Thanamal-villa

Sfeervol, safari camping gevoel. Zeer vriendelijke eigenaar en heerlijke Rice and curry en lekker ontbijt. Bij aankomst organiseerden ze een vistrioje bij zonsondergang, heel leuk!

Badkamer en koelkast niet zo schoon.

The room was simple, had AC and a fan

The tour booked through them is exploitative of the national parks in Sri Lanka. They provoke elephants and put the tourist in very dangerous situations with wildlife. An elephant charged at us after the driver provoked two female elephants with a baby elephant. The guide boasted how a tourist cried a week earlier after and elephant charged and hit their vehicle. AFTER this experience they expected a tip. By staying at this location you will be contributing to the owners main business which is these type of tours, the cottages is also part of his business. I have recorded videos of the instigation and taunting of elephants. Extremely disappointed in having spent any money on these awful people and exploitative business. Wish we had known this was to be expected and we would have skipped the wildlife safari part of our trip

We had an amazing stay in Thanamal-Villa, the owners and staff are so nice, we had an amazing meal cooked on the coals, it felt so relaxing!

Nothing

Leuke safaritent met een groot eigen terras, inclusief zitgedeelte en hangmat. Super aardige eigenaar, die ook goed Engels spreekt. Er staat een grote koelkast buiten waar je je drankjes in kunt zetten.

De tent mag iets beter worden schoongemaakt, er hingen wat spinnerraggen aan het plafond van de tent. De badkamer deel je standaard met wat kikkers. Die doen niks, maar daar moet je wel tegen kunnen. Het meubilair op het terras is aan vervanging toe, dit staat ook op de planning. Het eten is erg aan de prijs. Er is niks te doen in het dorp zelf.

Fantastische lokatie, zeer gastvrij en prettige mensen. Rit naar het meer is mooi bij Sunset. Ontbijt en bbq waren westers, en zeer goed verzorgd! Het kleihuisje is wat primitief maar heeft uitstekende airco en prima badkamer. Wij konden gebruik maken van de veranda van de safari tent, dat was heerlijk. Winkeltjes en restaurantjes vlakbij. Aanrader voor wie wat minder luxe kan waarderen!

Niet echt. De lokatie is nog in ontwikkeling waardoor het nog wat primitief oogt. Bij het kleihuisje ontbreken bv zaken als waterkoker/thee&koffie of een afvalbak. Voor ons was dit geen enkel probleem. De eigenaar werkt hard aan verbeteringen, en dat is goed merkbaar.

Beautiful setting with lots of nature around. Room was great for the price and the host was amazing. The host even invited me to join a part with his family and friends and had a great night. Thanks again!

El sitio es precioso y el personal muy amable. Recomendado 100%

Había bastante mosquitos, aunque en la habitación se estaba bien porque tenía mosquitera y aire acondicionado. Era solo en las zonas comunes.

Location and set up

Unfassbar liebes Personal. Er hat uns über sein Safari Business eine mega Safari zu einem super Preis organisiert.

Bei dem Preis darf man keinen Luxus erwarten aber alles mehr als ausreichend.

Beautiful spot. Hot showers. A nature lovers dream. Close walk to restaurants and shops. After 3 weeks of traveling Sri Lanka this has to be one of my favourites.

De accommodatie ligt in Thanamalwilla, maar ver genoeg van de hoofdstraat om daar geen last van te hebben. Het is er totaal niet toeristisch, het uitzicht over de rijstvelden is ronduit fantastisch en rondom de tent waar wij sliepen (met een geweldig terras!) zie je veel vogels. Ik heb er zelfs 2 paradijsvogels gezien. De eigenaar is erg behulpzaam, heeft ons meegenomen op een trip van een paar uur door de omgeving en heeft een fantastische safari voor ons georganiseerd.

