Kandy accommodation, eco lodge in Sri Lanka
How this holiday makes a difference
Environment
All materials for the five cabanas were found within the five hectare/eleven acre property which houses the project. Three of them are made from mud, one from wood and one from brick (the clay was found here, formed and baked on site by the local villagers). All of the roofs are thatched coconut leaves, with necessary protection.
There are tea and coffee-making facilities in each cabana, along with hot water (collected fallen branches are used as fire-wood to heat the water) & cold water, and an open shower. Because of the cool temperature there is no need for AC or fans in the room.
We do expect our guests to cooperate and support our three R's philosophy (Reduce, Recycle, Re-use) during their stay as much as possible. This is simply by helping with the small things like saving electricity by switching off the lights when not in use.
Protection of the environment is of prime importance. For every tree cut 10 new trees are planted. Neighbours who wish to cut down big trees are paid to keep them. Every visitor is encouraged to plant at least 1 new tree. Roadways are planned avoiding damage to existing trees. With the profits made it is planned to buy adjacent properties and allow the natural growth of the jungle which otherwise would be cleared for housing or for agriculture.
Polythene is collected from the villagers for a fee and brought to a recycling centre whilst plastic bottles are re-used to grow (organic) vegetables. Water and electricity (solar-power in all cabanas) is used sparingly. The jungle effect is maintained to support the numerous wild animals and birds within the site. Further support for the newly-formed elephant orphanage in Udawalawe is planned.
We encourage ALL visitors to walk instead of using a vehicle. Those opting to walk the last stretch of about 250 meters are offered a glass of fresh fruit juice grown in our own garden! Planting of trees is encouraged.
Community
At the heart of the project and philosophy is the desire to support the local community. We have worked closely with the local people since the project began and have encouraged participation of villagers in the planning and the running of the project.
The local community was involved throughout the planning stages and continues to do so in the implementation. Already 8 locals have found employment, putting their traditional skills to good use building the accommodation and site facilities. Their knowledge and skills effectively combine reusing natural items and resources while also bringing much needed employment to the area. More people will be employed as the project grows.
From the income generated from the project we reserve 10% to help develop the local village, either in the two local schools, the hospital or general amenities to help all of the village. We also want to offer free English and computer classes to the villagers in the hope that these skills will give them better employment opportunities. A water tank has already been given to one of the schools. The next target is to provide chairs for the assembly hall. This is formally managed by our accountant and monitored by Ernst & Young.
As part of the experience you will have the opportunity to interact with the local people, to get a flavour of their culture and also to experience the Sri Lankan cuisine. We have an open kitchen and our guests are welcome to see how their food is made and can also participate in the preparation of the traditional Sri Lankan style cooking, making your holiday all the more unique.
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