Spanning ten acres of jungle and beaches, the beautiful Cinnamon Wild Yala boasts untamed beauty and the opportunity to spot numerous wildlife species – both at the resort and on a safari into the park itself. One of our favourite spots at this low-key property is the Rooftop Bar that gives you a bird’s-eye view of the sanctuary. You can also spot wildlife from the pool which overlooks the lake – this really is the perfect spot for animal lovers. Tuskers is the resort's main restaurant. As you dine on local and international dishes, you can enjoy views of the jungle that surrounds the restaurant, and you may even see a passing elephant as you dine! For a pre-dinner cocktail as the sun goes down, the aforementioned Rooftop Bar is the perfect spot. Alternatively, there's the Pugmarks bar which has a sociable atmosphere - the perfect place to catch up with your fellow guests following your safari. The rooms are located in numerous chalets throughout the grounds and their interiors have been designed by a local artist, something that really gives the property a sense of place. The Jungle Chalets are set within the verdant grounds of the resort while the Beach Chalets are just steps away from the Indian Ocean. The latter are also perched on stilts giving them a higher elevation.
Located alongside a lagoon among the dunes and backing an otherwise deserted beach, Chena Huts sits close to the gates of Yala National Park and is the perfect getaway for luxury-seeking wildlife lovers. The concept here is inspired by the centuries-old practice of farming small clearances, known as chenas, where farmers would sleep in huts beside their crops. While the farmer’s huts were simple in nature, the exquisite Cabins – of which there are just 14 (19 from November 2020) – are a great deal more luxurious, with facilities such as a plunge pool and a deep soaking tub. For complete privacy, each cabin is beautifully secluded within the sand dunes and bush scrub… perfection. Each full day of your stay here includes a game drive (with flexible timings), accompanied by your own knowledgeable expert ranger/guide. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the nation’s oldest and second largest national park, seeking out leopards and other wildlife species. Between safaris there’s enough to keep you occupied at the hotel itself, whether its lounging by the main pool or on the beach, retreating to your cabin to soak up the sounds of nature or treating yourself to a massage at the small on-site spa. All of your meals are served at Basses, the hotel’s intimate open-air restaurant and bar. Alternatively, for those special occasions there are plenty of locations around the property for a private dining experience, nothing is too much trouble for the attentive and friendly staff here.
An eco-friendly hotel set within 5 acres of gardens, Kalu's Hideaway is owned by famous Sri Lankan cricketer, Mr Romesh Kaluwitharana and offers guests an array of facilities as well as a great location just 10 minutes from the park. Understated and intimate, it has only 14 rooms and offers typical Sri Lankan style and service without being ostentatious.
Cinnamon Wild Yala
Chena Huts by Uga Escapes, Yala
Kalu's Hideaway, Udawalawe
