Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdom, at the base of majestic Pidurangala Rock, lies an enchanting eco-retreat that seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings. This 4-acre forest haven, offers an immersive wilderness experience just minutes from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sigiriya.
Back of Beyond, Pidurangala (Jungle Hideaway) features unique accommodations, including treehouses and forest cottages, combining modern comforts with a strong commitment to environmental conservation. Here, guests can wake up to melodious birdsong, spot endemic wildlife, and enjoy the serenity of untouched nature, all while having easy access to nearby national parks and cultural sites.
Their story
Back of Beyond Jungle Hideaway in Pidurangala was established in 2007 by a nature enthusiast whose childhood memories of wildlife exploration and family adventures inspired its creation. After leaving a corporate career in water management, the founder transformed this 4-acre forest property at the base of Pidurangala rock into an eco-conscious retreat. Known locally as “Kurulu Uyana” (Bird Park), it emerged from a vision to share Sri Lanka’s wilderness while minimizing environmental impact.
Today, it offers sustainable lodging and serves as a model for gentle tourism, where nature takes precedence and guests can experience authentic wilderness living. Read more about them.
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Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The eco-lodge was constructed with minimal environmental disruption, preserving natural topography and vegetation. Using sustainable building practices, they incorporated traditional materials like illuk thatch, talipot, and bamboo rafters instead of wood.
- The retreat operates predominantly on solar power and harvests dendro for cooking needs.
- Open-space designs maximize natural light and ventilation, eliminating air-conditioning.
- Rainwater collection systems and mini lakes provide water for wildlife during dry seasons.
- The property maintains a low room density of less than one per acre.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The eco-lodge operates entirely on sustainable energy sources, with solar power being extensively utilized across the property. The open-space house design maximizes natural light and ventilation, significantly reducing electricity consumption. By choice, most accommodations operate without air conditioning, relying instead on natural cooling.
- Their commitment to energy efficiency includes maintaining low illumination levels throughout the property, except in bedrooms.
Pioneer in waste management
- Organic waste is transformed into nutrient-rich compost for their gardens, while recyclables are carefully segregated and sent to local recycling facilities. The retreat minimizes single-use plastics, offering filtered water in reusable glass bottles instead of plastic bottles.
- Kitchen waste is managed through an efficient composting system, and non-biodegradable waste is responsibly disposed of through authorized channels.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- Back of Beyond, Pidurangala provides chemical-free drinking water through natural filtration and boiling methods, avoiding plastic bottled water.
- They use biodegradable cleaning products and natural mosquito repellents throughout the property.
- The kitchen sources organic produce from local villages and maintains its own chemical-free herb garden.
Actively protects nature and community
- The property preserves natural habitats, maintaining untouched forest areas as wildlife refuges. They practice sustainable energy usage through solar power and rainwater harvesting, while traditional building methods minimize environmental impact.
- The retreat actively engages local villagers in operations, from construction to food supply, fostering community development. Staff from nearby villages share their deep knowledge of local ecology and culture with guests, creating an authentic experience that harmonizes with the surrounding ecosystem and social fabric. The retreat’s philosophy of “touching gently” ensures minimal disruption to wildlife while promoting environmental consciousness among visitors.
Most Popular Activities Near Back of Beyond, Pidurangala
- Nature rambling and bird watching in 4 acres of forest.
- Night-time Loris spotting with in-house naturalist.
- Exploring 5th century Sigiriya World Heritage site.
- Hiking Pidurangala rock and ancient monastery.
- Wildlife safaris at Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks.
- Village community visits and cultural interactions.
- Sri Lankan cooking lessons with resident chef.
- Forest meditation and relaxation.
- Stargazing from private verandahs.
- Cycling tours through rural villages.
- Educational walks with resident naturalists.
Best Time To Visit Back of Beyond, Pidurangala
- The best time to visit Jungle Hideaway in Pidurangala is from December to March, during the dry season, when the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. These months offer clear skies and moderate temperatures, perfect for exploring Sigiriya Rock, hiking Pidurangala Rock, and visiting nearby Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks to witness the famous elephant gathering.
- While the retreat is open year-round, the April-May and October-November monsoon seasons can limit outdoor activities. The shoulder seasons of June-September provide a quieter experience with fewer tourists, though occasional afternoon showers are common.