Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
In the last few years many new upmarket places have opened around Habarana. The town
itself also has some good hotels, though budget places are limited.
Habarana Inn
GUESTHOUSE
( 227 0010;
www.habaranainnsrilanka.com
;Dambulla Rd;r Rs 3000; )
An aging structure that still has some charm, but is really starting to show its (40) years.
The rooms, all with mosquito nets and fans, are clean and simply furnished (book either 1
or 2, which face a very pretty rear garden). Meals are available.
Galkadawala
LODGE
( 077 373 2855;
www.galkadawala.com
;s/d incl breakfast from US$77/84; )
Harmoniously built in a forest setting from recycled materials, this remote eco-lodge is
perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, with nature (outstanding birdlife and the odd elephant)
very much on your doorstep - which is the local tank. Maulie, your amiable and intelligent
host, is very knowledgeable about the area and Galkadawala's vegetarian (only) food is a
real highlight.
It's at the end of a dirt track, 11km west of Habarana.
The Heritage Habarana
HOTEL
( 227 0003;
www.ceylonhotelscorporation.com
;s/d incl breakfast US$66/72; )
Formerly the Rest House, this attractive historic structure has been very sensitively renov-
ated and offers high comfort levels and an excellent location in the heart of town. Its four
rooms boast original (turquoise) window shutters and are fronted by a long shaded veran-
dah. Dining in the excellent in-house Mini-Avanhala cafe-restaurant is a pleasure too.
Mutu Village
GUESTHOUSE
( 077 269 4579;
www.mutuvillage.com
;Kashyapagama;s/d US$40/48; )
This new guesthouse is run by a very accommodating couple: Mutu is a superb cook and
Ajith takes good care of guests. The environment is great, with a lovely garden to enjoy,
away from the hubbub and traffic in town. Guides for wildlife spotting and birding can be
organised, as well as drivers for exploring the region. It's a ten-minute walk south of the
main junction.
