Horathapola Estate is a planter’s bungalow just an hour away from Colombo airport and a great first or last stop in Sri Lanka. Situated on a working estate which grows coconut, mango, pineapple and spices, Horathopala offers a tranquil stay in nature.
A great place for those who like seclusion and nature much more hassle free than driving into Colombo
There is only natural air-conditioning meaning you have to open a window and rely on a ceiling fan, the property has high ceilings and well proportioned rooms so over heating is unlikely to be a problem
There are no televisions or other technology in the rooms so this property is only ideal for those who want to switch off from the modern world
It is hidden quite out of the way and along fairly bumpy roads so for flights arriving late at night it may not be ideal - this will not be a problem for adventurous guests and more a concern for those with younger children
Horathopola is a four-bedroom British planter's bungalow that was built in the 1920s. A stay at the estate is a great way to experience the planter’s lifestyle and village life and is an intimate retreat for those wanting to stay in a beautiful natural setting.
The estate offers spacious rooms furnished with period furniture and verandas opening out onto lush gardens. The house has three large suites and one two-bedroom family suite, all with en-suite bathrooms. The rooms are not air-conditioned but there are ceiling fans and all rooms have high roofs and large windows that let in the cooling tropical breeze. All rooms also have access to balconies or verandas and have elegant as well as comfortable interiors. The main living and dining areas open out to extensive gardens and a large pool.
The estate also has a two bedroom lodge which is an independent two bedroom building close to the main house with the added benefit of extra privacy. The lodge has one large bedroom and one small room and is furnished and designed to have similar characteristics to the main house. It also has a huge terrace suitable for private dining.
It is worth noting that there are no televisions in the rooms at this property but guests are generally drawn to this property for its quiet atmosphere and natural setting.
Guests staying at the estate can take walks around the surrounding estate, take a bullock cart ride or cycle to nearby rural villages where you can watch the production of kadju nuts, wire ropes or visit a kopra factory. Estate staff can help you discover village life unfolding at its own pace, away from tourist areas and this is the real beauty of this property. There is also a village temple nearby and a local market where fresh produce grown in village home gardens can be purchased. You can even learn how to prepare traditional Sri Lankan food from the ingredients found at the market with the resident cook.
When to visit
Enjoy the lovely smell of cinnamon oil scenting the property.
Plan your trip
Our team of travel specialist are waiting to help you book your next adventure
Plan your tripHorathapola Estate is a planter’s bungalow 1-hour away from the international airport and a great first or last stop in Sri Lanka.
A 10-hour 45-minute flight from London Heathrow to Colombo then a 60-minute drive to the property.
Jeep Safari at Yala National Park
Enjoy a jeep safari to Yala National Park, the most famous National Park in Sri Lanka.
Polonnaruwa Half-Day tour
Visit Polonnaruwa, part of the ancient cities of Sri Lanka.
Safari in Wilpattu National Park
Head into Wilpattu National Park for a morning or evening safari to marvel at the range of wildlife.
Safari Jeep to Minneriya National Park
Enjoy a jeep safari to Minneriya Nataional Park , famous for its wild elephants.
Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the most famous heritage site in Sri Lanka.
Whale and Dolphin Excursion from Trincomalee
Go on whale and dolphin cruise in Trincomalee in the months of March to August.
White Water Rafting at Kitulgala
Enjoy white water rafting at Kitulgala, an adventure playground and the film location of "Bridge on the River Kwai".
