Jungle treks

Our treks are led by one of our naturalists, who will explain local customs and traditions as well as any wildlife you may encounter.

Puranagama

The Puranagama (“ancient village”), 25 minutes’ walk from the hotel, offers a rare opportunity to see traditional Sri Lankan village life. In the 1930s there were around 100 houses here, but they were moved when the dam was built in 1952.

Now you can visit Gunarathna, who lives in an original wattle and daub hut next to a restored irrigation reservoir in the middle of the jungle. Despite his disability, he is almost entirely self-sufficient. A vegetarian, Gunarathna grows bananas, oranges, mangoes, cashews and papaya as well as vegetables, and will show you how he grinds chillies and coconut using traditional implements.

Time: 7am – 5pm daily
Length: 1.5 hours
Cost: Rs 550 per person

Kandalama Rock

This trek takes you up onto the rock on which the hotel is built, with fantastic panoramic views over Dambulla and Sigiriya.

Time: 7am – 5pm daily
Length: 1.5 hours
Cost: Rs 550 per person

Aligala Caves

A hike to the historic Aligala (Elephant Rock) cave, dating from the 3rd century BC, will take just 40 minutes. The name is derived from the likeness of the rock formation to an elephant.

Time: 7am – 5pm daily
Length: 3 hours
Cost: Rs 1,500 per person

Night hikes

For a completely different view of the jungle, a night hike offers the chance to see nocturnal life. We provide torches – wear long trousers and sturdy shoes.

Length and cost depends on your particular interests – ask at reception for details.