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Your Sri Lankan Sanctuary

At Arana by Forest Trails we marry idyllic jungle surroundings with architecture that harmonises within it. Whether heading out on safari or enjoying a bush dinner, experiences are the cornerstone of what we do, and we’re dedicated to offering you memories that will last a lifetime. Arana means ‘wilderness’ in Sinhala and we embody the spirit of it.

EXPLORE OUR HOTEL

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Yala’s Captivating History and Culture

Awaits Uncovering

Nestled in Sri Lanka’s Southeast corner, Yala is blessed with rich biodiversity. The 1,200 square kilometre region combines ancient history and compelling culture wrapped up in spellbinding scenery. Explore remnants of lost civilizations and immerse yourself in its profoundly holy past.

A Land of Ancient Mysteries

A deeply spiritual land, Yala once belonged to the Kingdom of Ruhuna. From the ancient Buddhist rock temple, Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya to Kiri Vehera, where Buddha first visited Sri Lanka, the region is a treasure trove of ancient mystical sites and intriguing artefacts.

Write Your Own Adventure

From diving to submerged wrecks in Kirinda to leopard-spotting on safari, we offer uniquely-tailored experiences on land and sea that will catapult you to the heart of Sri Lanka.

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ATTRACTIONS

What to see, do and explore in and around Yala

Towns

Just a few moments’ drive from Arana by Forest Trails, the charming coastal town of Kirinda features a scenic beach, overlooked by the iconic Kirinda Temple. Ramshackle buildings and quaint shops invite exploration. Meanwhile, 9km north of the hotel, the lakeside town Tissa offers an abundance of history from the gleaming white Tissa Dagoba dating to 200BC to the Tissa Wewa reservoir built by King Kavantissa.

Yala National Park

Sri Lanka’s most visited national park, Yala National Park is a vast protected landscape, rich with rolling pains, tangled jungles and deep lagoons. This unique biosphere is home to Sri Lankan elephants, leopards, buffalos and over 130 species of bird. Head out on safari to see them all up close.

Temples

Follow in the footsteps of the ancients at the region’s many Buddhist temples. Sitting atop a rocky outcrop, Kirinda Temple offers magnificent views. A popular pilgrimage site, Kataragamais a temple complex dedicated to Buddhist guardian deity Kataragama deviyo. Dating back to 2BC, Sithulpawwa is a sprawling Buddhist monastery with 2,000-year-old cave paintings.

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USEFUL INFO

SEASONS

ID REQUIREMENTS

CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT

Check-in time 14:00 (02:00 pm) and Check-out time 12:00 (noon)

Its sunny most of the year with rainfall at its peak from September to December, during the North-East monsoon season.

A valid passport or national identification is required at check-in.

BIRDS & INSECTS

CURRENCY

WEATHER

Local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee. We welcome billings in United States Dollars. We do not exchange Sri Lankan Rupees to any other currency, however on request you may exchange any foreign currency to Sri Lankan Rupees.

Sri Lanka has a pleasant tropical climate. The environment in Yala is hot and semi-arid despite its lush, green landscape with temperatures ranging from 26 °C to 32 °C

As our property is in close proximity to the many national park insects and birds are a common sight at the hotel. We advise all guests with phobias to keep the door closed.

ELECTRICITY

INTERNET

LANGUAGE

Please note that only English and Sinhala are the only two languages spoken at the hotel.

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in all guest rooms and public spaces.

Electricity is supplied at 240 Volts. Universal wall sockets are available in all of the rooms.

YOUR JUNGLE ESCAPE STARTS WITH US

Discover Arana by Forest Trails