Jetwing Ayurveda Pavilions

Given that Ayurveda is in the property's name, it's no surprise that it's all about health and wellness here. Unlike some of the other area Jetwing properties, which are packed with sleek furnishings and ample amenities, the Ayurveda Pavilions is a more humble hotel that's showing its age throughout. Most guests are either overnight travelers that have either just arrived or are leaving Sri Lanka, or they're at the hotel specifically to use the available Ayurveda programs that are tailored to each individual. Lush grounds feature stone pathways with leaf imprints, a yoga pavilion, and a courtyard pool that has a peaceful atmosphere. Rooms are housed in stand-alone structures with cheerful yellow exteriors or three-story tan buildings with wooden accents and red-tile roofs. The simple open-air restaurant has a pitched wooden ceiling and adjacent brick-floored area with water features and colorful painted windows. Because of its location on a main road, occasionally street noise can be heard and may distract from the tranquil vibe. 

Jetwing Ayurveda Pavilions has a central location on a main road in Negombo, about a five-minute walk from the public beach. There are numerous restaurants, bars, and shops within easy walking distance, and tuk-tuks can be hailed right in front of the hotel. Several travelers choose to stay in Negombo after just arriving or before departing Sri Lanka, as it's close to the country's main airport. The Bandaranaike International Airport is a 25-minute drive away, and the hotel can arrange airport transportation for a fee. Colombo, the country's capital, is about an hour away by car.

The 36 units range from older (though gorgeous) pavilions to newer, more simplistic Standard and Classic Rooms. The 12 King and Queen Pavilions are ideal for guests taking part in a treatment program, as these stand-alone villas feature spacious private gardens equipped with massage tables, loungers under umbrellas, and dining tables. Bedrooms have high wooden ceilings, wood furnishings, tile floors, and beds with quality linens, mosquito nets, and locally inspired patterned bed runners. These air-conditioned units have indoor/outdoor bathrooms that include showers and separate bathtubs, hairdryers, and a range of toiletries. Also provided are big flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, tea- and coffee-making facilities, mini-fridges, and two glass water bottles, as well as bathrobes, sandals, and safes. While the pavilions show visible wear and tear throughout, they're charming and provide lots of privacy.The 16 Classic Rooms and eight Standard Rooms are contemporary, decked out in wood furnishings, neutral-tone linens, and hand-painted cabinets with Sri Lanka-inspired detailing. These rooms have small seating areas, large windows that overlook the grounds, and small balconies or patios. Though they have kettles, glass water bottles, and safes, they lack tea, coffee, and TVs. Standard Rooms are on the top level and don't have air-conditioning. Bathrooms feature walk-in glass showers and toiletries, plus bathrobes and sandals are provided. Note that past guests complain of rooms having more mosquitos than most area hotels.

The highlight of the hotel is without a doubt the Ayurveda treatment programs that are personalized by an on-site doctor. Retreats and programs range from those for weight loss or specific ailments to yoga getaways or beauty-focused. Though many guests choose to obtain treatments in their villa, a spa is available for various Ayurveda massages or hot oil therapy. However, the spa's treatment rooms are bare-bones and only separated by a curtain. Most mornings also have free yoga or meditation, but there's no gym. An outdoor pool is located in the courtyard, surrounded by a handful of loungers, plants, and a furnished gazebo. Next to this is the open-air Herb and Spice restaurant, which offers a la carte meals all day. The well-reviewed eatery serves both healthy eats and local dishes, plus guests on retreat can receive a personalized meal plan. Room service is available from morning until late. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.