Most of us who love the outdoors have a common passion – to soak in cool clear natural water-ways, to totally immerse ourselves in the sights and sounds of nature. What is offered at the Back of Beyond Dehigahaela is for those who dream of sleeping under the stars, of exploring the jungle and streams on foot with all its joys and little discomforts. There are of course, the added comforts and care that have become part of the Back of Beyond experience.
There are four lodges, all inspired by the famer’s pela – watch huts built on trees to protect crops from wild animals – and the ancient Sri Lankan method of incorporating granite boulders into buildings. All four lodges are designed to be very open to nature, with coconut thatch roofing, folding bamboo tats in place of walls, and wooden floors. In keeping with Back of Beyond tradition, each lodge maintains standards of comfort by providing fans, mosquito nets and modern toilets.
Solar energy is used to meet all our electricity needs at the retreat. Low lighting is used throughout to minimize night time disturbance to the environment as well as to conserve energy.
The living and dining huts are set on the far side of the small lake and open space. The resident cooks will prepare a wide variety of Sri Lankan as well as western dishes. You can also get a picnic lunch packed should you be spending the day exploring.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy around including bird watching, nature walks, cycling and just taking a walk around to explore the area – and if the weather gets too hot to handle, just head over to the natural pool at the edges of the compound.