Cabana comfort while enjoying an adventure in the East coast
Jetwing Surf: Traditional, eco-friendly lodgings with modern facilities
With beautiful sandy shores and waves that are a surfer’s paradise, the East coast has seen a rapid rise in tourism over the past few years that extends well past the surfing season.
A six-hour journey past picturesque countryside with thriving paddy fields took us to Pottuvil Point and our destination- Jetwing Surf, the newest addition to the Jetwing family. We were greeted with refreshing face towels and a warm “ayubowan” by the courteous staff.
The hotel includes carefully considered eco-friendly facilities such as cabanas built with woven coconut leaves, bamboo, rope and wood. This lets in the cool sea breeze and with three fans inside, the ambience is relaxing. The cabanas have all modern facilities such as WiFi, an espresso machine, plush king-sized beds, couches, indoor and outdoor showers and beach essentials.
Close encounter with ‘Sando’
A boat safari along the Pottuvil lagoon was our first taste of adventure. Home to crocodiles and different species of birds, the lagoon safaris are conducted twice a day. As the raft drifts through the lush greenery through which the water runs, the tranquility you experience is surreal. Far out to the west, the setting sun underneath the pink sky was a treat to the eye. Soon, an elephant made its way to bask in the waters of the lagoon as we made our way back to the shore.
Cocktails were served later that night at the hotel, followed by a six course dinner. The menu at Jetwing Surf features delicious dishes that pack in a range of flavours, designed to suit both a Western or Eastern palate. There’s also fresh seafood from the region. The restaurant itself creates the perfect ambience that lets you enjoy all these meals.
The sunrise off the Pottuvil coast is an ideal treat for the early riser, especially if you decide to take a stroll down the beach. Our day’s programme included an early start – a trip to the Kumana National Park, just an hour’s drive from the hotel.
The park is home to almost the same species of animals spotted at Yala. Kumana is also renowned for its vibrant birdlife, making it a bird watcher’s paradise.
Yet our experience at Kumana was a different one.
As the safari jeep crossed through the forest we were on the lookout for a leopard, a frequent sight in the vicinity. However, a distant crashing sound in the thicker part of the forest revealed an enormous tusker who strolled on to our pathway.
Slowing down, our driver decided to follow the animal, making sure there was a safe distance between the vehicle and the tusker. The tusker is called ‘Sando’, our guide told us.
At this point, ‘Sando’, probably sensing our presence turned around.
Not having room to turn or reverse because of the jeeps behind us, we were forced to stand our ground. The shouts of our driver didn’t help much as ‘Sando’ rammed his tusks into the jeep.
After a few tense moments, Sando decided to move back into the forest and we could proceed. A few metres up the road, we came to a halt once again, this time, to allow a leopard to make its way back into the forest. These two thrilling encounters made the safari experience a highlight of our trip.
If however you’re more interested in history, the East also has several archaeological sites that are not so frequently visited. The Sastrawela Viharaya, for instance is located just 12 km from the hotel.
Featuring a stone inscription dating back to the first century A.D, the temple complex is said to be built by King Mahanga. The caves behind the temple, primarily used for meditation by the monks also showcase the remains of several paintings. Aside from this Jetwing Surf also offers tours to ‘Magul Maha Viharaya’, Kudumbigala Monastery and Muhudu Maha Viharaya, all of which are well preserved historical monuments.
Capturing the essence of traditional Sri Lankan hospitality, Jetwing Surf is certainly geared to give guests the best from the East.
Room rates for Jetwing Surf range from Rs. 33,100 upwards and currently there is a 40% discount until November 2019. For more information log onto
www.jetwinghotels.com