This was the first stop in our Sri Lankan trip and We weren’t quite ready to brave the hustle bustle of Colombo, Athma house was perfect for that. A small escape where you could admire the city lights over the lake while nestled behind a jungle shield. However central enough for you get out there if you want to. The owner of the property was our highlight. A fabulous well traveled woman with a warm welcoming energy. Her mission to make us feel at home. The interior was a feast for the eyes. Authentic and eccentric. The property was originally built as her home and it still feels that way, lived in and full of soul. Our only regret is we didn’t stay longer. We stayed for one night and would recommend a minimum of two nights.

Nothing not to like

Completely blown away by this amazing place. The house is overlooking the lake with beautiful gardens and a long swimming pool. The architecture and interiors are unlike anything i've seen before. Incredible attention to detail. They have just reopened after some renovations and the rooms were artfully decorated, spacious and had everything i needed. Breakfast was top notch, homemade granola and the house special curries were delicious. Staff and owners were all really helpful and attentive. Will definitely be back. Thank you

Aathma Colombo House is a serene design retreat tucked away just 20 minutes from the city centre. Surrounded by nature, the space blends bohemian charm with traditional Sri Lankan design. The rooms are spacious, light-filled and calming, while the lakeside pool and common areas invite slow, intentional living. Service is warm, personal, and attentive. The staff are not only caring but also incredibly knowledgeable, and can help curate daytime itineraries tailored to your interests—whether it’s culture, food, or shopping. The food is fresh, flavourful, and beautifully presented, and their signature cocktails are a perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring.

Nothing! I travelled through Sri Lanka for three weeks prior, Aathma Colombo House was my fourth accommodation, and it was exceptional :).

A true gem! This boutique hotel exceeded all expectations. The interior design is absolutely stunning. Every detail, from the furniture to the lighting, reflects a perfect balance between modern comfort and timeless local charm. The staff were exceptional – warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. From check-in to check-out, the service was flawless. It felt like staying with friends who truly care about your experience. I can’t recommend this place enough – a beautifully curated space with outstanding hospitality. I’ll definitely be coming back if have a chance!

Please provide mosquito spray in rooms.

Very nice and very individual hotel. Very individual rooms with many details and a great breakfast.

The pool could have used some cleaning

This is one of the most interesting and beautiful hotels we have stayed in. Duchy, the owner, has spent many years designing and decorating the hotel with care, love and exquisite flair. The result is a wonderful oasis in Colombo with comfort and interest around every corner. It is a fabulous place to relax, particularly situated around the shores of a large lake. All the staff are incredibly friendly, attentive and helpful. My wife was a little unwell during our two nights stay and she was looked after with superb care and warm attention - thank you. In addition, the food is of a very high quality. We were so very sad to leave but it is our firm intention to return. Don’t miss this wonderful Colombo gem.

Nothing to dislike

Aathma totally exceeded my expectations. We needed a place to stay for one night at the end of our trip - we thought this would just be a stopover, but it felt like a whole holiday in itself. The room was INSANE, so ornate and cool. You really feel like you're in someone's incredible house. The team especially made it special: massive thanks to Shandheep and Rifath, and Gayan (food service). The food was delicious! We had room service, which was a real treat. Thank you Aathma team!

The location is beautiful, but fairly remote. This was perfect for us as we didn't need access to the city by foot, Ubers are easy to get though. It's an amazing oasis in an otherwise hectic city.

Aathma is a feast for the eyes and the heart. The setting is so lovely with lake views and peaceful gardens. As others have said there is always something new, beautiful or quirky to catch your eye. The hotel feels like a treasured family home in which you are an honoured guest. The staff are excellent, so professional and competent but friendly and fun as well. Bohoma stoothi Imran and Geeth for your outstanding care of us. The food was also some of the best we have had in Sri Lanka.

I would change nothing other than staying longer!

Delighted to spend our 2 final nights of our Sri Lanka tour in Aathma Colombo House! The photos don’t do the hotel justice… it’s quirky, colourful style is exquisite and beautifully crafted by the owner who was happy to chat with us and explain her project. We didn’t realise when we made our booking, that The Sun House in Galle is also run by the same family, so do look up this hotel which is equally stunning in a colonial style. It was lovely to have such beautiful hotels at the start and end of our trip. Not only are the hotels stylish with delicious restaurants, but the team look after you so well throughout your stay. Both are very special!

Nothing!

This place is beautiful. From the garden and the patio facing the lake, to the surrounding nature, to the breakfast with the chorus of birds in the morning. The decorations and the art pieces make this place magical. We had also dinner, and that was absolutely delicious. The bed was super comfortable and the staff very helpful. We will come back for sure in the future!

The cleanliness of the bathroom was ok, but could be improved with a little more attention to check for big insects before the check-in ( even if as it is very close to a lake we can understand that it's possible to find some insects around)