Mixed: The hosts are nice but the place is not very clean (yes I understand that's an effort in the tropics.Bed teeming with ants when we arrived at 1am. Really unpleasant. The bungalow clearly has been around for a while and needs a good scrubbing and a new coat of paint. Don't go to the Ayurvedic clinic that Udaya suggests, and don't take his tours. He is cutting corners: poor prep, rotten jeep rental at the national park. Vastly overpriced for what you get. Thilina is 3km to Hikkaduwa so walking isn't really an option. Kohala the tuk-tuk driver is (mostly) reliable, and charming. If you want to stay on the beach (which may be preferable, or not - the bungalow is an a lush, quiet residential area uphill out of reach of any tsunami-type trouble), there are zillion of options, some of them very nice-looking.

Mixed: The hosts are nice but the place is not very clean (yes I understand thats an effort in the tropics.Bed teeming with ants when we arrived at 1am. Really unpleasant. The bungalow clearly has been around for a while and needs a good scrubbing and a new coat of paint. Dont go to the Ayurvedic clinic that Udaya suggests, and dont take his tours. He is cutting corners: poor prep, rotten jeep rental at the national park. Vastly overpriced for what you get. Thilina is 3km to Hikkaduwa so walking isnt really an option. Kohala the tuk-tuk driver is (mostly) reliable, and charming. If you want to stay on the beach (which may be preferable, or not - the bungalow is an a lush, quiet residential area uphill out of reach of any tsunami-type trouble), there are zillion of options, some of them very nice-looking.

We are now the second generation of our family to stay in "Thilina", my parents stayed for 6 weeks back in 2007. We stayed this visit for 5 weeks and will definitely be staying again. Situation of "Thilina" is perfect if you are not into the beachfront lifestyle which can include loud music till all hours and constant traffic. "Thilina" is situated approx 2km, about a 6 minute Tuk Tuk ride, from the Hikkaduwa beach road, the loudest thing your likely to encounter is frogs after the rain or birds in the morning. Udaya and Loku are the perfect hosts being helpful and considerate at all times without being overly intrusive. "Thilina" has all the comforts you require including a small kitchen should you wish to cook, satellite TV with a selection of English speaking channels. Air conditioning is present in both the main living area and the double bedroom. The veranda is the perfect place to sit in the mornings and watch the resident mongoose or the ever active chipmunks. If we could give it six stars we would!

I don't think I can say anything more than the people before me have not. Marc, you have done an amazing job to make this a little home away from home for all of us that need some R&R. If I wanted a nice posh 5 star hotel, then that is where I would have stayed. However, Marc, Udaya, Kosala, and the family treat and make it a 5 star experience. Thank you Marc and Udaya for making my week just what I needed. Peace, rest and a wonderful time.

We only had two days available to stay in Marc's bungalow but we couldn't have asked for a better place. We will definitely be back! We had such a great experience on the hospitality of all our hosts. There are far too many positive things to list here about our very short stay so it's best you find out for yourselves how good of a find this bungalow and its hosts are. We were made to not feel like tourists but part of the family. Many thanks to Marc, Udaya, Loku and family, Kosala and even the many neighbors who welcomed us into their home.

Thilina is a 10 minute or so tuk tuk ride to Hikkaduwa's excellent sandy beaches. Udaya and his wife were wonderful hosts and he arranged an 8 day island tour for us as our driver/guide and friend. He is obviouslyvery experienced at being a tour guide with connections throughout the island. We were conviced that he successfully arranged rates for accommodation and tours unobtainable by mere tourists. He took us frpm Galle to Dambulla with many visits on the way The bungalow was perfect for our needs and we felt very relaxed and safe. It was a home from home rather than a holiday let. Kursla, Udaya's friend, was at our beck and call in his tuk tuk to drive us to and from the beach cheeerfully and at very resonable rates.

