Nimal's House

My stay at Nimal’s House was truly amazing and one of the most authentic experiences I’ve had. From the moment I arrived, I felt like part of the family. The care and kindness here are genuine—it’s not something superficial, but something that truly comes from the heart. Everyone is always smiling and giving their best to make you feel comfortable. The rooms were clean, cozy, and beautifully designed in traditional Sri Lankan style, which I really appreciated. The whole house has a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The breakfast was superb, and I especially loved the little thoughtful details—like fresh juice or tea always being offered in the morning or when I returned. Nimal and his daughters are incredibly kind and friendly, and the entire family creates such a special environment. They also took the time to explain local traditions to me, especially how New Year is celebrated—what to cook, the exact timing, and every step of the rituals. I even had the chance to celebrate New Year with them, including lighting fireworks together, which made the whole experience incredibly special and personal. The surroundings are peaceful and beautiful. I enjoyed visiting the nearby temple every evening, and it was lovely how all the neighbors greeted me along the way—it made me feel truly connected to the local community. The beaches nearby are unique and stunning—I even saw a turtle swimming at Turtle Point, which was unforgettable. This is the kind of place where you can really immerse yourself in local culture and experience how people truly live. Nimal went above and beyond to help me—whether it was buying water when I needed it or driving me to places. As a very special birthday surprise, he even took me on a small trip to see hundreds of bats flying at sunset. It was absolutely magical and something I will never forget.

Wow, what a beautiful guesthouse. Firstly thank you so much to Nimal and his beautiful wife for their incredible hospitality. They were so warm, welcoming and helpful throughout my stay. As a solo traveller I felt extremely safe here. I had the best breakfast in Sri Lanka here too, if you do stay make sure you try it! Rooms are spacious, comfortable and well appointed. Nimal and his wife helped me with travel plans, suggested things to visit locally and further afield and also offered great recommendations for eating locally.. What a fantastic place.

No

Incredibly comfortable room with a good mattress, bathroom, and air con Nimal and his wife were welcoming, answered all my questions, and gave me homemade snacks for breakfast on the final day Outside the hustle of Hiriketiya but near beautiful beaches like Dickwella and Turtle Beach

Nothing much - I was concerned the room might be noisy due to the main road, but it was set back and I didn’t found the room peaceful

- good location, you can walk to the beach - very nice breakfast, great variety

After staying in the downstairs 2-bedroom apartment, I do not understand the great rating of this place. The other rooms must be much better, otherwise this rating is not possible. Some of them have an AC, are probably ventilated better, because they are upstairs and feel more private. - The bedrooms were very humid and it was not possible to ventilate them properly. Even opening the windows didn't help much, because they face the courtyard, which is blocked by all sides and does not allow wind to get in. There are only big fans on the ceiling, which have to run pretty fast and generate quite some noise. With them running, it was not comfortable to sleep. - The bathroom connects the bedrooms. After showering, the floor stays wet for a long time. There is squeegee, but it is difficult to get the floor really dry and the bathrooms is also not ventilated enough to allow this. - There is a lack of privacy, because the apartment is on the ground floor and the windows face the courtyard, which is frequented by members of the hosting family, employees and other guests. The windows have full curtains, but it does not feel private. - The hosts are very keen to help, but don't understand to keep the right distance. It feels like they are always around (of course because they live next door) and they moved our clothes without asking before.