Mallis Guesthouse

We only stayed one night, but really enjoyed this lovely homestay. The room was huge, with AC and a comfortable bed, and the host was very caring. The price was fair, and breakfast for 1000 rupees was delicious. We'll definitely try her dinner next time. I can recommend it, especially for couples.

The family welcomed us so warmly that we felt like part of their family. We're grateful for their care and hospitality, and I'll never forget them. This once-in-a-lifetime stay even gave us the chance to visit the famous Kataragama temple. It doesn't feel like goodbye, just see you soon. The accommodation felt like home, with plenty of space, a lovely kitchen, large bathroom, comfortable bed, living room with a sofa, AC, and fans. We had privacy too, plus a covered terrace with lounge chairs and a beautiful aquarium to sit and dream by for hours. The garden was beautiful, with squirrels, lovely birds, beavers, and monitor lizards. You can book an affordable trip to Koggola Lake, and they can arrange a tuk-tuk easily. The bus and train stations are nearby, so it's easy to explore. Beautiful Koggola Beach is close for sunset each evening, and Habaraduwa is a 15-minute walk for shopping or dining out. On request, Nilu will make delicious dishes for a small fee, which you can enjoy on your private terrace.

The room has plenty of space, a comfortable bed, air conditioning, and a nice bathroom. There’s also a kitchen and a separate little room with another bed, which could work well for a family with a child. Malli's Guesthouse is a peaceful base with good restaurants and beach bars nearby. It’s not far from the beach, and you can easily reach lovely spots around Midigama, Ahangama, Talpe, and Unawatuna. The area hasn’t been overrun with tourists, which made it especially quiet. Nilu can cook when asked, and the food was excellent. The family is wonderful, and I’d happily spend a few days here.

I spent most of my time on the covered private terrace, looking out over the greenery. It really feels like you’re in the jungle, because you are. The beach is just 500 meters away, and the waves during my stay were impressively steep. Even experienced tube surfers seemed to enjoy them, though I can’t say if it’s like that all year. I felt at ease with Malli and his family and could work, study, surf, and practice my sport in a pleasant atmosphere. Malli lives next door with his wife, brother, and three children. His brother has a physical disability from a car accident when he was young, and he’s usually around, caring for the garden, doing laundry, and helping with other tasks. Malli and his family were incredibly helpful, especially for someone new to Sri Lanka. His wife also cooks local dishes on request. I loved the healthy green smoothie each morning and the refreshing mango shake. The guesthouse has a modern private bathroom, small kitchen, and a combined bedroom and living room, plus an extra bed in the hallway. Three people can stay comfortably. The photos don’t show how bright and lovely it is in person. I did find the guesthouse itself a bit disappointing, but it’s actually much brighter and more beautiful than the pictures suggest.