Sinharaja Vini Villa

A great location for a nature lover, super frendly and helpful hosting family. Also foods were rich and tasty. We loved everything.

Breakfast is fine.

Point + se sont le dépaysement, au pied de la Rain forest. Grande chambre pour une famille.

Point -, il manque un petit frigo au niveau des équipements, la ponctualité du repas et des activités. En effets, nous avons demandé un petit déjeuner a 7h00 pour un départ a la Rain forest a 7h30. Nous avons eu notre petit déjeuner étalé de 7h15 a 7h35 pour un départ d activités a 8h00. Sachant que nous avions rdv avec notre chauffeur a 11h00, nous n avons pas du tout profité de la Rain Forest.

Superlieve familie waar we heerlijk gegeten hebben en door de eigenaar zijn meegenomen in Sinharaja. Hij is een zeer goeie gids, zorgde voor bloedzuigersokken voor ons en slaagde er in om heel veel dieren te vinden. We boekten een tour van 3 à 4u voor een heel mooie prijs, maar hij zag ons enthousiasme, nam zijn tijd en uiteindelijk waren we 5u onderweg voor dezelfde prijs. Die avond werd onze dochter er ziek. Hij haalde kruiden en brouwde een kruidendrank om de koorts te laten zakken. We kregen ook een grotere kamer dan die die we geboekt hadden voor dezelfde prijs met 2 heel comfortabele dubbele bedden, een ruime badkamer, airco en een ruim terras dat uitkeek op de rivier en waar de vuurvliegjes 's avonds rondvlogen. Wat ons betreft: een aanrader!

Erg aardige en behulpzame familie, en heerlijk gegeten! Ook dicht bij het park, de zoon van de eigenaar heeft ons meegenomen op een prachtige safari en veel dieren laten zien.

*

Prachtige plek in de jungle, bij de familie thuis. Je wordt in de watten gelegd en zijn heel vriendelijk.

Ik kan niets verzinnen.

The wildlife, we enjoyed the breakfast, the views, the location.

Enjoyed it all, though we did get lost as we went totally the wrong way...it was SOOOO much easier on our journey back!

I booked this place via booking.com The owner contacted me over the phone asking me to cancel the booking."they said"They don't accommodate locals, it is volatile the booking.com policy. Also they didn't realize I am a Canadian.

We waren hier 3 nachten. Wat een heerlijk verblijf midden in het groen. Door Vini en familie word je hartelijk ontvangen. Het eten is heerlijk. De kwaliteit van de tour zijn erg goed. We verbleven in een gewone 2 persoonskamer. Vini bood aan of we naar het nieuwe verblijf wilde verhuizen die bijna klaar was. Prachtig verblijf met groot terras strak tegen de rivier, ruime badkamer, koelkast. Het zag er allemaal prachtig uit. En dit zonder extra kosten! We hebben er echt van genoten en kunnen deze kamer zeer aanraden! Vini en familie bedankt!

Vini and his family were lovely. Great half day hike into the national park.

DONT GO TO THIS PLACE AS A SOLO FEMALE TRAVELER. The message below is send on a facebook page. I needed in the end help from police. Atm I am at a guesthouse in Sinharaja. the owner is really weird, tells me about that he wants to catch a foreigner/ that he didnt had intercourse with his wife for 5 years/ notes about my appearance + when I told i was scared of snakes and if I could call him in case there is one he told me 3 times he could sleep in my room (he added that there will be no touching). I verbally stopped him, but later the situation got more weird. He wanted me to be my guide in the forest the next day. Because of his vibes, I told him that I wanted to arrange another guide. He said in a very stern/dominant way NO and that it was not possible. He only could be the guide. I left the conversation. Later he texted me on whatsapp, telling me that he doesnt allow any driver/guide on his property and that only he was the person to do it. He said it in a very agressive way and told me that he new which guides I had contact with and so on. Later he knocked for like 15 minutes on my door in a very very in-your-face way. He told me that I HAD TO OPEN THE DOOR BECAUSE IT WAS HIS PLACE. It became even worse when he involved his daughter (9yo) to knock on my door. Everything was very uncomfortable and I felt so unsafe. He also banged on my door, when I told him to stop knocking. I got help from very sweet Sri Lankan people through Facebook and the police came, since he drank Arrak it wouldn’t be safe for the Sri Lanka people as well to enter the place alone. When the people came for help, he really gaslighted me. But I went away from that place. THE MAN is a total creep. The place is deep in the forest, and if you are alone you cannot easily go away.

