Most holidays in Sri Lanka will involve a stop in Colombo, Negombo or the surrounding region. It really pays off to relax into the holiday and the slower pace of life with a first night or two before any long journeys.
International flights arrive at a place called Katunayake, between 30 minutes and an hour north of Colombo in day time traffic. Therefore Colombo itself is not an obvious choice for a first night if you are heading north to the Cultural Triangle or inland towards Kandy. However
Negombo, a busy town and beach resort, or surrounding smaller towns are a much closer bet. Negombo has a first class hotel in the Jetwing Beach and a little inland is the beautiful converted manor house, The Wallawa. This 12 suite hotel offers real luxury in a beautiful garden setting about 30 minutes from the airport.
Perhaps a more interesting alternative is the unique and wonderful, Horathapola Coconut Estate, a three bed-roomed mansion and a peaceful oasis to bring you as far away from the cares of the city as you could wish to be. The stunning Hideaway is in a similar vein and wonderfully private. The outdoor bathrooms with jaccuzis are particularly sumptuous.
If you do wish to stay in Colombo itself, we recommend the Galle Face Regency, for a slice of history and an atmospheric place to base oneself while exploring the city. The Residence offers a more exclusive environment for those who prefer smaller properties.
There are a range of larger '5 star' style properties in Colombo that we can suggest depending on the nature of your booking.
Download your free Sri Lanka travel guide
Your information is 100% safe with us and will never be shared with any third parties.
