Hotel Story

Perched atop a breathtaking hilltop overlooking Sri Lankan jungle, Tekanda Lodge commands spectacular 360° views across its ten-acre private estate. From Koggala Lake stretching westward to distant glimpses of the Indian Ocean, this extraordinary retreat offers jungle tranquility just minutes from pristine beaches. The six-bedroom lodge, crafted from sustainable wood, natural stone, and traditional Sri Lankan iluk, features an emerald infinity pool that seems to float above the canopy.

What sets Tekanda apart is founders Richard and Charlotte Pembroke’s visionary three-pillar approach to regenerative tourism. Since transforming this former tea estate in 2016, they’ve created something remarkable: a luxury lodge that actively improves its environment and community. Their Tekanda Foundation operates ‘Gamata Athak’ – meaning ‘a hand to the village’ – providing free education and vocational training to over 350 local women and children weekly. Meanwhile, their organic estate flourishes as a blend of biodiverse rainforest, traditional agriculture, and botanical gardens showcasing Sri Lanka’s most precious flora.

Solar-powered and built with natural materials, Tekanda sources all food locally and employs exclusively local staff. The estate’s thousand carefully selected plants support ecosystem biodiversity while their kitchen gardens supply ingredients for exceptional curries featuring the coast’s abundant seafood. From guided estate tours through organic gardens to moonlit swims among fireflies, Tekanda offers intimate encounters with Sri Lanka’s natural wonders while creating meaningful impact for local communities.