The Space
‘Unakanda' (a shortening of the location Unawatuna Kanda; “kanda” = hill), is the creative passion project of an Australian architect. Four bedrooms and four bathrooms are spread between two unique buildings either side of an infinity pool. Laid back, fresh spaces celebrate amazing sea views, climate, gardens and wildlife. Unakanda is a short walk above Unawatuna beach and less than 15 minutes from Galle Fort by tuktuk. A mix of mature trees give the sloping site a jungle garden feel which wraps around an old stone quarry, full of water, fish and turtles. It is a magnet for bird life and playground for monkeys and squirrels.
The "White House", originally a modest villager’s home, contains two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The living space opens onto the pool terrace and a cantilevered, polished concrete dining pavilion.
Opposite is a two-level contemporary building nestled into the slope and trees. On each level is a generous suite with king size bed, sitting area and bathroom. The Lower Garden Suite has a small private terrace shaded by passionfruit vine with plunge pool and garden outlook. The Upper has a balcony overlooking Unawatuna bay. There is also a delightful roof terrace accessible to all guests via an external staircase which has a tree house feel and a stunning 270 degree view.
Our greatest asset is Team Unakanda. From first contact we endeavor to provide local information, assist with travel arrangements and accommodate individual needs. We have hosted honeymooners, birthdays, family Christmas gatherings and a rooftop wedding. Manoj, Chi and Sujeeva care for the property and have been delighting guests with gentle attention and beautiful food since 2015. Vegan no problem. Our aim and pleasure are to create an inspiring, relaxed and beautiful setting for visitors to enjoy their Sri Lankan adventure.
Guest Access
Guests are provided with keys and have exclusive use of the entire property except staff area and facilities. Our staff are not resident, but live nearby and will keep a discrete eye on things and can be contacted for help should anything urgent arise after hours.
Interaction with Guests
While we will not be present during your stay, we do leave you in the very capable hands of our fabulous team. They are available to prepare meals, clean, provide information and to help facilitate a wonderful stay. Breakfast is included with each booking, and the guys will be happy to prepare an additional meal each day for the cost of the ingredients. Please discuss your requirements with them - they are a wealth of local knowledge and contacts and will be more than happy to assist with suggestions and arrangements for activities.
The Neighborhood
Unakanda offers peace and tranquility just minutes away from Unawatuna Beach, the restaurants and havens of Thalpe, and historic Galle Fort. It is located above the beach amongst local village houses. Within less than 20 mins of travelling you will find many casual and fine dining options, more beaches, turtle hatchery, antiques dealers, etc. We provide guests with a list of local eateries, attractions and other useful information.
Getting Around
Walk down the property, through the temple, over the road and you are on the beach. Local tuk-tuk will be able to take you to most of the places you might like to go. There is a bus and railway station at nearby Galle. Transit from Colombo International Airport to Unakanda takes between 2-3 hours depending on traffic. Airport pick -up and drop-off can be arranged.
Other Things to Note
Morrie is our resident dog. We ask that he is not permitted into the accommodation. If you prefer that Morrie is not onsite during your stay, he will be happy to have a sleepover at a friend's house.
