Luxury holidays in Koslanda

The Uda Walawe nature reserve is home to over 600 Sri Lankan elephants and a number of different species of water birds, with the largest supply of water and fodder in the area. Keep an eye out for these wandering beauties – ancient elephant trails have been maintained to allow the animals to move between the plains and the hills during the drier mid-year months. Their trail occupies a part of Devianga Kale, a sprawling forest that covers seven hills. A walk to the waterfall and south-flowing river is the key attraction, but the exotic flora and fauna will compete for your attention. Monkeys and giant squirrels join the elephants in occupying the area, and jackfruit trees are dotted throughout the greenery. Relax at the Forest Ambalamba by the waterfall, a hut built for resting after a swim. Just five kilometres east of the village are the Diyaluma Falls, Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall. The cascading waters drop 220m to a pool below; enjoy the view with a picnic lunch by the bottom.

When to go

Koslanda sits between the high hills of Bandarawela and the low country of Wellawaya, so it is perfectly placed for fresh mornings, warm days and slightly cooler evenings all year round. Monsoon season is between May and August, but this shouldn’t deter you; the waterfalls and forest are most luscious at this time.

Getting there

  • Planes

    Koslanda is five hours away from Colombo's international airport (http://www.airport.lk/), serviced by 23 airlines, with connections to major flight hubs, including Singapore, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur.
  • Trains

    The closest train station is Haputale, a 45-minute drive from Koslanda (a nine-hour journey from Colombo).
  • Automobiles

    The secluded location of the village will make it nigh impossible to find. Pair that with the uneven roads and lack of signage and you’ve got a recipe for disaster. Opt for a private driver to get you there.