Sri Lanka is a treasure trove of scenic landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. During our recent trip, we explored this beautiful island from Negombo’s sandy shores to Nuwara Eliya’s misty highlands. Along the way, we stayed at some of the best hotels and guesthouses in Sri Lanka, experiencing a mix of comfort, local charm, and occasionally… lessons learned. If you’re planning a Sri Lanka adventure, our hotel journey will help you pick stays that suit your style and travel needs.
Negombo – 1 Night at Oreeka Hotel, Katunayaka Airport Transit Hotel
Our Sri Lanka journey began in Negombo, where we stayed one night at Oreeka Hotel – Katunayaka Airport Transit Hotel. Perfect for travelers flying in or out of Bandaranaike International Airport, this transit hotel is ideal for a comfortable overnight stay without venturing far from the airport. The rooms were clean and well-maintained, and check-in was straightforward.
For anyone looking for a convenient airport hotel in Negombo, Oreeka Hotel is one of the top options. Its location, combined with reasonable rates, makes it a favorite for transit travelers and those wanting a hassle-free start or end to their Sri Lanka trip.
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Kandy – 1 Night at Cinnamon Crest Resort and Ayurvedic Spa
Next, we headed to Kandy, staying a night at Cinnamon Crest Resort and Ayurvedic Spa. Nestled amidst lush greenery, this resort combines scenic beauty with traditional Ayurvedic wellness experiences. The highlight here was undoubtedly the spa, where we enjoyed rejuvenating treatments.
Cinnamon Crest offers cozy rooms with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. For travelers seeking a peaceful retreat close to Kandy’s cultural attractions, this resort is a top pick. Don’t miss the Ayurvedic spa packages if relaxation is on your Sri Lanka travel checklist.
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Sigiriya – 2 Nights at Green Hut Nature Resort
Our next stop was Sigiriya, the jewel of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. We spent two nights at Green Hut Nature Resort, a stay that perfectly complemented our jungle and heritage explorations. The resort has a rustic charm, blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings.
We loved waking up to the sounds of birds and enjoying meals featuring local ingredients. Staying at Green Hut gave us easy access to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and nearby cultural sites. For nature lovers and heritage explorers, this is one of the best hotels in Sri Lanka.
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Kalkudah – 1 Night at The Dream Inn Guesthouse, Passikudah
From the cultural heartland, we moved to the eastern coastline, staying in The Dream Inn Guesthouse, Passikudah. Kalkudah and Passikudah are known for pristine beaches and calm waters, perfect for a quiet coastal retreat.
The guesthouse offered comfortable rooms and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The beach was just a short walk away, making sunrise strolls and evening swims easy to enjoy. For travelers looking for budget-friendly stays with easy beach access, The Dream Inn is a top choice.
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Wellawaya – 1 Night at Hotel Serugahawatta
Our journey then took us inland to Wellawaya, where we stayed at Hotel Serugahawatta for one night. This hotel provides simple yet clean accommodation for travelers exploring the less-touristed regions of Sri Lanka.
The staff were friendly and helpful, and we appreciated the local hospitality. For road trippers exploring Sri Lanka’s southern and eastern highways, Wellawaya is a convenient stopover with reliable amenities.
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Ella – 2 Nights at Jasmine Garden Inn
Next up was Ella, one of our favorite stops. We stayed at Jasmine Garden Inn for two nights, enjoying the cool highland air and panoramic mountain views. Ella is famous for its scenic tea plantations, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
Jasmine Garden Inn offered cozy rooms and a serene garden space where we could unwind after long days of exploration. Staying here gave us easy access to attractions like Little Adam’s Peak and Nine Arches Bridge. For travelers seeking picturesque hotels in Ella, this guesthouse is an excellent choice.
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Nuwara Eliya – 2 Nights at The Blues Chalet
From Ella, we headed to the hill country town of Nuwara Eliya, staying two nights at The Blues Chalet. Known as “Little England,” Nuwara Eliya boasts colonial architecture, tea estates, and cool weather.
The Blues Chalet offered charming rooms with scenic garden views and warm hospitality. We particularly enjoyed the proximity to Gregory Lake and the opportunity to explore nearby tea plantations. For travelers seeking comfort and picturesque surroundings, The Blues Chalet ranks among the best hotels and guesthouses in Sri Lanka’s highlands.
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Hatton – 1 Night at Green Field Bedz
Our next stop was Hatton, where we had a one-night stay at Green Field Bedz. Unfortunately, this was our least favorite stay of the entire trip — and not just because the room lacked comfort and basic amenities. The biggest issue? The receptionist locked the front door and disappeared, leaving us completely stuck outside. We had to ask the restaurant next door to help us track him down just so we could get back inside. Not exactly the kind of “adventure” anyone wants after a long day of traveling.
While the location itself is convenient for exploring Horton Plains and Adam’s Peak, the overall experience simply didn’t meet even the basic expectations we had after staying at other hotels. If comfort, safety, and reliability matter to you, we strongly recommend researching alternative Hatton accommodations.
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Negombo – 3 Nights at Blue Breeze
We ended our Sri Lanka journey back in Negombo, staying three nights at Blue Breeze. This beachfront hotel offered the perfect way to relax before our departure, with comfortable rooms, friendly service, and a scenic ocean view.
Blue Breeze is ideal for travelers who want to unwind by the sea, enjoy fresh seafood, and soak in the last moments of Sri Lanka’s charm. The location also provides easy access to Negombo’s local markets and restaurants.
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Final Thoughts on the Best Hotels and Guesthouses in Sri Lanka
From transit hotels in Negombo to luxurious resorts in Kandy, rustic retreats in Sigiriya, beachside guesthouses in Passikudah, and charming chalets in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka offers a wide spectrum of accommodations. Our journey allowed us to experience the diversity of hotels and guesthouses, from simple stays to indulgent retreats.
Choosing the best hotels and guesthouses in Sri Lanka depends on your travel style. Whether you’re a luxury seeker, a budget traveler, a nature lover, or a cultural explorer, Sri Lanka has a stay to match your needs.
If you’re planning a Sri Lanka itinerary, consider this list as a guide to reliable and memorable hotels across the island. Each stop brought unique experiences, stunning views, and memories that will last a lifetime.
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