Getting out of concrete jungle into a real nature is now the latest trend with the city folks.
Apart from Yala, Minneriya, Wasgomuwa and Kaudulla, the most popular place is Uda Walawe.
Though it is nearly 100kms away from the city, it is the most easily accessible National Park in Sri Lanka
Kalu’s Hideaway, which completed in 2007, is the closest recommended accommodation 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 seven-bedroomed hotel a real hideaway from the busy city life.
It is the creation of the former Sri Lankan cricketer, Romesh Kaluwitharana. Spacious rooms, comfortable beds and good Sri Lankan food makes it a tempting base after a jungle safari.
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’.
The holiday bungalow consists of five well appointed spacious modern rooms including the private upper deck suite with all amenities and en-suite toilets. Two separate rooms are in the new wing.
‘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 latest addition is the wooden deck lounge.
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’
For more details log on to www.kalushideaway.com or call 047 4922396 at ‘Kalu’s Hideaway’ at Walawegama, Uda Walawe. |
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