Karpaha Sands

Introduction

Karpaha Sands is a luxury boutique development with a glamping feel on the pristine Kalkudah beach, an otherwise untouched location just south of Pasikudah Bay on Sri Lanka's east coast. With a name derived from ‘"Karpaha Veruksham" which translates to ‘’celestial tree’’ (referring to the palmyrah tree),this quiet hideaway sits on a 12-acre site and has a quite isolated feel. It oozes contemporary architecture and is very much centred on art and design. From the interesting little pieces you would find scattered throughout the lounge and dining area to the larger pieces of art placed in the library, this boutique hotel will hold your awe throughout your stay.

Accommodation

Karpaha Sands is made of 17 luxurious and utterly spacious tented-style accommodation, all originating from South Africa. Spread across the property, each earthy-toned suite is air-conditioned and furnished with a sofa, mini-fridge, mini-safe, bluetooth speaker, TV and a ceiling fan. There is an indoor bathroom with a bathtub as well as an outdoor shower. The comfortable four-poster bed ensures a good night’s rest and the private terrace in each suite ensures you have plenty of space to rest and relax. Each suite is Wi-Fi enabled.

Kolaya Suite: Each of the six Kolaya Suites, named after the Sinhala word for ‘leaf’ is set in a sizeable garden and is great for couples seeking their private space.

Palam Suite: All nine sea-facing Palam Suites are named after the Tamil word for ‘fruit’ and allows one to enjoy the beautiful views of the Indian Ocean across the palm trees right from the outdoor sitting space. One extra bed and a cot can be added to these suites and there is one Palam suite designed for those with reduced mobility and wheelchairs.

Seed Suite: Each of the two Seed Suites are designed with comfort for families and travelling friends in mind. With one substantial living room and two equally delightful bedrooms on either side, the Seed Suite is a perfect retreat for even a larger family. Each bedroom has its own bathroom with a bathtub and outdoor shower. Each Seed Suite has its own private garden, allowing younger children plenty of space to run around.

Facilities

Karpaha Sands is a gem of a place for those seeking a quiet beach getaway. Go for a dip in the sea or in the magnificent infinity pool which also has an area for the children. Adjoining the pool, there is also an open bar with plenty of lounge space with a couple of swings as well. The library just next to the dining space on the upper level is equipped with board games, TV, selection of books and more than just a few pieces of interesting art.

The open-air dining space offers beautiful views of the Kalkudah Bay and perfectly complements the delicious dishes that the Karpaha Sands kitchen whips up. Enjoy a wide variety of mouth-watering cuisines including Tamil and Sinhala flavours, sometimes with a touch of French flair. Fresh seafood and local produce take centre stage and you are free to enjoy your meals either on your private terrace or on the beach by request. Karpaha Sands can also arrange cooking classes with prior notice.

Why we like it

There is a cool arty vibe in this contemporary glamping experience on Kalkudah Bay.

Location

A seven hour journey from Colombo, but a mere one-and-a-half hours from Polonnaruwa, Karpaha Sands is a perfect beach stop on Sri Lanka's east coast after the cultural triangle visit.