Sinharaja Kurulu Ella Eco Resort

The location was superb, in the heart of the rainforest. You had a clear view of it from the dinning terrace and from my room. The people there were amazing,kind and really helpful in planning out my schedule(trekking and birdwatching in the sinharaja rainforest). The facilities and services were on point, I always had what I needed at hand, even when it came to food and equipment for safely trekking through the rainforest. In case you requested something different than what was available, I was always helped with my request! It was wonderful!

Our stay at Ela Korolu Sinharaja was an absolute highlight of our trip, perfectly immersed in the stunning nature of the rainforest. The owner, Janith, was an extraordinary host and guide who took us on an unforgettable tour through Sinharaja Forest while sharing his incredible knowledge of the local wildlife. His warm hospitality and passion made our experience truly magical, and we highly recommend staying here to anyone visiting the area

Waterfall and owners trying their best . Just a basic guesthouse. Not at all a resort.

steep stairs , not suitable to older people

An amazing place in a small intimate location in the rainforest. Janith and his wife were great hosts. There is an abundance of wildlife around the property which without Janith pointing them out we would likely have missed seeing. The meals were delicious and the serving sizes generous.

Bel accompagnement de Janith sur toute la durée de notre séjour . La guest house est entouré de vie sauvage et tenu par des passionnés.

The property is well maintained. The owners of the property are nature lovers and have a vast knowledge about wildlife and the forest. Very friendly and professional service. Food was awesome!

Had a wonderful stay at the property. The hosts are super friendly, kind and helpful. The room we stayed had views from all four sides, we were able to spot different reptiles and monkeys. The property also has a private waterfall, which refreshes your mind. Not to mention the amazing food that was served every day! Will definitely visit again :)

Everything, from the beautiful position of the room to the delicious food and hospitality by our wonderful hosts 😍 We had the soothing sound of the adjacent waterfall and wildlife right outside the (very) spacious accommodation. We saw and heard- macaques, palm Civet,porcupine,green pit viper, freshwater crabs,scorpion, different species of insects, Reptiles- Hump nosed lizard and more! We took a safari into Sinharaja forest with the lovely, knowledgeable Thilan as our guide- planned and organised by Janith....it was magical! The bird species alone were off the chart, starting with Blue Magpies and ending with a mixed species flock. It was Outstanding 🙌 Don't hesitate to book this wonderful piece of heaven- you won't be disappointed ✨️

I don't live there!

The location was perfect if you like peace and quiet and jungle and being nice and out of the way and in nature. The hosts are both really lovely and helpful made us feel very welcome, and Janith gave us two tours of the rainforest and pointed out all sorts of flora and fauna and things we would never have noticed or known about otherwise. Very highly recommended

could not have been better

Janith und seine Frau Maniesha sind hervorragende Gastgeber. Mit Janith im Forrest Reserve unterwegs zu sein ist ein Vergnügen. Dasselbe gilt, wenn er uns gleich um die Lodge herum mit geübtem Auge in Kombination mit naturwissenschaftlichem Knowhow die Tier- und Pflanzenwelt vermittelt und über die Situation der lokalen Bevölkerung spricht. Maniesha hat uns mit ihrer hervorragenden Küche und ihrer freundlichen, hilfsbereiten Art begeistert. Das Familienzimmer mit seinen grossen Fensterfronten gibt den Blick auf eine Regenwaldlandschaft frei und ermöglicht es beispielsweise vorbeiziehende Affen zu beobachten.

Unser Aufenthalt ist toll gewesen und so sind die folgenden Punkte mehr als Hinweis anstelle als Kritik zu verstehen. Die Lodge liegt tief im Schatten der Bäume und die Feuchtigkeit ist sehr hoch, um Nasses zu trocknen ist die morgendliche Sonne und/oder etwas Kreativität hilfreich. Das Resort hat ein Preisniveau, die Qualität der Gastgeber in Kombination dem sehr gelungenen Familienzimmer wiegen dieses aus unserer Sicht auf.

The hosts were so welcoming and made the most incredible experience for us. The dinners were absolutely the highlight of our trip, one of the best food we ate in our whole two week trip. The host even welcomed us into his home to watch the cricket final. The rainforest trek was absolutely incredible, our tour guide was so knowledgeable and passionate. You can see the work and passion that is put into preserving this beautiful forest, you must stay here if you want to experience the true Sri Lankan rainforest experience. Thank you so much!

The rainforest is loud at night (frogs/birds etc) which is very much expected but you get used to this very quickly.

The property is located in natural vegetation with waterfall meters from accommodation. The couple who own the property, Janith and Monisha were totally amazing couple, friendly, knowledgeable (as is their delightful son) and Monisha is a fabulous cook. There are things to see at the accommodation which Janith and his son were keen to show us. They knocked on our door one evening to ask if we wanted to see a snake, which my husband appreciated looking at. The guide they organised for both the Rainforest tour and early morning birdwatching watching was very knowledgeable on both fauna & flora, birds and mammals. We got greeted with delicious refreshing drink on arrival and after on each of our excursions. Having meals at the accommodation made it less stressful having to find somewhere in the evening and the menu was extensive. It was my birthday and they hade it extra special with beautifully fragrant rose from their garden.