We had a lovely stay at Vini Villa. The family was super friendly and the food (especially the curry) was amazing! We did a rainforest tour in the morning and saw a lot of snakes, birds, monkeys, lizards and spiders, many of them endemic to Sri Lanka. Highly recommended!

From the minute we arrived in this tranquil paradise a wave of relaxation swept over me. We were welcomed to our bungalow situated by the flowing river in a setting so quiet you can hear every bird and cicada. We enjoyed delicious food and hospitality from Vini and his family. We had a wonderful tour with Vanilla, his son who is a gentle and thoughtful guide, taking us through the reserve at our pace. VIni arranged our transport at a good price and we would love to come back and visit again!

It was perfect! We were worried about mosquitoes but there weren’t any.

Sinharaja Vini Villa is een echte aanrader: de accommodatie is basic maar de locatie is geweldig: mooi uitzicht op de rivier en op loopafstand van de ingang van het Nationaal Park (NP). Vini is een geweldige en attente host: hij regelt alle activiteiten voor je (wandeling in het NP, vogel tour, ‘raften’ op de rivier) en speelt zelfs voor taxi door gasten op te halen en/ of weg te brengen. Internet via Starlink is top! Zijn gezin runt het restaurant waar je kunt genieten van lekkere, vers gemaakte Sri Lankaanse gerechten.

-

Prachtige locatie, rust en natuur.

Communicatie over eten zou iets beter kunnen. Lunch opties waren erg beperkt als je het niet ‘s ochtends al hebt besteld.

We had the best time here in Sinharaja Vini Villa! Upon arrival we were warmly greeted by Vini’s daughter and wife who brought out some complementary welcome drinks. Our room was spacious, clean and cozy. The shower was huge and had warm water and the bed was extremely comfortable. We were offered lunch and dinner and the food that was cooking by Vini’s family was delicious, the portions sizes were huge and the food was incredible. On our second day we did the rainforest tour with Vini’s son, he was very knowledgeable and picked out lots of animals and insects for us to see. I cannot fault our stay here, the family were unbelievably kind and welcoming and we had the best time here. The villa it self is right in the rainforest, it had a very peaceful and calm atmosphere about it. Vini and his family were constantly asking if we were comfortable and of course we were. Thank you so much!

Sehr schöne Unterkunft. Liegt direkt am Fluss, in dem man auch baden darf. Es werden Regenwald Touren angeboten, die sehr zu empfehlen sind. Und auch das Essen ist sehr lecker.

Geweldige plek, aan de rivier ( waar je in kan zwemmen). Wij zaten in een los staande cabana, met veranda en vrij uitzicht. Veel vogels in de tuin. Uitermate vriendelijke familie die het hotel runt. Heel aardig en behulpzaam. Alles is schoon en het eten is heerlijk. Vini is een prettige gids voor in het park.

Niets

Liegt Super schön am Fluss. Besitzer Familie sehr freundlich und zuvorkommend. Tour durch den Regenwald direkt vor Ort gestartet. Alles super

Supernette Gastgeber. Tolle Lage am Fluss direkt im Regenwald. Touren mit Vini oder seinem Sohn absolut empfehlenswert. Essen im eigenen Restaurant lecker und günstig. Sehr freundliche,hilfsbereite Familie.🫶

Vini und seine Familie sind super nett und sympathisch. Dir große Tochter spricht fließend sehr gutes Englisch und Vini kennt sogar viele Namen von Tieren und Pflanzen auf Deutsch, nicht nur auf Englisch. Wir haben die 4 Stündige Regenwaldtour mit Vini gemacht und er hat aich wirklich sehr viel Mühe gegeben und es scheint, als hätte er auch Photographie studiert, denn er macht unter vollem Einsatz unglaublich schöne Bilder mit den Handys seiner Gruppenmitglieder (wenn man möchte). So gut hätten wir es nie hinbekommen. Vini wirkte auf uns, als würde er sich mehr Mühe geben, als manch Guide der mit anderen Gruppen unterwegs war. Der anschließende Stop am Wasserfall mit Baden war das Highlight unserer Tour. Auch hier machte Vini wieder super schöne Bilder mit unseren Handys. Als wir abreisten fuhr er uns zur nächsten Unterkunft und für hiesige Verhältnisse ist er sehr vorsichtig und aufmerksam gefahren. Wenn man möchte,kann man abends noch mit ihm im Essensraum gemütlich beisammen sitzen sich austauschen. Es war wirklich sehr sauber und gemütlich. Preis Leistung top. Das Bad war besonders schön und endlich mal eien Dusche, wo nicht das ganze Badezimmer unter Wasser stand sondern clever vorausgedacht wurde :)

