In Nature’s Palm

Want to be surrounded by nature while simultaneously being enveloped in luxury? Heritance Kandalama, in Sri Lanka, nestled amidst the ample bounty of nature, is a beautiful sanctuary that remarkably blends in the landscape of the region. It is located in a remote area of the diamond-shaped island and is bound in the north by the Kandalama man-made tank and in the south by the mountainous spine that runs from the central mountains.

Heritance Kandalama has been constructed as a natural extension of the mountainside on which it finds pride of place. From one end to the other, the hotel is one kilometre and rises upto seven storeys. Yet, it blends seamlessly into the mountainside and guests are treated to several spontaneous sightings of deer, birds, porcupines and butterflies.

The hotel’s interesting shape – it is designed in the configuration of the outspread wings of a bird and is located between two rocks – takes inspiration from the inhabitants of the wild that take to the skies with ease. The hotel has also taken care to maintain the delicate eco system even as it offers its guests state-of-the art luxury. So, it is rather commonplace – and an attraction for guests – to find monkeys and swifts in the hotel’s spaces.

Its natural attractions are plentiful. But what also make a sojourn at the Heritance Kandalama memorable are the various services that pamper a guest. It is perfect for destination events and its new conference facility provides all the state-of-the-art amenities needed.

For those seeking some holistic calm, the Six Senses Spa at the hotel is the place to be. The therapists use indigenous herbs as well as tropical fruits and exotic oils combined with steam, sauna, massage, scrubs, baths and wraps in complete rejuvenation and relaxation packages.

Food options satiate the most diehard of gourmands. Quick bites from Café Kachchan and meals either from Kanchana Restaurant or Kaludiya Restaurant are palate-pleasing delights. And while enjoying your repast, you are likely to spot many a feathered friend.

There is no dearth of entertainment options. You can take a boat ride, go on a hot-air balloon ride or choose a canter atop a horse or a leisurely amble on an elephant. For those who want to indulge in sightseeing, the Dambulla Cave Temples and the Minneriya National Park are worth a visit.

With a stunning panoramic view of the Kandalama Lake, surrounding Ritigala mountainscape and the Dambulla Cave Temples, Heritance Kandalama is the prime choice for those in pursuit of undiluted leisure. The infinity pool offers not just relaxation but an opportunity to gaze across at the Sigiriya rock fortress and contemplate the serene surroundings. A chilled cooler completes the experience.