Aigburth Bungalow, Rakwana — A Colonial Retreat in the Hills

Perched at 3,000 feet above sea level in the cool hills of Rakwana, Aigburth Bungalow sits at the edge of the Sinharaja rain forest — a rustic stone-walled retreat that carries the quiet dignity of a very different era. The large lounge overlooks the famous Buluthota Pass, offering a vantage point that invites long, unhurried afternoons of calm and reflection.

The bungalow was built in 1925 during the British Raj by an English tea planter named James T. Allan. It has since been fully refurbished, yet great care has been taken to retain its old-world charm throughout.

Accommodation

The bungalow offers five spacious bedrooms, each with an attached bathroom supplied with hot and cold water. Two of the bedrooms are fitted with fireplaces — a welcome feature on cool highland evenings. In total, the property can accommodate up to 14 guests.

Facilities

During the day, a swimming pool fed by the natural springs of the Sinharaja rain forest provides a refreshing escape. Evenings can be spent at the piano or with other instruments available on the premises, or enjoyed quietly with a selection of indoor games. The bungalow also maintains a well-stocked wine cellar for those who wish to unwind in style.

Cuisine

A resident chef prepares both Sri Lankan and Western cuisine, catering to guests from around the world. Menus can be arranged in consultation with the manager, and the kitchen can also put together food and beverages for picnics and barbecues in the surrounding grounds.

Activities and Excursions

The large garden is well suited to a friendly game of softball cricket or volleyball. For those drawn to the outdoors, a guided hiking trail into the Sinharaja world heritage forest offers an excellent opportunity to observe carnivorous plants in their natural habitat, encounter abundant bird life, and spot the forest's renowned giant moths.

Mountain bikers can explore the beautiful countryside along the paths of the surrounding tea estate, winding through the hills at their own pace. Tea enthusiasts will appreciate a guided tour of a nearby tea factory, where the complete manufacturing process can be observed and several of the region's teas — known as the green gold of Sri Lanka — can be sampled.

For wildlife lovers, a safari to Udawalawe National Park, famed for its elephants, is approximately one and a half hours away.