Sometimes you just have to go with your instincts.  With not a lot of time to prepare and research, and a worry of rooms selling out for this beautiful eco-tourism escape from the city of Colombo I had to do a quick look around and book something fast.

Kithulgala Resthouse came up in several searches – Google, Trip Advisor, Booking.com and Agoda.  The photos were stunning and reviews were mixed but although some people found the rooms out-dated; all I cared about was the view and the birding!  I also loved the historical aspect –  it was the location used for filming of The Bridge over the River Kwai and the crew stayed there during filming.  Evreward turned up a deal using AAdvantage’s click-thru mall to Booking.com so that sealed my decision.

There really is no need to use Colombo as a gateway.  There is only 1 hour of travel time difference between the airport and Kithulgala & the airport and Colombo.  Also, you won’t get stuck in traffic on the Kithulgala road.  The airport is the big red dot.

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I was not to be disappointed.  The grounds were gorgeous and I could hear birds as we drove in.  The restaurant overlooked the river with more birds flying overhead and it had that historical feel to it.

They have both fan rooms and AC rooms, I had chosen a fan room overlooking the river.  Yes, if you are used to Park Hyatts and Sheratons you will probably find the room simple and “dated” but that is exactly what I love in a room – character!

A White-throated Kingfisher was there to greet us!

Laundromat!

Nice patios to sit and watch birds.

It was fun to watch the locals rowing across the river.

A beautiful young wedding couple showed up a bit later.

Watching birds from our patio.

I loved the artwork around the property!  Unfortunately, it wasn’t for sale.

The staff were very friendly and accommodating.  Since there weren’t many people there they didn’t do a buffet, we ordered off the menu.  They cooked from scratch so service was slow by Western standards but I didn’t care as there were plenty of birds to watch from the restaurant balcony, even Layard’s Parakeets!  The food was good and they will tone down spiciness for those who don’t care for it.  I do wish they had a gift shop though as I really wanted some of that art!  We hung around the lodge and birded the grounds the first day, then had the manager book us a guide for the next morning……………but that’s another post!  I loved this place and highly recommend it for birders!