The Mudhouse

Introduction

The Mudhouse is currently closed and not taking bookings for 2021 / 2022. This is a temporary measure due to the impact of Covid-19. The property will continue to be maintained and we will let you know as soon as it is open to travellers again.

The Mudhouse is a rustic eco-retreat nestled at the foot of an ancient rock temple in Anamaduwa in Sri Lanka's remote north-west district of Puttalam. Here is a Sri Lanka property that finds joy from simplicity. Set amidst 60 acres of wilderness by a tranquil lake, a stay here is an escapist experience of Sri Lanka's rural splendour. It lies in a remote village amidst a jungle thicket shaded by Tamarind trees and offers a true taste of Sri Lankan village life. Guests stay in wattle and daub huts, eat traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry cooked over a hearth, bathe at the well and share their surroundings with the local wildlife. Living and dining areas are built using traditional village construction methods, with clay walls and floors and trees used as columns to support the coconut palm-thatched roofs. A few essential pieces of furniture are available and hammocks are hung by the river. The Mudhouse has no electricity: the glow of lanterns and candles helps to light up the huts and pathways. The hosts welcome you with open hearts, share their simple lifestyle and impart their knowledge of this ancient land with pride.

Accommodation

There are four accommodation options to choose from, ranging from a simple village mud house to huts built on stilts. They are spread throughout the property and open onto the wilderness. All rooms are made of wattle and daub and have thatched roofs. Interior layouts differ, but facilities are the same with beds on raised clay platforms fitted with mosquito netting, indoor bathrooms and outdoor showers and living spaces that can also be used for yoga or meditation. Extra hammocks, mats, beds and wicker chairs are available upon request.

Mud House:   A typical village mud house with double bedroom, small library with books on wildlife and the Paramankanda Rock temple, and sitting area. An open-sided hut nearby, fitted with double bed and mosquito netting, serves as an additional space. Guests in both dwellings share one bathroom which has a w/c, sink, open-air shower and a clear water well for bathing. Meals are served in a separate hut in the same location. The Mud House can accommodate up to four guests.

Camping Hut: Designed with two wings either side of a central veranda, this spacious hut can accommodate up to 12 guests. Double beds on raised clay platforms fitted with mosquito netting are set out dormitory-style. There are two indoor bathrooms with outdoor showers.

Family Hut:  Close to the restaurant, this hut has a sleeping area furnished with two double beds, living area, indoor bathroom and outdoor shower.

Honeymoon Hut:  A small, romantic hut with a double bed, indoor bathroom and outdoor shower.

Facilities

Traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, cooked in clay pots over a hearth, is served in a beautiful setting, a separate open-sided hut at the edge of the lake. Guests are welcome to learn Sri Lankan cookery in the kitchen and pick their own fruits and vegetables from the organic farm. Bicycles are available for exploring the village. Guided bird-watching and nature treks are on offer. The Mudhouse is managed by Kumar, a respected village personality who will share his cultural and wildlife knowledge and makes you feel at home.

Why We Like It

If you want to lose yourself in a natural haven with few trappings of modern life the Mud House experience could be perfect for you

Location

The journey from Colombo’s international airport to Anamaduwa, in Sri Lanka's north west, will take about 2.5 hours.