Forest Rock Garden

Introduction

Forest Rock Garden Resort is a distinctive Sri Lanka holiday property well placed for the historic ruins of Anuradhapura and Wilpattu game park. It is designed around a 50-acre wilderness with rock boulders, ponds and waterways, age old trees and lotus filled ponds. Inspired by the temples, palaces and monasteries of Anuradhapura that were developed by King Pandukabhaya during the 4C BC, the Sri Lankan owner has recreated this bygone era with the greatest respect to the nature that surrounds. Even the rooms and suites at this much-praised resort are raised above ground to the level of the tree canopy to avoid any disturbance to the untouched wilderness below. A sturdy network of concrete pillars and meandering walkways connects the rooms to the restaurant, swimming pool and other facilities, allowing the animals that inhabit this land, including deer and wild elephants to pass through below along their natural jungle corridors. Take a walk along the walkways at dawn and have a bird’s eye view of the giant squirrels, monkeys and exotic birds that hover on the tree tops. Forest Rock Garden Resort offers luxurious Deluxe Rooms and Suites; traditional Sri Lankan and Western vegetarian cuisine; mind and body wellness through Ayurveda and meditation; and a serene setting that will leave you totally rejuvenated.

NOTE: Forest Rock Garden Resort is the sister property of Palm Garden Village in Anuradhapura which is just 20 minutes to the north east and on route to the ancient heritage sites. Guests who wish to have non-vegetarian meals are welcome to dine at Palm Garden Village.

Accommodation

There are 26 well-appointed Deluxe Rooms and Suites that are all elevated 20 ft. above ground and connected to the reception, restaurant, swimming pool and spa through a network of walkways. Room interiors are tastefully furnished with king-size beds, wardrobe, writing desk and lounge chairs. In-room facilities include a/c, overhead fan, 40 inch LCD TV, WiFi internet, IDD telephone and intercom facilities, tea making facility, mini-bar, and electronic safe. The ensuite bathrooms have a bath tub and h/w shower.

Deluxe Rooms: The 16 Deluxe Rooms are set in clusters of two that share a terrace. Each room consists of a bedroom furnished with twin or king-size bed; dressing room, living and dining area; and a small pantry. Rooms are equipped with all facilities listed above and open out to a private verandah and shared terrace. Each room cluster has a well secured entry point (doorway) on the walkway ensuring complete privacy and security. The Deluxe Room clusters are ideal for families with children. Each room can accommodate up to three guests.

Suites: The 10 spacious suites are also elevated above ground and opens out to a private terrace with sun lounges and 20 ft. x 10 ft. plunge pool. Each suite consists of a bedroom furnished with a king-size bed and 32 inch LED TV; living area equipped with a 40 inch LED TV, dressing room, dining area and a pantry. Suites are equipped with all standard facilities listed above. Ensuite bathrooms have a bath tub and h/w shower. Each suite has a well secured entry point (doorway) on the walkway ensuring complete privacy and security. Up to three guests can be accommodated.

Facilities

Dine on vegetarian Sri Lankan and western cuisine at the main restaurant or in the privacy of your own room. Meals are prepared with fresh vegetables and herbs purchased from the village market. Beer and wine are on offer. The in-house spa offers relaxing Ayurvedic massages and wellness therapies. There is a serene open air meditation centre where a Buddhist monk from the nearby temple conducts guided meditation and discussions. Other resort facilities include a library, swimm

Why we like it

An exceptionally imaginative and daring concept seeks to recreate the feel of Anuradhapura itself.

Location

Forest Rock lies in the tiny village of Andarawewa between Wilpattu National Park and Anuradhapura, both 20 minutes away by car. The journey from Colombo’s international airport will take about three hours.