Keine Kritik: nachmittags springen die Affen auf den Stromleitungen rum, sodass dann mal für 1-2 Stunden der Strom weg ist. Kommt dann aber sofort wieder. So nah dran an der Natur ist man selten :)

The little cottage stayed in was basic but clean and comfortable. A/C and WiFi were strong. All I wanted to do while I was there was sit on the porch listening to the birds and watching the river flow past. But the best part of the stay is Vini and his family. They made us feel like friends, not guests. I feel like I’m carrying them in my hearts now. And OMG the food!!! Incredible.

There is nothing I didn’t like.

Wonderful location by the river, open and airy. 1 km walk to reserve entrance. Food is wonderful, if you ask, you can get exotic items such as fern shoots and Jak. Attentive hosts, the whole family is involved. Accommodation is simple, but adequate and clean. Linked to Deniyaya and Neluwa by narrow paved roads, which would make perfect bicycling day trips. Unfortunately, there are no bikes available for rent.

Eine grandiose sehr familiäre Unterkunft in toller Lage direkt am Flussufer. Das Essen ist großartig und abwechslungsreich und den Kithul-Honig holt der Gastgeber selbst direkt aus 20 Metern vom Baum. Um die Unterkunft herum können zahlreiche Vögel wie Bienenfresser und Eisvögel beobachtet werden und über die Unterkunft können verschiedene Tagesausflüge angeboten werden. Auch das WLAN funktioniert gut angesichts der Lage mitten im Regenwald. Am Ende wurde ich sogar noch persönlich zu meiner nächsten Unterkunft gefahren. Super Preis-Leistungs-Verhältnia und volle Empfehlung!

Gestione famigliare perfetta. Il figlio ventiduenne guida, gentile e competente, le figlie e la moglie ottime cuoche e gentili cameriere. Tutto perfetto, saremmo rimaste ancora.

Vriendelijke ontvangst met welkomstdrankje. Fijne villa. Met Vini als gids een tocht door het regenwoud gedaan. Hij wist zeer veel dieren te spotten, en hier over te vertellen. Duidelijk wist hij meer dan de andere gidsen in het park, zijn ervaring maakte dat hij wist welke dieren waar wanneer te zien waren. Zelfs een zeer zeldzame vogel hebben we kunnen zien, dankzij zijn expertise! Zijn vrouw en kinderen zijn erg lief en behulpzaam, het eten was zeer smaakvol ! Vini heeft ons zelfs nog naar onze volgende overnachting gebracht ! (2u+ rijden!) In sommige reviews is te lezen dat de accommodatie moeilijk te bereiken is, echter is dit achterhaald, er ligt inmiddels een verharde weg!

Die Unterkunft ist direkt in der Natur, man kann von dort aus direkt in den Regenwald gehen. Die Familie ist sehr herzlich und freundlich. Vorallem die beiden Mädchen sind toll. Das Essen hat richtig gut geschmeckt und wir haben uns gut aufgehoben gefühlt. Sehr zu empfehlen!

Alojamiento sencillo y familiar muy cercano a una de las entrades del Rainforest. Vini y su familia son unas personas maravillosas y nos trataron de forma cálida, amable y cuidadosa durante los días que nos alojamos allí, en especial por su hija mayor que se encarga de la recepción y el trato con los invitados. Comimos y cenamos en su restaurante todos los dias, la comida es deliciosa, abundante y a muy buen precio. Realizamos el tour con Vini de unas 6 horas, gracias a su gran experiencia como guía tuvimos la oportunidad de ver muchísimos animales ( monos, pájaros, lagartos, serpientes, insectos,…) lo que hizo que nuestro hijo de 9 años lo disfrutara aun más. Al final de trekking tuvimos la oportunidad de bañarnos en una casada y fue una experiencia que no olvidaremos.

Precio un poquito elevado por lo que es pero lo compensa por su perfecta ubicación, trato con la familia, comida deliciosa y que Vini es un gran guia.

