South East
Safari
Bird Watching
Boat Rides
Location Highlights
- Experience the dry zone, dry deciduous forests of Sri Lanka.
- Venture into Lunugamvehera National Park for a more tranquil safari experience
- Sunset boat tour on Ranawaranawa Lake
- Village walks exploring villages and adjoining forests and “chena” farms
Thanamalwila, nestled in Sri Lanka’s southeastern region, is famed for its proximity to Udawalawe and Lunugamvehera National Parks, offering a prime gateway to explore the country’s dry zone forests. Unlike the bustling Yala National Park, Thanamalwila promises a quieter and more serene safari experience, thanks to fewer visitors.
Enduring a hot and arid climate year-round, the town boasts dry deciduous forests thriving with thorny acacias and palmyra palms. This area acts as a crucial elephant corridor linking Udawalawe and Yala National Parks, facilitating the movement of these majestic creatures.
Alongside elephants and leopards, the region hosts a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, Sloth bear, Grey langur, and Golden jackals. Additionally, the surrounding lake ecosystems harbor numerous bird species, providing ample opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to observe and appreciate the area’s rich biodiversity.
It’s also an ideal destination to immerse yourself in the rural village life typical of the dry zone villages in Sri Lanka. Here, the rhythm of life revolves around farming and livestock rearing, with locals deeply entrenched in age-old practices. One such tradition is chena farming, a time-honored slash-and-burn technique dating back over 500 years.
Our Favorite Accommodation in South East
Tree Tops Jungle Lodge
This is a new, modern hotel perched on a mountainside overlooking Kandy Lake, the Temple of the Tooth, and the city below. The property features sleek, contemporary architecture with a spacious lobby, a stylish café area, and fairly large, comfortable modern rooms — each with a balcony offering stunning views. The highlight is the rooftop bar, restaurant, and infinity pool, where guests can relax while taking in the panoramic scenery of Kandy.
Service is warm and attentive, creating a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, while the restaurant serves excellent Sri Lankan and international dishes in a bright, airy alfresco rooftop setting. Kandy town center is just a five-minute walk downhill, though the return climb uphill takes a little longer.
Jetwing Kaduruketha
Stepping into the grounds of Kings Pavilion feels like entering a botanical garden or a pocket of rainforest, with a refreshingly cooler temperature than the surrounding city. You can truly hear the quietness of the place — a calm, soothing escape from Kandy’s bustle. The hotel features elegantly furnished, spacious rooms with private balconies overlooking the mountains, and offers intimate, attentive service. The pool set at the edge of the garden perfectly frames the lush greenery and mountain views, making it one of Kandy’s most serene stays.
Offering a range of experiences, guests can choose from hands-on cooking sessions with the hotel’s chef to enjoying a private traditional cultural dance performance, creating a stay that blends comfort, culture, and nature in perfect harmony.
Tranquil Wild
TranquilWild offers an immersive experience into the serene beauty of Sri Lanka’s dry zone forests and the simplicity of rural village life. Located amidst the picturesque landscape near Ranawaranawa Lake, this hidden gem is surrounded by ancient villages, chena farms, and patches of dry deciduous forests that seamlessly blend into nearby national parks. Away from the hustle and bustle of mainstream tourism, TranquilWild provides a sanctuary for those seeking solace and a deeper connection with nature.
Throughout the day, you’ll encounter peacocks and herons gracefully wandering, while shy monkeys playfully leap between the large trees of the garden, adding to the tranquil ambiance. The hotel is equipped with comfortable rooms, a pool, and very friendly staff, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable stay amidst the natural beauty of TranquilWild.
Flame Back Eco Lodge
Stepping into the grounds of Kings Pavilion feels like entering a botanical garden or a pocket of rainforest, with a refreshingly cooler temperature than the surrounding city. You can truly hear the quietness of the place — a calm, soothing escape from Kandy’s bustle. The hotel features elegantly furnished, spacious rooms with private balconies overlooking the mountains, and offers intimate, attentive service. The pool set at the edge of the garden perfectly frames the lush greenery and mountain views, making it one of Kandy’s most serene stays.
Offering a range of experiences, guests can choose from hands-on cooking sessions with the hotel’s chef to enjoying a private traditional cultural dance performance, creating a stay that blends comfort, culture, and nature in perfect harmony.
