This gym is hands down the Best fitness retreat in Sri Lanka, Amazing facilities, staff are very helpful and friendly also very welcoming. The food and protein shakes (especially the vegan chocolate salted caramel ) are unbelievable. Great classes, good sense of community. If you're in the south of Sri Lanka go check it out.

Without a doubt the best gym in Sri Lanka! The equipment is varied and top of the line and the strong air conditioning makes all the difference. After a hard workout (either in the gym or in one of the awesome classes), the pool is a perfect place to relax with a protein shake or delicious meal from the kitchen. More than just a gym, this is a proper retreat! We can’t wait to stay in one of the renovated rooms when we make our way back to Unawatuna! Thanks for keeping us fit on holiday, James and Lizzie!! You guys are the best!

Makahiya is everything you need for your fitness holiday in Sri Lanka, amazing location (it’s a love hate relationship with the hill 🥵), beautiful rooms and surroundings and yummy food. But the best part is of course the people and -all the workouts! Makahiya is the main reason why we keep coming back to Sri Lanka :)

Stayed for 5 days to escape from my very busy life in Dubai. Despite the political turmoil and fuel scarcity, the Makahiya team went out of their way to ensure a smooth and comfortable retreat filled with amazing workouts/coaching, fantastic food, beautiful rooms, and lovely new friendships. My favourite solo trip so far, but you can't go wrong staying here with a group of friends either. I shall return! Thank you Matt, Sophie, Roshan and the rest of the amazing Makahiya Team.

Makahiya Fitness Retreat is a fitness enthusiasts dream. Situated atop a mountain in the beautiful jungle of south Sri Lanka it couldn’t be more scenic. The facilities, guest rooms, service, staff, food and classes are all 10\10. It’s very much a family atmosphere which is inclusive and welcoming to all. I had never trained in a group setting before, and was quite nervous before I arrived. But those fears soon melted away as I was welcomed with warm smiles by people of all ages and fitness levels. If you’re coming to Sri Lanka then it’s an absolute must!

I love working out at Makahiya! It's a great place to make a day out of. Gym pool, workout and truly delicious food. Oh and the views are second to none! All the staff are really friendly and happy to help any time. I'd recommend it to anyone that enjoys exercise and being part of a great community!

I have been going to Makahiya for the last 4 years and its just such a wonderful space. The gym has the best equipment and AC. The classes are varied and get you doing things you would never normally do. But most of all the community feel that you have there is the best. The views are gorgeous and you are always made to feel like part of the family.

Words cannot explain how incredible this fitness retreat is! From the friendly and welcoming staff (shoutout to Matt & Sophie), to the expert fitness trainers, the varied & healthy meals and stunning swimming pool - this place has everything you could want and more. The owners James and Lizzie have put so much love in to this place and are so passionate. The equipment in the gym is really stylish, brand new and top quality. What’s more, you can even pamper yourself and get your nails done by the amazing Katya!! Highly recommend this gem of a spot.

If you want to attend professional fitness classes in Sri Lanka, Makahiya is the perfect place to be. 💪 The rooms are very comfortable and the infinity pool with a jungle view is my highlight. Also the varied sports program including ice bathing bring endless fun. The team around James, Lizzie, Matt and Sophie makes sure that guests feel completely comfortable. I'll definitely be back! 🫶

I have been there three times so far and I loved it every time. The workouts are great fun but really hard and effective and also designed in a way that they kinda fit every fitness level. Also the pool workout was really good. Besides that it is just an amazing place to hang out, have some delicious food and a swim in the pool. The location in general is unreal, away from the hustle in the jungle. Highly recommend!! :)

Makahiya is an excellent fitness facility. I dropped into a couple of classes while passing through Unawatuna. The coaches are great, very knowledgeable and professional. The equipment and facilities are top class and the overall aesthetic is gorgeous. The food is very tasty, the coffee is great and you are welcome to enjoy the pool after your workout. You can expect a warm and friendly welcome from everyone here. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Such a nice place to chill, located on a hill with an amazing view full of trees around. Highly recommend for those who need to escape from noisy city life for a while. Come to use the gym, to enjoy the pool and try some delicious food.

Absolutely epic place to stay and train. Completely unique place, literally built into the hillside with the owners keeping loads of the unique features of the natural landscape. Excellent training sessions with really well trained instructors, classes were so much fun and really inclusive for all ages and abilities. Food in the cafe is 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽

Undoubtedly the best fitness retreat in Sri Lanka! Gym is top class with very high quality Watson equipment. The entire facility is professional, friendly and clean. For a fitness fanatic, having access to this quality of space is a dream whilst living in Unawatuna, Sri Lanka!

