Unveiling Amba Yaalu Kandalama: Sri Lanka's Trailblazing Women-Led Retreat by Kandalama Lake

We are excited to introduce the latest addition to Thema Collection, Amba Yaalu Kandalama. Set to open doors in December 2024, this will be our 14th property and the second to launch this year. Nestled within a picturesque mango plantation featuring 457 TJC mango trees, this thematic resort sits serenely on the tranquil banks of Kandalama Reservoir, with breathtaking views of the Sleeping Soldier Mountains. Inspired by the novel Amba Yaluwo (Mango Friends) and the golden age of Sri Lankan cinema, this resort is imbued with a unique charm, offering guests a blend of cultural richness and modern comfort.

At Amba Yaalu Kandalama, nature and architecture exist in perfect harmony. Designed with a deep respect for the natural surroundings, the resort’s architectural style embraces a calming palette of greens and blues, seamlessly blending with the environment. The open, elegant interiors are crafted to connect guests to the outdoors, creating a tranquil, refreshing atmosphere that soothes the senses.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Amba Yaalu Kandalama is its pioneering approach to female empowerment in the hospitality industry. As Sri Lanka’s first hotel fully managed and operated by women, it represents a groundbreaking step toward increasing female participation in this sector and advancing female empowerment. This vision sets the resort apart and strengthens the core values of inclusivity and progress in the country’s hospitality landscape.

Amba Yaalu Kandalama boasts 33 elegantly designed rooms, each offering picturesque views of Kandalama Lake, the lush mango garden, and the Sleeping Soldier Mountain. Thoughtfully adorned with interiors that celebrate the rich history of Sri Lanka, these rooms create a unique and immersive cultural experience for our guests. The resort also features a main restaurant, a BBQ terrace, a coffee shop, and a vegetarian/ vegan restaurant offering diverse cuisines to satisfy every palate. Guests can relax at the Ayurvie spa, enjoy yoga sessions on the terrace, or dip in the infinity pool with stunning vistas of Kandalama Lake and the surrounding mango garden.

For those seeking adventure, Amba Yaalu offers a variety of experiences, including kayaking, bird-watching tours, e-bike rides, hot air balloon rides, and village walks—all carefully crafted to meet the needs and desires of our guests. The resort also prioritizes sustainability with initiatives like a unique sustainable farming experience at our TJC Mango Farm, generating renewable energy from a solar farm, and biodiversity conservation efforts.

As we open the doors to Amba Yaalu Kandalama, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey. This resort not only promises a unique escape into nature but supports a vision of empowerment and sustainability, making it an exceptional destination in the heart of Sri Lanka. Experience the magic of Amba Yaalu Kandalama, where every moment is designed to connect you with nature and celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of our beautiful island.