That is how Manik Sandrasagra described this land when he set out, more than thirty years ago, to create an oasis here.
The visionary
Manik Sandrasagra
A Sri Lankan film director and cultural visionary, Manik was a pioneer in preserving the island’s traditions and biodiversity.
His dream was to introduce truly sustainable tourism to Sri Lanka — a place where guests could live, for a while, in harmony with the forest and with the heritage of the island.
The making
Built by hand, guided by the stars
Designed by acclaimed architect Channa Daswatte, Koslanda follows traditional Sri Lankan architecture and astrology.
Local craftsmen were hired, and some traditional building methods had to be relearnt and revived to bring it to life. Four years after Manik’s death, the dream was completed by his wife, Lucy, in 2012.
Today
A living heritage
Today Koslanda remains exactly what it was meant to be: a harmonious, peaceful retreat where you can relax, recharge and reconnect.