Alles war perfekt. Vini und seine Familie sind so herzlich und tolle Menschen. Man kann dort für einen super Preis toll essen. Die Nachttour (inklusive) und die Jungletour sind beide absolut zu empfehlen! Außerdem brachte uns sein Sohn noch nach Weligama. Ein wirklich toller Aufenthalt!

I am so glad about my choice to book vini villa. It was a cozy stay. I had an adventurous tour in sinharaja and even was able to spend some relaxing time there. The krafting experience was 100/10. Also should mention about the owner and his family, his wife's cooking skills. Overall I and my family had an awesome time there. Hoping to comeback in the next time.

Vini family are very nice people, Vini took my daughter to the rainforest and found an abundance of animals there. This made my daughter very happy. He was a very professional guide. Thank you to the Vini for their warm hospitality.

Fijne plek pal naast het Singharaja Rainforest. Heel prettig contact met het gezin dat eigenaar is - onze kinderen hebben heel leuk met hun kinderen gespeeld. Heerlijk gegeten en we verbleven in de familiekamer waar we heerlijk met zijn 5-en hebben geslapen. Twee tochten in het regenwoud gemaakt, gezwommen bij watervallen en verder heerlijk uitgerust.

Niks.

Von Anfang der Buchung an wurden wir bereits von Vini über die Möglichkeiten der verschiedenen Möglichkeiten der Exkursionen vor Ort informiert. Auch bot er einen kostengünstigen Fahrdienst an (Abholung und Fahrt zur nächsten Unterkunft). Wir wurden von seiner Familie herzlich empfangen und umsorgt. Vor allem die ältere Tochter kümmerte sich engagiert um die Betreuung der Gäste. Unsere Unterkunft (kl. Häuschen) war landestypisch eingerichtet und sehr sauber. Das Abendessen (traditionelle Küche, Rice & Curry) war sehr lecker und üppig. Wir haben mit Vini die Wanderung am Morgen über ca. 9km (etwa 4 Std) gewählt, mit erfrischendem Bad an einem Wasserfall. Vini zeigte uns sowohl zahlreiche kleinere und etwas größere Bewohner des Regenwaldes wie auch die prachtvolle Flora. Unsere Fragen wurden von ihm immer freundlich und umfassend beantwortet. Leider hatten wir nur eine Übernachtung eingeplant, würden beim nächsten Mal die längere Wanderung buchen wollen. Wir kommen kommen gerne wieder!

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Vini Villa. Our family rented two rooms. Vini Villa is a small-scale accommodation, the last one before entering the rainforest. It's beautifully and peacefully situated on the river. The accommodations are simple, but very clean. Don't expect luxury here. The beauty lies in its simplicity and in nature. Comfortable beds, clean bathroom. We enjoyed the terrace in front of the room. Breakfast and dinner were delicious. Mother and eldest daughter (15 years old) were lovely hosts. Owner Vini even led a night walk in the evening, which was special. The next day we went on a hike through the rainforest, which we also enjoyed. Definitely recommended if you enjoy peace, nature and simplicity.

The road there is therefore long and sometimes challenging. It's a beautiful route, though. The accommodations are simple but very clean. Don't expect luxury here. The beauty lies in the simplicity, peace and the nature.

Vlakbij de ingang van het sinharaya park. Met de gids vanuit hier het park ingelopen. Liet veel kleine dieren zien, tevens een mooie waterval waar je in mag zwemmen. In de avond nog een wandeling met de zoon gehad die verschillende kleine dieren liet zien.

Het was redelijk warm airco was fijn geweest. Wij hadden zonder.

Prachtige plek in de jungle. En een hele lieve familie. De dochters zijn super lief en gezellig en we missen ze!

