For years, Colombo has been treated as little more than a stopover - a place to land, recover from a long-haul flight, and continue south.
It deserves more.
DAY ONE
8:00 AM | Wake Up Slowly
You’re probably still jet lagged from the night before, and all you want is some peace, quiet and a moment to ease into your holiday. Relax, we’ve got you.
Breakfast is served.


Settle in by the lake and tuck into a proper spread - fresh tropical fruit, buffalo curd and treacle, homemade breads, fragrant tea and eggs made to order. If you’re up for it, why not try our local breakfast spread with hoppers, coconut 'pol' rottis and lip smacking curries!
As you sip on your coffee, listen to the birds. Before you know it, you'll spot one of the many species that call Colombo's wetlands home.
This is your first introduction to a side of Colombo many visitors never expect: remarkably green, surprisingly peaceful and full of wildlife.
11:00 AM |Discover the City by Tuk Tuk
There's no better way to understand Colombo than from the back of a tuk tuk.
Our Curated Tuk Tuk Experience takes you beyond the obvious, weaving through leafy neighbourhoods, bustling markets, colonial streets, hidden temples and creative corners that rarely make it into guidebooks. Along the way you'll discover the stories that give Colombo its character - past and present.
It's about seeing the city through local eyes.



One of the highlights of our trip. We discovered a side of Colombo that guidebooks simply don't show you.
1:00 PM |A Long Sri Lankan Lunch
Ask us for one of our favourite local spots in the city, find a shady table and order to share.
Fragrant curries, sambols and seasonal vegetables tell the story of Sri Lanka better than any museum could.
Lunch here is something to savour, not rush.


3:00 PM |A Nap, The Lake & A Creative Paint Session
Return to Aathma and retreat to your freshly made suite.
Read a book, drift into an afternoon nap, or simply let the warmth of the day melt away as the sounds of Colombo soften into the distance.
Wake slowly as the afternoon light filters through the trees and the garden begins to glow.
Then, wander down to the lakeside for our Paint & Sip experience. Settle beneath the trees with a brush in one hand and a drink in the other as your host guides you through the evening. This isn't about creating a masterpiece.. it's about slowing down, letting your creativity flow and soaking up the changing colours of the sky, the stillness of the water and the unhurried rhythm of Colombo at sunset.


DAY TWO
9:00 AM |Wander Without A Plan
Take your breakfast beneath the mango tree and ready youself for the day.
Today is about discovering Colombo at leisure. Browse independent bookshops. Step into antique stores or galleries. Stop for an exceptional cup of Ceylon tea.
The city's charm often lies in the places you weren't expecting to find it. We'll provide you with recommendations that will help you along the way. Just ask us.

12:00 PM |The Street Table
One of our favourite ways to introduce guests to Colombo is around our Street Table.
Set in one of our dining spaces, this experience celebrates the flavours and stories of Sri Lankan street food.
Expect recipes gathered from markets, roadside kitchens and family homes, served alongside conversations about the island's culture, traditions and ingredients.
It's a great way for your family to try street food in a safe environment!


This wasn't just a tasting menu. It was a journey through Sri Lanka's streets, traditions, and flavours, all from one table."
4:00 PM |The Last Swim
As your time at Aathma draws to a close, there's just enough time for one last swim, a good book and a slow afternoon by the lake before continuing your journey.
Take a moment to soak it all in. The birdsong, the rustling trees, the warmth of the tropical air and the gentle rhythm of a home that has welcomed travellers for years.
Ready To Book Your Stay?
Why Stay At Aathma?
Aathma began life as an artist's family home and still feels just that.. a home.
Set beside the wetlands of Diyawanna Lake, mornings begin with birdsong instead of traffic, while our experiences - from local tuk tuk tours to the Street Table - are designed to help you discover the Colombo we know and love.
If you're looking for more than a place to sleep, we'd love to welcome you.