My favorite place in South SL. Gathering amazing community of good people as the owners attract what they represent by themselves. I love the workouts, the food, the vibe of the whole place, also the quality of the gym and the whole space, great designed. I keep on coming back every time I’m in SL. You need to try pool workout!

Best fitness experience in Sri Lanka! Hands down the best place to work up a sweat on the whole island. The space itself is gorgeous. The property is on top of a hill overlooking surrounding paddy fields. There’s every piece of gym equipment under the sun available for any workout you’d possibly want to do. The group classes are perfect for all fitness levels and will definitely get your heart rate pumping. They’ve done an incredible job creating a positive and supportive community around their They encourage and motivate you to give your best effort and you finish every class feeling accomplished. After a workout there’s nothing better then enjoying a dip in the infinity pool with a cold shake in hand. The food is delicious as well (I highly recommend the Moroccan Eggs!) My fiancé and I had been struggling with our fitness post-covid but thanks to Makahiya we’ve been able to get back into a good fitness routine

Makahiya is my little slice of heaven as an expat living on the south coast. The staff is incredibly sweet, and the facilities are 12/10. James and Lizzie have completely changed how I approach wellness in my life. Plus the food is AMAAAZING. We regularly get nutritious meals prepped for us every week and they’ve been a game changer!

Without a doubt, the best gym I’ve been to in Sri Lanka. The gym,the pool, accommodation and the restaurant are top notch. Always enjoy the workout sessions ❤️❤️

Just got back from my trip last week. I opted for the 7 day fitness package. The owners make you feel very welcome. The facilities are second to none which makes the stay so memorable. The food is fantastic but healthy too so you don’t have to worry about overindulging. The classes are challenging but everyone is so encouraging which helps :-). After my package finished, I returned a few days later for a class. This is because I enjoyed the atmosphere so much. It really was a pleasure to stay here and I hope to be back again soon.

Came here for a day pass and absolutely loved it! The gym has everything you could ask for and the food is absolutely delicious. Don't miss out on their homemade protein shakes, too! Pool view is stunning and actually everything looks eben better than on the picture. If you're in the area and even just want to pass by for an hour if sport, come here - it's so worth it!

I’ve been to Makahiya twice now and I absolutely love the place. It’s a spectacular location atop a jungle covered hill with amazing views and incredible facilities (great pool, amazing health food, super beautiful rooms). But it’s the quality of the fitness infrastructure and expertise that makes Makahiya a unique place. James is a superb trainer and my time there has changed my approach and psychology to training. It’s been transformative. It’s demanding and challenging but in a great way. I hope to go back as often as possible.

Spent my Saturday morning here doing an ice bath and eating a lovely brunch. The service was great and definitely the coolest location for any ice bath I’ve done (right in the heart of the jungle). Would definitely recommend.

If you’re a digital nomad who enjoys wellness, beaches, amazing food, and world-class workout facilities, look no further! Makahiya Fitness Retreat & Gym is a true gem hidden in the jungles of Unawatuna. The view from the pool is epic, the gym has COLD air-conditioning, and the owners and staff are super friendly and sure to make you feel right at home. Check out the monthly gym membership... and the ice bath!

Makahiya is literally the best place to eat/train/hang! All the crew is amazing, the food is delicious and healthy (which is a hard find around here), the gym equipment are too qualities and the views from the outdoor training area are breathtaking. Definitely worth the little hike to get there :)

The best gym we visited in Sri Lanka. There is a beautiful surroundings and the equipment of the gym is sufficient. The staff is very nice and they have a great selection of food and drinks in the restaurant.

good fitness) there is an air conditioner) everything is new and clean💪

Great place to workout💪

Amazing place to get your workouts done ❤

The owners make a really good team! They are super motivating, no matter where you are regarding your fitness level

Everything we would hope for in a team building what is sure to be an awesome fitness resort. James is very knowledgeable about fitness, they've brought in top notch equipment, and they're building a beautiful space with gorgeous views. The facilities were just on the edge of completion for our visit, but you can see that everything is high grade. Honestly the gym put anything I've seen in to shame. Well thought out, innovative equipment, and beautifully lit. And the kitchen puts any restaurant we saw on the island on high alert, BC it was pristine & ready to serve some high grade deliciousness (hopefully the protein brownies make it on the menu!). We are without a doubt picky about our fitness & trainers and have been beyond pleased with the classes, personal training sessions and community bootcamp we have attended. We would strongly recommend a mix of the classes, since there is such a community aspect to those joining (4 yrs going strong), and PT, as James will teach you how to train better and leave you with more than sore muscles.