Nous avions pris deux nuits dans la petite cabane , afin de faire un safari . J’avais pris contact avec Prasad quelques jours avant et tout était super dans ce qu il nous proposait ! Une fois arrivé sur place , ce fut la désillusion,( l’opposé de tout les commentaires élogieux) car l’accueil fut très bref, il a fallu relancer plusieurs fois pour savoir comment ça se passer pour le lendemain car de la pluie était annoncée , Prasad nous dit qu il viendra nous voir le soir…en effet il est venu puis reparti directement (on a pas compris) et nous dit qu il revient dans 20 min …..1h plus tard toujours rien , nous décidons d’aller manger , nous lui envoyons un message pour l’informer, et la … nous le voyons avec ses amis à l’endroit où nous allions ! Il se décide enfin à venir échanger avec nous concernant le lendemain pour le safari , il ne parle pas très bien anglais , et nous non plus mais on sent qu il n’y met pas vraiment d’efforts , et on sent les regards de ses amis sur nous , ce fut un moment très malaisant . On décidera le lendemain matin de partir et d’annuler le safari car même si Prasad a essayé de trouver des solutions de dernière min , l’expérience de la veille avait enlever tout sentiment de confiance , c’est vraiment dommage :/ Il nous a aidé tout de même à nous rendre sur Tissa ! Entendons nous bien , il est évident que personne n’y est pour rien concernant le temps et je pense que Prasad et en effet gentil , cependant je pense aussi qu ´il faut tomber dans un bon jour. Il est certain que la barrière de la langue n’a pas aider. Concernant le lieu, c est chouette , bien que la cabane soit un peu spartiate ( vitre cassée dans la salle de bain )mais pour un court séjour c’est très bien !

The location is perfect for visiting blocks 5 and 6 of Yala National Park. The hosts are incredibly kind and welcoming. They took us on a jeep ride in the evening at sunset to try to spot elephants, which was a lovely experience. They also offered to organize a campfire (unfortunately it rained so we couldn’t do it, but the idea was really sweet). They helped us book a taxi for our next destination and kindly allowed us a late checkout. Communication via WhatsApp and in person was excellent. As we were the only guests that night, we could choose which of the two accommodations we wanted to stay in. The tent terrace is very pleasant, with a beautiful view over the garden and surrounding fields. We even saw many peacocks around, which was amazing.

The property is located in nature, so you need to be prepared to see wildlife around.

The host was very nice and attentive. He made everything to make my stay pleasant and comfortable. Nice setting next to the little creek, lots of bird life.

A little "Thanamal-Villa" sign outside would be nice, so that one knows to be in the right place

Gute Lage für eine Safari in den Nationalpark. Das Zimmer war grosszügig und das Bad sehr schön! Das Bett war sehr bequem. Der Gastgeber mega hilfsbereit!

Everything

Nothing

Nichts

Wenn man auf eine 20-25 Euro Übernachtung angewiesen ist - passt das Quartier. Die Hütte erreicht man über eine kleine Einfahrt, total dreckig, im Vorbereich leere Schnapsflaschen, Kippen, etc.

Cudowny nocleg w otoczeniu natury i dźwięków przyrody,

Bardzo czysto i przyjemnie. Podobało mi się, że byliśmy sami.

Nous sommes resté une nuit après avoir fait un safari l après midi. La chambre était propre et confortable. Le personnel adorable ! Merci 🙏🏻 Attention aux singes qui se sont invités au petit déjeuné en volant quelques fruits 😂 !

We loved the accommodation, with a beautiful terrace at the front overlooking nature and the sunset. The owner was helpful in arranging a safari and for advising restaurants in the neighbourhood for take away (so we could it with the beautiful view). The sanitaire was clean.

Not recommended if you’re afraid of some small animals (some frogs and geckos).

Le côté typique de la tente Son emplacement dans un champ à proximité de buffles La disponibilité et la gentillesse du patron qui est vraiment adorable 🥰

Ras

This is my go to spot for rest and relaxation half way between the Southern Coast and Arugam Bay. It’s a beautiful large property right in the village of Thanamalwila, which opens up into a peaceful meadow and rice fields with peacocks and dozens of bird species. The owner Weerasinghe Prasad and his family are Great hosts and always look after my every need with that world famous Sri Lankan hospitality. I have stayed a number of times at Thanamal-Villa and always enjoyed my time there. They offer professionally guided safaris into Lunugamvehera National Park, local village tours, and outings to the nearby river. Highly recommended!

