Hotel Yala Village is situated in Kirinda, Sri Lanka (in the deep south of Sri Lanka), bordered by the Yala Wildlife Sanctuary, which is about 280km away from Colombo International Airport. It takes about 5 to 6 hours to drive via Ratnapura. Yala Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Sri Lanka’s best preserved areas, shelter for hundreds of elephants, crocodiles, wild boars, peacocks, about 56 species of birds, 12 species of mammals, 20 species of butterflies, 15 species of reptiles, etc.
Hotel Yala Village is a tranquil location spread over 10 acres of vegetation scattered with 61 chalets. Each chalet is unique in design with animal inspired themes in décor, ensuring that each guest enjoys the untamed beauty of nature while allowing you the luxury of relaxation in absolute privacy. Wild elephants, wild boars, peacocks, spotted deer, and many species of birds can commonly be seen in the hotel park. All the chalets are air conditioned and include a private verandah, satellite TV, well stocked mini bar, telephone/IDD, and hot and cold water. Chalets are categorized as Fisherman’s, Beach, Round, Stilt, Traditional Village, and Tarzan Suite, ranging from US$165 to US$415 on full board basis.
The Observation Desk is a very attractive place in the hotel which allows the guests to have a panoramic view of the vastness while the picturesque swimming pool provides an invigorating swim with a spectacular pool bar serving up delightful concoctions. Eastern and Western cuisine can be enjoyed at the hotel restaurant with à la carte and table d’hote menus. Also, the hotel enriches with a naturalist (Mr. Dilan Peiris) who has a sound knowledge about Sri Lankan birds, animals, reptiles, mammals, and nature.
Some of the very attractive features of the Hotel Yala Village are:
• Bird trails (Bundala Sanctuary & inside the hotel park)
• Adventure safaris—Yala Wildlife Sanctuary
• Cultural visits—Kataragama, Thissamaharamaya, Sithulapawwa, etc.
• Nature walk with the naturalist
• Airport pickups
• Participation in Sri Lankan cookery workshops on request
Safety Tips
Remember you stay in a part of the jungle so wild animals are freely roaming through the hotel park. Always seek the assistance of the hotel staff while you walk in the evening and at night because meeting a wild elephant is a common incident in this hotel. Also please refrain from giving food to the wild animals and remember not to leave any fruits in your vehicle.
Telephone: 0094112320862,0094112439049-51 0094472239450
Reservations: htlres@keells.com
Website: www.johnkeellshotels.com
From journal A Blend of Untamed Beauty of Nature & Adventure