-

We enjoyed staying at this family run homestay which is very well located by the entrance to Sinharaja rainforest. The accommodation is basic but comfortable - there is air conditioning and the beds are comfortable. It's excellent value for money. The family that run the lodge are so nice! The food they cook for you is basic, traditional Sri Lankan food that we all enjoyed. My children really enjoyed chatting to the 14yo daughter of the family and comparing notes on their schools. I'm really glad they had this quality interaction with Sri Lankan children of their own age. The lodge is in a lovely location by the river, so with beautiful views over the river. Wildlife is all around - the lodge does a free guided night safari - we saw lots of nocturnal creatures on this! Loved the tree frogs. We did 2 fabulous guided walks in the daytime, organised by the lodge. One walk took in 5 rainforest waterfalls, ending in a swim in a waterfall pool that we had all to ourselves. The next day we did the 3 hour walk through the national park and saw SO much wildlife - within 2 metres of the park entrance we saw endemic white monkeys, giant squirrels and a viper! There was much more seen during the course of the walk, the guide was excellent at finding and showing us the wildlife. This walk also ended with a magical feeling rainforest waterfall pool swim. We did wear leech socks but luckily the weather was quite dry so we didn't encounter any leeches (although the leech socks were well used and needed in other parts of Sri Lanka in the highlands!). But I understand that usually leeches are an issue and leech socks recommended. Sinharaj Vini Villa also offers ayurvedic massages by a lovely Sri Lankan lady who has honestly magic fingers - very good massage at a great price, so if you are feeling a bit achy from your travels I recommend this. All in all, Sinharaja felt quite off the beaten track but ended up being one of our highlights of Sri Lanka.

It was a bit challenging to find!

The photos in the description don’t do it justice. Room is big and clean. Loads of sunlight. Bathroom looks newly done and the view from room is 🤌🏻,see for yrself. Didn’t see owner on the phone much, mentioned on other reviews.And he went out of his way to help with anything he could during the stay.

If you’re driving, better ask owner for directions once u go off road. Got lost using google maps.

Location unique Very friendly staff Wonderful 4 hour tour in rainforest with pleasant guide

Bird watching walk at 6AM was disappointing Only cold water in chalet Breakfast on 2nd was a bit chaotic Check-out was very time consuming Outside swimming pool was probably the river Prepare for leeches!

Superb location on the river by the reserve entrance, this is a family business and everyone is involved. Vini had good knowledge of the birds and animals of the area and we did 2 nature walks outside the forest, as well as the reserve walk. The food is plentiful, fresh and great value, and Vini's daughter Diniti was a super host to us. Vini arranged a white water dinghy down the river which the kids loved. A memorable couple of days

Vinni and family were exceptional hosts. Beautiful location, clean room and bathroom, aircon a fan and a view! Peace and quiet amid the spectacular Sinharaja Rain Forrest. Vinni has a vast knowledge of the birds and wildlife of the forrest. A wonderful guide. The restaurant is simple and the food traditional, not boring at all. We selected a variety of of dishes - all were prepared freshly with wonderful skill. The sambals that accompanied the dishes were amazing. The fresh juices were some of the best! Vinni can organise transfers to and from Sinharaja, in fact nothing is to much. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.

Great location for Sinharaja. Just a short walk away

Vini and his dear family are wonderful hosts. Thank you so much! We enjoyed our stay immensely and would love to return one day.

Right in the forest and beautiful garden and location. We got given a room upgrade with air con and loads of space. Really friendly family-run business. The host arranged a safari to Udewelala for us (which was really last minute and not expected), we just said yes to as we were transferring to Bundala, best decision ever. He's a great birder, and I would recommend this safari as it ended up being one the best we did.

Expect disorganisation surrounding walks and tours. They end up happening but it is all a bit disorganised which is fine if that is what your expectation is. The food portions are way too big. The food is nice, especially the curry, but the kottu and fried rice were nothing exciting.

The villa is almost inside the forest with amazing river view, perfect for birdwatching. Vini and his family help with everything from transport to the meals and excursion through the forest and to the waterfall

Lovely family, Vini is a great host and guide, fabulous food. Lovely setting. Pure escape.

Nothing

Lovely family run guest house near the rain forest. Vini also acts as a guide in the forest and as a driver to get you to your next destination. Family members are always very helpful and the girls keep the WiFi working in the afternoons and evenings after school. There are no other restaurants nearby, but the food available on site for lunch and dinner is very good with enough options for vegetarians too. Beautiful setting just above the river with Chestnut headed Bee-eaters nesting in the banks nearby and catching insects in front of your nose.

Rooms could do with some hangers and / or shelves to put things on, but that was just a minor irritation.

Cbestnut headed bee eaters literally nest in the garden. It is an amazing place with friendly and welcoming staff. Mr Vini and his family are wonderful and very hospitable. The food is great and the rooms are clean. Amazing location, close to two entrances to the Sinharaja park and the nature around the hiuse itself is great.