Leaving

This stay was beyond my expectations. The area is incredibly peaceful surrounded by paddy fields with a calming breeze that instantly relaxes you. Early in the morning and again in the afternoon, I had the magical experience of watching peacocks dance truly unforgettable! There were also some adorable little puppies around, adding to the charm of the place. One of the highlights was getting to do some fishing at a small nearby water body — such a rare and calming experience. The owner was so friendly and welcoming. I was treated to a delicious homemade kottu prepared by his mother — honestly one of the best meals I’ve had. Prasad was arrange a safari to lunugamwehera national park which is not in my plan but that is really incredible for the price i saw so many wild elephants ,crocadiles,birds species, monkeys and so and so.i recommend it to anyone. This place is worth much more than the price. No city noise, just nature and kindness. Keep up the amazing work. Good luck, Prasad — I’ll definitely be back!

Extremely friendly owners! A family run business. Prasad is so very kind and thoughtful. The room was clean and spacious. Aircon works well, small kitchenette with fridge, kettle and cookers in the room. Nice outdoor space to chill with chairs, table and hammock. Prasad even took us to a wonderful swimming spot on the river to cool off!

We loved everything!

We booked a Safari via the accommodation and the experience was just exceptional because of the guide. He did everything he could so that we can see as much animals as possible ! He spent much more time than planned. A very big thanks for that. Only because of that we saw several elephants in the end 🥰

Really enjoyed our one night stay here. Owner was really friendly. It’s a one horse town but we had a great night in the local pub with the locals.

It’s very rustic

It was a very lovely experience. The host and his family were super nice and cooked us a delicious sri lankan meal. He took us on a safari in the national park which was also great. Thank you for the hospitality!

The manager was without doubt the most caring person we met during our 2-week stay in Sri Lanka. He was extremely helpful and understanding. Amazing dinner prepared on demand and brought to our own terrace.

However, I must confess that I don't recommend it if you're traveling as a woman or women. We were two girls and cut our stay short as the setting, away from the village and in a house with no staff present, caused us too much worry. Two power cuts occurred on the evening of our arrival and we were plunged into darkness without power. It's an idyllic place if you're a feeling daring or a couple, but not necessarily for women.

We had great experience in Thanamal-Villa! We stayed in small house (not tent) and this place was surprising clean and comfortable! We needed place to rest before Safari in block 5 and 6 and it was a great choice! Thanamalvile is a small village, with local restaurants and shops and Thanamal-villa is located close to main roa, but behind it , there are calm fields and nature. The owner is so nice and hospitable! He took us even for short ride around the village- it was a great way to spending time there! You can also arrange safari with him easily! Room was simple but clean, there was a AC. Bathroom was small but had everything what you need. In the evening we could sit on the terrace and listen the peacocks voices. Thanks for everything!

Everything was great

Super nice cottage in the middle of nature. The owners are extremely nice and attentive:) they even took me for a trip to the lake nearby to do canoeing

The room needed a bit of cleaning

Staying at Thanamal-Villa was one of the two best decisions we made in our entire eighteen-day holiday. Right from the beginning the booking had a good "feel" about it... we wrote and asked the proprietor (Prasad) about schedules of public transport from Ella, and he instantly wrote back offering to take this chore off our shoulders (of course, we didn't let him do that, but maybe we should've, as the arrangements we finally chose involved having to deal with a company whose booking sheet was ambiguous and whose phones seldom worked). When we asked about safaris, Prasad offered to arrange that, also, and this time we DID allow him to go ahead, and couldn't have been more pleased with the result (and the price)... we explored Blocks V and VI, and never encountered more than four or five other jeeps (we did encounter a herd of elephants and a leopard, which we tracked for a full forty-five minutes). The accommodation Prasad offered us was quite unique: a private complex built around a tent and a thatched roof, reached via a small bridge over a stream, and looking at open grassland. We wound up eagerly extending our booking by an extra night, and on the second night there was heavy rain; the sounds, around our tent, of birds, frogs and other creatures celebrating the sudden arrival of the rainy season was an experience money couldn't buy. It was at Thanamal-Villa that we really felt that we were part of Sri Lanka! If you stay there, do make sure you take the tent option!

