To reach the property, you need to travel on foot on a picturesque path surrounded by a light forest, streams and plenty of bird life. It is a gentle walk for 15 – 20 minutes to reach the lodge. Your luggage will be transferred for you! Ahaspokuna (means pond -pokuna in the sky -ahas). At night the temperature drops down to a cool 17°C – which can be a welcome relief from Sri Lanka’s warmer day time temperatures but be sure to bring something warm to wear at night!
The property has 3 elevated, beautifully designed villa type accommodation, each with a spacious living area, cosy bedroom and a large bathroom. The interior feels like a luxurious bush hide out. Each villa is set apart from the others - giving complete privacy to all the guests. Each villas has an elevated living area, provides some of the best views into the bushes, neatly set paths and the far-off mountains. It’s a perfect spot to start the day with a cup of brewed local coffee as streaks of sun shines through the misty mountains and dew drops stand firmly on top of the leaves of trees and grasses. We admired the vintage and unique collection of items that have been used to adorn the villa interior including the old typewriter that had a welcome note on it for us on arrival.
A highlight from this property is the so-called star bed – which is used as a day bed for relaxing during the daylight hours and at night can be booked to a beautiful night’s sleep under the stars. There’s also the ‘wild bath’ – a bathtub set outdoor in complete privacy. So very indulging. The staff will make an aromatherapy infused bath at the end of the day whenever you wish to indulge yourself. We loved spending time on the star bed early morning hours watching the sun rise and birds coming alive.
Meals are locally inspired with a signature high tea being served on the rocks at the edge of the property, with views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Indulge in beautifully arranged Sri Lankan sweets, tea and coffee as you savour afternoon tea overlooking the ranges. If you are in luck you will elephants walking along the small paths they create on the mountains around. There’s also sundowner to enjoy near the campfire followed by a simple yet exquisite 3-course dinner served at the main dining area. This is a great way to meet other guests and share stories from the bush walks and day’s experience. This is an all- inclusive hotel.
The hotel provides complimentary bush walks each day during your stay and the onsite naturalist will design the duration and the route for the bush walk based on your interest and level of fitness. We loved these walks as they took us through the mountainous bushes, and we were able to spot a herd of elephants from far. There’s also the option to walk to and visit and nearby local village, plus yoga and massages are available.
Please note, although there are mobile signals, there is no Wi-Fi as the property is meant for as a getaway.
This property is great for families, couples and honeymooners. There is an in – house naturalist at all times to guide you on nature walks or half a day/ full day bush walks if you are an ardent wildlife enthusiast. Of course, there is a rare chance that you may spot a leopard around the site! Ahaspokuna is an ideal special stop when travelling from Sri Lanka’s tea country to the beaches of the south coast.