Fantastic forest location and wonderful and knowledgeable hosts. A really fantastic place yo stay to immerse yourself in nature.

We loved everything about our stay here. A very special place. The hosts are absolutely lovely. Food is incredibly good. The glass family room is a wonderful place to stay, immersed in nature. There aren’t many places that you can watch a waterfall from your bed, along with monkeys and beautiful birds. We would have stayed here for longer if we could. Total peace and escape from the frantic pace of life.

Nothing

Wow the location here is absolutely incredible. The rainforest is all around and we spotted so much wildlife (including a giant squirrel, many birds and monkeys) with the help of Janith the host, who was really knowledgeable and generous with his time in helping us spot things. There were some delicious vegan options for food. Highly recommend this place, worth staying a few days to explore and soak in the surroundings.

Same as most places we stayed, difficult to always get filling vegan/vegetarian meals - same price as meat options but without meat. Would not have been a problem but quite far from a place to buy snacks, so stock up before if you are big eaters. Otherwise a wonderful stay and we would visit again

Beautiful property set in the rainforest. Just three large simple rooms with full height glazing to the living breathing rainforest. Monkeys, squirrels, lizards, snakes and birds all playing away like some kind of tropical theatre unfolding in front of you. All accompanied by the rushing water sounds of the nearby waterfall. Marvelous! Over the rooms is an open air dining room, really simple and lovely, surrounded by forest. Lovely and cool, no AC required. The owners Janith and Manisha are excellent hosts, super helpful arranging rainforest hikes and know all about the area, having grown up right there and built the property themselves. The food is really excellent. Highly recommended.

Mitten im Sinharaja Rainforest gelegen ist die Unterkunft ein einmaliges Erlebnis. Die persönliche Betreuung und Führung des Eigentümers durch die Umgebung war sehr interessant. Die Hilfe bei der Umbuchung unserer Regenwaldwanderung war sehr gut. Einzigartig gut war das singhalesische Abendessen.

Keine Klagen.

Einzigartiges Hotel direkt im Dschungel, tolle Aussicht und grosszügige Zimmer. Die beiden Besitzer sind herzallerliebst und sehr hilfsbereit. Wasserfall ist direkt in der Nähe und man verbringt die Nacht mitten im Geschehen.

Excepional hospitality, personal service and divine location

The room was truly outstanding; being right in the middle of the jungle was an unforgettable experience, and the large windows made it even more magical, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in nature. The couple who hosted us were incredibly kind and welcoming. We went on several treks with Janith, including jungle night walks and daytime hikes, and he was excellent at spotting wildlife such as snakes, lizards, and many other animals. He has deep knowledge of the area, and it was fascinating to listen to his stories about how the region has changed over time and its history. We always felt very well taken care of. The food was also delicious and full of flavor. Thank you for this wonderful experience.

Setting is spectacular. Small, unique, totally off the beaten track. Welcoming and knowledgable husband and wife team. Delicious food. We felt very well taken care of.

Being isolated, all meals and snacks needed to be pre planned (which meant we couldn’t be totally spontaneous) and they were slightly expensive…although excellent quality, prepared with care and fresh, often home grown ingredients. More storage in the room would have been lovely. Perhaps change sheets given how damp the environment is given the location.

Zeer gastvrije eigenaars die je in de watten willen leggen. Geweldig eten en goede tips over wat je allemaal kunt doen in de omgeving.

What a fabulous place and what fabulous owners! Even before we arrived, Janith and Manisha were actively contacting us to make sure we knew how to arrive at the Eco Lodge and to offer any assistance or help that they could. We were greeted warmly on arrival, given one of Manisha’s amazing lime coolers and shown to our room. Even though we were only travelling as a couple, I had booked the superior family room as I’d been wowed by the pictures on the booking sites. It was absolutely the right decision. The room was privately situated, surrounded by a green canopy of trees with constant sightings of birds, monkeys and other creatures and had an amazing view of the waterfall. It was extremely spacious and had one of the most luxurious bathrooms I saw in Sri Lanka. We stayed for three nights and took a day hike and a night trek into the surrounding rainforest, which Janith arranged for us. The hike and trek were both brilliant and we really enjoyed them. It’s hugely clear that Janith and Manisha are caring and passionate stewards of their surroundings and they took great care to share the beauties of the rainforest with us, whilst ensuring our impact was as light as possible from an ecological perspective. We ate at the lodge every day as there is nowhere else close to eat but that was absolutely no hardship as all of the food was freshly prepared, tasted delicious and presented with a huge amount of care and attention. Manisha is an amazing cook and there is huge variety in the options available. Her Sri Lankan curry was one of the best meals I ate whilst in the country. This was the place we enjoyed most on our trip to Sri Lanka. The rainforest is stunning and worth a visit regardless, but combined with the wonderful experience provided by Janith and Manisha it really was a special time.

