September 12, 2024
Nestled between lush paddy fields and mangroves on Sri Lanka's southern coast, PALM is a tropical retreat built to stir the soul. Opened in 2019 by Miriam and Laurie, who traced Miriam’s Sri Lankan roots, PALM found its home on an old coconut plantation. Drawing inspiration from the bohemian spirit of Sri Lanka’s surf culture and the modern aesthetics of East London, PALM blends tropical architecture with a Shoreditch edge, offering a unique getaway in Ahangama.
At PALM, sustainability is key. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the jungle, the team is dedicated to protecting the environment, encouraging guests to conserve water and electricity while supporting local, fair-trade goods. The property itself features six breezy A-frame cabanas with king-sized beds, cool concrete interiors, outdoor bathrooms with rainfall showers, and private patios with hammocks perfect for lounging. Elevated two-room suites between the palm trees offer luxurious living with breathtaking views over the paddy fields and jungle.
Each room at PALM is designed with comfort and style in mind, featuring king-size beds, Bluetooth speakers, mini-bars, and locally sourced toiletries. The outdoor bathrooms let guests shower under the open sky, while the private terraces provide a peaceful retreat. Guests also enjoy complimentary breakfast, a 14-meter pool, yoga classes, and all-day dining with a menu infused with Sri Lankan flavors.
For larger groups, the brand-new PALM Haus offers a private four-bedroom villa just a short walk from the main hotel. Minimalist to the max, this sleek, modernist space features floor-to-ceiling glass walls, polished concrete floors, and pops of pink and emerald green that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living. The master bedroom boasts an oversized terrazzo bathtub and stunning views, while the open-plan living and dining area offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding rice paddies and tea plantations.
At PALM, the culinary experience is as vibrant as the surroundings. The all-day kitchen serves up island-inspired dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can savor the new menu, designed for sharing, and unwind with a signature cocktail or ice-cold beer at sundown.
Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate PALM Fit, a fully equipped gym with CrossFit, weightlifting, and bodybuilding gear. Drop-in classes are offered during the season, and personalized massages by expert Andrew Ranger are available to help with recovery, mobility, or injury treatment. For those looking to hit the waves, PALM partners with local surf schools like Ticket to Ride and Soul & Surf to provide private lessons and video analysis for surfers of all levels. To complete the experience, the Nail Bar by Bitter Sweet at the PALM Pavilion offers luxurious manicures and pedicures, making it the perfect spot for some pampering.
Rooms start at Rs 12,500 per night including breakfast.
