Let the frangipani trees sway and take you back to a bygone era of vintage luxury
Location: Bethany 101 is a heritage house on the shores of Puttalam, about 25 minutes from Wilpattu National Park and half an hour from Kalpitiya. Built more than 170 years ago, it offers a serene retreat in the heart of Sri Lanka’s North-West, surrounded by gardens and a peaceful lagoon landscape.
Rooms: The property features just six individually styled rooms, creating the feel of a private home rather than a hotel. Dark wood furnishings, high ceilings, and a wraparound veranda give a sense of old Ceylon charm, while modern comforts such as plush beds ensure a restful stay.
Amenities: Guests are welcomed with warm, personalised service, making stays at Bethany 101 feel more like a family home than a resort. The in-house dining focuses on fresh, local produce with menus blending traditional Sri Lankan flavours and international influences. Much of the seafood is sourced straight from Puttalam Lagoon, while fruit and vegetables are bought from nearby villages and towns.
Activities: Its location makes Bethany 101 a perfect base for exploration. Guests can take short drives to Wilpattu National Park, famed for leopards, elephants, and birdlife, or head to Kalpitiya for dolphin and whale watching. Closer to home, Puttalam Lagoon offers kayaking, boat rides, and spectacular sunsets.
Sustainability: Bethany 101 takes pride in sourcing food locally and supporting neighbouring communities. By drawing on nearby suppliers and fishermen, the retreat reduces its footprint while maintaining an authentic connection with the region’s culture and traditions.
Let me help you create your perfect Sri Lanka holiday
Best places to stay in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka Trip Inspiration
When to visit Sri Lanka
Find out the best time to visit Sri Lanka with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is the perfect time to visit different regions in Sri Lanka, temperatures will be warm and basking in sunshine, meaning the cultural triangle, beaches, national parks and hill country could all be visited during January. However, the central hills will be cooler than other regions due to their altitude.
February
February is much like January, with long sunny days and calm seas. Visitors travelling during this month have a higher chance of spotting sperm and blue whales.
March
March is considered the best time to visit the central hills, although cooler than other regions in Sri Lanka there is less chance of rains in March.
April
Typically April, is the hottest and driest month of the year, with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees if you're travelling to Golden Triangle regions. It is a great month to head to Sri Lanka's beautiful beaches, with clear skies and long sunny days.
- Top Tip: when sightseeing visit in the mornings and evenings as you will avoid the hottest part of the day.
May
In May, the south is humid and increasingly hot whilst hill country is cooler with a higher chance of rainfall. We recommend travelling to the North and east of the island during May witnessing the unique history and culture of Sri Lanka.
- Vesak Poya, takes place during the first full moon, celebrating the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha.
June
During June, temperatures in the south continue to be increasingly hot and humid as the southwest monsoon blows through the country. Southern regions will experience short sharp showers which tend to pass quite quickly.
July
As the summer holidays commence in July, Sri Lanka is in peak season, with temperatures staying around 30 degrees all month. If you're looking to explore Sri Lanka and visit different areas July is a great time to visit.
August
In August, the warm days continue with temperatures remaining in the high twenties. All in all it is a great month to travel especially if you want to witness culture, between August and September the Kandy Perahera festival takes place, a grand procession celebrating the 'sacred tooth' of Buddha.
September
All in all September is a great month to travel especially if you want to witness culture, between August and September the Kandy Perahera festival takes place, a grand procession celebrating the 'sacred tooth' of Buddha.
October
October brings with it the monsoon rains which affect the whole country, in saying this the weather remains warm and sunny. The monsoon can be unpredictable, rains can be heavy, sporadic or not come at all it is impossible to forecast.
November
In November the monsoon continues, with conditions affecting the whole country.
December
During December the monsoon rains can continue, however the southern and western coasts dry out and become warm and dry. The monsoon rains, means during December the landscapes become lush and full, meaning it is a beautiful time to explore the more rural areas of Sri Lanka.
Speak to a Sri Lanka expert today
and start planning your tailor-made holiday
Nia
