That we had to leave

We stayed for 2 nights and wished we had stayed at least 2 more. The property is wondeful, beautiful and peaceful, the pool overlooking the lake is magical. Highlights would definitely be the property manager Shyam, he is charming funny and incredible host. We did not want for anything. He recommended a fantastic trip on the lake, arranged us dinner reservations at a fab local restaurant, he also personally took us to town in a tuk Tuk when we needed a few things. He is an absolute asset to the property and certainly added to our stay with wonderful stories and care. His assistant is also lovely and Charlie the fab dog is delightful and kept us company. Could recommend more highly!!!! Will definitely be back!!! Thank you Shaym again!!!

Stayed in July 2025

Specious rooms, feels so private, beautiful setting overlooking a beautiful lake, great breakfast

Stayed in April 2025

We really loved our stay here - and Shyam took really good care of us!

Stayed in March 2025

Shyam 10/10 service, Charlie 11/10 dog☺️

Stayed in March 2025

Fabulous property in a idyllic location. Great to unwind at the end of the holiday . Helpful staff,. Manager Shyam helped us with bookings and generally looked after us very well and Charlie the dog was a sweetie greeting us enthusiastically like old friends.Tremendous bird life and biodiversity on the lake and in the beautiful gardens.

Stayed in March 2025

Nothing

Lovely rooms around an amazing pool and right by the lake. The breakfast was delicious and there are some great nearby restaurants. The staff can also head into town for you and get you fresh fish which you can cook on their BBQ. Service was faultless and the resident dog Charlie is adorable.

Stayed in March 2025

If you’re looking for a slice of paradise in Sri Lanka - Shiva Sunrise Resort is the place to be. Our stay at this stunning  property was nothing short of magical, and it’s all thanks to the breathtaking location, impeccable service, and the incredible hospitality of Manager Shyam and lovely dog Charlie. From the moment we arrived, we felt like we were in a dream. The resort is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere that makes it the ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The rooms at Shiva Sunrise Resort are spacious, elegantly designed, and equipped with all the modern amenities you could need.  The bed was incredibly comfortable. The attention to the minimalism details in the room’s decor added to the overall sense of luxury and relaxation. The private rooftop terrace offered breathtaking views of the lake and swimming pool. The breakfast experience at Shiva Sunrise Resort was exceptional and different every day. The service at Shiva Sunrise Resort was impeccable,  thanks to Manager Shyam. From the moment we arrived, Shyam went above and beyond to ensure our stay was perfect. His warm smile, genuine care, and attention to detail made us feel like VIP guests. Whether it was arranging a sunrise boat ride, recommending the best restaurants and cafes, giving us the Tuk Tuk ride or simply checking in to make sure everything was to our liking. Shyam’s hospitality was truly exceptional. The entire staff followed his lead, providing friendly, attentive, and personalized service throughout our stay. The resort features a beautiful infinity pool that overlooks the lake, making it the perfect spot to relax and soak in the views. Shiva Sunrise Resort is a true gem. It combines luxury, comfort, and natural beauty in a way that leaves you feeling refreshed and inspired. If you’re looking for a luxurious, peaceful, and unforgettable stay in Sri Lanka, Shiva Sunrise Resort is the place to be.

Stayed in February 2025

Facilities in the room could be improved, such as hand towels, better toiletry, hair dryer, mini refrigirator, etc. Also, possibility to order food for lunch or dinner could be helpful, as the hotel is far from the center, and not always convenient to go there for food.

It is an absolutely beautiful place, cosy, quite and comfortable. Carefully and tastefully designed, and well taken care of. The staff is extremely friendly and helful. Shayam, along with his family, is available 24 hrs for anything that you may need. The lake provides stunning views and mystical atmosphere.

Stayed in March 2025

-

It was fantastic. It reminds me of when we came to visit our best friend and he even has his own hotel)

Stayed in February 2025

Absolutely nothing!

We loved everything! This resort is absolute heaven, truly a hidden gem. Shyam and his team are outstanding, nothing was a bother. Shyam goes above and beyond daily, he really made this place very special for us. He gave us tips on where to eat and made our reservations, he also gave us a lift in the resorts tuk tuk. One night we wanted to stay in and he ordered in pizza so we could all just relax by the bar eating and chatting. Me & my husband will miss our friend. The food in the resort was amazing- each breakfast was amazing. The best we had in Sri Lanka. We also had chicken for lunch which was cooked from scratch and was delicious. Also Charlie the resort’s dog, he is an angel. We loved waking up to him every morning. Although don’t worry if you’re not a dog person as he is very well trained and will happily keep to himself if you don’t fuss over him. The room’s are stunning, spacious with fab A/C. The bed was so comfortable. The resort is peaceful and tranquil, with views across the lake. Shyam also arranged for us to do a night time boat ride on the lake and we seen lots of birds as the sunset, it was beautiful.