Lieu idéal en plein milieu de la nature avec un hôte qui nous apprend beaucoup sur les insectes, animaux et plantes ! Trek organisé par l’hôte très belle expérience !

לקחנו את החדר שכולו זכוכיות וזה היה מדהים ברמות

לשים לב שיש מדרגות לחדר, ולקחת בחשבון רעש של מפל ושל חיות אבל זה גם הקסם כמובן

Eenvoudige accommodatie, prima voor een niet te lang verblijf. De jungle tour was erg goed. Veel gezien en heel veel gekregen.

Je hebt geen direct uitzicht op waterval vanuit de kamer, je hoort hem wel.

The Sinharaja Kurulu ella eco resort is the best i have encountered in Sri Lanka. Everything in the resort is amazing. The things or the actions to preserve the nature is one of a kind. Its in another level. The owner Janith is a well-knowledged person regarding nature, flora and fauna. We felt him like our family who guided us to marvelous places aroud the resort. The meals and the welcome drink are delicious. For each and every meal the options you have is immense which will make you like every option. For any nature lover this is the place to stay n Deniyaya.

Nothing

La natura è bellissima .siamo sopra una cascata .il ristorante è carino

anche se le stanze sono carine con delle grandi vetrate, le stanze e l' arredo sono impersonali

De locatie is heel bijzonder, vlakbij het regenwoud. De familie kookt heel lekker, de heerlijkste gerechten die we in Sri Lanka hebben gegeten. Vanaf de locatie wordt een rit met jeep naar en vervolgens hike in het regenwoud geregeld. Aardige mensen. Prachtige omgeving.

De kosten voor de accommodatie en het eten liggen wat hoger dan elders in Sri Lanka. Maar het is wel erg fijn hier. Houd er rekening mee dat je contant moet betalen.

Dit is de allermooiste plek waar we overnacht hebben in Sri Lanka. De kamer met ramen rondom biedt een fantastisch uitzicht op de groene omgeving en op de waterval. 's Ochtends wakker worden met de apen die voor het raam langs lopen, is een ervaring die je niet snel vergeet. Bij de waterval zwemmen Garra ceylonensis vissen. Super leuk om deze aan je voeten te voelen! Het gezin dat deze plek runt is super vriendelijk en terecht heel trots op hun resort. Voor zowel het ontbijt als avondeten is er ruime keuze. Alles wordt vers bereid. Je kunt er zelfs een glaasje wijn bij drinken van goede kwaliteit. Als we ooit terug gaan naar Sri Lanka komen we hier zeker terug.

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Excellent breakfast and dinner, clean rooms and nice location near a waterfall.

Struttura immersa nel verde. Stupenda l’esperienza di essere dentro una foresta e accanto ad una cascata durante la notte. Personale molto gentile. Molto vicina alla foresta di sinharaja , ragion per cui organizzano um trekking con una guida locale ( consigliatissimo , esperienza molto bella ), costa 40$ a persona , forse un pochino costosa per gli standard del posto ma vale la pena farla . La guida è super preparata.

Unico hotel con i prezzi della cena in dollari ( modo che utilizzano che guadagnare molto di più ) , li altri Hotel ci hanno fatto usare il mini frigo in maniera gratuita mentre loro per due pacchi di patatine e un cioccolatino ci hanno fatto pagare 6,50$ ( che rispetto ai prezzi dello Sri Lanka è un furto, ho fatto spese nei supermercati con 1/2 euro) . Non ci andate se avete paura degli insetti, la camera ne era piena e non c’erano le tende sul letto per proteggersi

The hosts of this small hotel are exceptional. Their attention to the comfort of their guests is amazing. We were shown around the local area, had tours arranged with an excellent guide and provided with delicious meals. The room was beautifully appointed and took advantage of the forest location by being glass on all sides.This was a true travel experience which far exceeded the average hotel stay.

Magical location in amongst the trees & birds. The upstairs dining area is like being in a treehouse. The hosts were very warm & welcoming and helped to arrange a trek in the forest. Well worth the effort to get there.

The signpost to the resort from Deniyaya could be a bit easier to find.

The remote quiet location immersed in nature. The many FireFlys we saw, the walk to the waterfall and swim in the natural pool. The owners passion and knowledge of the environment. A true gift shared so enthusiastically ✨✨✨✨

We only stayed 1-night. I suggest a 2-night minimum to really get the best experience of such an amazing place. 🩵

the setting is spectacular with it's own access to fabulous pools and waterfall just a few minutes walk down a path from the rooms. loads of colour changing lizards, monkeys, giant squirrels and other beautiful sights as well as lovely trees and flowers. you'll be delighted to explore sri lanka as a garden full of wonderful fruit, vegetables and spices. tea and coffee plants side by side with breadfruit, cinnomon, cardomam, cloves ..... the rooms are very comfortable with huge windows looking onto the forest. watch monkeys from your bed with a cup of local tea in your hand! the couple who run the place are super lovely and the food is first rate. we went on a day tour which was smazing, a day i'll never forget. i wish so much we had stayed longer and booked the early morning nird tour and the night time tour. i would recommend staying at least 4 nights. an absolute highlight of my life!!!

nothing

Beautiful place run by the family - former tea plantation which is now becoming a jungle again. The panoramic view from the room was amazing - makes you feel like you are sleeping in the forest and you can spot a lot of wildlife from the bed. Waterfall with natural pools is within the resort. Very good food with massive portions. The trip to the forest was also great - the entrance to reserve is just 2 km away. Everything perfect and worth its price.

