Kanda House

Where the Monkeys Play...

There's something great about design that adapts to its environment with style and harmony. We like the simple contemporary interiors of these houses, paired with their graceful Sri Lankan beauty and island style. 

Located at the top of Unawatuna Kanda and overlooking the coastal jungle, a Buddhist temple and the beautiful Unawatuna beach, this cluster of dwellings is just outside of the historic town of Galle, with stunning views of the shore. Originally a local villagers' home, it has been creatively updated as a boutique retreat and wild natural sanctuary. The houses are situated at the top of over an acre of lush sloping land. The property is studded with mature palms and fruit trees where the monkeys play, and wraps around an old stone quarry, now full of water, turtles and marine life. 

The whole property accommodates up to 8 guests, but smaller units within in can be rented. Read about photographer Laura Austin's visit to Kanda House in our Journal here.

Beginning in 2013, the owners, along with a team of local tradesmen, set to work designing and building a jungle garden. Modifications were extensive to expand and open the space to the light and the views with a subtle modern update.

Dubbed the White House, the main structure includes two bedrooms, two baths and a cozy common area with design elements that combine a passion for contemporary ideas, local materials and skills, sustainability, functionality and a sense of delight.

With polished concrete and whitewashed interiors, the effect is simple island style furnished and decorated with both contemporary and traditional designs. There's both an outdoor kitchen and indoor kitchenette that can serve guests in the outside dining area with plenty of poolside lounging areas and breathtaking views out to sea. A charming and relaxing paradise all your own, this is a unique place in a peaceful and beautiful setting.

In addition to the White House, there is another building on the site that has two suites, each with one bedroom and one bathroom, sleeping two guests per suite. On top of both, there is a dramatic roof terrace with views across the treetops to the bay below.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Fully staffed for an authentic and discreet guest experience. Welcome kit with concierge and tour services. Breakfast included with optional additional meals of specialty and local dishes by private cook. Wifi throughout and local cell phone provided (useful for directions, transport, etc), TV, games and books. Housekeeping, laundry facilities and guest amenities. 24 hr. security and groundskeeping. Optional airport transfers and on site private parking.  

The White House has a private pool. When rented by different parties, the pool and terrace are for the private use of the White House guests. Suites each have their own outdoor areas and separate street access, so that privacy is maintained for all. The Lower Garden Suite has its own plunge pool.

AROUND

The property is a short tuk tuk ride to the famed UNESCO World Heritage listed Galle Fort and town, the most well preserved colonial city on the island as well as the popular beaches of Unawatuna and Thalpe, Wijaya and Midigama. Don't miss the low land White Tea plantations, Bawa’s Gardens near Bentota, and Yala National Park for leopard spotting. The capital of Colombo is approximately a two hour drive.   

LOCATION

Galle, Sri Lanka. Nearest airport: Colombo Airport (2 hrs)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring and Fall