The Notary’s House – Makandura, Sri Lanka

A Soulful Rural Retreat Where Heritage Meets Lakeside Serenity. Set within a lush six-acre coconut and mahogany estate, The Notary’s House is a masterfully restored family home that offers a peaceful escape from the modern world. Located in the quiet village of Makandura, roughly 45 minutes from Colombo International Airport, this boutique property was originally the residence of a well-respected local notary. Today, it stands as a six-bedroom sanctuary that perfectly balances the grand proportions of traditional Sri Lankan architecture with a clean, contemporary aesthetic. Overlooking a serene silty lake and surrounded by tropical gardens, it is an ideal “slow travel” destination for those beginning or ending their island adventure.

Earth Trip Opinion

The Notary’s House is one of those rare finds that feels genuinely like a “home away from home.” It avoids the clinical feel of many airport-adjacent hotels, replacing it with warm, personalized service and a deep sense of calm. We particularly love the layout; the high ceilings and open-plan living areas allow the breeze to flow through the house, keeping it naturally cool. The 14-metre infinity pool is a highlight, offering a front-row seat to the local birdlife and the occasional water buffalo wandering by the lake. It is a fantastic choice for travellers who want to swap the roar of engines for the rustle of palm fronds.

Sustainability & Responsible Tourism

The Notary’s House is committed to a low-impact philosophy that supports the local ecosystem and community:

• Agricultural Stewardship: The property remains a working estate, producing coconuts, mahogany, and a variety of fruits and vegetables used in the hotel’s kitchen.

• Community Employment: The majority of the staff are from the immediate Makandura area, and the hotel provides them with professional hospitality training and fair wages.

• Plastic Reduction: In line with modern eco-standards, the hotel has moved away from single-use plastics, providing filtered water in glass bottles and using bulk dispensers for guest amenities.

• Lakeside Preservation: The hotel maintains a natural buffer around the adjacent lake to protect the habitat of the numerous bird species, monitors, and small mammals that frequent the estate.

Recent Updates (2026)

• Culinary Experience: As of 2026, the hotel has introduced “Chef’s Garden Tours,” where guests can help pick spices and vegetables before participating in an informal Sri Lankan cooking demonstration.

• Wellness Expansion: A new dedicated yoga deck has been constructed by the lakeside, offering a tranquil space for morning sun salutations and meditation.

• Connectivity Improvements: While the focus remains on a “digital detox,” the hotel has upgraded its Wi-Fi to high-speed fibre-optic to support guests who may need to work remotely.

Facts at a Glance

• Location: Makandura, Gonawila (Approx. 45–50 minutes from Bandaranaike International Airport).

• Setting: A 6-acre private estate with a working coconut plantation and lake frontage.

• Accommodation: 6 individually styled bedrooms, each named after a different tree found on the estate.

• Dining: An open-air dining area serving a mix of traditional Sri Lankan curries and Western comfort food.

• Facilities: 14-metre infinity swimming pool, library, lounge area with board games, and complimentary bicycles.

Rooms & Accommodation

The six rooms are spacious and bright, featuring polished cement floors, high-quality linens, and private balconies or verandas.

• Upper Floor Rooms: These offer elevated views over the gardens and the lake, perfect for birdwatching in the early morning.

• Ground Floor Rooms: Provide direct access to the gardens and are just a few steps away from the swimming pool.

• Amenities: All rooms feature air-conditioning, ceiling fans, spacious en-suite bathrooms with rain showers, and electronic safes. To maintain the peaceful atmosphere, rooms do not have televisions.

Experiences

• Lakeside Relaxation: Spend an afternoon by the infinity pool, which overlooks the water and the surrounding tropical foliage.

• Village Cycling: Take one of the hotel’s bicycles and explore the quiet lanes of Makandura, visiting local temples and watching the rhythmic life of the village.

• Bird Watching: With over 40 species of birds recorded on the estate, it is a paradise for amateur and experienced birders alike.

• Cooking Demonstrations: Learn the secrets behind the hotel’s famous “Notary’s Curry” using fresh ingredients from the grounds.

FAQ

• Is it too far from the airport for a late arrival? No, the 45-minute drive is very manageable, and the hotel can arrange a reliable driver to meet you at any hour.

• Is it suitable for children? Yes, the spacious grounds and pool make it great for families, though it is primarily a quiet retreat.

• Can we visit for just a meal? The hotel prioritises the privacy of resident guests, so it is best to book in advance if you wish to visit for lunch or dinner.

• Is there a minimum stay? While one-night stays are common for airport transfers, we recommend two nights to truly soak in the rural atmosphere.