This is a unique place to stay in a small town with very few tourist. The tent was great, clean with a most comfortable bed..,.the air con worked well and there was a private bathroom just behind. The deck was a fantastic place to sit and relax. Amazingly peaceful considering it was in town opposite the bus stand. The owner Prasad was most hospitable. He can organise safari, food and onward transfers also if required Highly recommend. Would stay there again if in the area.

Nothing…great place. My comments refer to the tent accommodation.

The owner is very kind and the yard was peaceful.

The property is in a small village in the nature, you are really close to the village itself but the property feels like miles away and is so peaceful. The property is simple but clean and has all necessary amendities. Prasad was the best host we ever had, every question and concern or request was adressed immediately. He arranged a tranfers and safari for us for very a reasonable price. His family provides delicious breakfast and dinner if requested which was a real taste of Sri Lanka.

Nothing

The host is a very kind and welcoming man, and the property is a beautiful little spot hidden away with many different bird species that sing all day. A very relaxing atmosphere here

The tent was set 100m from the main road of Thanamalvila in a wonderful setting - it was very peaceful with a glorious view of countryside -there were many peacocks and other birds around The tent was large and it looked like a glamping tent one might get in Africa on safari - the bed was extremely comfortable and was very large too There was good aircon which we used but not whilst sleeping as the temperature was perfect The tents windows all had mosquito nets which were insect proof and there also was an electric anti mosquito repellent too - so we had NO problem at all with insects. We woke up to fantastic birdsong - apparently the peacocks do a dance in the morning which we missed Food was excellent too Prasad’s mum is an excellent cook - we ate dinner in her house and had a lovely chat with Prasad and her about their family - the dal curry was fantastic as was the egg curry and vegetables with wonderful red rice -we enjoyed the breakfast - the pancakes filled with coconuts were amazing We went on safari with Prasad - the entrance to block 6 (Lunugamvehera national park ) is down the road - we were the only jeep in there - beautiful scenery and an amazing large lake - we saw elephants and one male elephant walked right up to us and crossed our path - it was amazing - we also were shown an amazing dam too - we saw lots of wildlife -elephants - baby ones as well , water buffalo- lots, crocodiles , wild boar , monitor lizards , mongoose , spotted deer ( many ) , eagles and lots of beautiful birds - painted storks and Malabar hornbills We went in block 5 after and there were more jeeps as this is where the leopards and sloth bears are - we didn’t see either of them but we were not disappointed as we saw lots of elephants up v close - it’s nature and nothing is guaranteed Prasad is very respectful of the animals - he is a lovely man - his mother is too This is a great place for safari - this region is now part of Yala but it is less touristy We would highly...

Maybe could provide some toiletries - the shower was warm but not hot but probably to be expected

I recommend this place when you plan a Safari to Lunugamvehera Nationalpark, which Thanamal-Villa also offers. Our Host and his Family was very friendly and helpful. The accommodation was close to main street with local food places and the bus station within short walking distance. Thanalmalvila-Villa offers rooms as Home-Stay as well as rooms in a separate building

My favourite days in Sri Lanka. Peace, nature and a generous and warm host. The safari Prasad arranged was perfect - lots of elephants, a beautiful lotus lake, black- faced monkeys, lots of birds and only 3 other jeeps in the 4.5 hours. The rooms are clean, with a hammock next to a little stream, iguanas, peacocks, monkeys and eagles in the garden. Prasad's mum's coconut rotis are the best I had in my 3 weeks and the room and safari were great value. Thanamalwila has few tourists so unspoilt and the family will help with everything from bus bookings, travel advice to taking me to see a friends farm to see crops growing. The buses from Ella and Galle stop directly outside the homestay so it's really easy to get to. The safari is in Blocks 5 and 6 of Yala. If you want a peaceful safari then I highly recommend Prasad's place.