N/a

Everything! The location was perfect, Janith and his family were so accommodating. Food was exceptional and the rain forest trek was awesome. Our guide was knowledgeable and attentive. It was a once in a lifetime that I cannot recommend highly enough. The waterfall and natural fish spa at the weee an added bonus. If you are planning a trip to Sinharaja book this beautiful place.

Nothing

One of the nicest eco lodges I’ve ever stayed in. Everything about it was great — the glass room surrounded by pristine nature, location by the waterfall, the restaurant, trekking tours. Owner is very helpful and can arrange anything you need.

Wi-Fi works well in the main building but doesn’t really reach the glass room, although this can be a good thing if your wanting to reduce distractions and connect more with nature

Glas bungalow in the forest with view to a waterfal. Nice host.

It takes a bit of effort to reach this location without a private chauffeur. Wooden floor and bench are creaking quite noisily. Too many light switches ;-)

Stunning place to stay - set in a beautiful hillside close to the Sinharaja reserve. The hosts were exceptionally good and went out of their way to give us a fantastic experience. Our trips into the reserve were wonderful with an excellent guide, and the property itself was amazing - spotlessly clean surrounded by trees, birds, monkeys and reptiles. The food was also fantastic - a really outstanding experience.

It’s run by a lovely couple and their young son. They are so hospitable and friendly. The lodge is set in idyllic location by a waterfall v peaceful in nature. There are only 3 rooms which are immaculate and have all amenities. The food is amazing breakfast and dinner so healthy plentiful and so v tasty. They arrange all treks and trips so everything is easy even the leech socks. We did a day rain forest trek and half day village waterfall and temple trip seeing all the rural village life. Definitely recommend and hope to return some day

Nothing you couldn’t fault it

Janith and Monisha are a lovely couple who live in an absolutely stunning location and are willing to share their joy. Our room was very comfortable and opened up to the jungle. If you look closely and watch carefully there are many creatures to see: snakes, lizards, butterflies, birds, the giant squirrel and also lots of lovely plants (epiphytes, parasites, vines). Janith took care of all our transfers and the car with our driver Amlewe was very comfortable. The drive out is also scenic and interesting. We also had a 7h hike in the reserve. I’ve been in prime rainforest before in Malaysia, Brazil, Costa Rica and will say that this is a bit different in that it is sub montane so the trees and animals are different. More vines and secretive animals. It was more a meditative slow walk than a hike so I don’t think you need to be overly fit, just mobile and have good balance. You can walk down to the waterfall for your fish therapy and join the locals enjoying nature. We had fun avoiding the fish as they are too ticklish. Janith is kind enough to share what he spots around his lodge including the wild Sri Lankan fowl roosting in the tree at night, the lizard eating a snake!, the kangaroo lizard sleeping under the leaf, etc etc. Our meals were made by Monisha. She is an excellent cook and I particularly enjoyed her Banana French Toast. She accommodated our low salt requests. Please be sure to try the curd and kithul palm treacle (it was the best compared to other places in Sri Lanka). Also of all our lodges this place had the BEST coffee. Janith says they pick the beans off their tree themselves and dry and roast it over a wood fire. For someone who adores coffee it was like a life saver thrown to me in land of tea.

There are some comments about paying for breakfast and meals and I think it surprises some people but if you know about it in advance, the meals are very reasonably priced. We had a lovely large grilled tuna steak meal (enough protein for two portions by Western standards) for USD$12. In the mornings there is a strong sewer smell in the bathrooms. It’s not that the lodge is unhygienic but more a function of the sewer system. I’ve noticed this throughout Sri Lanka and not just at this lodge. If you just close the bathroom door it contains the odour.

Kurulla Ella is a lovely high-end eco resort. Sanjith and Marnisha are giving their 2 acre former tea plantation back to nature and as a result there's a wealth of animals that frequent the premises, which Sanjith is adapt as any ranger at finding and identifying. During our stay we saw more wildlife right next to the accomodation than during our visits to Sinharaja Rainforest, including multiple types of small snakes, three types of lizards, purple-faced langurs and a giant squirrel which we could watch undisturbed for 30 minutes while he was enjoying his meal in the trees at eye height just a few meters away. Guests staying at the same time as us saw many other animals at different times of the day, which just shows the amazing diversity on the grounds. Falling asleep to the sound of the waterfall is amazing, and we thoroughly enjoyed our private swim and the little fish feeding on our dead skinn cells. The hotel is located a few kilometers up the hill (the road is motorable, you'll walk the last 70 meters), which means you'll likely want to eat at the resort three times a day. Their kitchen offers a variety of nice options, though as often in Sri Lanka, we found the local dishes the most tasty. The resort employs their own rangers, which are very knowledgeable and who speak great English. In fact, we've been told they are a lot better than many of the rangers employed by the national park itself. Also, Sanjith offered to personally accompany us to the park for a second time to take in some extra sights. All in all, it's a truly wonderful place to stay.

