Fleewinter

Embrace your inner-tree hugging desires at this totally unique eco lodge in Sri Lanka. Saraii Village is like nowhere else; built on barren land after a monsoon in 2001, it is now full of life with 1600 endemic hardwood and fruit trees, which is home to various birds and mammals.

You can choose between two types of accommodation; there are two mud chalets and two tree houses. The chalets are spacious and equipped with large king-sized beds, mosquito nets, fans and plug sockets. The mud keeps the rooms in a pleasant cool condition. Meanwhile, the two tree houses of Saraii Village offer an extraordinary experience 20-25 feet high on Palu trees. The Nest is Saraii's largest tree house with 2 floors and room for 8 to 10 people. It is perfect for families with kids. Meanwhile, the Crib treehouse can sleep up to 4 people. The tree houses are each encased by one large mosquito net and have plug sockets.

It is not perfect for everyone - expect more wildlife in your chalet than luxury and please be aware that the tree houses are accessed by ladders so not suitable for all ages. Expect uneven ground and shared open air washrooms, as well as warm sunny mornings with peacocks as your alarm clock. Expect a few friendly dogs who love Saraii because it's the only place they get fed.

But you can also expect great food with a chef who will accommodate your zaniest requests provided he has the ingredients and evening karaoke with the staff. We especially loved the giant lake prawns and amazing variety of organic fruit.

Bird watching and wildlife spotting are among the top activities at this rural retreat, which is not far from Yala and Bundula nature reserves. Tours to Kataragama, a significant place of pilgrimage for Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims, can also be arranged or you can visit the secluded Kirinda Beach and the beautiful lakes of Tissamaharama, which is a place of historical importance in Sri Lanka.