Villa Mankani

Villa Mankani sits on a gentle hillside within a mango plantation in the countryside around Dambulla, looking out over green paddy fields, forest and rolling hills. Four separate chalets of brick, timber and glass are spread through the grounds, giving each couple or family its own private space while sharing a pool and dining pavilion. It is an excellent base for the Cultural Triangle, with the Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya, Pidurangala Rock and Minneriya National Park all within day-trip reach.

The heart of the property is a sparkling pool surrounded by landscaped garden, with loungers and umbrellas looking across the open fields. Beside it, a large roofed dining pavilion is set for breakfasts and dinners with views over the pool, and each chalet has its own shaded terrace for coffee or a quiet read. Aerial views show just how secluded it is, surrounded by orchard, fields and woodland.

Inside the chalets, interiors are minimalist and calm, with earthy tones, natural textures and large windows that frame the greenery. All four bedrooms have king beds, air conditioning and sleek en-suite bathrooms with walk-in rain showers and premium toiletries, and there is a brick-walled lounge for relaxing together. A small team handles daily housekeeping, the garden and the pool, and the cook prepares breakfast, lunch and dinner on request.