This was by far the most expensive stay of our two month trip in Sri Lanka. We payed 475 dollars for two nights and though this included two guided visits to Sinharaja as well as transport to our next destination; with food and local transportation at 3 to 5 times the price of local restaurants or simpler homestays, for us it was still quite a bit more than we had expected beforehand. And perhaps a detail, but it would be great to find an alternative to the small single use plastic water bottles served at meals. All in all, we definitely had a very memorable stay, so if money is of no concern to you, we wholeheartedly recommend the Kurulla waterfall resort.

The owner is knowledgeable.，He introduced us to many animals and plants.There is a waterfall under the accommodation.The small fish in it can make a SPA for you.

Small intimate lodge with only three rooms in a stunning location on the edge of the rain forest overlooking a waterfall. Janith and his family are wonderful hosts and take exceptional care of their guests. We booked the forest day trek with them which was excellent with a great guide and as it takes an alternative route to other tours we really did feel like we were the only ones in the forest. If available book the all glass room in the trees as you will really feel immersed in the forest and can lie in bed listening and watching the surrounding nature including the local troop of macaques. The food was also excellent with extremely generous portions.

Outstanding experience in this extraordinary hotel. If you choose the Superior family room (only one available) you even get more immersed into the jungle and you will enjoy the sound of the waterfall. Great service and excellent food. The hotel owner is a true nature lover and expert in local fauna and flora.

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We absolutely loved our stay at this beautiful rainforest getaway! Janith & his wife are really kind hosts, very helpful and passionate about the rainforest and the animals living there. Everything was really clean and we even got gluten free & vegan meal options. The food was delicious! We recommend choosing the local food options. Also the rainforest tour they organize is really special and recommendable! We loved it. Also the waterfall at the property is more than beautiful!

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Our hosts were extremely kind and helpful, nothing was too much trouble. The home-cooked food was excellent, something to please all the family. Loved the location, deep in the forest, and especially the glasshouse tree room. We enjoyed a rain forest trek, the waterfall and fish therapy and a trip to the local natural rock slide, all with Janith’s help and expert knowledge.

Nothing not to like!

We had a perfect stay the host is incredibly thoughtful and kind, the trip to the jungle got booked through them and was flawless and incredible. And the location is beyond incredible. Just visit and you’ll see why And the food was stunning

It is a real paradise far away from the loud cities. If you skip, it you will have less experience in your life.

Silence in nature Near a waterfall Polite and helpful staff

Excellent family run guesthouse , very welcoming family , very hospitable and looked after our family so well. Highly organised rain forest tour which was excellent. Amazing food , home cooked with a wonderful variety of foods. We ate mostly Sri Lankan food which was excellent. A very enjoyable stay in comfortable accommodation in the rainforest.

Nothing, everything was great.

Beautiful location, in the middle of the rainforest, you feel like sleeping under the stars and breathing together with nature. The owner and his wife are very very kind, Janith showed and explained a lot of things, animals/herbs, we had a fish pedicure in the waterfall next to our room, and the food was also exceptional, the ingredients coming directly fresh from their garden.

We had an incredible 3d2n stay at Sinharaja Kurulu Ella Eco Resort. Even before our stay, Janith and Manisha went above and beyond to make our trip to Sri Lanka enjoyable. The drive we had originally booked cancelled last minute, and they were able to quickly arrange transport for us from Colombo to the resort and even for the subsequent week of our trip. The hotel itself is absolutely beautiful, both the structures and the surrounding areas, which includes a path to a waterfall and gorgeous views of the rainforest. We ate each meal here and loved every single bite - the coconut sambal was some of the best in the world. For those with smaller stomachs, the portions are huge so it’s best to split a plate so as to avoid food waste. We originally booked the triple room with a view but when we saw the Superior Family Room, we immediately upgrades because it’s essentially a glass treehouse immersed in the jungle. We also booked a jungle tour through the resort and our guide Kumar took us on an incredible all day journey through a tea plantation to a rainforest, where we explored waterfalls and learned about the local flora. We are traveling through Sri Lanka for a few weeks and really this has been one of the highlights of our trip because of beautiful location, delicious food, the wonderful memories made on the jungle tour, and most importantly the compassion and kindness that were shown to us at every minute by Janith and Manisha. We cannot recommend this place enough.

That we couldn't stay for longer!

My daugther and I enjoyed our stay in the rainforest. You can literally lie in bed and see the waterfall and monkeys jumping in the giant trees. The food and hospitality here is great. And Janith loves nature and there are so many living things to explore right in the garden.