Arrival: Arriving in the early hours after a long flight it was wonderful to be met at the airport by the smiling face of Udaya who took charged and whisked us to our villa quickly and safely and then to be greeted by his wife Loku with flowers. What a joy and fantastic start to our very first trip to Sri Lanka. Accommodation: The beautiful Villa Thilina was exactly as described, clean and not only well maintained it provided all the facilities we needed and more. This is the best equipped villa we have stayed in and we have been to many around the world. The location and the feeling of being in a jungle were superb with the bird song, fireflies, the unusual animals and Henry. Being the best friend of all mosquitoes I found the surround nets and the fan on the patio a great help, it allowed me to sit out at night with little fear of being bitten to pieces. What other accommodation offers you, security, free local and national calls from the villa telephone, free internet access from the available dongle, beach towels, free washing service, free Air Conditioning and free use of the mosquito machines with tables. We have been fortunate enough to travel widely and have never found a villa that offers all this free. Family: The hospitality is second to none; the family (Udaya, Loku and their boys, Tharindu and Thilina) is attentive without being invasive, breakfast delivered every morning with a genuine smile, and information and knowledge freely available without feeling you are bother them. We were honoured to be invited to their son Thilina 15th birthday celebration; it was amazing how they just treated you as part of the family. Trips: We enjoyed many trips, some planned with Udaya to places we wished to see, Safari, Waterfalls, Moonstone Mines and Turtle Farm, Dambulla, Polynnurwaru Sigiriya all stunning and Kandy Temple of the Tooth, amazing, really pleased we went. We found Udaya to be extremely knowledgeable. Others where we were invited to join them on their trips to the fruit and Vegetable market or to walk around the old town and walls of the Fort in Galle. Transport: You could walk to Hikkaduwa and the beach but it is some 3 kilometers away, the sun gets very hot and the traffic can be a little scary. Kosala the smiling one and his Tuk-Tuk is a much safer and quicker way and he is available to be booked or at short notice when necessary. Beach: .The beach in Hikkaduwa is clean, long and easily accessible with safe places to swim.

Udaya and Loku were very hospitable and provided us with a nice breakfast every morning. The description of facilities was accurate only that we didn't really have in mind that the rooms are not separated by doors. So if you're not that close with your travel companion you will be so after your stay ;-). Note that you can walk to Hikkaduwa beach but the track of 3 kilometers along the road in the sun or while it's raining can be tough, also because of the traffic. The Tuktuk driver Kosala is a good alternative. You can call him via landline from the bungalow and he'll be there on time and also short notice. The beach in Hikkaduwa is extremely nice and, although sometimes reviews suggest it's too crowded, we found it very relaxing even during high season in January. Best food in Neela's Café and Moonbeam hotel at the beach.

•The listing description was accurate regarding the location, layout, facilities, etc •The property was clean and was generally well-maintained. (There was a bad smell from the kitchen sink which was found to be due to the lack of a u-bend in the drainpipe. This was reported to the ownwer before we left). •The owner provided very good customer service. We had a very warm welcome from the owner and his family when we arrived. Breakfasts were well cooked and served in a very friendly manner. We were shown around and provided with information regarding our whereabouts and even had transport provided into and from Hikkaduwa. Local buses and taxis were also inexpensive. •We would recommend this property to a friend or relative. •We found many activities, attractions and restaurants in Hikkaduwa that we liked. In particular the diving school and the swimming pool on the sea front. The local bus service. The many restaurants, bars and pubs catering for many international tastes. Football on wide screen TV is available in many bars

I truly mean that this wonderful rental bungalow is probably the best place I have ever stayed on a holiday and there have been many, many of them throughout the world. I agree with other guests re cleanliness, location, the furniture, the location and the feeling of being in a mini jungle and especially the extremely caring family that is so very super. Every possible needed/wanted indoor and outdoor furniture, tools, books, TV, huge closets, kitchen tools, a washing machine, transport to anywhere, breakfast delivered daily and on I could go. I was travelling solo, arrived at the airport in Colombo @11:30 p.m. and Mr. Udala met me there and provided a swell drive to the bungalow. I later visited 2 National Parks with the family plus Mr. Udala drove me to Kandy when I moved there after 6 wonderful weeks staying in Thilina. You'll love everything about it, go for it!! Kathy, of the USA........"

