Serenity in the Hills – Experiencing Kahanda Kanda’s exclusive Private Villas
There are hotels you stay at… and then there are places like Kahanda Kanda (click to book) where you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. From the moment I arrived. I felt like I’d stumbled into a secret world of serenity in the hills, tucked high above the hustle and hum of southern Sri Lanka. Think birdsong instead of alarms, tea fields instead of traffic. And the kind of stillness that makes you exhale for the first time in days.
Tucked into the lush hills of Koggala, Kahanda Kanda is set in the gardens of a private 12 acre hilltop tea estate. It isn’t just a boutique hotel—it’s a mood. A whole vibe, actually. Each of the unique 12 villas feels like a private sanctuary. With breezy interiors, dreamy four-poster beds, and views that make you forget what day it is. My villa had a pool overlooking a sea of green. And yes, I absolutely pretended I was in a film every time I stepped out in my robe. If this isn’t serenity in the hills I don’t know what is.
But it wasn’t just the beauty of the place—it was the feeling. From morning yoga with the mist still hanging over the hills, to the sounds of nature. Everything felt intimate, warm, and wonderfully thoughtful.
Whether you’re dreaming of serenity in the hills, a romantic escape, a solo reset, or just want to feel like royalty for a weekend. Kahanda Kanda might just be your new favorite daydream. And lucky for you—I took notes.
A Perfect Hideaway: My Stay in a Private Villa at Kahanda Kanda
I’ve been lucky enough to stay at Kahanda Kanda not once, but twice—and both times felt like I was stepping into a dream. I chose the Plantation Pool Villas on both visits—Araliya and Hibiscus. And honestly, I’d go back to either in a heartbeat.
Picture this. A romantic four-poster bed, a gorgeous bathroom (some are open-air) that feels like a spa. And a private pool with views that spill out over the tropical greenery. You’re not just staying in luxury—you’re living in it.
Mornings were spent sitting poolside. Watching curious little birds flutter by and actual peacocks strut their stuff like they owned the place (yes, they fly—and quite gracefully, might I add). One afternoon, a whole monkey family made their way through the trees like it was a scheduled performance. And one night? I spotted a strange creature just outside. Possibly a mongoose, though I’m still not 100% sure (I’d love to hear your thoughts).
If you’re a wildlife lover, you don’t even need to leave your villa. Nature comes right to your doorstep while you sip your juice, read your book, or float lazily in the pool.
Despite the tropical heat, the villa stayed perfectly cool—I didn’t even need the air-conditioning at night. Just a peaceful breeze, the gentle hum of nature, and the kind of deep sleep that only happens when you’re truly relaxed.
Dining with a View: The Foodie Magic of Kahanda Kanda
The restaurant at Kahanda Kanda is small, intimate, and effortlessly elegant. Exactly the kind of place where you feel instantly at ease. The service? Absolutely flawless. Your water glass gets topped up before you even notice it’s low, and the staff seem to know what you need before you do.
Perched above the tea plantations, the restaurant offers serenity in the hills to match the dining experience. Meals are pre-ordered here, which I loved—each afternoon, you’re presented with a freshly curated menu for the evening. Just pick your dish and let the team handle the rest.
The menu is a beautiful balance of local flavours, freshly caught seafood, and well-executed international dishes. Wherever possible, ingredients are sourced locally, including vibrant fruits and vegetables grown nearby. Which you can absolutely taste in every bite. For those seeking a health-conscious option, the Ayurvedic menu incorporates traditional Sri Lankan ingredients to promote balance and well-being.
You can also choose to dine in your villa, which I opted for one evening—and honestly, it was perfect. The staff arrived to set up a lovely table for me by the pool and were on hand if I needed anything. I don’t always feel like eating in a restaurant when I’m solo, so this was such a thoughtful touch. I got to relax, soak up the peaceful view of my private pool, and be serenaded by the sounds of the jungle. Bliss
From Yoga to Curry: My Favourite Things to Do at Kahanda Kanda
There’s no shortage of experiences on offer at Kahanda Kanda. If you can tear yourself away from your dreamy villa (which, trust me, is easier said than done).
Prefer to stay on-site and keep the vibe zen? There’s a stunning hillside yoga pavilion available for guest use, perfect for a peaceful morning stretch with views of the surrounding greenery. If you’d prefer a guided session, the hotel can easily arrange a personal yoga instructor just for you. And continuing with the relaxation theme, massages are also available. Using luxury products, of course—for the ultimate unwind.
And then… there was the cooking class. Now, anyone who knows me might raise an eyebrow at this, because let’s just say cooking is not my strong suit. But I decided to go for it—and I’m so glad I did. It was a one-on-one experience with the chef, who was incredibly patient and knowledgeable. We talked about the different spices used in Sri Lankan cooking (many of which are grown locally), and how they blend together to create that magic. We made a traditional Sri Lankan chicken curry, and not to brag, but it turned out delicious. Definitely one of the most fun and surprising highlights of my stay.
Beyond the Villa: Best Day Trips from Kahanda Kanda
For those moments when you’re feeling adventurous, the hotel offers a curated list of activities. You can hop on a local bike ride, take a trip to the historic Galle Fort (click here to read the full blog). Or head out on a peaceful boat ride on Koggala Lake. Where you’ll spot wildlife and visit a cinnamon island where the spice is still grown traditionally.
