Earth Lodge

Spread throughout a large expanse of forest on the outskirts of a small village in Sri Lanka lies The Mudhouse, a private and seductive retreat, far off the beaten track. Flanked by lakes and blessed with abundant birdlife, wildlife and natural beauty, The Mudhouse offers a range of rustic accommodations in private and individually designed huts. Run with environmental sustainability as its core focus, The Mudhouse aims to be a positive force for the people and nature with whom we co-exist. This laid-back lodge offers a unique chance to experience rural Sri Lankan life in all its colorful splendor.

There are a variety of unique huts to suit every travelers’ needs. The Original Mudhouse has slowly changed and evolved over the years. The main house has one double master bedroom, an inside western toilet, separate luggage room, central living area and a covered veranda with chairs and hammocks. The raised roofs are thatched to provide more light and air. Other huts include the The Palu Hut which is designed in an unconventional ‘V’ shape, with three beds on each side of the hut. There are two luggage/changing rooms, two outdoor showers and two bathrooms accessed by raised stone pathways. The Palu Hut is suitable for couples, families or small groups and the set-up is tailored to the size and requirements of the people staying there.

Traditional Sri Lankan meals are prepared the traditional way, using clay pots and firewood. Rice and curry is the staple of the country and the lodge offers a huge variety of dishes at any given time. Meals are prepared according to what is in season and most fresh. Being surrounded by lakes and only 30 kilometers from the coast, there is a range of sea and fresh water fish available throughout the year. Vegetarians will be happy here and a wide selection of grains, pulses, seeds, vegetables and fruits are prepared daily. Much of the produce is sourced from the organic farm, with other ingredients purchased locally from farmers or from the market in town. You can also learn how to cook any of your favorite dishes in our complimentary cooking classes. 

Locally guided excursions and activities are included in the price of a stay at The Mudhouse. Activities include birdwatching, nature trail hiking, kayaking, cycling, dolphin watching and lake picnics. There are also side trips to The Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary, spectacularly beautiful Wilpattu National Park, plus mysterious ancient rock carvings and temples.

The Mudhouse is 2.5 hours drive from the main international airport and can be visited at the beginning or end of a visit to Sri Lanka. They are located en-route from the main airport to the ‘cultural triangle’ sites of Anuradhapura, Sigiriya & Dambulla, and are also on a convenient stop-off on the way to Jaffna and the north of Sri Lanka. Kandy is a two hour drive if you are coming from the ‘hill country’ region. A transfer to The Mudhouse can easily be arranged within your Sri Lanka itinerary.