Jungle Paradise

The hotel arranged our safari, and it was amazing. The food was incredible, with authentic Sri Lankan dishes and huge portions. Our massive room had very comfortable beds, and we spotted fireflies from the balcony at night. Staff were accommodating throughout. It's quite remote, though from what I understand there's not much to see in Udawalawe beyond the safari. One of my favourite hotels from our time in Sri Lanka, and I'd highly recommend it for a safari stay.

We spent 9 nights here and left with friendships and memories we'll carry for a long time. Jungle Paradise really felt like home. Chathura said on our first day that by day three we'd feel like family, and he was right. Chanuka, Chathura, Anula, Lasa, the singing chefs, and everyone else were smiling, warm, professional, and always willing to help. If we had an early start, someone would get up to make coffee and lunch for the road. The team also helped arrange comfortable transport and guides. Madu (boss man), our main driver, was especially kind and welcoming on our trips. The food was fresh, local, delicious, and served in generous portions. The vegan choices were excellent, especially the veg curry and rice, soups, and fresh fruit juices. Our room was immaculate, with a huge wet room, a great shower, towels, TV, fridge, kettle, tea and coffee, and mosquito nets. Extra bowls and cutlery were no trouble to get. You're properly in the jungle here. Peacocks flew over the pool, giant squirrels were in the trees, bats appeared at dusk, and there were loads of interesting insects. The hotel provided bug spray and advised us to keep the doors closed at sunset. Udawalawe town was about a 10-minute ride away, with local shops and snacks and an authentic Sri Lankan feel. Ella, Tangalle, and Sinharaja Forest were between 30 minutes and 2.5 hours away by car. We loved the hotel dogs and cats, Charlie, Ruby, Socks, and Kitty, who helped us miss our own pets a little less. Anula kept the gardens beautiful, and her calm, kind nature rubbed off on everyone. We were unsure about doing a safari in Udawalawe National Park for ethical reasons, but Lasa's knowledge and respect for the animals made it special. He drove carefully and avoided other jeeps when he could. You could see how much he loves nature. Every small gesture and kind word showed how much thought the team put into our stay. Thank you to everyone at Jungle Paradise for making the trip so memorable.

A lovely, quiet base for a safari at the NP, just a few minutes from the park. Jungle Paradise is a quaint, boutique lodge style place in the Uduwalawe area. There are a couple 2 bed apartments, with the rest being cottages whose decks face the jungle. The rooms have large beds, mosquito nets, and tea and coffee. No hand towels, unfortunately, but it wasn't a big deal. Chanuka and the crew were wonderful. Waking early to the forest sounds before our sunrise safari was a highlight. The in house restaurant has a varied menu. Breakfast choices were limited, though the portions made up for that.

We felt welcome from the moment we arrived, thanks to the incredibly friendly, attentive staff. The rooms were clean, comfortable, and nicely decorated, and the hotel's close to the national park, making it a great base for memorable safaris. Set in the heart of nature, the location is breathtaking and wonderfully relaxing. Hotel Jungle Paradise in Uda Walawe is a real hidden gem. I'd happily come back anytime.