TikaWeeks #31/2024: Sri Lanka update
Posted by John on 1st August 2024
One of our all-time favourite places to stay on the island has reopened following its closure as a result of the pandemic. The Mudhouse near Anamaduwa is a real gem. Tom and Kumar created a one-of-a-kind property in the ancient rural heartlands of Sri Lanka many years ago and it is a truly unique experience. The clusters of traditional mud huts constructed from local, natural materials have recently been renovated – Tom tells me that three out of the five original units are fully restored along with the restaurant – and the restoration project will continue this year and into next. Past customers have loved the place so book now to avoid disappointment!
Tom and Kumar have managed to get most of their old team back together and have started to do what they do best – offer interested visitors an authentic experience in the jungles of central Sri Lanka. They also provide the following local activities:
- Bird watching – one of The Mudhouse’s main activities. Binoculars and bird books are available in all huts. Early morning is the best time.
- Cycling – during their stay, all the guests are provided with bicycles for getting about the property as well as on the tracks, lanes and roads around The Mudhouse.
- Kayaking – there are kayaks to use on the lakes in and around The Mudhouse (water levels permitting).
- Cooking lessons – guests are welcome to participate in cooking lessons in the main kitchen, mostly using produce from their own organic farm.
- Sunset rock trip – guests go with bicycles self-guided or with the local land master. Tea and a snack on top of the rock (Kunthaniyagala Rock) are provided.
- The Mudhouse tour – guests will be shown around the extensive property and will be able to observe how everything works in terms of the design and build, agriculture, reforestation, water collection, and the overall ecosystem.
- Night walk – where guests have the opportunity to spot nocturnal wildlife including the rare Slender Loris.
But don’t take it from us, hear what past customers have said about their stay at The Mudhouse:
Mud hut [The Mudhouse] blew us away it’s a fantastic place (even the experience of cold water outside) the staff were very helpful and attentive, we asked if we could have a fire by the lake to watch the stars at night, they asked us what time which we requested after dinner, not only did they light the fire but the staff brought a blanket to put the bean bags on which they also brought and to top it off they provided tea lights and lanterns, who could ask for more. Lyn, Thomas, Jo & Roger, England, January 2019
Mudhouse – 10/10 – Fantastic. Worth family, Ireland, December 2018/January 2019
The Mudhouse: Enjoyed could have stayed longer. Sheena & Tony, England, November/December, 2017
I also enjoyed the tree houses at The Mudhouse. Sarah & Christine, England, September 2015
Some very novel – The Mudhouse. Warmington family, England, July/August, 2014
The Mudhouse – particularly the care of the staff, especially Molli. Rob & Christine, England, February 2013
We also highlighted The Mudhouse in previous blogs, including their commitment to sustainability and community-based tourism.
Categories: Accommodation, Culture, News, Sightseeing, Sri Lanka, Sustainability, Wildlife
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