Home Rooms About Contact Book Direct
Who We Are

Our Story

Founded 2012

Born from a Love of this Island

Amara Villa began as a family dream. In 2012, Nimal and Priya de Silva — a local architect and a former hotel manager — bought a half-acre of overgrown coconut land in Unawatuna and set about building something they wished existed: a place of genuine warmth, beauty, and unhurried hospitality.

The name "Amara" comes from the Sinhala word for immortal — a nod to the timeless quality of a truly restful stay. From the first two rooms they opened in 2013, Amara has grown organically into six privately designed accommodations, each one a labour of love and a story of its own.

Every structure uses locally sourced timber, hand-laid Kandyan tiles, and craftsmanship from local artisans. We believe the most beautiful spaces are those that honour where they stand.

12+
Years Running
2,400+
Guests Hosted
4.9★
Average Rating
Amara Villa gardens at sunset
Handcrafted interior details at Amara
What We Stand For

Our Principles

🌿
Rooted in Place

Our architecture, food, materials, and team all come from Sri Lanka.

Obsessive Craft

Every detail — from the thread count of your linen to the fruit selection at breakfast — is chosen with deliberate care.

🛖
Small on Purpose

We will never build more rooms than we can give exceptional attention to. Six rooms is our limit, and our promise.

🌱
Environmental Care

Solar-heated water, a kitchen garden, local produce sourcing, and a no-single-use-plastic policy throughout the property.

💛
Community First

We employ locally, partner with local guides, source from local farms, and donate 2% of all revenue to coastal conservation.

🌊
Ocean Connection

Our design and programming are all about connecting you to the sea — from the moment you wake up to the moment you fall asleep.

The People

Who You'll Meet

Nimal de Silva
Nimal de Silva
Founder & Architect

I designed every room as if I'd be the one sleeping in it.

Priya de Silva
Priya de Silva
Co-founder & Guest Relations

A perfect stay is 1% logistics and 99% making someone feel seen.

Chamara Perera
Chamara Perera
Head Chef

Everything on your plate has a name and a story — usually from just down the road.

Kumari Jayasinghe
Kumari Jayasinghe
Guest Experience

My job is to make your itinerary look like happy accidents.

Our Location

Unawatuna, Galle
Southern Sri Lanka

A short walk from one of Asia's most loved beaches, yet tucked away enough to feel like your own private corner of the world.

✈️
From Colombo Airport
3 hrs by car · Private transfers arranged on request
🚂
From Galle Station
10 min tuk-tuk ride · One of Sri Lanka's most scenic train routes
🏖️
Unawatuna Beach
4 min walk · Calm bay waters, ideal for swimming year-round
🏯
Galle Fort (UNESCO)
6 km · Dutch colonial fort, boutique cafés, and galleries
Get Directions →
Sri Lanka tropical landscape with coconut palms
Our Commitment

Travel That Gives Back

We believe luxury and responsibility aren't opposites. Every decision at Amara considers people, place, and planet.

Solar-heated water throughout the property — 80% of our energy needs met by renewable sources
On-site kitchen garden supplying fresh herbs, vegetables, and tropical fruits for the kitchen daily
All seafood and produce sourced from within 20 km — we know our farmers and fishermen by name
Zero single-use plastics on the property since 2019
2% of annual revenue donated to the Galle Coastal Conservation Project
Personalise Your Stay

Not sure which room?

Tell us your dates, group size, and what you're celebrating — we'll suggest the perfect option.

Ask Us → WhatsApp Us