The hosts are very friendly and accommodating. It's a beautiful environment very close to a waterfall where it is possible to swim (or have a foot treatment from the tiny fish that feed on the dead skin!) Very clean and the food is beautiful.

Friendly ownership, services, great breakfast, great trail Rainforest

The location is unique if you are looking for a nature wildlife experience, 100%recommend for biologists and plant lovers. We also did a trekking in Sinharaja national park with a nature guide that taught us everything about the flora and fauna.

Humidity is high, and clothes and towels remain wet it would be nice to offer a drying option of some kind.

On the fringe of Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Janith and Maniesha created a little paradise, where love of nature and Sri Lankan hospitality in its most accomplished form fuse with good taste and a down to earth sense of practical amenity to a unique experience - as recreative as it is enriching. We recomend: - stay at least two full days - book the Superior Family Room - bring your swimsuits - choose the Sri Lankan Breakfast - take a forest hiking tour with Kumar, the most dedicated guide we have met in Sri Lanka

The owners from this property are very friendly, welcoming and caring about their guests. You immediately feel at easy here. The view from the room and the restaurant is amazing, with animals just outside the accomodation. The food in the restaurant was very good.

The location of the resort is just outside the national park and for a trekking you need to drive for 30-40 min by jeep.

This was an amazing stay with our family (2adults, 3 kids of 6, 8 and 11) in our room in the middle of the jungle, with a view on the waterfall where you could also swim in. A 10/10. Janith, Maneesha and team were such friendly and helpfull hosts. The true Srilanka food and drinks was prepared with much care and was delicious. (And for our Dutch stomachs safe to eat :) ) And the rainforest hike was super, with Janith being such a good guide, spotting snakes, lizards, monkeys, spiders etc. 100% recommended!

A perfect place to stay and explore the wonderful stunning Sinharaja Forest. The owners are so nice and will help you to have a great time there. Food is delicious, waterfall next to the house, located almost in the jungle and a great jungle trekking full day tour. Stay here and enjoy the wonders of nature!

Sound of the river by night

Everything!!! It is such an amazing place. You feel one with nature. I could watch the monkeys out of my bedroom. There is a waterfall just a few steps away. And the owners Janith and Manisha are such a lovely people. They will go out of their reach to make you have the best holiday ever. And the food was the best food I had so far in Sri lanka. Just delicious. I made a jungle tour with them and the guy know so much about nature and the environment. I really recommend this place if you love the nature!!!

That I had to leave

Location: Waterfall just below Food: Homecooked and great variation Excursions: Knowledgeable guides Hosts: Helpful and very kind

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The Eco Lodge in the forest was incredible; the pictures on the post don't do it proper justice. The staff (Husband and Wife team) were kind, thoughtful locals, so they knew a lot the area and cared about our stay. They communicated as needed and prepared us for a successful stay and hike in the forest with a knowledgeable guide. Ohh, and the food at their restaurant was some of the best food we had in the country!

I had no dislikes at this location during my stay.

Location was amazing, very close to the gate entrance of sinharaja rain forest. A beautiful waterfall 2 min from the room. The rooms are great hearing the sound of the waterfall, Manisha makes the best food. Highly recommended for people who like to be close to nature, seeking for adventures or just chill in serene environment.

In the middle of the rain forest, near a waterfall surrounded by trees, monkeys, lizards, frogs, and wildlife. This family establishment is well natured and taken care of. The owner is a happy soul very enthusiastic about eco systems and wildlife and will be more than happy to spot wild life for you and take you to a 1 km round tour in the rain forest. A unique place.

It's a sanctuary in the middle of the rainforest, so wildlife and forest sounds are there. Also, leeches....

Beautiful place, handled by nice couple. You can go down to the waterfall for swimming. Food is also nice, we enjoyed our stay.

Booking showing incorrect location, it shows that it's on the territory of the Forest - it isn't true. You have to order tuktuk to reach forest, way is more than 1 hour. Evening time was no electricity, but they switched on generator wich helped us to charge our phones.

Absolutely everything! We stayed as a family of 5 with a 2, 7 and 17 year old and it was truly amazing. The location in the rainforest was bliss, we stayed in the glass house and couldn’t believe the views, waking up to monkeys outside our room and overlooking the waterfalls. We also had a double room in the main building which was spacious with lovely views. There is no AC in the rooms but it isn’t needed, the fan provided a more than comfortable temperature at night - we even used the extra blankets provided! Janith and his family are amazing. He took us to the waterfalls to show us where we could safely have fun and free fish foot therapy - as someone in need of a pedicure my feet came out genuinely smooth as anything! His wife and the teams cooking was out of this world. Breakfast was the best we had on our 5 stop tour, lunches and dinners were delicious and so plentiful. The virgin mojitos and breakfast fruit juices were also delicious - our children couldn’t get enough! Had a rainforest trek organised by Janith during the day which was also amazing. The guides again were great with our children and educated us on the forest. This place is for people that want to be in nature, surrounded by it. Remember mosquito repellent! Leeches were scary at first on the trek (although you are provided with leech socks and no one had any problems) but at the property aren’t a big issue other than after rain, and not the fault of the property - you are living in a rainforest! The road leading to the property is small and windy but Janith provided us transport back out to the main road. We forgot our passports at the property and Janith even organised for them to be dropped to us 3 hours away. Such a beautiful family who have absolutely smashed the mix between hospitality, connecting to nature, education and sustainability. Thank you to Janith and your family for such an amazing and memorable stay.

