Hotel Dengan bar di Central Province, Sri Lanka

The Hotel locationis excellent. its on hill and views are amazing. Food was good only issue we had was during checkout when no one was available to get the luggage from room . Its 2nd floor with no lift.

Amba Yaalu — A Swan-Like Masterclass in Women-Led Luxury I arrived at Amba Yaalu by Thema Collection without quite knowing what to expect—after all, it was my first time staying in a “women-led” hotel. I wondered what the experience would feel like, and what new energy the concept might bring. What I found was exceptional: the service was of the same highest standard I would expect from this caliber of hotel chain—yet delivered with a distinctive style, unmistakably described as “swan-like.” 🦢 There’s no question the women are working ferociously—in the way a swan’s feet move beneath the water to create effortless beauty. And that’s exactly what you feel here. Under the surface, everything is operating with precision, speed, and strength. But what guests experience is something else entirely: grace. poise. warmth. smiles that arrive with such ease that it feels like the entire property glides. The atmosphere is genuinely welcoming. I noticed it not only from the staff, but in the way kindness seems to move through the whole guest experience—women, men, and children all smiling in a way that is tender, natural, and beautifully effortless. And yes—because luxury should be truly thoughtful—all of my bags were carried to my room for me. No fuss. No lifting. Just seamless, dignified care from arrival onward. If you’re looking for a stay that pairs top-tier hospitality with a rare, elegant spirit, Amba Yaalu is it. A hotel that doesn’t just host you—it makes you feel quietly cared for, beautifully welcomed, and entirely at ease. Truly unforgettable.

The best location close to the temple and to the show. The staff was very nice and help us with everything. The room is beautiful that let us feel the vibe of Sri Lanka. Recommend.

I absolutely loved this hotel! The location was great, and the views were nice. I only wish I could have stayed longer to enjoy more of the peaceful atmosphere. My room was cozy and relaxing, and I especially loved the bathtub which was perfect for unwinding after a long day. The infinity pool was another highlight with gorgeous ocean views, though it was a bit on the cool side. I do wish it had been heated, but it was still a beautiful spot to relax. Room service was great too! Good selection and reasonably priced for a hotel. Cons: On my last day, I treated myself to a 90-minute aromatherapy massage at the spa. Unfortunately, I’d rate the spa a 5/10. Living in Thailand has definitely spoiled me with incredible massages, so I admit my standards are high! Still, I think the spa could use a bit of a refresh. The rooms smelled a bit old and weren’t very visually appealing. It was also quite cold during the body scrub and massage, which made it hard to fully relax. Breakfast was okay, but I wish there were more Western-style options available. Overall, I’d definitely stay here again. Everything about the hotel itself was lovely, I’d just skip the spa next time!

The hotel is nice, spacious beautiful room at check in we were treated to a refreshing juice. There is a big pool on the grounds and a big jacuzzi with hot water in the room.  Minuses of the hotel: Far from the attractions. Taxi from the center only go there for the price of pick me x2. Hotel taxi are 3 times more expensive. There are no stores and restaurants near the hotel, so inside the hotel prices for food x3, Also after 6pm it is dangerous to be outside because elephants are walking around. Now let's talk about the premium status and the five races. In 7 years of traveling, this is the first hotel that did not have a bathrobe, slippers and toothbrush and toothpaste in the room. The plumbing in the shower leaks, and the doors creak so much that you could call the spirits at night. Regarding the attention to the customer. I mentioned my upcoming birthday in conversation with the manager, but this fact was not used in any way to show any form of attention from the hotel. This is a huge miscalculation on the part of the staff at a premium hotel. We also had a late departure and our request to delay in the hotel for a couple of hours was refused. This was not due to the arrival of new customers, as the manager offered to extend our stay for a fee. For future customers this fact may be decisive in their choice. In general, the hotel is not bad, but the service and flexibility of the staff, as well as individual approach to customers, does not correspond to the premium level and requires improvement.

The owners and employees at this hotel are so, so lovely. Unfortunately their hotel is not. I almost feel catfished as many of the photos highlighted the bar and pool party atmosphere. This was not the case - the pool was a decent size but in the shade and I actually didn’t see anyone in it. The pool party drinking shots I highly suspect were perhaps not a genuine source. The same goes for the bar which is massive and attended to by several lovely young, bored gentlemen as both times I popped up (once for dinner) I was the only patron. Again no party atmosphere or even people - which is a shame as it is a big venue. Fortunately next door was another venue for some decent cocktails and music which saved the boredom somewhat. The bedroom was a decent size with a small fridge (but didn’t work), the bathroom was small, felt dirty, no hand soap or soap for the shower (apart from leftover previous occupants - and that was gross). The pressure was poor making showering difficult and there was plaster on the floor from some damage - not cleaned up. The bed was massive and comfortable with air conditioning and a fan so sleep was good. Finally, and to repeat, the staff were lovely. Very hospitable and the location is about a ten minute walk to the Sacred Tooth Temple and Kandy Lake. So great location. Would I stay there again - no. Would I pop in to say hello to the owners and next door for a cocktails - possibly!

At one time this was likely a good hotel, however it is now tired, run down and old. We booked the all inclusive rate as we have four children and it made sense as it included drinks and snacks. However, when we arrived the hotel refused to honour it. The manager was exceptionally rude and insisted it was an error on our part despite it being advertised on numerous booking platforms. There are much nicer hotels that offer the same rate within the town that we would have booked had we realised the all inclusive was not an option. The rooms were ok but the extra beds were camp beds and the carpets were extremely dirty throughout the hotel with a strong smell of urine outside the fitness suite. The food was average at best but would not recommend. If you are staying for one night then this would be ok as the location is extremely central but not for any longer.

Thank you for the upgrade to the room with a balcony, and I absolutely love the huge bathroom. Thank you for the friendly service staff who answered my every query. Waking up to the quiet of Kandy Lake before the rest of the city wakes was a really peaceful feeling and I really enjoyed just standing on tje balcony soaking in the sights. Loving the wide breakfast spread too, ranging from local fare to continental selection. I was spoilt for choice and my tummy really loved the chicken curry & daal. Thank you.

The moment we walked in, the staff greeted us with a refreshing juice and walked us to a viewpoint — the sight of Sigiriya Rock was absolutely mesmerizing. The room is incredibly cozy with beautiful, interesting wooden decor that gives such a warm local feel. Breakfast was delicious with plenty of fresh fruit and great coffee. A perfect stay for exploring the ancient rock fortress!

Overall, a good experience, especially the unique hotel design and beautiful views. It's understandable that some facilities are a bit dated, and there were mosquitoes in the public areas due to the natural surroundings, but none in the room. It was a value-for-money stay, highly recommended.