About Ambalama

“A little piece of paradise”

Our Story

Ambalama is a Sinhalese (an ethnic group native to Sri Lanka) word that means ‘a welcoming resting place for weary travellers, explorers and adventurers’.

When Chris Kidd, the owner of Ambalama, first saw the property, he was blown away by the location, design and soul of the villa. The property was designed by Australian architect, Bruce Fell-Smith, who was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for service to humanitarian aid after the devastation of the Tsunami of 26 October, 2004.

The villa is an architectural gem with four guest suites, a large living/dining area, infinity swimming pool and large garden. It’s beachfront location, right outside Galle, makes Ambalama one of the leading private luxury villas along Sri Lanka’s south coast. To deliver an utterly relaxing experience, Ambalama staff will cater to your every need, which includes excellent cuisine prepared by our in-house chef.

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“Sri Lanka’s south coast has a wonderful sense of romance. The culture as well as the landscape of palm trees, endless beaches and coral reefs provides something for everyone.
~ Chris Kidd, Owner of Ambalama

Our Team

At Ambalama Sri Lanka, we aim to repeat that sense of utter relaxation and discreet service in a space, which is not just a villa, but also a home.

Roshan, Manager and Chef

Roshan has been Ambalama’s manager and chef for a long time. Guests rave about Roshan, who cooks traditional fare with imagination but who is also open to your personal requests.

It’s a great experience to accompany Roshan to the fish market to see the catch of the day. During your stay we’d also recommend having a BBQ on the lawn in front of the beach.

Chris Kidd, Owner

Chris established the first Ambalama Villa near Galle, Sri Lanka in 2006 and continues to be involved in every aspect of the business.

With a varied corporate career behind him, Chris branched out into the hospitality after many years of working and living in Asia. He’s passionate about the villa homes he’s created and is committed to delivering a memorable experience for every guest at Ambalama.

Tripadvisor Reviews

Beautiful Villa and stunning food! Home feeling villa with 5* service. I stayed there for five nights with a group of friends. Special thanks to our chef Roshan, he is absolutely amazing and so talented. Best seafood BBQ ever despite when couldn’t do it outdoor beyond the rain. Will definitely go back again.

Sylvia L

I didn’t need any encouragement to pay another short trip to Galle from Singapore and stay another time at Ambalama. The staff were the same from my last visit, and, this added to the warmth and welcome..the owner clearly has a great and mutually respectful relationship with his team..and this has been rewarded with loyalty and truly crossing the t and dotting the i when it comes to anticipating when to ask/serve drinks etc. The food and dining experience has always been a strong point, but over the few days I was there, the choice given and execution of both Western and Local food was even better. Chapeau.

Guest from Singapore

A wonderful place to stay with the most stunning view. The staff were excellent and the chef was top notch. He could cook anything you ask and we had the most fabulous food. Relaxing with a sunset drink looking at the beach right in front of you feels like the world problems are erase. Would highly recommend to stay there and will revisit the villa again

Guest from Kuala Lumpur