#1 place for health and fitness in Sri Lanka

A work of heart, passion and sweat in the making. Was lucky enough to visit Thier weekly training session on my trip to Unawatuna. The session was intense with a lot of energy from the community. Can't wait for it to begin. Will be coming back to break a sweat soon. All the best guys.

Makahiya fitness is the best place to train with like minded people in Unawatuna. There is team based workouts,1 on 1 training and daily classes..the environment is absolutely amazing thanks to the hard work of James and Lizzie. Always challenging you at any fitness level you are in and make you enjoy them all the way through! The location in terms of country is perfect and beautiful, only 4 Km away from Unawatuna beach. In one of the best areas of the south coast of Sri Lanka. Beautiful views of the jungle/paddy fields. They'll be opening a delicious restaurant very soon with calorie counted meals, which i am looking forward to. Positive vibes and a great energy all over! Its a must if you are looking for a fitness holiday in Sri Lanka.

Fitness retreat in the making! Complete with custom built gym with brand new gym equipment, beautiful swimming pool, restaurant and A/C bedrooms! Cannot wait until this place opens officially!

Perfect place to get your workout done. Different classes and a great gym. Chill by the pool and have some lunch after a hard work.

Absolutely loved this place! Found it via instagram before. I’m preparing for hyrox and the standard is above average there!by far the most modern gym in Sri Lanka. High quality gym gear from the uk, prettiest location, renovated and super modern! Similar to European (German high class gyms). Pool with its view is awesome after working out. The owners Sophie and Matthew above nice and regarding food … had the best sourdough and salads, iced coffee were delicious! Found my happy place and just can say everything above average for beautiful Sri Lanka! Greets from Sabrina guys!

The best gym that I've visited on Sri Lanka. Absolutely new equipment, air conditioning, swimming pool and amazing view. Thanks.

Makahiya has the best gym that I've visited so far in Sri Lanka. The indoor gym area is nicely cooled and well equiped. Also loved the outside area, the pool and the brilliant bar serving everything you desire after a nice workout. Thanks Makahiya Team! You rock!

A wicked place for a workout! Easily the best gym setup in Sri Lanka (and I’ve seen a few…). Clean, air-conditioned and fully equipped with some seriously good kit. They also run regular bootcamps and workout sessions, which are challenging but really rewarding - and the trainers are a friendly bunch. There’s a pool for cooling off after a class (with mega views!) and a cafe serving coffees, breakfast bowls and yummy mains. I haven’t stayed, but the rooms look lovely. Highly recommended!

Makahiya is a fitness paradise and a haven in Unawatuna/Thalpe! Whether you want group classes, PT sessions, crossfit equipment, a gorgeous and clean gym, healthy food, or a lap pool, they have it all. With an amazing community of tourists and people who live here, it’s a great place to do a workout or just come to chill by the pool on the loungers. James, Lizzie, and their team are incredible – from the expert coaching to the warm, welcoming, and inclusive vibes, there is something for everyone, no matter your age or where you are in your fitness journey. I’ve had the pleasure of not only training here but staying in one of the rooms. Being able to wake up to the view lush green views, train multiple times a day, work from the restaurant area, and soak up the sun in a safe and caring environment has been an incredible experience!

What an awesome place to workout and meet new people. I’ve been going to the classes at Makahiya now for a few months and it’s exactly what was needed in the area of Unawatuna/Galle. Whether you’re looking to drop in for a gym session or fancy jumping on a HIIT workout. I absolutely love going and it’s by far the best place to train in all of Sri Lanka! If you fancy trying something different you should attend the swimming pool workout on a Saturday. Great for breathe work practice and surf preparation! My favourite classes are the CrossFit style functional fitness classes on a Friday and Monday 🏋🏻‍♂️ 5 solid stars for just being an awesome place! 🌟

It was the first good gym at the Sri-Lanka for me. Purity, perfect equipment, swimming pool, bar and hospitable owner. Highly recommend for good workout 💪

I have been to a few if the Makahiya fitness classes now and have enjoyed every single one of them. The instructors are not only professional and of a high standard if health and fitness themselves, but they are also super friendly and welcoming and show a genuine interest in each individual who shows up. After the exercise class I always stay for some of their amazing food, all healthy and fresh and also affordable! The swimming pool overlooks the jungle canopy and is the most relaxing place to chill at in the area. James and Lizzie are so genuine and I always feel so welcome there. I can't wait to continue on my fitness journey at Makahiya whilst in Sri Lanka!

Good things happening

What a find! Such a great place to spend the day eating, swimming in the pool and taking part in a wholesome fitness class surrounded by the nature led by an incredible trainer called Sophie. The staff are super helpful and lovely, they make you feel at home. A really special place.