Honestly everything was perfect. The family is so helpful and kind.

We had a good stay at the tent at Thanamal-villa. It was clean and we liked the big terrace, where we could hide from the rain. We got a really nice and lovely vegetarian dinner cooked by his mum. He also organised a safari tour in Yala block V and VI for us. We saw a lot of different birds, crocodiles, deers, an elephant, and monkeys.

For us, the surrounding was a little bit sketchy, behind a garage for repairing cars and felt a little bit lost. Maybe we got this impression because of the rainy and dark weather.

Best homestay I’ve stayed in during my 3 months of SE Asia travel. Location was ideal, activities were unbelievable, and the most hospitable hosts imaginable. I will be telling all of my fellow travelers to stay here for a long time to come. Make sure to book their safari. We were lucky enough to have a leopard walk 10ft in front of us and watch a baby elephant and its mom. Although, it still would have been beautiful without seeing any animals. The host mother made us the best curry spread we will probably ever eat for as long as we live.

Friendly staff

No water heater in the shower. We booked a family room and were given 2 separate rooms. We placed order for breakfast and lunch and we know for sure thag we were overcharged.

Very warm welcome. Host was very friendly and accommodating. We had a great meal at his house and he helped us with transport to our next location.

No WiFi.

The villa is in a very serene and tranquil environment, offering clean and peaceful rooms that ensure a relaxing stay. As part of the experience, the villa organizes guided safari tours around the Thanamalwilla and Yala regions, renowned for their incredible biodiversity. The knowledgeable and passionate guides enhance the journey, frequently pausing to highlight fascinating wildlife and provide interesting information that we may have otherwise missed out on seeing.

Great location for visiting safari. Excellent communication and pleasant welcome - coconut welcome drink.

Nothing. Valuable for the price of accommodation.

Prasad was the nicest host we've had in Sri Lanka so far (and everyone in Sri Lanka has been very nice). Him and his family made us dinner at their place, and he can also arrange a safari around Lunugamvehera National Park (we had already arranged it). The place is just off the main road where the bus stop is, but secluded enough that all you hear are birds and insects. There's a nice garden outside and a creek where some monkeys were chilling during the day. The cabin had AC and fridge and it was very comfortable overall.

No hot water, but it was hot enough outside ;)

The host organised an amazing safari for us. The decoration of the garden was cute but slightly exposed to construction workers during our stay. Perfect stay for one or two nights if you want to do a affordable and private safari. We even got a ride to our next destination.

Due to the lack of communication with the host there were some misunderstandings. While we ate, we sometimes felt a bit watched, with one of his workers waiting for to us to be finished.

Our favourite style of accommodation is always a little home in the middle of nature. This little villa was exactly what we like. The room is equipped with a fan and a mosquito net - our two most treasured 20th century appliances. (There’s also an ac, but we prefer natural ventilation.) Best of all, we opened both sets of windows to invite a cool evening breeze. Authentic SL restaurants are a short walk to the main road. Peacocks roam freely and their calls are a comfort in the crisp morning air. Prasad was always very attentive, and helped out whenever we needed something. He’s such a beautiful and kind host. And his mum made the best coconut roti! Thank you for your great hospitality - we loved everything about our stay with you!

Friendly owner, cosy and beautiful garden.

The excellent service and the owner's attitide

Nothing. 100% satisfied

The location is right in the center of the town yet very calm and quite. The owner was very friendly amd helpful.

Amazing people and

The house is a humble home stay but managed by the best people with a will to make customers' experiences memorable. The room is spacious and comfortable. While it has no frills of a hotel, it is indeed very cosy and comfortable. The food is home-made. The Dhal curry and the hoppers are the best! The house's location is amazing with the Lunugamvehara forest reserve gate at a 5 minute distance from the house. Prasad even got us a driver and safari Jeep at the house for us to embark on our adventure! For the price you pay, the facilities, the people and the location are the absolute best!