Stayed in February 2025

Nothing!

We spent 24 wonderful hours at this exceptional property and wished we had booked for longer. The minute you walk through the gates there is so much beauty to take in; everything has been exquisitely designed and all in service of making the traveler feel instantly relaxed. Like a deep exhale!! Our host Shyna and his team could not have done more to make us feel welcome and at home. Fresh coconut water was offered on arrival followed by a quick tour around the property. Our plans to go to the beach that day abandoned! We instead spent the afternoon chilling out by the beautiful pool. About a 10 min tuktuk to the beach that evening had us sipping cocktails in a roof top bar watching the sunset… a recommendation by our host! Breakfast was outstanding…!! Prepared with care and set out on our own private terrace. We can honestly say that our stay at Shiva Sunrise was the best hotel experience during our 2 weeks in Sri Lanka! I would encourage anyone to stay here in this little oasis…. You won’t be disappointed!

Stayed in February 2025

There was a few ants in the bathroom. (Not out of the ordinary as it’s very open to the outside)

The host Shyam was amazing, very helpful and friendly with us. We loved the room, very cozy and romantic. The bathroom is amazing because it’s exterior shower and nice decoration. The pool had the perfect temperature the whole day and very clean. The whole location was amazing would recommend coming here even if you want to visit Galle. 12/10 hotel would come here again definitely!!! PS: They have a cute Golden Retriever, Charlie, so cute!

Stayed in February 2025

This hotel is truly amazing, offering the perfect retreat for anyone seeking serenity and peace. The rooms are beautifully designed, spacious, and incredibly comfortable. The service is exceptional, with special thanks to Shyam, who went above and beyond to ensure we had a wonderful experience. He made sure all our needs were met and that every detail was taken care of. Highly recommend this place for a relaxing and memorable stay!

Stayed in February 2025

nothing other than the fact we had to return home!

Shiva Sunrise resort is an amazing place to stay. We really cannot recommend enough! The pool and grounds are beautiful as is the view of the lake, the photos really do not do it justice! The cabana we stayed in was immaculate and so quiet with fantastic views. The breakfasts were so good, freshly cooked and really tasty. We also had a couple of other meals at the resort and again they were freshly cooked and really nice. Andrea and Shyam were amazing hosts, nothing was too much trouble, they were really helpful and friendly and of course Charlie the golden retriever needs a mention as he was so loving, I will really miss him! We have travelled quite a lot over the years and can honestly say we have never stayed anywhere as nice as the Shiva Sunrise resort.

Stayed in February 2025

HIDDEN GEM Checking out from this place was harder than I expected—it’s a place that truly leaves an impression. I’ve traveled to many countries and stayed in beautiful resorts, but this one in Hikkaduwa stands out for its peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. From the moment I arrived, I felt a sense of calm. The resort is beautifully designed with attention to detail, creating a relaxing and inviting environment. Every space reflects thoughtfulness and care, making it more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience to remember. Moreover every space including the room is Very Clean and Well Maintained. Andrea, the owner, is incredibly warm and welcoming. Her hospitality, along with her wonderful staff, made my stay feel special. They make lovely breakfast and ensure you are happy. They go above and beyond to make sure guests are comfortable and well taken care of. The cabanas have a rooftop where you can chill, relax and sunbathe with trees around, while the lake is calm. We woke up early in the morning to see birds, mangroves, forest and a dreamy sunrise. At night, you can see fireflies and during a full moon it is just 🤌🏻, can even star gaze from the swing by the lake. A special mention to Charlie, the golden retriever, who added to the charm of this place with his friendly and loving nature. I’ll miss you Charlie🥹 If you’re visiting Sri Lanka, I highly recommend Shiva Sunrise Resort. It’s a place that stays with you, and I will return back to this place someday 💯🥺♥️♥️

Stayed in February 2025

Nothing

What a find ! If I could rate 11/10 I would . From the exceptionally warm welcome from Andrea and her gorgeous golden dog Charlie to the lakeside views and the stunning swimming pool . 6 individual bungalows all with their very own roof top lounge area . Finished off to such a high standard , the food we had was amazing and so fresh and the lake boat ride at sunrise or sunset was one of the most amazing experiences ever , so peaceful yet only 10 mins into the busier Hikkaduwa . For this price I don’t think you’d find anything better and it was by far our favourite accommodation out of 12 others we stayed at during our stay in Sri Lanka

Stayed in February 2025

Shiva Sunrise Resort was the perfect honeymoon escape! Andrea and Shyam were incredible hosts, making us feel so welcome and really looking after us. The staff were all fantastic – friendly, helpful, and always smiling. Our room was immaculate, the pool was the perfect size, and the breakfasts were the best we had in Sri Lanka! This place is a little slice of paradise, and it was the highlight of our trip. We can't recommend it enough!