If you have a general interest in nature, Mr Vini is a perfect guide. If you are a very dedicated birfwatcher, however, and expect a birdwatching guide, you might be disappointed.

Wow, what a location! Right on the river and surrounded by birds, especially chestnut headed bee eaters. Also got a nice sighting of a Crimson-backed flameback pecking at a tree. Vini is a great host, very friendly and helpful. There were free night walks, and he also took me on morning birding walks because I told him I was interested in birdwatching. The food was fantastic and the portions are very generous. It's a family business and everyone was so kind and sweet. I stayed 2 nights but wish I had an extra night, it's such a nice place to relax. One point to note - the tours generally start after breakfast around 8:30 or later. This is way too late, ask if you can have an early breakfast and leave at 7. That's what I did in my last visit and I saw more birds.

The guide did not speak good English, this was a shame as he wasn't able to communicate about the wildlife in the forest. Ask about this before your walk, maybe there are other guides.

We liked the setting of the property alongside the river and close to the forest reserve. There were walks in the surroundings that you could do independently but there were also a couple of guided walks, including one for the ticketed reserve where we saw a variety of birds and reptiles. The family were extremely friendly and helpful and the food was excellent.

Nothing, everything was excelllent.

The room was great, looked to be recently renovated, very clean better than photos show. River view from room and dining area was fantastic with lots of birds and other wildlife to watch. Vini and his family were extremely helpful, attentive and did a fantastic job. Vini picked us up from Hiriketya, took us on a morning tour through the forest, his son took us on an afternoon tour. All was great. We ventured out to go for a night spotlight and Vini asked to come along too to help spot wildlife. We had a great stay and would stay longer next time (minimum 3 nights).

Some of the food was a bit spicy for us but was generous portions and no complaints otherwise.

Very friendly owner and his family, they help you with everything. The room was amazing, very comfortable. Food was great. Location is the best, right outside the Forest Reserve, next to a river with lots of beautiful birds. The tour is great too!

I think you might need your own transportation because it might be difficult to reach if you travel by public transport. For us this was no problem because we had a rented tuktuk

Vini and his family were very friendly and accommodating. The food was fantastic and plentiful. The area is wonderful for wildlife. We had a great time.

All of the people working at the Villa, including Vini, are very nice, friendly, and helpful. It is a family effort and all are hard working. The continental breakfast was very good although there was only white bread offered. Many people now go for dark bread but I don't know if it is offered in more remote areas of the country. Dinner was also very good but portion sizes were huge. Our first night. we had a chicken fried rice for two that could easily have fed 6 people even though I am a big eater. I worried that the food would be thrown away. The setting of Vini Villa is beautiful and as you walk along footpaths, you are in the jungle teeming with wildlife, with bird calls that leave indelible impressions on the brain. There are also lots of waterfalls close by that you can swim in and you pass by small tea plantations. We took a 3-hour guided tour for just the two of us and found it most useful as these park rangers have eagle eyes that see things, 80% of which we would have missed had we been walking on our own. Vini organized this for us as he was unable to take us himself. Thank you.

Two of the four rooms had AC but ours did not! I don't know whether it was an oversight on my part when I made the booking. Back home, we like to sleep in a room at 17-18C (62-64F) and the 27C plus very high humidity made it stifling hot and uncomfortable. We are an older couple and perhaps do not sleep as well as younger visitors. There was a fan in our room but it had not been dusted in a long time and my wife gets a stuffed up nose in a dusty environment... So our first night was decidedly uncomfortable and the bed was also squeaky. The bathroom also had a smell to it, most likely due to the lack of exhaust fan, not allowing for the floor in the shower area to dry overnight. I encouraged Vini to fix these two defects and I am sure that he will do so in the near future. After informing him of the dust on the fan the next morning (we had arrived late in the evening), he immediately cleaned it up and provide us with a second fan, which provided more aeration and thus a better sleep the second night. Having said all these negative things, we would nonetheless stay at this property again as long as we were certain to have air conditioning (AC).

Amazing and peaceful place in the middle of Rain Forest. Clean room and delicious meal from Vini's wife. Vini is very friendly and kind man. He arrange for us 7 hours tour to the viewpoint of Sinharaja Rain Forest and many waterfalls. 100% recommended.

