Mango Villa Homestay Unit — Hotel in Sri Lanka

During our two months in Sri Lanka and despite 5 days of straight rain, this was our favourite stay. The road to Panama was a safari in itself, with a 2.5 meter monitor lizard, crocodile ponds, scores of gray langurs and stunning views. We visited outside the tourist season so we were the only tourists in the village, which sports some lovely beaches, a lake with many crocodiles, charming rice fields and lagoons, friendly locals, affordable local restaurants and good access to the Kumana national park.

The room is charming and clean and had everything we needed (though if you are very attached to hot showers you won't find one here). What made the stay so special though was the wonderful family who runs it. Their hospitality is genuine and our walks in the neighbourhood and evening talks thought us so much. Their cooking is fantastic, with many ingredients from their own garden and including original Sri Lankan dishes you won't find on any restaurant menu. It is people who live from their heart like them that form the true treasure of Sri Lanka.

The only problem with this place is that if you spend too much time here, you don't want to...

Panama is the best way to escape Arugam Bay for a night or two. Mango Villa is EVERYTHING that Arugam is missing. Great local hospitality, food and natural calm surroundings. The family has done a wonderful job on having AC and mosquito absent sleeping areas yet still use the most traditional wood fire kitchen. This to me is tjw perfect balance. Awesome departure point...

A wonderful homestay, the family who runs this place, make it for you as a real home coming place. The lady of the house cooks very nice Sri Lankan style food for lunch and diner. And she is a very caring woman either. The place is a good base to explore Panama and go on safari in Kumana N.P. Highly...