From hills to lagoons

From the misty highlands of Kandy to the calm waters of Negombo, our journey across Sri Lanka's finest Jetwing properties was a celebration of nature, wellness, and food.

- By Vinodini Rao

The moment we landed at Bandaranaike International Airport, we felt a certain calm - like the island had already begun its magic.

The drive from Colombo to Kandy - via one of the most mesmerising Expressways - was, in one word, 'amazing'. As we passed through lush tea plantations and rolling green hills, each turn revealed postcard-perfect views, making the three-and-a-half-hour trip feel more like a moving meditation than a road trip.

By evening, we arrived at Jetwing Kandy Gallery, located in the heart of the Kandyan Hills, with the mighty Mahaweli River flowing gently alongside. We were met with warm welcomes: Traditional music filled the air, soft diyas flickered warmly, and smiling staff in eclectic Sri Lankan attire offered us cool, soothing drinks. It was our first taste of Jetwing's hospitality – and it felt almost familial.

We were soon greeted by General Manager Upul Leukubandara, a highly respected leader at Jetwing, whose warmth set the tone for our entire stay. And shortly escorted to our Gallery Suite – a quiet and elegant abode with a private Jacuzzi on the balcony, calming views of the river, and interiors that balanced modern comfort with some traditional touches. It was a space that invited deep breaths without us even realizing it.

What made it even more special was having a dedicated personal butler available around the clock – a service that made us feel completely cared for. With only 26 rooms and suites, each one more stunning than the other, the property felt both intimate and luxurious, with views of hills and water all around, always providing a sense of peace.

The Spirit of Kandy