We had a brilliant stay in the bungalow and enjoyed SRI LANKA and all the hospitality we received. Udaya and Loku and the boys were great hosts and looked after us with genuine interest. We loved Loku's breakfasts on the veranda, her wonderful smile and laughter were a delight. We were invited to join the new year celebrations with the family and were served a wonderful dinner, a real treat. We had many trips with Udaya and found him to be very knowledgeable about the places we visited ( safari, waterfall, rain forest, moonstone mine and the general surroundings.) The property was exactly as described, clean, well maintained and provided all the facilities we needed. We would recommend this for couples seeking an alternative holiday in a wonderful setting. The friendliness of the SRI LANKAN people has to be experienced to be believed.

Thilina, which means "A Gift" in Singhala is the most beautiful bungalow in an idyllic setting nestling in amongst the trees. The hosts, Udaya & Loku, were delightful and attentive without being imposing. Memories of breakfast on the verandah listening to the bird song in this tranquil environment will remain for a long time to comealong with the fireflies at night. It's an ideal location for exploring Galle and this coastline. Thilina is equipped and decorated to a high comfortable standard and the books on the area in the "library" are fab including the fiction. Udaya is abrilliant driver as is Tuk-tuk man Kosala and they are both reliable. Give Lassie a pat from us and don't forget to write in the Visitor's Book! We were here for the cricket, which we lost, ho hum! We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Thilina. Bob & Rachel, Kingdom of Bahrain

We needed a "complete break" after a year of madness at home and work... and we found it at Thilina! It's a beautiful hideaway but close enough to lots of facilities if you want them - including the new Express Way if you want to go exploring the interior. The cottage is as described by Marc, the owner, but nothing really prepares you for the sheer beauty of the place and the thoughtful additions within the cottage. Just listening to the "jungle" when I woke in the morning, normally about 5.30a.m. but it got later and later during our stay as I relaxed.... oh the joy! Seeing monkeys and monitor lizards just wandering across the garden, and also becoming a bird watcher - Marc has thoughfully included a book to help you identify the different types! But while I'm mentioning books, read some of the other books Marc has left at Thilina, especially those related to Sri Lanka - will give you a good insight into the country and the people! Udaya, Loku and the boys, the co-owners, could not have done more to make us feel at home! Loku's infectious giggle every morning as she came over with breakfast (yet another gorgous garlic omlette!), discussing the our plans for the day with helpful suggestions and comments from her and Udaya. By the way, Udaya is a fab driver, very safe and knowledgeable on his country, pointing out all sorts of things we would have otherwise missed! We had a mini 3 day tour within our holiday, calling at Dambulla (stunning!) Polynnurwaru (ditto!) Sigiriya (climb it - awesome!) and Kandy (mad but the oasis of calm at the Temple of the Tooth!). So pleased we went....! Back at Pinkanda (the village where Thilina is situated) we often gravitated to "Neelas" beach bar/restaurant, near Hikkaduwa. Ask Kosola, the recommended Tuk Tuk driver, to take you there. And say "hi" to Saranga and the team from us! If you like strong coffee, it's the only place we found that can do it! Just to quickly return to Kosola - he's recommened due to charging a fair price. WE would recommend him for the big, infectious laugh and smile... and endless patience as we went from bank to shop to another shop to market......! Thank you to everyone for a great holiday that all started as you are doing now - reading a review of Thilina! BOOK IT NOW!!

During our travels last year we had the privilege of staying at the villa Thilina for 4 weeks...this wonderful paradise retreat has everything you need for a relaxing and enjoyable holiday, from the moment we arrived to the day we left we were made to feel very welcomed, without being intrusive,by Luko and Udaya who were the perfect hosts, they were there if needed with good advice about what to do and see around the island... one of the many highlights of the holiday was being invited to Thilina’s birthday tea it was a wonderful experience. We went on an overnight trip arranged by Udaya to visit the Yala national park, this was an experience I wouldn`t have missed for the world it was a lot of fun, being bounced around in the back of a jeep trying to spot the wild life and a leopard, we were lucky to see one right at the end of the trip amazing!!, followed by the elephant reserve and tea plantations. For a couple of pounds We made good use of one of the local Hotel swimming pool’s which was only a cheap tuk tuk ride away with Kosala who will pick you up from the villa and take you to your designation and who is very reliable and friendly. So if you’re looking for a little piece of heaven away from the usual hassle and bustle of a busy hotel look no further than the Villa Thilina, it is an amazing place. and We are hoping to return one day soon, overall a wonderful place to stay. Pete and Kath, Devon, UK.

