Hotel with heart in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle

Bite-sized trip

Itinerary:
Kandalama
Duration:
3 days / 2 nights (flexible)
Price:
From £ 289.- per person (excluding flights)
Highlights:
✓Stay in Sri Lanka's first women-run hotel
✓Take some time out of a busy itinerary to pause

Sleep somewhere truly special —Sri Lanka’s first hotel run entirely by women. Set on a peaceful mango plantation near Sigiriya, this lakeside hideaway combines scenic views with a real sense of purpose. Join a sunrise yoga session, explore local villages by e-bike, or just relax by the infinity pool. It’s a stay that means something.

Day 1 – Travel to Kandalama, via the Dambulla Caves

Today you’ll journey into the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, stopping along the way to explore the cave temples of Dambulla. Inside the caves you’ll discover colourful murals and centuries-old statues tucked into the rock. From here, you’ll travel on to Kandalama: a peaceful spot surrounded by jungle and lake views.

A trailblazing women-run hotel

You’ll spend the next two nights at Amba Yaalu—a truly unique hotel that’s run entirely by women. It’s the first of its kind in Sri Lanka and offers more than just a place to sleep – there’s a real focus on community, equality, empowerment, and warm, welcoming hospitality. Set on a mango plantation, with views over the Kandalama Reservoir and mountains beyond, it’s a peaceful spot to slow the pace. There’s an infinity pool, spacious rooms with a fresh modern feel, and plenty of space to unwind.

Day 2 – Explore & relax

This morning, you may want to take part in the hotel’s sunrise yoga session. After breakfast you’ll head out with your driver to climb the iconic Lion Rock in nearby Sigiriya—bring your walking shoes for the stairs, and your camera for the views.

Back at the hotel, you can join a local cooking class, or if you’re feeling active, hop on an e-bike to explore nearby villages. You can make your stay as active or relaxed as you like. Your Travel Specialist can talk you through the options available.

Day 3 – Depart Kandalama

Enjoy a final sunrise yoga session, a dip in the pool and a delicious breakfast before continuing your journey. If you’d like to stay longer, just ask your Travel Specialist to include another night into your travel plan