'Machan', Academy nominated filmmaker Ubarto Passilini's Sri Lankan production won the Audience award at the recently held 13th edition of International Film Festival of Kerala. A co-production by filmmaker Prasanna Vithanage, out of 14 films in the competitive section, 'Machan' won the hearts of the film audience becoming the most popular film in the festival.

Kalu's Hide-away is an eco friendly modern luxury jungle retreat built in five acres of land. Kalu's Hideaway, completed in 2007, is the closest modern accommodation with all facilities for visitors to Uda Walawe National Park. Set in a remote dry-zone village, just 15 minutes away from the gates of the Uda Walawe National Park, this five-bed roomed hotel is best answer to watch not only elephants in the area but newly developed leopard trails.