Ape Nawathen by Traveleye, a selection of unique and traditional accommodation options that let travelers experience the warmth and authenticity of rural Sri Lanka.
A New Vision for Travel:
- Home (Ape Gedera) – Stay with a local family in a traditional Sri Lankan home, experiencing their customs, hospitality, and daily village life.
Live the Authentic Village Life
Staying in a Home (Gedera) allows travelers to immerse themselves in the warmth of Sri Lankan village life. Guests will be welcomed by a host family, offering authentic hospitality, home-cooked meals, and cultural traditions passed down through generations. Wake up to the sound of birds and the aroma of freshly brewed Ceylon tea, take part in traditional cooking lessons, join farmers in their daily routines, and relax under the cool shade of a verandah while listening to folk tales. This is a chance to truly connect with locals, sharing laughter, stories, and experiences that create lasting memories.
- Chena Hut (Ape Pela) – Rustic huts set in farming lands, where travelers can live among local farmers and experience traditional chena cultivation.
A Farmer’s Retreat Amidst Nature
For those seeking a rustic and off-the-grid experience, Chena Huts (Ape Pela) provide a stay right in the heart of Sri Lanka’s traditional farmlands. Built with natural materials like thatched coconut leaves and mud, these huts allow travelers to experience life as a local farmer, waking up to misty fields, helping with crops, and enjoying fresh organic produce straight from the land. Guests can learn age-old farming techniques, taste freshly roasted corn by an open fire, and enjoy starry nights around a traditional bonfire, surrounded by the rhythmic sounds of crickets and nocturnal wildlife.
- Tree Hut (Ape Attalaya) – Elevated retreats in the treetops, offering panoramic views of forests, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.
Sleep in the Treetops with Panoramic Views
For nature lovers and adventure seekers, a Tree Hut (Ape Attalaya) stay is an unforgettable experience. Elevated high among the trees, these unique accommodations offer breathtaking views of lush jungles, misty mountains, or serene lakes. Wake up to the chirping of exotic birds and watch wild elephants or playful monkeys from your treetop balcony. During the day, travelers can embark on guided nature walks, birdwatching tours, or even explore nearby waterfalls. As the sun sets, the treehouse transforms into a magical retreat, enjoy a lantern-lit dinner on the balcony and fall asleep to the calming rustle of the wind through the leaves.
- Villa or Bungalow (Ape Bangalawa) – Comfortable, culturally inspired bungalows and villas, blending modern amenities with Sri Lankan architectural elegance.
A Blend of Tradition & Comfort
For travelers who appreciate comfort with cultural charm, Villa or Bungalow (Ape Bangalawa) accommodations offer a perfect balance of elegance and heritage. Set in tranquil surroundings, these beautifully designed homes feature traditional Sri Lankan architecture, spacious verandahs, and handcrafted wooden furniture, creating a relaxing escape. Guests can enjoy lazy afternoons in a lush garden, private pools overlooking paddy fields, or sunset tea sessions in an open courtyard. Whether it’s an old colonial-era mansion or a newly built villa with traditional aesthetics, this experience offers a serene yet luxurious getaway with personalized hospitality.
- Nature or Coastal Hideaway (Ape Wadiya) – Whether tucked deep within a forest or resting along a serene beach, Ape Wadiya offers a simple yet immersive stay in nature’s embrace.
A Secluded Retreat in the Wild or by the Waves
A Wadiya is a simple yet immersive hideaway, offering travelers a chance to disconnect from the modern world and embrace the raw beauty of nature. Whether nestled deep in a forest or resting along a pristine beach, this experience is for those who seek solitude and adventure.
- In a forest Wadiya, guests can explore hidden jungle trails, listen to the sounds of wildlife, and enjoy eco-friendly living surrounded by towering trees and fresh mountain air.
- In a coastal Wadiya, travelers can wake up to the sound of waves, enjoy fresh seafood caught by local fishermen, and spend their days kayaking, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on golden sands.
- Camp (Ape Kandaura) – Experience Sri Lanka’s natural beauty by camping under the stars in scenic rural locations, surrounded by lush greenery.
Sleep Under the Stars in the Heart of Nature
For those who love the thrill of outdoor adventures, Camping (Ape Kandaura) offers a chance to connect deeply with nature. Set in stunning rural locations—along riverbanks, in lush jungles, or on misty hilltops, this experience is perfect for travelers who want to escape city life. Enjoy campfire storytelling sessions, traditional BBQ nights, and guided nature treks where travelers can discover hidden waterfalls, spot exotic wildlife, and breathe in the fresh mountain air. At night, under a sky full of stars, the only sounds are the gentle rustling of trees and the calls of nocturnal creatures, making it a truly magical and raw experience.
- Heritage Rest Stop (Ape Ambalama) – Inspired by Sri Lanka’s ancient traveler rest stops, Ape Ambalama provides a peaceful and culturally rich space for relaxation and reflection.
A Historic Pause for Reflection & Relaxation
Rooted in Sri Lanka’s ancient tradition of rest stops for travelers, the Ambalama experience is designed to offer a peaceful and culturally rich escape. Located in scenic spots, by a lake, on a mountain path, or in a historical village, Ambalama serves as a place to unwind, share stories, and reflect. Travelers can sit beneath intricately carved wooden pavilions, sip herbal tea while overlooking paddy fields, or watch a mesmerizing sunset from a centuries-old stone shelter. Whether as a mid-journey rest point or a peaceful retreat, Ambalama invites visitors to pause, breathe, and connect with Sri Lanka’s timeless traditions.