Arsulana Eco Lodge

Arsulana Eco Lodge: A Symphony of Water and Wilderness

Deep within the verdant hills of Ginigathena lies Arsulana Eco Lodge, a retreat where the boundary between luxury and the wild dissolves. Surrounded by the rhythmic sounds of cascading waterfalls and the gentle flow of the nearby river, the lodge is designed as a sanctuary for the soul. The architecture makes use of natural stone and wood, reflecting the rugged beauty of the Central Highlands. Whether you are searching for an adrenaline-fuelled adventure in the rapids of Kithulgala or a meditative escape in a forest-facing spa, Arsulana provides a unique setting that celebrates the raw power and serenity of the Sri Lankan rainforest.

Earth Trip Opinion

Arsulana Eco Lodge is one of the most innovative properties we have encountered in the region. Its commitment to self-sufficiency through hydropower is truly commendable and sets a gold standard for responsible tourism. We believe it is the perfect base for travellers who want to balance the high-octane energy of white-water rafting with a secluded, high-end environment. The proximity to Aberdeen Falls is a major highlight—being able to trek directly from your villa to one of the island’s most beautiful waterfalls is an experience we highly recommend. It is an exceptional choice for couples and nature photographers seeking a “hidden gem” feel.

Sustainability & Responsible Tourism

Arsulana was founded on the principle of “luxury with a conscience,” ensuring that every guest stay supports the preservation of the surrounding ecosystem:

• Hydropower Energy: The lodge is uniquely powered by its own on-site hydropower project, making it a pioneer in renewable energy within the Sri Lankan hospitality sector.

• Water Stewardship: Water is sourced directly from natural springs and returned to the river system through eco-friendly filtration, maintaining the health of the local watershed.

• Minimal Footprint: The villas were constructed using locally sourced materials and designed to provide natural ventilation, reducing the need for excessive energy consumption.

• Biodiversity Protection: The 50-acre estate acts as a private nature reserve, protecting vital corridors for endemic flora and fauna.

• Community Support: Arsulana prioritises local employment and sources the majority of its fresh produce from nearby village farms, ensuring the economic benefits of tourism stay within the Ginigathena community.

Facts at a Glance

• Location: Kalawaldeniya Road, Ginigathena (approx. 2.5 hours from Colombo).

• Setting: 50 acres of rainforest, bordered by rivers and overlooking mountain ranges.

• Accommodation: 16 luxury units including private villas and open-concept suites.

• Dining: An in-house restaurant featuring a fusion of traditional Sri Lankan, Indian, and British cuisines.

• Facilities: Five outdoor pools, a natural swimming river, a luxury Ayurveda spa, and a yoga pavilion.

Rooms & Accommodation

The accommodation at Arsulana is meticulously crafted to bring the outdoors in, featuring large windows and private balconies.

• Kasthuri Villa: The flagship villa, offering 38sqm of space, a private plunge pool, and a unique river tub for a truly immersive bathing experience.

• Komarika Villa: Similar in luxury to the Kasthuri, this villa provides an eco-friendly sanctuary surrounded by a tapestry of lush greenery.

• Savendara & Kumbuk Villas: These units offer refined interiors and charming outdoor living areas, ideal for those seeking reconnection with nature.

• Luxury Suites: Spanning 28sqm, these open-concept rooms provide panoramic views of the forest and river, designed for an intimate experience with the wild.

• Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, rainfall showers, luxury bathrobes, safety deposit boxes, and coffee/tea making facilities.

Facilities

Arsulana boasts an impressive array of facilities that cater to both relaxation and activity. Guests can choose between the main swimming pools or a dip in the natural swimming river that borders the property. The Arsulana Spa is a cornerstone of the experience, offering “The Arsulana Essence”—a signature Ayurvedic journey that includes traditional massages and herbal scrubs. For those looking to stay active on-site, the lodge offers yoga classes, a fitness area, and a recreation space with billiards and table tennis.

Activities

The lodge serves as a premier basecamp for the adventures of the Kithulgala region.

• Waterfall Trekking: Take a guided jungle trek directly from the lodge to the magnificent Aberdeen Falls or the nearby Laxapana Falls.

• Water Sports: Arrange excursions for white-water rafting, canyoning, and abseiling on the Kehelgamu Oya and Kelani rivers.

• Nature & Wildlife: Join a resident naturalist for birdwatching tours or visit the prehistoric Belilena Cave, one of the most important archaeological sites in Sri Lanka.

• Cultural Excursions: For those seeking a spiritual challenge, the lodge can coordinate the pilgrimage trek to Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada) during the season.

Dining

• Fresh & Creative: The restaurant focuses on “farm-to-table” dining, using ingredients harvested from the estate or sourced from local markets.

• Global Flavours: The menu features a curated selection of Chinese, British, and authentic Sri Lankan dishes, with a focus on vibrant, healthy flavours.

• Private Dining: Enjoy a romantic dinner setup by the river or a BBQ under the stars on your villa’s private terrace.

Getting There

• By Private Car: A scenic drive through the tea country and rubber plantations, approximately 90 km from Colombo.

• Public Transport: The Galboda railway station and Ginigathena bus station are accessible for those travelling more traditionally, followed by a short Tuk-Tuk ride to the lodge.

FAQ

• Is the lodge suitable for families? Yes, the spacious villas and five swimming pools make it a fantastic choice for families, though parental supervision is advised near the river.

• Can I pay by credit card? It is highly recommended to carry some cash (LKR), as the remote location can occasionally affect card machine connectivity.

• Is there mobile signal? While Wi-Fi is available in the main areas and villas, mobile reception can be patchy due to the deep forest location—perfect for a digital detox!

• What should I pack? Bring sturdy walking shoes for treks, plenty of swimwear, and light layers for the cooler evenings in the hills.