Khomba House, Kalpitiya, Sri Lanka

Khomba House is a privately owned villa nestled along the west coast of Sri Lanka, north of the international airport, within a two-kilometre stretch of golden sand at Alankuda Beach. Designed by a young Sri Lankan architect and completed in 2009, it sits approximately 150 metres from the water's edge and offers a rare combination of seclusion, comfort, and easy access to the rich marine life of the surrounding seas.

The villa was developed in partnership with the Bar Reef Hotel in Alankuda, one of the more notable tourism developments in the area. The Bar Reef management oversees the day-to-day running of Khomba House, and guests are welcome to use the resort's facilities, including its swimming pool. During peak seasons, the waters around the property are generally calm and crystal clear, sheltered from more dangerous surf.

Accommodation

Built on an open-plan basis with high ceilings, fans, polished floors, and overhanging eaves, the villa is designed to bring in the feeling of the beach throughout. Khomba House comprises two separate bedrooms, each with its own en-suite facilities. Adjoining the first bedroom is a sitting room with three day beds, and every room offers views of the surrounding landscape and coastline. The property is set within six acres of old coconut plantation, lending it a quiet, verdant atmosphere.

Dining and Facilities

A full-time cook and gardener are on hand to keep the villa running smoothly. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served in the dining room, accompanied by fresh juices and soft drinks. The main veranda stretches along the west side of the building, looking out over the Indian Ocean — a pleasant setting for a meal or a quiet evening. By the beach, a beach hut provides a shaded spot to enjoy a cool drink. Guests can also wander the Alankuda beach stretch at their leisure. Transport from the airport can be arranged prior to arrival.

Excursions and Activities

One of the most distinctive features of a stay at Khomba House is the daily complimentary dolphin and whale watching trip, offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The sea adjoining the reef supports a rich population of these marine mammals, and sightings in considerable numbers are not uncommon. Snorkelling in the nearby reef and fishing trips can be arranged, as can canoes and sailing dinghies through the boat house of the adjoining Bar Reef Resort.

For those who wish to venture further afield, a minibus can be rented for excursions to a local game park or the Cultural Triangle. The ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, and Dambulla are all reachable, and though the roads can be rough, the destinations are considered well worth the journey. The local town is also just a short drive from the property.

Seasons

It is worth noting that during the months of March to June the sea can become rough, making swimming unsuitable. From July to October, strong monsoon winds make Khomba House generally unsuitable for a stay. Guests planning a visit are advised to keep these seasonal patterns in mind when choosing their travel dates.