One of my favorite little escapes if you can force yourself to leave the serenity in the hills? Spending the afternoon at KK Beach, Kahanda Kanda’s (click to book) stylish sister hotel. I went for lunch and instantly fell in love with the laid-back beach vibes. The beach itself was nearly empty, which made the experience feel even more special. Like having my own private slice of the coastline.
The hotel can also help you plan day trips like elephant safaris, whale watching, or even a rainforest hike. Nothing is too much trouble here—the staff go above and beyond to make sure your stay is exactly what you want it to be.
Serenity In The Hills: Exploring the Grounds of Kahanda Kanda
Kahanda Kanda isn’t just a hotel—it’s an escape into nature’s most elegant daydream. The property is perched high above the shores of Koggala Lake, surrounded by lush tea plantations, bamboo groves, and tropical jungle as far as the eye can see. Everywhere you look, it’s green, serene, and utterly breathtaking.
Wandering through the grounds feels like exploring a secret garden. There are stone pathways shaded by giant palms, blooming hibiscus and frangipani trees that fill the air with a sweet, floral scent, and butterflies that dance through the light like they’re part of the décor. Even just walking to breakfast feels like a peaceful little journey.
It’s incredibly private too. You rarely see other guests, which adds to the sense of seclusion and calm. Whether you’re lounging by your pool, practicing yoga in the pavilion, or simply strolling the grounds barefoot, there’s a quiet magic here that’s hard to describe but impossible to forget.
This is the kind of place where doing nothing feels like doing everything. And honestly? That’s my favorite kind of luxury.
From One Guest to Another: What to Know About Kahanda Kanda
I stayed for two nights on both of my visits to Kahanda Kanda—and honestly, I could have stayed longer. How long you stay really depends on your pace: whether you want to pack in the activities or simply soak up the serenity.
If your budget allows, I highly recommend booking a villa with a private pool. It’s 100% worth it, especially if your idea of a perfect escape includes doing absolutely nothing but lounging, reading, and taking in those unreal views.
That said, the hotel also has a gorgeous main pool available for all guests, framed by lush greenery. So you’ll still get that dreamy, postcard-perfect vibe either way.
A quick heads-up: Kahanda Kanda is quite remote, which is part of its charm, but it does mean you won’t be wandering out for dinner or shops. If you’re not arriving with a driver or rental car, you’ll likely stay on-site for meals. So it’s worth checking when booking if there are any offers or packages that include meals.
Whether you’re coming for a romantic break, a solo recharge, or just to indulge in a few days of barefoot luxury. This is a place that stays with you long after you leave. Serenity in the hills really does exist.
Final Thoughts – Is Kahanda Kanda for You?
Kahanda Kanda is one of those rare places that manages to be both luxurious and deeply personal. It’s peaceful, soulful, and designed with so much care that you feel like a guest in someone’s private paradise rather than just another hotel stay.
If you’re looking for somewhere to disconnect from the noise, reconnect with nature, or simply treat yourself to a bit of boutique indulgence. This is your spot. It’s perfect for couples on a romantic escape or honeymoon, solo travelers in need of a serene reset, and even small groups of friends who appreciate thoughtful design and laid-back luxury.
Whether you’re here for the tea fields, the yoga pavilion, the food, the wildlife, or just the stillness. You’ll leave feeling lighter, calmer, and already planning your next stay (yep, I’m already plotting round three). Kahanda Kanda is one of those magical places that lingers—in your photos, your memories, and definitely in your future travel plans. (Click here to book your stay)
Got questions about Kahanda Kanda, planning your serenity in the hills stay, or just want to chat about peacocks, private pools, and Sri Lankan curry wins? Send me a message—I’d love to hear from you!
And if you’re dreaming up your next adventure, don’t forget to explore my other posts or follow along on Instagram for more behind-the-scenes travel stories, tips, and a whole lot of wanderlust
FAQs
What types of rooms are available?
Kahanda Kanda offers 12 individually designed suites and villas, many featuring private plunge pools and set within lush gardens overlooking a working tea estate and Koggala Lake.
Is the hotel suitable for families with children?
The hotel welcomes guests aged 12 and above, making it ideal for couples and adult groups seeking a tranquil and romantic environment.
What dining options are available?
Guests can enjoy meals at the open-air Dining Pavilion, offering a mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, and international dishes. In-villa dining is also available for a more private experience.
Are cooking classes offered?
Yes, Kahanda Kanda provides one-on-one cooking classes where guests can learn to prepare traditional Sri Lankan or Thai dishes using estate-grown ingredients.
What on-site activities are available?
The hotel offers various experiences, including daily yoga sessions, spa treatments, guided bicycle rides, boat trips on Koggala Lake, and excursions to nearby attractions like Galle Fort. For more info click the link to visit the hotels website.
How far is Kahanda Kanda from Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport?
The hotel is approximately a 2-hour drive from the airport, making it a convenient destination for travelers arriving in Sri Lanka.
What is the nearest Railway Station to Kahanda Kanda?
The nearest train station is Galle. Its about 15km away around a 30 minute drive.
Is transportation provided to nearby attractions?
Yes, the hotel can arrange tuk-tuks or private cars for day trips to local attractions, ensuring guests can explore the surrounding areas with ease.