We really enjoyed our stay at Sinharaja Vini Villa. The location is beautiful next to the river and close to Sinharaja Forrest reserve. It's so peaceful, nice place to relax. The hosts are such a lovely family, very welcoming. All the family are involved in running the homestay. We also had dinner there, the portions are generous, and also beautiful fresh fruit juices. To walk in Sinharaja forest you need a guide as paths are not clearly marked, our host arranged a guide for the day hike, and was very kind as we arrived back late (we took ages with taking photos) and we were able to shower and freshen up, and had complimentary fruit juice before our onward journey. Our shoes got really muddy, and our host kindly washed them, and dried them for us. Also the accommodation can arrange you transport with good safe drivers. Would certainly recommend staying there, especially if you love a quiet time, nature and Forrest.

We like everything. Its a little difficult to get to, but so worth the journey, and away from the main tourist route, which I loved. Well worth it, if I could give higher than 10 for the review I would do.

Family property in the middle of the rainforest. Vini’s family is very caring and always ready to help. The food is amazing, proper local food cooked by Vinis wife. Family environment, relaxed and calm. The dinner was very affordable (and delicious) and I was even given a Sinhala class by one of Vini’s daughters. We had a very good night of sleep following by an early tour of the rain forest. Very welcoming family and really this place made me more humble towards the little things in life

The road there can be tricky, the longest ride any car ok, but the shorter way only bike or tuk tuk can make it.

Great people, nice to spend time in their company

Nothing

Incredible location, great for bird watching. Vini and family excellent hosts. Food was delicious and huge portions!

The food was great, big portions and cooked individually and fresh with lovely women working in the kitchen. The jungle tour (4h) was very special, too! Clean, comfortable bed and no mosquitoes (although located directly at the river!).

Although the host was friendly and helped us out with a few things, we could have been taken care better during our stay. Often there was a communication problem and we did not feel as seen as other guests. Wifi could have been better, not good enough for video calls.

Great host, who offers great jungle tours, even a free nightwalk. If you come with own car or tuktuk, better double check the route to only follow the main roads. Google Maps gave us an unwanted off-road experience with our tuktuk

Our room had no A/C and the fan was loud. The third bed reduced the space in the room a little too much.

The location on the river was wonderful and the bird watching excellent. The food was good and the family helpful. Our nature walk was interesting and we saw quite a lot of insects and amphibians, however Vini spent the majority of the walk on the phone. We found this to be unprofessional.

The walk in the park requires protection against leeches. Other groups were provided gaitors for their legs. We were told to tuck our pant legs in our socks and Vini rubbed salt over our ankles and shoes. When the electricity went out for an extended time, we were not informed on the cause or our well being checked on.

Vinis family was absolutely friendly and helpful. Very good home made food. Vini is excellent ranger and guide. Nothing fancy, but excellent base for walks in sinharaja.

Vini Villa is perfectly located in the heart of Sinharaya rainforest, whole family that runs the place is super friendly and helpful

Nothing

I was really sick when we arrived and the hosts did everything in their power to take care of me, offering me herbal tea and checking up on me constantly. The location is perfect right next to the rainforest!!!

We had an amazing stay! The veranda outside the room is so beautiful and you can see lots of monkeys and birds. The room was comfortable and clean with a good shower and fan. The family were so attentive and offered us lots of delicious coffee and food throughout the day. They were also so helpful and even did laundry for us. We also loved our rainforest tour with Vini, it was very good value and we loved seeing the different animals and swimming in the waterfall.

We did like everything! The only comment we would make as advice to other travellers is that there are not many shops or facilities around as it’s very rural so if you want your own snacks or toiletries it’s easier to buy them before you come.

Amazing spot near the river and walking distance from entrance of Sinharaja Rainforest. Vini and his family are extremely friendly and helpfull. He went out of his way to help us when needed. Vini arranged the most amazing trip to Sinharaja Rainforest. We defintely recommend everyone to stay here! Most amazing part of our stay in Sri Lanka

We had an amazing stay!

Lovely location right outside the rainforest entrance! We were welcomed warmly by Vini’s wife and kids. The food was delicious and the room was comfortable. Vini kindly organised for an 18km trek through the rainforest which was amazing.

We didn’t feel particularly welcomed by Vini the owner. Initially contact via message was very blunt, perhaps a language barrier. When we arrived he was out (which is fine). When he got back 5 hrs later he didn’t come over to say hi, we had to go to him. However, we did have a wonderful stay and would recommend.