Nothing.

My family and I (two adults and two children) stayed in the superior family room for two nights in April 2024. It was without doubt, hands down, one of the very best places we have ever stayed. The room was everything they said it would be and more! Everyone was so attentive - with fantastic communications from start to finish. The food and service was second to none (…improbably considering the location). We went on amazing day trek, which was an incredible experience (led by an exceptionally well informed and interesting guide, who provided so many interesting insights) but even just the area around the guesthouse was fascinating. That brings me to the location. The view from the room of the waterfall, with monkeys hanging out on the trees around us is unforgettable. Being able to swim in the plunge pool, get a massage from the fish (yes, really!) and climb up to the waterfall. We are still pinching ourselves about all we have seen and experienced. Thank you so much!

There is nothing. If you are able, you must stay here. You will not regret it!!

The magical experience of staying at the Kurulu Ella Eco Resort will be a beautiful memory forever. We met Janith on arrival and he was as delightful and professional as he was answering our many questions online beforehand. Our room was spotless and had floor to ceiling glass windows that overlooked lush natural gardens and was just a short walk to a waterfall we could hear flowing from our room. The delicious and generous meals here are made to order from an extensive menu catering to all dietary requirements. All you have to say is what time you would like to eat and your table is set beautifully and you are waited on. The Lodge does have many stairs but its only a warm up for what awaits you in the Sinharaja Rainforest. Janith organised our 4-5 hour trek through Sinharaja with a professional guide, Tillan. This was one of our hightlights of Sri Lanka. Tillan's knowledge of the rainforest is remarkable, his passion for the enviroment is unwavering as he showed us many sights and taught us about rainforest medicines. When we need a rest, he patiently waited before moving on. The lodge is run by a family who all have a passion for the rainforest and all creatures who live with it. The generosity and kindness of this family go well beyond the Lodge. An experience we will never forget. A must in Sri Lanka!!!

There is nothing I did not like about my stay here.

Janith and his wife were very attentive to ensure we had an excellent time. Emphasis was on nature and not tourism which was very refreshing. Janith has a great knowledge of the local flora and fauna. He took us on a night walk to see snakes, frogs and spiders. He also arranged an excellent guide to take us for a day walk in the rainforest. The home cooked food was delicious with plenty of choices, and most of it was from their own garden which they showed us around.

It can be a bit tricky to navigate the final track up to the property but Janith provided a few screenshots and diagrams so not that difficult in the end.

Incredible location surrounded by such fantastic scenery. Very good hosts. Great activities such as night walks looking for frogs and snakes. Food amazing. Right in the heart of nature.

No issues.

As a keen birdwatcher, our 2 night stay was planned to incorporate a visit to the Sinharaja Tain Forest, and this organised brilliantly by the Eco Lodge. The lodge was in a lovely nature setting, the rooms were spacious, with all the necessary requirement. Meals good and plentiful. The owner and his wife were very helpful with things to do etc and the members of staff all played a part in making this a very memorable stay.

This was, by far, the best experience we had in Sri Lanka. Mr Janith and his wife offered us 2 days focused solely on nature and fauna. He spent time with us searching for snakes, endemic birds and taking us to the waterfall (which by the way you can just hear from the room!!) Much to our surprise, he even took us on a private 1 hour night walk in the jungle, slowly looking at nature, showing us frogs, insects and snakes. We booked a 1 day nature tour and loved it too! Our guide was knowledgeable and important ...spoke very good English!

That we only spend 2 nights.. :)

We will remember our stay for a lifetime. We are still speechless about how stunning it was! First of all the people that made our stay outstanding. We were welcomed with virgin mojitos that were delicious. The family is just very nice and helpful and made us feel extremely welcome. When we were shown our room we couldnt believe our eyes! First of all it is huge. Like one can dance in it. Secondly the side opposite the bed was a window front facing the forest! Its breathtaking. You are surrounded by nature (monkeys hang around). The hotel is connected to a natural pool. So if you walk a little down the path you can refresh yourself in the water or get a pedicure from the little sucker fishes :). But thats not the end of the dream. Janith gave us and another couple a night walking tour through parts of the forest. We seen snakes, frogs, lizards and many more animals. He has a lot of knowledge which was impressive. They grow their own coffee and tea as well on the grounds. The delicious and fresh prepared dinner and breakfast was served on a kinda first floor terras above the rooms with open sides in the middle of the trees. The next morning we did a rainforest tour with a local guide that we were recommended by the family. It was a great experience. All we can say is, if you have the chance you should go and stay there. We wished we stayed longer. Thanks again to everyone that took care of us!!

