Graceful Seclusion on the Shores of Bentota
Kirana, meaning ‘ray of light’ was conceptualised as a tropically modern retreat, set right on a secluded, pristine stretch of beach on the southwestern coast of Bentota with wide-open ocean views. Step inside a peaceful, luxurious retreat that will help you instantly relax. Take in the tranquillity of the light and airy sophistication of Kirana to help you forget the stressors of everyday life, and embrace the kind of peace that will stay with you long after you leave.
Renowned architect Channa Daswatte came on board to design a villa that celebrates soothing open spaces. The two-year building process was a labour of love, with the focus being on open-plan living,g which took full advantage of the spectacular views of the extensive gardens and ocean, light and airy bedrooms with sophisticated bathrooms, and a large infinity pool perfect for lounging.
Soak in the sunshine in the lush tropics of Sri Lanka from the comfort of architecturally designed suites at Kirana – A Santani Villa.
The serene beauty of this paradise is perfectly suited to slowing it down, and the suites are no different. Spacious, soothing spaces that let you relax, revive and reset. The Master Suite and Garden Suite have king-size beds, while the Family Suite has two rooms, one with a king-size bed and one with twin beds.
Suite Amenities
Dining
Dining at Kirana is an experience unto itself. Taking from the iconic Santani concept of intelligent eating, the meals are based on the Ayurveda philosophy of ‘Rasa Haya’, meaning six tastes. This unique concept is centred on taste-based nutrition and ensures your body receives nutrition based on its needs, bringing your body into a perfect state of balance.
The menus also focus on the freshest of ingredients, and whether it is a spread of Sri Lankan food, varied tastes of Asia or contemporary international cuisine that you crave, the talented and friendly chef is always happy to curate a meal that takes you on an adventure in our open-plan dining area.
The signature dining experience allows guests to indulge in a delectable BBQ right on the Bentota beach, where all you can hear are the crashing waves, and all you can see is the starry night sky.
Excursions
Bentota is a slow-paced beach town but it has plenty to do should you wish. The area has some exciting adventures, from UNESCO World Heritage Sites to whale watching, and temple visits to exploring the local market with the chef for a lesson in Sri Lankan cuisine.
The chef will be happy to take you to the local seafood and vegetable markets to purchase ingredients and cook some simple, easy-to-replicate, Sri Lankan cuisine with you.
A turtle hatchery where visitors can learn about the project to rescue and protect turtle eggs, view different species of turtles kept there for research purposes, and release baby turtles into the sea, is a short walk along the beach.
A wide range of water sports, including canoeing, jet skiing, banana boats, parasailing and windsurfing is within easy reach of the hotel.
The country estate of the father of ‘tropical modernism’ architect Geoffrey Bawa’s Lunuganga is described as an experience of almost overwhelming aesthetic pleasure, and remains Bawa’s most extravagant creation and testament.
The legendary home and garden of Bevis Bawa has played host to Sir Lawrence Olivier, Vivien Leigh, Agatha Christie, and many others. Established in 1929, the garden boasts five acres of magical and fantastical landscaped gardens.
A 12th-century Buddhist temple with some beautiful murals and a 2500-year-old dagoba.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this magnificent Dutch Fort is described as a treasure trove of colonial grandeur, entertainment, and great culinary experiences. A lovely day or half-day trip from the villa.
Between the months of November to April, the waters of Mirissa become a playground for a myriad of whale and dolphin species. Some of the most spotted include blue whales, sperm whales, killer whales, Bryde whales, short-finned whales, bottlenose dolphins and striped dolphins. An ideal half-day trip for the early risers among you.
Richmond Castle is an Edwardian mansion, located near Kalutara. Built between 1900 and 1910, it was formerly the country seat of Mudaliyar Don Arthur de Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardena.
Map and travel information
Monday – Friday: 9am – 5:30pm
Saturday: 10am – 4:00pm
1 Market Place Mews, Gardiner Place,
Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 2AH