Sri Lanka, the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, is a haven for nature lovers and eco-conscious travelers. From lush rainforests to sandy beaches, the country’s natural diversity offers countless opportunities for exploration. A great way to appreciate and immerse in these natural wonders is through staying at eco lodges in Sri Lanka, offering unique experiences while preserving the environment. In this article, we will journey through the 20 best eco lodges in Sri Lanka, each offering a unique blend of comfort, luxury, and sustainability.
My personal favorites are Aarunya Nature Resort and Spa for its scenic views and Cinnamon Wild Yala for its wild luxury experience.
Best Eco Lodges & Eco Resorts in Sri Lanka
In this article, we will journey through the 20 best eco lodges in Sri Lanka, each offering a unique blend of comfort, luxury, and sustainability.
Price Comparison Table of Eco Lodges in Sri Lanka
| Sri Lanka Eco Lodge | Price |
|---|---|
| Back of Beyond – Wild Haven | $80 |
| Aarunya Nature Resort and Spa | $520 |
| Cinnamon Wild Yala | $360 |
| Aqua Dunhinda Villa | $520 |
| Ella Retreat | $115 |
| Back of Beyond- Dune Camp | $135 |
| Banyan Lodge Yala | $125 |
| Lime & Co Kaba Sri Lanka | $570 |
| Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge | $190 |
| Polwaththa Eco Lodge | $80 |
| The Rainforest Eco Lodge | $290 |
| The Backwaters Lodge | $110 |
| Kalundewa Retreat | $340 |
| Kodev | $170 |
| Yala Safari Camping | $115 |
| Tri by Amaya | $250 |
Aarunya Nature Resort and Spa
Perched atop the scenic Kandy Mountain Range, Aarunya Nature Resort and Spa offers an idyllic retreat for relaxation. This eco-friendly resort features stunning vistas, traditional architecture, and an array of spa services that utilize local, organic ingredients. Each villa offers private infinity pools and spacious interiors that balance comfort and sustainability.
Click Here to view the current rates and availability of Aarunya Nature Resort and Spa
Cinnamon Wild Yala
Cinnamon Wild Yala is not just an eco-lodge but also a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts. Situated on the borders of Yala National Park, it offers a wild luxury experience, boasting rustic chalets that overlook the untamed jungle. Guided jeep safaris provide guests with an opportunity to observe Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity, including elephants, leopards, and a plethora of bird species. This is one of the top eco resorts in Sri Lanka for travelers who want an incredible safari experience as well as luxury accommodations.
Click Here to view the current rates and availability of Cinnamon Wild Yala
Kalundewa Retreat
Kalundewa Retreat is a tranquil oasis amidst sprawling paddy fields and natural springs. The retreat offers luxury chalets that seamlessly blend with the landscape, allowing guests to connect with nature without compromising on comfort. This is one of my overall favorite eco resorts in Sri Lanka as it blends beautifully with its natural surroundings. It’s one of the most peaceful Sri Lanka eco resorts on this list. Kalundewa promotes sustainable tourism through organic farming, water conservation, and supporting local artisans.
Click Here to view the current rates and availability of Kalundewa Retreat
Ella Retreat
Ella Retreat is an intimate eco-lodge located in the heart of Ella. This lodge has a rustic charm with its wooden cabins, offering stunning views of the nearby tea plantations. With its commitment to sustainability, Ella Retreat uses solar power, rainwater harvesting, and supports local farming through its organic restaurant.
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Back of Beyond – Dune Camp Yala
For the ultimate beachside experience, look no further than Back of Beyond’s Dune Camp Yala. This eco-friendly campsite, located on the golden sands of Arugam Bay, allows guests to enjoy the beauty of the beach in a sustainable way. The canvas tents, powered by solar energy, offer a comfortable and eco-conscious stay.
Click Here to view current rates and availability of Dune Camp Yala
Banyan Lodge Yala
Situated within close proximity to the Yala National Park, Banyan Lodge offers a rustic and authentic wilderness experience. Constructed using natural materials, the lodge blends perfectly with its surroundings, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings. The lodge focuses on sustainable practices, offering locally sourced meals and solar-powered accommodations.
Click Here to view current rates and availability of Banyan Lodge
Lime & Co Kaba
Set within the confines of a historic Dutch manor, Lime & Co Kaba offers a blend of history and sustainability. This eco-lodge, located in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Galle Fort, offers minimalist yet comfortable accommodations. They are committed to reducing their carbon footprint through waste management, water conservation, and supporting local communities.
Click Here to view current rates and availability of Lime & Co Kaba
Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge
Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge Sri Lanka offers guests an opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture of tea cultivation while enjoying the serenity of the mountains. Overlooking the Knuckles Mountain Range, this eco-lodge offers luxury tents that blend seamlessly with the surrounding tea plantations. Their commitment to eco-friendly practices includes organic farming, recycling, and promoting local employment.
Click Here to view current rates and availability of Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge
Polwaththa Eco Lodge
Nestled in the lush forests of Digana, Polwaththa Eco Lodge provides a truly immersive experience in nature. The lodge, built from natural materials, allows guests to enjoy the tranquility of the forest, complete with nature trails, bird watching, and village tours. Polwaththa prides itself on its sustainability efforts, including reforestation projects and using solar energy.
Click Here to view the current rates and availability of Polwaththa Eco Lodge
The Rainforest Eco Lodge
The The Rainforest Eco Lodge is the epitome of eco-luxury, located in the Sinharaja Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This eco-lodge provides charming chalets that overlook the dense rainforest canopy, offering guests an up-close experience with nature. The lodge operates with a strong commitment to conservation, using renewable energy, waste management, and promoting local employment.