If you ll find something you must be a fool!!

A unique place that was perfect, the husband and wife team made it a very individual from her amazing cooking to his having made the furniture and built a lot of the property, to him having completely reconstructed a 1960 Land Rover that he drove us to and collected us from the wonderful walk they arranged with a guide in the rain forest. A very happy and memorable stay. Home grown produce on the table and a wonderful waterfall behind their property where you can get “fish therapy” if you care to go for a swim or even a paddle.

A total joy, I loved it all.

We had a fantastic time staying amongst nature in the glasshouse. To sleep surrounded by trees, above the waterfall and watch the forest come alive as the sun rises is an unforgettable experience. This is an exceptional place and we were made to feel so welcome. Janith was a fabulous host and guide and in a short space of time we learnt so much about his local environment. With only 3 rooms you have such a heartfelt and personal service. We had a great trek into the rainforest with care given to ensure it was a manageable pace. Also to mention the food. If you want the best food in Sri Lanka, all locally sourced from the surrounding nature, then this is the place to come.

Nothing. It was exceptional.

Absolutely fabulous stay. In the middle of the jungle, with amazing views right outside your window, and a beautiful waterfall 3 minutes walk from the room. Janith and Manisha were most welcoming and did everything to accommodate our stay, even with a little toddler. The food was delicious and plentiful, and even after 5 days we would have been happy to stay more. We highly recommend.

The only small thing would have been nice to know in advance that the water during meals is charged for separately.

The view and the hospitslity are extrodinary. I've never been to an hotel so close to nature.

I liked the ambiance of being within nature. The staff were very nice and helpful.

The quality of the room furnition was below expectation. The wooden roof of the room with the restaurant being on top made it very noisy. The water pressure in the bathroom was very poor and primitive. Also the food wasn't great at all.

An absolute gem and one of the very best places we stayed. Amazing location, very clean and comfortable, lovely host family and lots of extra’s including a stocked mini bar. If you are visiting Sinharaja then this is the perfect accommodation. Our hosts arranged our hike, (which was quite challenging) with a guide and a picnic. Our driver found accommodation very nearby.

The location is perfect, the hosts are so friendly and the surroundings are just beautiful. You can swim in the waterfall that’s just 1 minute walk away (bring earplugs if you are slight sleeper), observe nature and learn a lot about local plants and animals from the host. Room was spacious and clean and the food was very tasty. The prices for the dinner are a bit higher than usual but all is self-made and partially self grown so it’s worth paying a little extra.

What a privilege to spend time in the rainforest. Amazing location right by the waterfalls, learned so much on our walks both with Janith and with the guide ($45 per person for the rainforest trek). Food on the expensive side for Sri Lanka but worth it as so delicious and all grown and produced on site. Highly recommended for all nature lovers and those looking to escape the tourist trails of Sri Lanka!

Tucked away and secluded. Sounds of rain forest and waterfall. Excellent food. Welcoming cold drinks on arrival and on return from rainforest trek. Extremely helpful and friendly staff and owners on hand at all times to help.

Nothing

After my booking confirmed, the owener lied to me that they are Closed. Cannot trust booking that property through booking.com as the owner is a big lier.

Absolutely amazing owner and family. So nice and helpfull, made our stay one to remember. The place is tucked away in beautiful lush rainforest, rooms very clean and food was great. Glass room was amazing with clear view of all animals and nature. 10/10. Will come back.

Nothing

I liked the closeness to nature and cleanliness. Also the owner is very informative and takes you to the waterfall nearby which is great fun.

Prices are a bit steep, everything is priced in US dollars which is strange and gives a weird impression for non US guests and Sri Lankan guests alike. The food is mediocre and too expensive.

Very clean and comfortable, stunning views from the bedroom and eating room with full glass walls giving directly onto the forest! Food was exceptional, some of the best I’ve had in Sri Lanka. Very attentive staff.

Very minor point but could give a bit more information on arrival about the different activities available. We were asked if we wanted to do the day hike, which was great, but I hear they also offer cooking classes and night hikes which we didn’t hear about - but to be fair, we did not ask!

We only managed to have one day here but it was one of the best places I've ever stayed at for many reasons but especially the kindness and knowledge of the owners and of our trek guide. It is well worth the journey. Everything was beautiful - the food, location, room, trek, communication with our host, travel organised for us, the wildlife, the stream.

Nothing for us. It was a fantastic experience. Some people might find the trek arduous though we, as a group of arthritic oldies,managed fine.

A unique experience to stay in a place where a waterfall is just 30 meters away and the rainforest, along with its diverse life, is right outside the window. We went on a 5-hour hike with a very knowledgeable guide and got to know various plants and animals. The rainforest and the hidden waterfalls were beautiful, as well as the complimentary fish pedicure. Our boys, aged 17 and 23, really enjoyed this wild adventure. It's entirely comparable to a similar experience we had in Costa Rica before. The hosts of the accommodation were competent and professional, the food was excellent, and the portions were generous. If you're looking for something special and haven't experienced the rainforest up close before, then go there.