Kalundewa Retreat
Dambulla

The Kalundewa Retreat is the hidden gem of the cultural triangle, an intimate and idyllic hide-away nestled in the lush landscapes of Dambulla in central Sri Lanka. It offers utter seclusion and serenity, with six exclusive guest rooms situated amongst a vast expanse of paddy fields, woodlands and stunning mountain vistas. The suites have a light and spacious aesthetic, with wrap-around floor to ceiling windows and wooden floors artfully blending into the natural surroundings.

The retreat maintains a commitment to its ecological balance and its provision to the local community. The thriving fruit and vegetable gardens provide local ingredients not only for the dining experience of the guests, but for the local rural village and farming community too. A natural spring forms a refreshing swimming pool, and over 50% of the electricity used is harvested in solar panels.

Dining at the retreat is an entirely bespoke experience. Guests have the opportunity to tour the vegetable gardens with the chef, selecting ingredients for their meal, before choosing a location to enjoy the natural ambience and hand-crafted cuisine. Meals can be enjoyed at the lake’s edge, under the stars in a paddy field, or floating on a raft.

Kalundewa claims a prime location for bird watching, and a number of scenic walking trails allow you to truly immerse yourself in nature. Private yoga and meditation classes from the resident Yogi are also on offer. This simple and elegant retreat exudes tranquillity and is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate in the midst of nature’s embrace.

I can't think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.
Bill Bryson