Sri Lanka is a paradise for eco-conscious travelers, offering a wide range of eco-lodges designed to harmonize with nature while minimizing their environmental impact. These lodges blend sustainable practices with comfort and luxury, making them ideal for those who want to experience the island’s rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and unique wildlife responsibly.
Eco-lodges are typically located in remote or protected areas, surrounded by forests, mountains, or along the coastline, providing a peaceful retreat from urban life. From tree houses to tented camps, Sri Lanka’s eco-lodges offer immersive experiences that prioritize sustainability without compromising on comfort.
Top Eco-Lodges in Sri Lanka
Gal Oya Lodge (Gal Oya National Park)
Nestled near Gal Oya National Park, this eco-lodge emphasizes sustainability through its use of local materials and solar energy. The lodge offers spacious, open-plan bungalows and incredible views of the surrounding wilderness. Gal Oya is renowned for its unique boat safaris, where visitors can spot elephants swimming in the park’s lakes.
Ulpotha (Dambulla)
Ulpotha is a sustainable retreat and eco-lodge that focuses on yoga, wellness, and Ayurveda. Located in a remote jungle near Dambulla, the lodge operates on traditional village values, using no electricity in guest areas and offering organic vegetarian meals. It’s a perfect escape for those seeking spiritual rejuvenation amidst nature.
Rainforest Eco Lodge (Sinharaja Rainforest)
Located on the edge of the Sinharaja Rainforest, this eco-lodge is built using recycled shipping containers to minimize its environmental footprint. The lodge provides a unique stay amidst lush greenery and offers guided tours into the rainforest, known for its endemic species of birds, reptiles, and insects.
Kaju Green Eco Lodge (Unawatuna)
A luxury eco-lodge located in a coconut plantation near Unawatuna Beach, Kaju Green is a sustainable retreat designed with minimal impact on the environment. The lodge uses solar power, water recycling systems, and offers organic food from their own farm, allowing guests to enjoy a peaceful stay while being close to the beach.
Back of Beyond Pidurangala (Sigiriya)
Back of Beyond offers eco-friendly lodges near the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Set amidst natural jungle surroundings, the lodge features treehouses and bungalows built with locally sourced materials. It’s a great base for exploring Sigiriya, Pidurangala, and nearby cultural sites.
Kumbuk River Eco Lodge (Buttala)
Known for its unique elephant-shaped eco-lodge, Kumbuk River offers an extraordinary stay along the banks of the Kumbukkan Oya River. The lodge blends sustainable architecture with luxury, providing guests with a serene environment to unwind while enjoying nearby safaris in Yala or Udawalawe National Park.
Wild Grass Nature Resort (Sigiriya)
Set within 30 acres of natural forest near Sigiriya, Wild Grass Nature Resort offers a luxurious eco-living experience. With just a few villas, the resort prioritizes privacy and harmony with nature, and it uses sustainable practices such as solar energy and organic farming.
Saraii Village (Weerawila)
Saraii Village offers a truly immersive eco-lodge experience with its treehouses and mud chalets, constructed using local materials. Located near Yala National Park and Bundala National Park, Saraii Village focuses on sustainable tourism, offering guided nature tours, birdwatching, and eco-friendly activities.
Mahoora Tented Safari Camps (Yala, Udawalawe, Wilpattu)
Offering luxury tented accommodation inside national parks, Mahoora Tented Safari Camps provide a unique eco-friendly glamping experience. These camps are designed to leave no trace and operate using sustainable methods, including solar power and eco-friendly waste disposal systems.
Galavilla Boutique Hotel and Spa (Kandy)
Located in the hill country, this eco-friendly hotel blends luxury with sustainability. Surrounded by misty mountains and tea plantations, Galavilla incorporates eco-conscious practices like rainwater harvesting, solar power, and organic farming, making it a serene retreat for nature lovers.
Why Choose Eco-Lodges in Sri Lanka?
Eco-lodges in Sri Lanka offer more than just comfortable accommodation. They provide unique opportunities to:
Connect with Nature
Eco-lodges are often located in remote or protected areas, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature while minimizing their environmental footprint.
Sustainable Travel
By choosing eco-lodges, travelers can reduce their impact on the environment, as these accommodations prioritize the use of local materials, renewable energy, and eco-friendly practices.
Wildlife Conservation
Many eco-lodges are situated near national parks and wildlife reserves, offering guests the chance to participate in conservation efforts or enjoy wildlife safaris with experienced guides.
Support Local Communities
Eco-lodges typically employ local staff and source food and materials from surrounding communities, contributing to the local economy while promoting cultural heritage.
