Unique Stays: Treehouses and Eco-Lodges in Sri Lanka

For travelers seeking an immersive and eco-friendly experience amidst Sri Lanka's natural beauty, treehouses and eco-lodges offer a unique way to connect with the environment while enjoying comfort and tranquility. Here's a guide to some of the most exceptional treehouses and eco-lodges in Sri Lanka, complete with descriptions and approximate prices:

1. Back of Beyond - Pidurangala

Location: Near Sigiriya‍

Cost: Starting from approximately $120 per night

Nestled at the base of the iconic Pidurangala Rock, Back of Beyond offers rustic yet comfortable treehouses elevated amidst the lush greenery. Each treehouse features open-air bathrooms, private balconies with stunning views, and eco-friendly amenities. Guests can enjoy nature walks, birdwatching, and exploring nearby cultural sites such as Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

2. Eco Island Sri Lanka

Location: Koggala Lake

‍Cost: Starting from approximately $180 per night

Located on an island in Koggala Lake, Eco Island Sri Lanka offers eco-friendly lodges built using sustainable materials. Each lodge is surrounded by mangrove forests and offers panoramic views of the lake. Guests can kayak through the serene waters, enjoy organic meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients, and unwind in harmony with nature.

3. Gal Oya Lodge

Location: Gal Oya National Park

‍Cost: Starting from approximately $250 per night

Gal Oya Lodge provides a secluded retreat within the wilderness of Gal Oya National Park. The lodge features spacious bungalows and a unique treehouse nestled in the treetops, offering panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and lake. Guests can embark on safaris to spot wildlife, take boat rides on the lake, and engage in cultural experiences with the local community.

4. Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge

Location: Near Kandy

‍Cost: Starting from approximately $180 per night

Set amidst a tea plantation near Kandy, Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge offers luxurious tented lodges elevated on stilts, blending comfort with eco-friendly practices. Each lodge features private balconies with breathtaking views of the rolling hills and tea estates. Guests can explore the tea factory, go on nature walks, and indulge in spa treatments using natural ingredients.

5. The Mudhouse

Location: Near Anamaduwa

‍Cost: Starting from approximately $100 per night

The Mudhouse provides a unique eco-retreat experience with traditional mud huts nestled amidst a private forest reserve. The huts are built using locally sourced materials and offer a rustic yet comfortable stay. Guests can participate in cooking classes, birdwatching, and cycling through the rural countryside.

6. Ulpotha Yoga Retreat

Location: Near Embogama

‍Cost: Starting from approximately $200 per night (inclusive of yoga and Ayurvedic meals)

Ulpotha Yoga Retreat offers a serene escape in a traditional eco-village setting surrounded by forests and lakes. Accommodations include simple eco-friendly huts with open-air bathrooms. Guests can participate in daily yoga and meditation sessions, enjoy Ayurvedic treatments, and savor organic vegetarian meals.

7. Rainforest Eco Lodge

Location: Sinharaja Forest Reserve

‍Cost: Starting from approximately $150 per night

Rainforest Eco Lodge is nestled within the UNESCO-listed Sinharaja Forest Reserve, offering secluded chalets and treehouses with stunning forest views. The lodge emphasizes sustainable practices and provides guided nature walks, birdwatching tours, and cultural experiences with local communities.

8. Tree Tops Jungle Lodge

Location: Haputale‍

Cost: Starting from approximately $130 per night

Located on the edge of the Haputale jungle, Tree Tops Jungle Lodge offers cozy treehouses perched amidst the treetops. Each treehouse is designed to blend into the natural surroundings while providing modern comforts. Guests can explore hiking trails, visit tea plantations, and enjoy panoramic views of the valley below.

9. KumbukRiver Eco-Extraordinaire

Location: Buttala

‍Cost: Starting from approximately $250 per night

KumbukRiver Eco-Extraordinaire features unique eco-lodges crafted from repurposed materials, including a massive elephant-shaped villa. Set amidst a private estate, each lodge offers a blend of creativity and comfort. Guests can enjoy river swims, wildlife safaris, and organic meals prepared with ingredients from the lodge's garden.

10. Santani Wellness Resort & Spa

Location: Near Kandy

‍Cost: Starting from approximately $600 per night

Santani Wellness Resort & Spa offers luxurious villas with private plunge pools amidst a serene forest setting. The resort focuses on holistic wellness, providing yoga, meditation, spa treatments, and healthy cuisine using organic ingredients.

Each of these treehouses and eco-lodges in Sri Lanka offers a distinctive experience, combining sustainability with comfort and immersive natural surroundings. Whether you seek adventure in the wilderness, relaxation in serene landscapes, or cultural enrichment, these unique stays promise an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka's diverse and vibrant ecosystems.

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