Everything. The beautiful homecooking, the friendly family, great location and Vini is a great guide. One of the highlights of our trip

Nothing

Everything! The location right next to/in the nature reserve, the wildlife, the hospitality and the restaurant on site! Comfy bed, not too many mozzies because it’s a bit of a cooler climate I think. Vini and his family were very knowledgable and friendly. I would definitely come again!

Nothing, literally.

This is an extremely special place. It literally feels like paradise. You’re nestled in expansive and diverse nature and the hosts were so friendly, accommodating and helpful. Vini took us on a 4 hour long forest walk and waterfall tour; we saw so much wildlife! You do not want to miss this place!

Beatyful place and river next to it, comfy room, nice hosts, they know everything about nature around and gladly will tell you you also can have a tour to Sinharaja forest with him

I highly recommend this place! It's easily one of the most beautiful spots in Sri Lanka. Vini, his wife, and their children welcome you with incredible warmth. Every moment here was delightful: the abundant delicious food, swimming in the river, the breathtaking green surroundings, and the fantastic rainforest tours led by Vini. Looking forward to returning soon.

Perhaps the meals were the highlight of the stay. Generous portions and delicious.

Perhaps a bedside table but that is being trivial.

Vini and his family are lovely, his two daughters were on school holiday and were helping. Food was yummy, very good curry and rice and the breakfast was simple but well done, delicious fresh juice served as well. Room and bathroom were clean and had good view of the river. Vini organised a rainforest guide for us, at a reasonable price. Very relaxing place to be and good location for the forest tours.

Wifi a bit slow, but too be expected in the jungle! There is also no swimming pool, but you can swim in the waterfalls in the forest

The rainforest tours, the simple but beautiful homestay property, all the lovely birds, the delicious food. Great value for money.

Perfect place to explore Sinharaja. Very caring, well meaning people in a wonderful guesthouse at the riverside. It was so beautiful, that I extended my stay.

The location of this property, right at the edge of the Sinharaja rainforest was perfect. We did two treks and two walks from there, providing various challenges, and offering the opportunity to see a really wide variety of beautiful birds as well as monkeys and monitor lizards in the river. Swimming in the waterfall pools was a treat as well. Vini is a very knowledgeable host and his wife is an excellent cook! The staff and family made us feel very much at home.

All good!

Amazing place located on the brink of the rainforest. I was completely taken away by the silence and the beauty of nature. Vini, his family and staff did everything to make guests feel most welcome. He arranged great hikes for me with super competent guides in the rainforest, as well as both early morning birdwatching tour, as well as night tours. I initially booked for three days and ended up for three weeks. For my two months stay in Sri Lanka this place is my highlight.

What a wonderful place! The room was a bit small, but very clean and had everything we needed. No AC, but the fan was quite enough and a big bathroom. The family is very friendly and provide delicious meals. Vino knows all about the jungle and is a good bird guide as well. He showed.us around morning, day and night. He also provided transport to and from Sinharaja. We were sad to leave soon after 2 days.

Nothing. Even when it rained in the late afternoon, we were comfortable on our veranda, listening to the pooring rain.

Amazing place, cozy room, nice host, delicious food

The setting was fantastic: our room opened onto the view of the river and there were colourful birds flying all around. So beautiful and peaceful. Vini and his family were lovely. They cooked great rice and curry which you eat in their small restaurant next to the property. They were very generous with desserts of ice cream or curd and honey. Vini took us on a night walk where we saw lots of creatures. He also organised a guide for us to do the full day 18km hike. We extended our stay and we would definitely return.

Nothing.

Amazing local accommodation nestled in the middle of nature.

Everything! Close to the rainforest, amazing location facing the river, bee eaters perching right in front of you, kingfishers darting, excellent home cooked food, kind and helpful hosts, opportunities to explore the rainforest, simple clean accommodation

Nothing

Vini and his family are great hosts. The location of the Villa is really unique, right next to the rainforest. We saw lots of birds, different monkeys and even a big warane in the river nearby. We came kind of spontaneous for a single night, and Vini made sure we can enjoy the area as much as possible by offering a night tour and a longer hike into the rainforest the next morning. Vini is not only a great host, but also a very experienced guide with like X-ray eyes. It’s crazy how he spots animals that are so well hidden. If we would have had more time, we would loved to stay longer at this place. Thanks again for everything :)

There were no curtains in our room for the panorama window, so there’s a bit of light coming in at night.