Seasons and Weather
Sri Lanka's seasons are typically broken down into wet and dry. Ranawara is located on the southern coast in a dry zone and tends to receive significantly less rainfall than the rest of the island. The main tourist seasons are during the finest weather, which runs from November through April, and during the drier months, which lasts from June to September. The calm December waters are most suitable for diving and snorkelling.
Sri Lanka is located 6 degrees above the equator, which means that we have 12 hours of sunshine every day. During this time we generally anticipate temperatures up to and in excess of 30C.
For the latest weather: https://www.accuweather.com/en/lk/sri-lanka-weather
Location
Ranawara is located 15km south of Tangalle. It is a four-hour drive from Columbo airport and 2 hours from Galle.
Please see the map for further details.
Transportation
We are happy to arrange your airport transfers and any other excursions that you would like to make during the course of your stay. Please advise us in advance should you require an airport transfer.
If you prefer to arrange your own transportation, please bear in mind that we do not offer accommodation for drivers at Ranawara, but are happy to arrange a room nearby for them.
Staff
We have a resident team of 18 staff including our General Manager, two chefs, and a retinue of service, room and garden personnel.
Cuisine
Sri Lankan cuisine remains relatively undiscovered. Meals are based around rice, curry and breads, and are accompanied by sambols (side dishes). While Sri Lankan cuisine tends to be spicy, the chili heat can be tempered to suit the individual palates of our guests.
We pride ourselves on the locally sourced ingredients that are expertly prepared by our resident chefs. Where possible we use vegetables from our own garden and fresh fish from the local harbour.
Our chefs are equally comfortable preparing a range of contemporary international cuisines.
Vegetarian meals and other special dietary requirements can be accommodated on request. Please let us know at the time of booking.
Children
Children of all ages are welcome at Ranawara. Cots can be provided on request.
Please advise at the time of booking so that preparations can be made in advance.
Swimming in the ocean
We strongly advise guests not to swim out into the ocean at any time of year due to the strong currents. For those who wish to swim in the ocean, we recommend visiting the nearby bays in Tangalle.
Laundry
Personal laundry can be arranged upon request.
We are located within the dry zone of Sri Lanka where water conservation is of the utmost importance. With this in mind, we change bed linen and towels every third day. Should you require fresh towels or linen more frequently, please do not hesitate to ask.
Air conditioning
Air conditioning is available within all of the bedrooms and throughout the villa.
Spa
Our massage pavilion is located next to the coconut grove. Guests can enjoy a range of treatments to the sound of the lapping waves of the Indian Ocean.
Spa treatments are also available within the privacy of your own suite.
Security
We have 24-hour security at Ranawara.
Gratuity
Additional gratuity is not required. There is a 10% service charge which is distributed to all of the staff.
TV
We have a home cinema with a wide selection of DVDs and games consoles.
Deposits and Payment
A 50% deposit is required upon booking, with the balance to be paid 1 month in advance.
Local restaurants
We have a list of recommended restaurants and hotels for any guest who might wish to explore further. We are happy to arrange reservations and transportation.
Visas
All visitors, except those from Singapore or the Maldives, require a visa for entry into Sri Lanka. Visas can be obtained online at www.eta.gov.lk or on arrival.
Language
Sri Lanka has two national languages, Sinhala and Tamil. Most locals speak English, particularly in tourist areas.
Cultural Sensitivity
Please be aware that this predominately Buddhist country is conservative by western standards. Legs, shoulders and upper arms need to be covered when visiting places of worship.
Sri Lanka is approximately 70% Buddhist, 12.6% Hindu, 9.7% Muslim and 7.6% Christian.
Currency
The national currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). USD, GBP, EUR as well as traveller's cheques are easily exchangeable in the bank branches located in both Tangalle and Ambalanthota.
Calls
International dialing code: +94
Electricity
220-240 V
Plugs
Sri Lanka uses the standard British three-pin rectangular plugs.