Ruwala Nature and Adventure Park - Kalpitiya

Location

Ruwala is a rustic eco retreat situated on the banks of the scenic Kalpitiya Lagoon on the North West coast. Located in the remote fishing village of Thihaliya, Ruwala is set on a nine-acre coconut estate and can provide an adventurous holiday experience for adults and children alike. The coastal town of Kalpitiya is situated 12 kms north from here and the journey from Colombo’s international airport will take upto 3.5 hours.


Introduction

Ruwala is a combination of a holiday retreat and activity centre. Activities include kayaking, fishing, whale and dolphin watching, snorkelling and scuba diving. The Sri Lankan owner is an ardent nature lover and is always at hand to share his knowledge about this fascinating corner of Sri Lanka with guests. Ruwala has a contemporary feel with whitewashed walls and burnt orange touches and open spaces to take in the magnificent lagoon views. Ruwala is divided into two sections with the chalets, cottages, and main dining area on one end and the activities on the other end. Ruwala offers clean and comfortable accommodation, tasty Sri Lankan rice and curries, and extensive gardens scattered with palms which attract a host of birds.


Accommodation
There are two chalets which are situated overlooking the lagoon and two separate cottages with garden views. Red Dot recommends the chalets which have scenic lagoon views and are more spacious.

Chalets: Each chalet consists of two ensuite double bedrooms opening out to a private verandah with lagoon views. The chalets are designed with polished cement floors and built in double beds fitted with mosquito netting. In-room facilities include overhead fan and mini-bar. The ensuite bathrooms have bathtub and shower. Each chalet can accommodate four guests.

Cottages: The cottages consist of a double room with attached bathroom and a small balcony at the back overlooking the gardens.

Facilities
The open-sided dining area is situated in a separate building with a rooftop terrace for basking in the sun. Sri Lankan cuisine and BBQs are served here prepared with fresh vegetables and sea food purchased directly from the local fisherman. The office area has detailed maps of the north-west coast and information on nature and wildlife in this area. The activity centre section of Ruwala is fully equipped for kayaking, fishing, camping and even wall climbing. Safety gear including life jackets is available. There is a rustic hut with a thatched roof by the lagoon in this area for dining or relaxing.

Excursions
With prior notice, Ruwala can arrange for a host of excursions including dolphin and whale watching. During the season from November to April, thousands of dolphins can be spotted in the Indian Ocean waters off Kalpitiya. Venture off further into the deep seas and if you are lucky, you may even spot a blue whale. Go snorkelling and scuba diving into the Bar Reef where the marine life is spectacular. There are up to 14 islands off the coast that can be explored. Go fishing, kayaking, and canoeing in the Kalpitiya Lagoon. Birding enthusiasts will enjoy an excursion to Anaiwilundawa - a wilderness sanctuary that has lakes and mangroves where numerous species of birds can be spotted. Go on a morning’s excursion to Wilpattu National Park which is home to wild elephants and the elusive leopard. Explore the fishing village of Thihaliya with its thatched roof huts, mosques and churches, wayside boutiques. Watch out for the herds of wild donkeys that are found in this area.

Source:http://www.reddottours.com/473/ruwala-accomodation-profile.htm