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The Mudhouse

Our rating

8/10

Price guide

Highlights

- Atmospheric eco-lodge
- Stunning rural location
- Cycling, cookery classes, kayaking
- Traditional local cuisine

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Overview

The Mudhouse is a wonderfully secluded eco-retreat set within 60 acres of verdant wilderness in the remote Puttalam District of north west Sri Lanka. Surrounded by forest, lakes, and wildlife, the property sits on the edge of a small village, at the foot of an ancient rock temple. Offering comfortable, rustic accommodation in private and individually designed huts, the Mudhouse will appeal to travellers seeking a taste of rural Sri Lankan life in a beautiful, tranquil location.

A two-and-a-half-hour drive from the main international airport in Colombo, the property is a good bet for a relaxing start or finish to a holiday in Sri Lanka. It works well in combination with Wilpattu National Park, either combining with a stay at a safari camp or using the Mud House as an overnight base for a full day's game drive in Wilpattu.

Food is locally sourced, traditionally prepared, and delicious, incorporating organic ingredients grown on the estate. Mealtimes are tailored around guest requirements, and special diets can be accommodated.

There’s a great range of activities on offer including cookery classes, birdwatching, hiking, and kayaking on the lake. Complimentary bike hire is provided for exploring the extensive grounds and nearby sites. The majestic Paramakanda Temple, a towering rocky outcrop with spectacular 360-degree views, stunning shrine rooms, and fascinating frescoes, is a short cycle or tuk-tuk ride away.

Accommodation is in individually designed huts constructed using natural materials and traditional techniques, yet with a contemporary edge. Huts vary from smaller two person units to large family huts which can accommodate up to six guests. All have outdoor showers, indoor bathrooms, dining and lounge areas, and relaxation spaces complete with hammocks and mats.

Note that there is no mains electricity in the guest areas. Lighting at night is provided by plentiful candles and lanterns as well as subtle, solar powered LED lighting which lend the property a particularly atmospheric feel.

Children of all ages are warmly welcome. Under 5s can stay free of charge, with reductions offered to guests under 18 years of age. Mealtimes are flexible, and children’s food preferences can be accommodated. Baby cots are available upon request, and a babysitting service can be arranged. Due to the remote, rural nature of the lodge, parents are reminded to ensure that children remain under adult supervision at all times.

Suggested Itineraries for The Mudhouse

What customers are saying after travelling with Tourdust

Average Rating

based on 534 reviews

(5.00/5)

  • I was also just about to email you to thank you and the team for arranging yet again, another wonderful experience.

    Mount Kenya was spectacular and wild - I think I prefer it to Kili in many ways. The entire support team was professional, friendly and all round fantastic in making sure that we were safe, well fed and well looked after. In particular, we would commend Peter the guide as well as Paul one of the porters who doubled-up as his deputy on summit day. Our route was often shrouded in mist and rain that rapidly gathered in the valleys and moorlands, and we were very impressed at how Peter managed to navigate us safely through all of that notwithstanding. In addition, we loved learning about the history of Mount Kenya from him in the evenings. And ofcourse, I was blown away by the lovely birthday surprise at the end complete with balloons and a delicious cake that had journeyed with us from day 1. One thing we might recommend because of the sudden change in weather (it would sometimes get extremely cold and wet) is for the equipment list to be a little bit more detailed in terms of its recommendations e.g. layers to be moisture-wicking, walking boots be waterproof, doubling up on socks to avoid blisters etc.

    El Karama is a beautiful conservancy and the lodge a true labour of love. Great hospitality in a relaxed environment. Delicious, fresh food. We enjoyed the drives, even if we didn't see much wildlife as the heavens opened on us for the last two outings. However, since it was very much geared towards families, I am not sure if I would stay again without kids. That said, I think it was perfect for a 3d/2n stay post mountain, and a much better choice than flying to the masai mara given the limited time we had.

    Our transits were smooth. Samuel the driver was always on time, drove safely and kept the vehicle clean.

    So it was a brilliant experience and one which I certainly will cherish for some time to come. It was great to work with you for a third time, and I certainly hope it won't be the last

    MissingJuhae C reviewing Mount Kenya Sirimon Naro Moru Trek on 01 March 2024

  • Thank you, we had an absolute wonderful time, and everything was well-planned and as described. Carla was crying on the day of our departure from Ants Nest, she didn’t want to go home and for it all to end, and when I asked how much longer she would want to stay, she responded “four weeks”

    MissingLars B reviewing Best of South Africa for Families on 01 March 2024

  • We had the most amazing time. It exceeded all my hopes of what the trip would be. The guides, the hotels - everything was of such a wonderful quality. Thank you for organizing everything. I will absolutely recommend Tourdust and use you again.

    MissingClaudia L reviewing Luxury Desert Holiday on 11 January 2024

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