The very best boutique hotels in Sri Lanka offer a deep connection to the nation’s culture and stunning scenery. We recently sat down with Nath Rankothge, Founder of Aarunya, a nature resort in Kandy that is not only beautifully designed but pushing the boundaries of what good hospitality means.

An interview with Nath Rankothge, Founder of Aarunya

Hi, Nath. Thanks for chatting with us. Tell us a little about your background and how Aarunya Resort came to be?

I was born in Sri Lanka but grew up in Sydney, where my parents, both migrants, pursued their PhDs. My background as an architect laid the foundation for Aarunya, but it was also my father, Lal Rankothge’s encouragement to reconnect with our roots and contribute to our motherland that inspired this journey.

Returning to Sri Lanka to create Aarunya was a deeply personal project, driven by a vision to offer a serene retreat where guests could immerse themselves in the island’s natural beauty while enjoying world-class hospitality.

Aarunya is a reflection of my professional expertise and my deep connection to Sri Lanka’s rich culture and landscapes. We’ve embraced a design-build-own-operate model, which, while challenging, has allowed us to retain creative control and continually reinvest in the resort since its opening in 2018. This approach has enabled me to explore and innovate across various disciplines, including architecture, hospitality, and cuisine.

My father, who also returned to Sri Lanka to be part of this venture, plays a pivotal role as our Managing Director, allowing me to focus on design, development, and curating guest experiences. I must also mention the invaluable support of my uncle, K R G Wijesundara, whose partnership was instrumental in enabling us to return to Sri Lanka after all those years.

What makes the location of the resort so special?

 

Aarunya is nestled atop a nine-acre estate, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the UNESCO Natural World Heritage-listed Knuckles Mountain Range. This exceptional setting provides a serene retreat that feels both secluded and deeply connected to nature.

Our development process was rooted in collaboration with local craftsmen, builders, and suppliers, ensuring that the resort harmoniously integrates local materials and experiences into its daily operations. Guests can fully immerse themselves in the vibrant village life through a variety of curated activities, such as guided nature walks led by our knowledgeable naturalist and butlers, culinary classes showcasing authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, rejuvenating wellness retreats inspired by the surrounding natural beauty, and participating in traditional blessings or poojas at the nearby Buddhist temple.

What considerations were made around creating the architecture and design for the hotel?

Aarunya interior of guestroom

Aarunya’s architecture blends contemporary luxury with traditional Sri Lankan aesthetics, aiming to create a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors. We used natural materials and sustainable practices, engaging local craftsmen and builders, training them over the years to meet our standards.

The villas are designed as minimalist pavilions, inspired by the traditional ambalamas (rest pavilions) found in Sri Lankan villages, particularly the religious and cultural landmarks of the Kandyan region. Our latest addition, the Sol Sanctuary Villa, is a testament to this blend, offering a spiritual space that harmonizes with nature and cosmic energy through a novel design that we have just completed, and feel will take us to the next level in the development journey of Aarunya.

What do you want guests to feel when they check-in for a stay at the resort?

Aarunya team

Our goal is for guests to feel a profound sense of peace and rejuvenation, as though they have arrived at a home away from home. From the moment they step onto the property, we want them to feel genuinely cared for, surrounded by an environment that nurtures both the body and soul.

Our personalised service ensures that each guest’s experience is distinctive and transformative, tailored to their individual needs and desires. Additionally, we take great pride in showcasing the authenticity of Sri Lankan Kandyan hospitality, renowned for its warmth, sincerity, and genuine care, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed and valued throughout their stay.

How has sustainability and a connection to the local community factored into the hotel’s ethos?

Sustainability is central to Aarunya’s operations. We minimise environmental impact through eco-friendly practices and support the local community by sourcing ingredients from local farmers, employing staff from Kandy, and participating in cultural and conservation initiatives.

Our Aarunya Nature Foundation empowers local villagers, supports underprivileged children, and engages in environmental conservation efforts. We’re also working towards becoming Sri Lanka’s first fully biodynamic property, enhancing soil health, productivity, and biodiversity through holistic, organic farming methods through engaging expert consultants.

Are there any changes coming to Aarunya in 2025?

aerial shot of Sol Sanctuary Aarunya

We’re excited about the new Sol Sanctuary, a two-bedroom villa that is designed as a spiritual space that reconnects guests with nature, the cosmos and ‘universal energy’, to create a transformative experience that pushes our Nature Resort concept to another level.

Additionally, we are developing a Nature Research Centre from bamboo, where naturalists and sustainability consultants will conduct biodiversity research, offering university students opportunities for their projects.

Where are your favourite places to visit in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is like an onion with countless layers, each waiting to be peeled back to reveal its rich natural and cultural treasures. It offers a plethora of beautiful destinations, both well-known and hidden gems.

Some of my personal favorites include the Bambarakiri Ella waterfalls and the Aluwihare Rock Temple, both conveniently close to Aarunya. I also admire the historic Yapahuwa King’s Fortress and the island’s stunning beaches, which offer unparalleled beauty and tranquility.

Additionally, I have a deep appreciation for Sri Lanka’s colonial architecture, with the Galle Face Hotel in Colombo holding a special place in my heart. It’s a perfect spot for sunsets and a venue that carries personal significance, as it’s where my wife and I celebrated our wedding.

Can you tell us about any of your favourite hotel stays?

One memorable stay was at a family-run villa hotel on Lake Como. The serene mornings, swimming in the still waters of the lake, and the blend of luxury with local charm left a lasting impression. It’s authentic, charming, homely experiences like these that inspire the hospitality at Aarunya.

Do you prefer room service or restaurant dining when you’re staying at a hotel?

I prefer restaurant dining, as it allows me to experience the ambience, observe how people interact with the space, and engage with the staff and other guests. It’s a valuable experience, especially as a hotelier and architect.

Pool or spa?

I’d have to say spa. There’s something profoundly rejuvenating about indulging in a well-curated wellness treatment. It offers a perfect escape from the everyday hustle, allowing my mind to unwind, relax, and explore new ideas in a tranquil setting.

The spa experience helps me reconnect with myself, fostering both mental clarity and physical relaxation. This philosophy also inspired the design of Aarunya’s Spa, where we aim to create a sanctuary that harmonises the mind, body, and soul, providing guests with a transformative and serene experience.

And finally, do you have any travel tips you’d like to share with our readers?

Immerse yourself in the local culture and people, it’s the best way to truly experience a destination. Be open to spontaneous adventures; they often lead to the most memorable experiences.

Discover more about Aarunya or Book through Booking.com

But wait, there’s more…