The Rainforest Ecolodge

The guided walk through Sinharaja Rain Forest was a highlight. Jagath was passionate and knew so much, so we learned a lot along the way. We also loved the food. Over two nights, the chefs and restaurant team brought out plenty of delicious dishes, including special off-menu items. Thanks to Chef Chaminda, Selva, and Matheesha, and to the kind, attentive waiters. After breakfast on our second day, we met General Manager Niran, who took time to talk with us. His care for the team really showed in their morale and high standards. Getting there takes some effort. You need your own transport to reach the Vihara Kanda parking area, then the lodge arranges a four-wheel-drive vehicle for the last leg. The roughly hour-long ride is bumpy, with winding mountain roads, steep climbs, potholes, and gravel. Our skilful driver, Ashan, made the journey easier, and the lush mountain views beside the island’s largest rainforest were breathtaking. When we arrived, we received a traditional welcome and ceremonial blessing, followed by fish cutlets and tea. Front Office Manager Mithun and his team were warm and gave us outstanding service. From the General Manager to housekeeping, everyone made us feel at home. Rain Forest Eco Lodge was easily our favourite place on our Sri Lanka holiday, and an experience we’ll always remember.

The bird tour was a real highlight. Our guide was knowledgeable, engaged, and clearly loved what he was doing. The staff were friendly and genuinely tried to help, and the natural setting is impressive and authentic. Our main disappointment was the food. It was billed as “unique cuisine,” but most of what we got was deep-fried food with remoulade-style sauces. We both had stomach problems afterward, and the meals didn’t meet the expectations set by the website. The container-style lodges felt worn and needed maintenance. The doors didn’t shut properly, so insects could get in, and there were ants in the room. Insects are part of a rainforest stay, but the condition of the unit made it seem like it hadn’t been properly cleaned for a while. There was no seating on the balcony either. We also weren’t told about leeches ahead of time. Protective socks were only given when we asked, after I’d already been affected. A brief warning on arrival would have helped. Construction on nearby containers was underway during our one-night stay and disrupted the rainforest atmosphere. On the second day, the water stopped working altogether, leaving us without a shower, sink, or toilet. We stayed one night at Rainforest Eco Lodge. The bumpy access road, humidity, and insects are simply part of being in the rainforest, and the lack of A/C fits the eco concept. A sealed, fully air-conditioned room would go against that idea. With better upkeep and, especially, much better food, the lodge could live up to the image it presents online.

The service was commendable. Staff supported us throughout our stay and handled our requests well. We visited with friends in March 2026, and the setting and ambience were amazing. The rooms and property didn’t seem well maintained, though. Some washroom drains weren’t working properly and smelled bad. We were also disappointed by the food, especially breakfast. Most of us chose Sri Lankan options, but the string hoppers and milk rice were dried out and didn’t taste fresh. Given the price and the reputation of the brand "Aitken Spence Hotels", we expected better.

The weather was cool and mild, and the accommodation was wonderful. There were interesting activities to do, and the staff were kind and very friendly. The food was a letdown, with too few choices and nothing especially good. A peaceful, refreshing holiday spot 🙈