About 90 minutes drive from Sri Lanka’s second largest city and cultural capital, Kandy, is the newly renovated The Deer Park Hotel at Polonnaruwa. The property is a charming cottage-style, jungle resort, represents Banyan Tree’s Colours of Angsana brand debut in Sri Lanka. The Colours of Angsana brand is not as luxurious as Banyan Tree but offers more in terms of culture and wildlife. It is just 40 minutes away from Minneriya National Park, which is well-known for its elephant safaris, and most guests visit on more adventure-style holidays.
The Angsana Spa at The Deer Park Hotel is designed with typical Angsana vibrancy of colour and features recognized Angsana treatments with an Ayurvedic twist. Set in an ancient pilgrimage site on the western fringes of the cultural triangle 2 hours from Kandy, one place that continues to win international spa accolades is Ulpotha. With accommodation in mud-style huts and no electricity, hot water, doors or locks, the place is not for everyone, but those seeking peace and tranquility tend to become hooked. Guest numbers are restricted to a maximum of 20 at any one time. Well-known masseurs and yogis visit from all corners of the globe to run workshops here in the lush and spiritual countryside, but there is no pressure to join classes.

WEST COAST
About 35km north of Colombo and 30 minutes from its international airport is the west coast. This coastal town is the country’s main fishing centre and fishermen can be seen taking their oruwas (outrigger canoes) out at dawn each day in search of the catch that has made this coastline famous.
The famous resort here is the Ayurveda Pavillions. The emphasis at Ayurveda Pavilions is on local cuisine, primarily vegetarian foods (fish is allowed) and herbal teas that alternate daily, including Polpala (for kidney health), Neeramulliya (to fight arthritis) and Beli (for intestinal health). Coffee and alcohol are allowed, but in moderation.

Sri Lanka will surprise you with its vivid culture, friendly people and relaxing ayurveda treats. You definitely be witnessing a surprising feeling of natural calm here with plenty of areas to enjoy the aroma of fresh flowers and oils, and garden to relax in after treatments with juices and home herbal teas.
Sri Lanka has long, varied and colourful history offerings today and they are as plentiful as they are diverse. It has seduced culture both from the West, and holds a fascination that is unique. Its people, spectacular scenery, indigenous resources and natural beauty make it a great destination.