Hudhakalawa, Haputale, Sri Lanka

Tucked into the hills of Haputale, amid a working tea plantation and a forest reserve, Hudhakalawa is a bungalow retreat designed for those who want to slow down entirely. The setting is described as peaceful and homely, with breathtaking views that encourage guests simply to sit, relax, walk, or trek — in solitude or in the company of others.

The spirit of the place is gently spiritual. The stated primary objective of Hudhakalawa is to be a space where visitors encounter a sense of the divine — reflected in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Whether that means quiet meditation, an unhurried walk through the tea rows, or simply breathing the hill air, the retreat asks nothing more of its guests than to revive body, mind, and soul.

The Bungalow

The property sleeps up to twelve persons across three bedrooms. Two guest toilets are available, along with a caretaker and cook, though food provisions are to be brought by guests themselves. The bungalow is equipped with bed linen, blankets, a refrigerator, a television, and a cassette player and radio. A self-operated BBQ is also on hand for those who wish to make use of it.

Outdoor Bathing

One of Hudhakalawa's more memorable features is a secluded natural pool with a small waterfall on the upper part of a stream close to the bungalow. Outdoor bathing here is described as a rare opportunity and an unforgettable experience for guests willing to seek it out.

Nearby Attractions

The hills around Haputale place Hudhakalawa within easy reach of a remarkably varied range of day-outings and picnic spots. Diyaluma Falls is approximately half an hour away along the Wellawaya Road. Further afield, the ancient rock reliefs at Buduruwagala near Wellawaya, the Udawalawe tank and National Park, and the Samanala Wewa hydro power project are all within range. Nature lovers may also venture toward Belihuloya, the Ella Gap, and Rawana Ella, or take the route through Ohiya to reach Horton Plains.

Closer to Haputale town, the Adhisham Monastery is a well-regarded stop. Additional waterfalls in the area include Babarakande Falls, Kalthota's Duwili Falls, Surathalee Ella near Halpe, and Diyawini Ella near Balangoda. The Belihuloya River at Handapanagala offers a popular bathing spot as well.

For those who enjoy a scenic drive, a circular route through Koslanda, Wellawaya, Ella, Bandarawela, and Haputale — returning to Hudhakalawa — amounts to approximately one and a half hours of non-stop driving through some of the island's most celebrated hill-country scenery.