I have had two awesome nights at this place. Expect a very basic but clean house and a fantastic owner. He organised all sorts of things for me, including a great safari. We were almost completely alone there and were able to marvel at a family of elephants with a baby twice. He showed me local traditions and I really enjoyed him as a host. In the morning I was able to watch playing monkeys for hours in front of the terrace. It was really fun.

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Nice clean room, very friendly hosts, tasty breakfast

It is nice place wery near to fields of peakocs and little shops and restaurant. The owner Is kind man, very helpful and friendly. I engoyed my stay here.

The garden is really nice and quiet. Especially in the morning I enjoyed my coffee on the terrace while watching the peacocks dancing in the field next to the garden. The host arranged a Safari to Lunugamvehera National Park for us, which is really recommended if you want to do a Safari without masses of tourists. We just saw 3 other jeeps and our guide took distance to the animals.

Inside the house it got really hot but there is a fan and AC, so it’s easy to cool it down.

Thanks to our host Prasad ! Organized safari, transport to next place, took us to see local landscape etc. The place itself (separate buiding) is just enough away from the highway at the small creek. Exactly the place to start safari in Yala (VI) . Thanamalwila also had the cheapest "Lion" on Lanka :)

The owner of the place is super friendly and helpful. The location of the stay is close to town but super quiet and peaceful. The kitchen is also nice to have since the restaurant options are limited.

The stay has all the basic facilities needed for a good comfortable stay. It's like a mini safari from the window and sitting area outside the house. I saw many peacocks running around and dancing many times a day, also monitor lizards peacefully walking by. Many monkeys and buffaloes chilling in the stream in front. Also some birds like blue kingfisher, brown capped babbler birds, parrots etc. The location of the house is great as it's very near to the juice shop, bakeries, restaurants, wine shop and bus stand. Very nice house and hosts. Highly recommend this place.

It's a private house facing a small stream and a field. It has a good bed and a/c, nice view from the window, private bathroom, a small kitchen with cooking equipment ,fridge and a basin. The main centre of this city with the bus stop, restaurants and bar are only a few steps away. The owners are kind. They were always ready to help if we had any questions or concerns. Its very near to lunugumvehera national park in which you can go safari without disturbing the jungle creatures too much as it's less crowded than many other crowded safari parks around. It is one of the best places we stayed in Sri Lanka.

this is a simple but super comfortable and clean place! the person in charge was AMAZING, He try to answer to all of our questions and to coordinate the safari, taxi to Mirissa… EVERYTHING! I just can say this was an exceptional host and the place have every tu ing you need.

there is a lot of mosquitos (you are next to the national park so it’s normal) just don’t forget your mosquito spray

stayed one night on the way to Ella. everything was fine, a nice room, a beautiful sunny courtyard with monkeys, in the morning the owner fed me breakfast. In other words, I had a great time. the owner has recently taken up the villa, he works in a car service nearby, behind the house there are fields and nature

Staying here is a highlight of my month trip in Sri Lanka. I wanted to go to a better Yala National Park entrance than the crowded one handling people coming from Kataragama and Tissamaharama. With less crowding and a good guide, this helps minimize impact to animals on safaris. The villa is new and only had a couple reviews, but I decided to take a chance because they are the only reasonably priced stay I saw in the area and because they are near my prefered Yala entrance gate. I wasn't disappointed when I arrived since the place was comfortable with a good mattress, working A/C, it's a stand-alone unit, and had a relaxing vine-canopy shaded porch. The room itself is basic but has everything you need. Prasad and his family were amazing. They helped me get a new Sim card when mine broke and provided me with the best breakfasts, fresh juices, snacks, and conversations. I thoroughly enjoyed my three nights here!!

This place is awesome. few minutes off from the main road walking distance. The place feels like you are in a jungle. but in the town. there a small water stream going also near by. the place they have built for chill out is just amazing. i will be coming back.