-€1890+ Per night
12. 🟠THE FLAME TREE ESTATE & HOTEL - KANDY
A boutique luxury resort in the jungle, The Flame Tree Estate & Hotel has been lovingly restored to become a private sanctuary. A place where people can come and experience the history and culture of Sri Lanka and the buildings which make up the resort. The hotel is known for its "authentic mix of peace, personal service, and luxury."
Max 2 adults, 2 children
Note: Age 10+
Kandy, Central Province
AUD $210-$510+
USD $140-$330+ EUR €120-€290+ Per night
13. 🟣TARU VILLAS MAIA - HABARANA
A tranquil luxury retreat located close to many of Sri Lankas iconic landmarks. Each villa an inviting private sanctuary to relax and unwind in. Designed with a mix of old-world Sri Lankan architecture and modern design, providing calm and well thought out minimalist and serene spaces.
Max 3 Adults
Habarana, North Central Province
AUD $350-$655+
USD $230-$430+ EUR €200-€370+ Per night NOTE: HALF BOARD included
14. 🟣HILTON YALA RESORT - YALA
Another resort located close to Yala National Park, the recently opened Hilton Yala Resort is a luxurious sanctuary set between the trees and the ocean. Accommodation here ranges from deluxe rooms, to suites, and premium pool villas.
Max 3
Yala, Southern Province
AUD $610-$1240+
USD $400-$810+ EUR €345-€700+ Per night
15. 🟣MALABAR HILL - WELIGAMA
Perched atop a hill, Malabar Hill Resort has been thoughtfully designed and created with bespoke design and local artisan craftmanship, with an emphasis on being a part of an informed travel experience. Spend time amongst the gardens, at the Ayurvedic Spa, the infinity pool, the library, or take the complimentary beach shuttle service to Mirissa beach.
Max 2
Weligama, Southern Province
AUD $590-$830+
USD $385-$540+ EUR €330-€470+ Per night
16.🟣 KIRANA, A SANTAI VILLA - BENTOTA
A secluded villa on the shores of Bentota. Small and intimate space with only 3 suites, The Master Suite, The Garden Suite and the Family Suite. Offers all the same services as a large hotel would - pool, butler service, housekeeping, room service and wellness treatments.
Max 6
Bentota, Southern Province
AUD $340-$1490+
USD $220-$970+ EUR €190-€840+ Per night
17. 🟠ERAELIYA VILLAS & GARDENS - WELIGAMA
At Eraeliya you will find uniquely designed suites, villas, and a modern loft house, as the choice of accommodation. Located on the oceanfront in Weligama with direct access to the beach, an infinity pool, the Aroma Spa, private dining, and lush green gardens for a truly relaxing getaway.
Max 4
Weligama, Southern Province
AUD $235-$1500+
USD $155-$975+ EUR €135-€845+ Per night
18.🟣 WATER GARDEN SIGIRIYA - SIGIRIYA
There are 30 crafted villas set in amongst winding streams, green meadows and beautifully designed waterways and lakes. Experience a blend of luxury and tranquility, whilst also being closely located to the region's iconic attractions. Located only around 6km from the historic Sigiriya Rock.
Max 2
Sigiriya, Central Province
AUD $650-$1660+
USD $420-$1080+ EUR €365-€935+ Per night
19. 🟣ANANTARA PEACE HAVEN - TANGALLE
Located near the old fort town of Tangelle, Anantara Peace Haven Resort is a tropical sanctuary that sits on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Indian Ocean. A large (family friendly) resort with over 150 rooms and pool villas offering a large array of facilities catering to all different types of travelers.
Max 4
Tangalle, Southern Province
AUD $430-$5460+
USD $280-$3550+ EUR €240-€3075+ Per night
20. 🟣SUN SIYAM - PASIKUDA
A contemporary boutique hotel located on the quiet shores of Pasikuda Bay. Choose from a range of spacious pavilions, or stay in one of the expansive and exclusive beach front villas.
Max 6
Pasikuda, Eastern Province
AUD $280-$630+
USD $180-$410+ EUR €160-€355+ Per night
Found a favorite one? Or have stayed in one already?
Let me know in the comments...
Just a heads up: Please note that some of the links here are affiliate links (to be safe assume all). This helps me to be able to spend more time giving you great hotel recommendations. There is no cost to you but means I get a small commission from every booking made. If you plan to book through these sites anyway it would be much appreciated - but hope in the very least, you found somewhere to stay that you might not have otherwise. Thanks, Kirrily 😊
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