Stayed in February 2025

Nothing 10/10

This is probably the place in Hikkaduwa and nearby(maybe whole south Sri Lanka) in this Price range, you get the most of the money! Wauw what a paradise ! Nothing to complain about at all

Stayed in January 2025

Zero

Wow, what a place. Easily the best we’ve stayed in during our wandering around North and south SL. A little bit of paradise. Andrea and Shyam work so hard to ensure that you have what you need to enjoy the perfect stay at this beautiful and serene resort. The other staff, k, M, G, and T never stop working on the grounds and ensure it stays in pristine condition. The location and accommodation is of very high quality. It is unique, stylish and in keeping with its natural surroundings. The wildlife both in and around the resort is spectacular…from water monitors, frogs, peacocks and ( wrong knee’d ) lapwings to kingfishers, bats, eagles and fireflies….to name but a few. 5 cabanas only, around a beautiful pool, means its never busy. The pool itself is beautiful, deep blue tiles with ample space to relax and always the perfect temperature. How do they do that???? A little way out of town but impossible not to get a tuk tuk whenever you want one if you don’t fancy the walk. Shyam even has his own Tuk Tuk and will run you into Hikka Breakfasts are different every morning but produced with you in mind and a time that suits. The quality and freshness of the fruits and bread and cake and eggs was all second to none. We asked for coffee every morning when we woke and while we found SL coffee not to our taste, the coffee prepared by Andrea and Shyam lived up to our unreasonably high standards. Charlie the golden retriever is very friendly and greets you like a long lost friend whenever he sees you. Even if you don’t love dogs you will love Charlie. Checkout the Resorts Facebook page as it’s a perfect reflection of what we encountered and what you will have to look forward to. We booked for 4 nights and ended up staying for 10….It was perfect and therefore pointless moving anywhere else. We cannot praise this place and these guys highly enough.

Stayed in January 2025

There is nothing we did not like!

We loved the set up of the resort which is very boutique like: only 5 houses with both a balcony and your own rooftop. Beautifully landscaped garden. A pool you can dive into at any given moment. Amazing breakfast with fresh local products. Total tranquility, yet only a short tuk tuk ride from buzzing Hilladuwa!

Stayed in January 2025

Nothing

This was a truly beautiful place to stay. With amazing attentive staff, thank you Andrea and Shyam! With care for the group beyond what is usual. Great breakfasts, with ‘the best coffee in the world. We were a family group of 10, ranging from 15 to 80 y/o, without exception they loved this place. this was our first place to stay on a 3 week trip and we were all very sad to leave as we worry that we will find nothing better.

Stayed in December 2024

Nothing

A peaceful idyllic Sanctuary away from the centre of Hikkaduwa . ( which was ideal for us as hikkaduwa is a busy tourist town) The resort consists of 5 cabanas on the edge of a lake with the addition of an amazing pool . Each cabana has its own roof top terrace with comfy seating to relax and take in the amazing views. I have to mention the stunning design and landscaping of the resort, the attention detail is just beautiful and also has a wonderful homely feel. Shyam and his team tended to our every need and were always available from the moment we woke up til we went to bed at night . Also with the added bonus of wonderful Charlie the retriever who was also very much part of the welcoming commitee when we returned after going out for dinner. Also good to note that the resort has its own tuk tuk and will take you anywhere you want to go ( for a small charge ) The breakfasts are enormous and delicious and served privately on your own terrace . We spent 3 wonderful days here to finish off our 2 week tour of Sri Lanka and I couldn’t think of a better place to wind down and relax in before our flight home to the uk . We all agreed one of the nicest places that we’ve ever stayed in 😍 Whole heartedly recommend . The only thing we thought of which would be a welcomed addition would be a small fridge in each of the cabanas.

Stayed in November 2024

Location was peaceful and quiet. Loved the landscaping and overall design of the accommodation. The staff were friendly and helpful. Breakfasts on the terrace and patio were enormous and delicious.

Stayed in September 2024

Nothing, it was perfect!

Very peaceful, calm and relaxed environment surrounded by nature. The staff were very welcoming and friendly. Shyna the manager was extremely helpful and made our stay a pleasure! And to the lovely dog Charlie who greeted us!Would highly recommend to everybody!

Stayed in September 2024