This is a brilliant little cottage located approx 3km from the Hikkaduwa beaches. Its tranquil surroundings are a perfect contrast to the noisy Galle Road that runs through the heart of Hikkaduwa, thank goodness the beach is so nice!! The cottage is clean and comfortable with all the mod cons, including air con, breakfast on the veranda was a treat every morning (avocado juice was a lovely discovery!) Udaya and his family were the perfect hosts, nothing was too much trouble- He even came to fix our TV when Sri Lanka were in the cricket World Cup Final! We would recommend this property to anyone who enjoys being able to get away from the tourist areas and relax in peace and quiet slightly off the beaten track.

My wife and I stayed at Thalina for 12 days in Jan/Feb 2011 and found that it was the most wonderful and relaxing time. The owner has clearly thought of everything and the bungalow has the feel and amenities of an up-market boutique hotel; there was nothing lacking. It is a secluded environment not on the way to anywhere, so no passing traffic. The privacy was secure and yet, less than 75 metres away live the Sri Lankan family who looked after us and brought us breakfast every morning on the veranda. Although it is 3km from the sea we quickly became friends with a regular tuk-tuk driver who, for under a pound, would come and take us to the beach, or into town whenever we asked. The people everywhere are a delight and everyone made us feel very welcome; we were truly sad to go. And when we did leave it was to travel up to the "Cultural Triangle", driven by Udaya to follow a six day programme of his and our devising. We were looked after wherever we went and his driving was faultless. We shall surely return and feel that we have made friends for life. Thank you to everyone who made this wonderful holiday possible.

We needed a relaxing holiday in a peaceful location and found heaven in Thilina. Udaya and Loku were excellent hosts, always willing to help and provide a unique insight into Sri Lanka's way of life. The bungalow is just as described on the website and was very comfortable and clean with facilities available to cater for yourself, should you prefer to cook instead of venturing to nearby Hikkaduwa to one of the many restaurants. The highlight of our holiday was a three day trip arranged by Udaya in which he acted as our driver and guide as we visited Yala national park and were lucky enough to see three Leopards, the mountain top village of Ella and the train journey through the mountains, a visit to a tea plantation and spice farm and the enthralling elephant orphanage. There are so many other sights to see in Sri Lanka but these must wait until we return. The only drawback for us was the reliance on Tuk Tuks to get to the nearest beach and back, not that expensive so long as you agree a price beforehand,so we often ate a late lunch at the beach and cooked a light snack at Thilina in the evening. I suppose we could have walked but 3 km in hot weather wasn't for us and hiring a car or motorbike was a bit scary in view of the hazardous driving of the locals. But all in all a wonderful, memorable holiday. Thank you Mark and Udaya, Loku and their boys who treated us like friends.

We stayed at Thulini from 9/16 September 2010. It is a comfortable property for a couple and well equipped although with only a small hot place and one saucepan you are really forced to eat out. It has a small fridge and air conditioning which was really essential at the time of year we went. It is located about 3kms from Hikkaduwa which for most people means a Tuk Tuk ride. We walked in to town most days which was great but not practical at night as the property is difficult to find when you return. That also meant that we opted to eat out at lunchtime because of the logistics and cost of running back and forwards to town. The TV stations were a bit limited in that the US Open Tennis was on but the package did not cover that.However it did have the usual ( Discovery Channel; Nat Geographic and a Soccer channel) The part owner Udaya and his wife looked after us well: even cooking for us on a couple of occasions. Nice to have home cooked local food. My gripes were there was no map of the area that you could use to find your way around(definately needed) and it would have been good to have been offered a basic food pack (milk, biscuits,bread, beer etc) for when you arrive. I am sure the owner will offer this if needed. All in all a great property in a quiet rural location. Not for beach bums but great for couples who want to get away from it all.

