Kalu’s Hideaway for nature lovers

Little Kalu, no doubt, is the most popular and loveable cricketer in recent times of Sri Lanka Cricket. Not only he turned the game upside down with Sana, but created an image in society that nobody will be able to over shadow for a long time. Though the cricket is not his game nowadays, Kalu has started a new innings with his dream project 'Kalu's Hideaway'.

'Kalu's Hideaway', a modern luxury jungle retreat in Udawalawe is just six moths old. Nestled in five acres of beautifully manicured garden surrounded by abundant shrubs and forest, neighboring the breathtaking Udawalawe reserviour is a private property owned by former Sri Lanka wicket keeper batsman Romesh Kaluwitharana.

The holiday bungalow consists of five well appointed spacious modern rooms including the private upper deck suite with all amenities and en-suite toilets. 'Originally I was to name this place as 'Ali Dorakada' but the designer of the bungalow insists that I use my name for the project for marketing purpose' Kalu said.

The relaxation lounge, the centre entrance of the bungalow is equipped with periodicals, satellite TV for those who require diversion while on holiday in the Jungle. The restaurant has a breathtaking view of the landscape and serves a blend of Western and Eastern cuisine together with an all day a la carte menu. 'Our main target market is Sri Lankan clientele. Though it is hot, Sri Lankan dishes at the restaurant, is the attraction among all’ he said.

The bungalow located just ten minutes away from the hotel and has also opened for wildlife lovers. 'Kalu's Hideaway' is getting attracted to most of the overseas visitors, nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and day travellers to Udawalawe and other destinations' said Niranjan Fernando, the Manager of the place.

'Apart from destination travellers, we want to promote this as lunch stopover too. Uda Walawe is the ideal in-between location for the travellers to Yala and Kataragama' he added.The upper deck suite is an ideal platform for honeymooners or those who wish to have complete privacy.

'The unique thing in this bungalow is the view. From the upper deck, it the best sunset I have seen' Kalu said. Should you wish to explore the locality, the staff at Kalu's Hideaway will organize excsions by safari jeep to Udawalawe National Park, Maduwanvala Walawwa Wawulpane Caves (caves with a curious bat population) and Hot Water Springs. 'Nature walks, bird watching, biking and camping facilities are also part of the experience'

Both the Yala and Bundala wildlife reserves are also around sixty minutes drive from Kalu's Hideway. For more details, log onto http://www.fantasyholidays.lk/kalu.htm or call 047 4922396 at 'Kalu's Hideaway' at Walawegama, Uda Walawe.