Ambalama Leisure Lounge, Hanwella

Ambalama Leisure Lounge Hotel is an eco-resort nestled on the banks of the Kelani River in Hanwella, situated along the Colombo–Ratnapura–Nuwara Eliya Road approximately 30 km from the commercial hub of Colombo. Despite its proximity to the city, the surrounding landscape is one of rubber plantations and lush green hills, and the property itself spans over 6 acres of natural vegetation — making it a genuinely peaceful retreat from urban life.

The hotel sits alongside a gently flowing river and features cottage-style accommodation built and designed according to Sri Lankan themes. It caters to a wide range of guests, from honeymoon couples and families to those planning weddings or corporate conferences.

Accommodation

Ambalama Leisure Lounge offers a diverse range of accommodation options. Two double air-conditioned cabanas are set amidst nature and built above water, each spacious and equipped with a television and living area. Three double non-air-conditioned cabanas feature private balconies and fine views of the surroundings. A newer wing adds 8 double non-air-conditioned rooms, with 4 on the ground floor and 4 above.

For families and groups, the property offers two family cottages: Weda Gedara and Guru Gedara. Weda Gedara comprises two interconnected identical units — Sarpa Visa and Panchakarma — each accommodating 4 guests with an attached bathroom and living space, and the capacity to add 1 extra bed per unit, bringing the combined maximum occupancy to 10. Guru Gedara is a two-storied unit with 2 double beds and 1 single bed, accommodating up to 5 guests.

Dining and Facilities

The hotel restaurant serves Sri Lankan, Western and Chinese cuisine. Breakfast and dinner are presented buffet style, while dinner also features a special set menu. An à la carte menu is available for those who prefer it, and the culinary team can cater to get-togethers, BBQ parties, office gatherings and picnics. An in-house bar stocks local and international liquor as well as chilled beer.

For recreation, guests have access to an outdoor pool, a kiddies' play area, a cricket ground and a badminton court. Secure parking is also available on the property.

Weddings and Conferences

The newly built Adawiya hosts wedding receptions at competitive rates and consists of two separate halls, each capable of holding up to 200 guests. The scenic riverside setting provides a natural backdrop for wedding photography. The property is equally well equipped for conferences and workshops, with the two-storied Attapattu Maduwa serving as the conference area, accommodating high-profile meetings and a variety of seating arrangements for a maximum of around 200 guests.

Hanwella and the Surrounding Region

Hanwella is a small town in the Avissawella electorate, roughly an hour's drive from Colombo. The Kelani River runs alongside the town, and nearby areas include Padukka, Pugoda, Kosgama and Nawagamuwa. The region is dotted with waterfalls, green hills and rubber plantations, and two main reservoirs are situated within close proximity. Hanwella is also historically significant as an ancient battleground between the Portuguese and the Sinhalese, and colonial influences from that era are still visible in the town today. Guests with time to spare can continue along the Colombo–Ratnapura road to Ratnapura, famed as the city of gems.