this comfortable and well eqipped hide away delivered everything the website promised, it was clean, peaceful and perfectly placed for exploring that corner of the island. Udaya and loku were wonderful hosts and lokus sri lankan curry was fabulous. I would recommend this property to anyone in need of a battery recharge, perfect. thank you Marc

The bungalow was very comfortable, and well located for several places of interest. Udaya and Loku made as very welcome with breakfast every morning on the veranda, where we watched the local birds and animals or chatted with Udaya. Udaya, took us on some very good trips. I recommend the trip to Uda Walawe National Park, where we saw many different animals, birds and reptiles, including Elephants and Crocodiles. I also recommend the boat trip on the local lagoon, stopping off at a small but impressive Buddhist temple, where we were shown round by a very helpful monk. We took this trip late afternoon, and as the sun went down, we saw water monitors and fruit bats. This had the added benefit of being only a short car ride away. A trip to the local Turtle sanctuary was enjoyable and a worthwhile cause. Saminda Kosala's tuctuc was only a phone call away and if he was not available he would send a friend. We used the swimming pool at Sunil Beach Hotel, which came with attentive staff and personal chipmonk! All in all a very good hoilday and very good value for money.

We have just returned from a truly amazing holiday in 'Thilina'. Marc, you have provided literally everything you could possibly need to make your guests comfortable. Also, Udaya and Loko with their two lovely sons, Thilina and Thirandu, looked after us admirably. They were always there if you needed anything, but never intrusive. Memories, where do we start - Udaya's organised tours, breakfast provided with a smile every morning, the wonderful home cooked curries, thank you Loko, the Sunday morning visit to the market with the family, the birdlife and jungle sounds every morning and evening, being looked after by our wonderful Tuk Tuk driver, Kosala, who was always willing to help and nothing was too much trouble. This wasn't just a holiday, it was a true experience - 'A Sri Lankan Experience'.

Our stay at Thilina was the highlight of our travels in The East, indeed it surpassed our expectations. Because we had done a lot of travelling before we got there, we did not want to exert ourselves too much! Nowhere could have provided a better place for relaxing in total comfort with everything we needed to hand. The standard of comfort and equipment in the bungalow is first class but it does not feel like an impersonal hotel. We loved being there for lots of reasons: the kind hospitality of the family; the smiles and warmth of the village people whom we encountered in our strolls around the district; the wildlife, particularly the range of exotic birds which were spotted and identified with Udaya and Loku's help; the tuktuk rides to the beach where there was good safe swimming on the public beach; the train journey to Galle - great fun; and lots more but this is enough to give a flavour of the lovely stay which we so much enjoyed!

A wonderful retreat from the "busyness" of life. Like being transformed to another world ! "Thilina" has a great atmosphere - peaceful and tranquil, and comfortable too, with all you could want. Well planned, well kept and well hosted. Owner's attention to detail is good: items like torch, umbrella, beach towels/mats and hair-dryer are provided and any requests for information/services were dealt with promptly. Although 3 kms from the beach, the daily tuk-tuk drive to the beach became part of the daily flow as you pass by rice paddy-fields and luxuriant foliage.

We have just got back home after 3 weeks there and loved the place. Photos can't do justice to the luxuriant tropical surroundings, especially around dusk when the birds and insects start calling out. Level and quality of equipment is good. The owner has already thought of things like torch and umbrella, so don't bother packing your own. Obviously it is not on the beach, but the tuk-tuk drive down there all becomes part of the daily flow after a day or so. The couple who look after the house are charming. Loku can cook you an authentic curry, and Udaya can organise and drive you on a sightseeing tour of the island. Finally having breakfast brought to your veranda every morning is a very nice feature.

A delightful chalet on the jungle side and a delightful family overseeing the property and the stay. The property far exceeded our expectations, as did the hospitality given to us by Udaya and his family.