Click Here to view the current rates and availability of The Rainforest Eco Lodge
The Backwaters Lodge
The Backwaters Lodge offers a unique waterfront experience, situated along the serene waterways of the Madu River. The lodge, built with traditional materials, offers intimate accommodations and a restaurant serving local cuisine. The lodge supports local communities and conservation efforts, providing boat tours that educate guests on the importance of mangrove ecosystems.
Click Here to view current rates and availability of The Backwaters Lodge
Kodev
Kodev, located on the remote island of Kalpitiya, offers a unique glamping experience. The luxury tents, set amidst coconut palms, offer panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the lagoon. Featuring a garden, a shared lounge, and a terrace, Kodev provides accommodation in Kalpitiya with free WiFi and sea views. Kodev emphasizes sustainability, using solar power, recycling, and working closely with local communities.
Click Here to view the current rates and availability of Kodev
Yala Safari Camping
Yala Safari Camping offers an exhilarating safari experience in Yala National Park. The campsite, equipped with luxury tents, allows guests to experience the wilderness up-close, complete with guided safaris and bush dinners. They uphold the principles of eco-tourism, providing sustainable accommodations and contributing to local conservation initiatives.
Click Here to view current rates and availability of Yala Safari Camping
Aqua Dunhinda Villa
Located near the historic city of Gampola, Aqua Dunhinda Villa is a perfect blend of luxury and nature. Surrounded by lush rainforests and overlooking the Dunhinda waterfall, this eco villa offers an immersive nature experience. The modern, minimalist design of the villa complements its surrounding landscape, creating a serene and sustainable haven.
Click Here to view current rates and availability of Aqua Dunhinda Villa
Back of Beyond – Wild Haven
Tucked away in the verdant heart of Sri Lanka, Back of Beyond Wild Haven is a nature lover’s dream. This secluded eco-lodge offers a true jungle experience, with quaint tree houses that blend effortlessly with the surrounding forest canopy. Guests can enjoy wildlife sightings, river bathing, and guided nature walks, making it a great escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. This is a great eco resort in Sri Lanka to be immersed in the surrounding wildlife. The lagoon in front of the accommodation is a great place for bird and wildlife spotting making this a unique place to stay.
Click Here to view the current rates and availability of Back of Beyond
Tri by Amaya
Tri by Amaya is a sustainable luxury hotel situated on the banks of the serene Koggala Lake. The hotel, built using recycled wood and natural materials, offers stunning panoramic views of the lake. With a focus on wellness and sustainability, Tri offers yoga classes, farm-to-table dining, and utilizes renewable energy.
Click Here to view current rates and availability of Tri by Amaya
What is an Eco Lodge?
An eco-lodge is a type of accommodation that emphasizes sustainability and environmental conservation. These lodges are often located in natural settings, and they operate in a manner that minimizes their impact on the environment. This can involve practices such as using renewable energy, waste management, water conservation, sourcing local and organic food, and promoting local employment and culture.
Why Stay at an Eco Lodge?
Staying at an eco lodge not only provides a unique travel experience, but it also contributes to the preservation of the environment and local communities.
I hope you enjoyed this guide to the best Eco Lodges in Sri Lanka and have a great stay.
THREE TOURS I RECOMMEND IN SRI LANKA
Before we get into the list of the top things to do in Sri Lanka, I wanted to share with you three of my favorite tours in Sri Lanka.
Golden Hour Safari: The most popular safari tour is the Golden Hour Safari Experience in Yala National Park
Whale Watching: The Morning Whale Watching Tour from Mirissa Beach is one of the most popular activities in the entire country. See a variety of animals including blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins from the observation deck.
Sigiriya Rock Tour: Discover the Sigirya rock fortress on a 2-3-hour walking trip which will provide an insight into the art, tradition, and history of Sri Lanka. Book your tour: Sigiriya Rock Climb Guided Tour
MY TOP PLACES TO STAY IN SRI LANKA
Sri Lanka is a huge region so it depends on where you are and which of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka are on your list as to which accommodation will be the best. For example, when you are visiting Sigiriya Rock, Hotel Sigiriya is clearly the best choice!
- Top pick: A stunning estate in the Tea Country: Thotalagala
- Best overall experience -(with Sigiriya Rock): Hotel Sigiriya
- Best for heritage in Galle: Galle Fort Hotel
- Best for elephant safaris: Cinnamon Lodge Habarana
- Best for beachfront bliss in Tangalle: Buckingham Place
- Best for exploring Colombo: The Kingsbury or the Movenpick
- Best for home-cooked food in Kandy: Green View Boutique
READ MORE SRI LANKA BLOG POSTS
- Ultimate Guide: 15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SRI LANKA
- Hiking in Ella: LITTLE ADAM’S PEAK HIKE IN ELLA
- Riding the Train: Kandy to Ella by Train
- The famous Sri Lanka rope swing: THE PALM TREE ROPE SWING AT DALAWELLA
- The famous bridge: NINE ARCH BRIDGE IN ELLA
- Getting a tattoo in Sri Lanka: MY EXPERIENCE GETTING A TATTOO IN SRI LANKA
- Where to stay: 20 BEST ECO LODGES IN SRI LANKA
- Sri Lanka Packing List: THE ULTIMATE SRI LANKA PACKING LIST: WHAT TO PACK AND WHY