Simple beach hut on one of the world's best surfing beaches, where you may spot wild elephants rather than other people
OVERVIEW
Kudakalliya sits on its own bay just south of Arugam Bay on Sri Lanka's East coast. Out front is a beach and a river, out back is the jungle. Here you truly get away from it all - there is rarely a soul on the beach for miles. You may however, spot wild elephants congregating for an evening shower on the nearby little island or lagoon. And Elephant Rock, the world-renowned surf-point (for those in the know), is just a 20-minute stroll from the house.
The building is a basic beach hut, built to be as eco-friendly as possible with solar energy for its lighting and water drawn from its own well. The walls are covered in termite hill mud, the floors are polished cement, the furniture is made largely from driftwood and local handloom fabrics have been used for sofa and cushion covers.
The house can accommodate up to 6 adults (extra beds for children available) and is the ultimate beach and nature lovers' paradise, if you have a sense of adventure.
ROOMS
On the upper floor of the bungalow there is one double/twin bedroom for privacy, the other 4 beds are outside on the veranda, similar to those found in jungle lodges. All beds are singles which can be pushed together to make a double. Drop-down bamboo blinds are there to protect you from the wind and weather, if necessary.
There is a large sitting area on the upper floor - wonderful for reading and relaxing, enjoying the view. Toilets and showers are on the ground floor and there's also an outside shower in the garden, all with fresh running cold water only.
EATING
The airy porch on the ground floor doubles as an outside dining room. There are two staff members on the premises who will do the food shopping and cook any meals to your requirements. Let them know what you would like and they will purchase the ingredients that day, although meals are at the mercy of what's available at the market so be flexible! The fully equipped kitchen is also available for those who prefer to cook their own food.
Bring your own alcohol or tell the owners what you want before you arrive - there are no supermarkets round the corner here.
ACITIVITIES
Long walks on what feels like a private beach
Swimming and of course, excellent surfing near Elephant Rock and Ulla Bay from May to September
Boat rides, dolphin watching and fishing trips can be arranged
Kayak (with life-vests) is available at the house for paddling down the river
A Landrover is available for rent as you need a 4WD to go into the jungle. Here you can explore 2000-year old temples and palaces that have hardly ever been seen by tourists
Visit Kumana bird sanctuary (part of Yala National Park), great for bird watching, spotting of wild boar, deer, elephants, wild buffalo, and even leopards if you are lucky
Lahugala National Park is also situated in this area and is famous for its large herds of elephants
HIGHS
Sitting high atop the water tank with a drink, watching the sunset. On one side, the sun lowers over the jungle, on the other, the tiny lights of the fishing boats glow like fireflies as night drawns in - magical!
Elephant Rock, one of the world’s best surf points is just a stroll away
Sleeping out on the verandah and watching the starry sky and night
LOWS
This is basic beach living so don’t expect mod cons
Kudakalliya is remote, so getting here does mean a long journey
The east coast is best visited from March to October; the surf season is limited to May-September.
(http://www.i-escape.com/kudakalliya.php#)
