Amba Yaalu Kandalama: Sri Lanka’s First Women-Led Hotel Redefines Hospitality

Thema Collection has once again raised the bar in Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry with the opening of Amba Yaalu Kandalama, a groundbreaking resort nestled within a serene mango plantation on the banks of Kandalama Lake. This innovative property, the first hotel in Sri Lanka to be entirely operated and managed by women, represents a bold step forward in addressing gender disparities within the industry while offering an unparalleled guest experience.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sleeping Soldier Mountain, Amba Yaalu Kandalama is inspired by the beloved Sri Lankan novel Amba Yaluwo (Mango Friends) and the golden age of Sri Lankan cinema. Its design blends cultural heritage with modern luxury, creating a tranquil retreat that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. With a palette of greens and blues reflecting the surrounding landscape, the resort’s architecture establishes a seamless connection to nature, offering a serene escape for travelers.

The 33-room property combines elegance and local charm, with panoramic views of the Kandalama Lake, the lush mango garden with 457 TJC mango trees, and the majestic Sleeping Soldier Mountain. Each room immerses guests in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage through thoughtful design. The resort’s dining options include a Main Restaurant featuring diverse flavors, a dedicated Vegan Restaurant, and the signature Yaka Bar, which serves cocktails infused with Sri Lankan ingredients. Guests can also unwind with Ayurvedic treatments at the Ayurvie Spa, yoga sessions on a scenic terrace, or a swim in the infinity pool overlooking the picturesque surroundings.

Adventure seekers can indulge in curated experiences such as boat rides on the tranquil Kandalama Lake, birdwatching, E-bike rides, hot air ballooning, and village walks, all of which showcase the local culture and natural beauty. Sustainability is at the heart of Amba Yaalu Kandalama, with its TJC Mango Farm educating visitors on sustainable farming practices and biodiversity conservation. Additionally, the resort has embraced renewable energy with 157 solar panels generating 140.40 kW of power, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.

The resort’s all-women leadership and operational model underscore its commitment to empowerment and inclusivity, marking a pivotal moment for Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry. By creating opportunities for women in a traditionally male-dominated sector, Amba Yaalu Kandalama exemplifies the potential for meaningful change within the industry.

Amba Yaalu Kandalama is the latest addition to the Thema Collection, a family-owned portfolio of boutique hotels, resorts, and retreats that highlight Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage and biodiversity. The collection includes renowned properties such as Aliya Resort & Spa in Sigiriya, Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa in Pasikuda, and Wild Glamping Gal Oya, among others, all designed to provide unique, sustainable experiences.