Built, not bought
The barrel sauna was made here on site rather than shipped in a crate. It is fired with cinnamon wood, which is what you smell before you see it.
Our story
Maha Sauna opened in Hiriketiya in 2024. Simon built the barrel by hand on the spot, and the ice bath, steam room, magnesium bath and Moroccan hammam followed. Maha Mezze Cafe sits one floor above, looking over the water.
The Spirit of Maha
Maha Sona is a figure from Sri Lankan folklore, a great demon said to seize the souls of those who cross his path. His mask is carved with bulging eyes, bared teeth and a lolling tongue, and it has been worn in healing dances on this coast for centuries. The dance was never about fear. It was about driving out what ails you.
We took the name and inverted it. Nothing here takes anything from you. Ninety minutes of heat and cold gives it back, which is why the mask over the door reads as a welcome rather than a warning.
Revitalising souls on the path to greatness.
The only sauna, ice bath and restaurant under one roof on the south coast. Everything in one building, on one road, two minutes from the water.
The barrel sauna was made here on site rather than shipped in a crate. It is fired with cinnamon wood, which is what you smell before you see it.
Some people come once on their way through. Others hold a monthly package and turn up four times a week. Both matter equally.
Hiriketiya bay is at the end of the road. Most guests arrive salty, and that is the right way to arrive.
On Hiriketiya Beach Road in Dikwella, on the south coast between Tangalle and Matara. Heat, ice and treatments downstairs, Maha Mezze and the view above.
Hiriketiya's only barrel sauna and ice bath. Sessions start every 90 minutes from 8:00 am, and walk ins are welcome. Book a table upstairs while you are at it.