Yala National Park
Sri Lanka’s best-known national park, famous for its leopards, elephants and birdlife. We can help you arrange a safari.
Buttala · south-east Sri Lanka
Immerse yourself in nature
One eco bungalow on 8 acres of private land on the banks of the river Menik.
About Sahana Safari Eco Retreat
Sahana Safari Eco Retreat is a one-bedroom, family-sized eco bungalow that sleeps up to four. It sits on 8 acres of tranquil private land on the banks of the river Menik. Yala National Park and Kataragama are about 20 minutes away, and there are many local sights off the tourist trail.
By day you can enjoy the lush scenery, go for walks, and spot birds, butterflies and animals. You can bathe in the river or lounge on its banks. By night you sit by an open fire under the stars, listening to the sounds of nature. Your hosts look after you and serve authentic, home-made Sri Lankan meals.
The bungalow is the only one on the land, so the whole place is yours. It is the ideal place to get away from it all.
Your hosts
Asanga Jayasinghe and his wife welcome you to their home on the Menik river. Asanga is an experienced local safari guide who knows Yala National Park and the country around it well. He is happy to take you on safari, show you the village and the river, and tell you about local life. His wife cooks the meals, with fresh ingredients from their own garden and plantations.
Paddy fields
Wake up to green rice fields, trees and the call of peacocks.
The river
The river runs right past the land. It is perfect for a cool dip.
The garden
A large private garden, full of birds, butterflies and quiet.
Evenings
A campfire, candles and a sky full of stars.
What we offer
- Up to 4 guestsOne family room with a double bed and two single beds
- Home-cooked mealsSri Lankan breakfast and meals, with vegetarian and vegan options
- Safari tripsInto Yala National Park with an experienced local guide
- Walks and hikesAlong the river and through the village
- Outdoor livingGarden, terrace, picnic area and an outdoor fireplace
- Free WiFi and parkingPrivate parking on site
Good to know
- Check-in is from 13:00 to 20:00. Please let us know your arrival time in advance.
- Check-out is from 08:00 to 11:00.
- Payment on site is in cash only.
- Children of all ages are welcome. There are no cots or extra beds.
- Pets are welcome, free of charge.
- No smoking.
- The location is remote and in the middle of nature, so the nearest shop is a walk away.
Photos
What our guests say
9.7 “Exceptional” on Booking.com, from 109 reviews (September 2026)
“The highlight of our four-week trip through Sri Lanka. Peace, nature, animal sounds. Truly magical.”
Anouschka, translated from Dutch
“If you are looking for some remote place truly in nature, that’s it.”
Guest, January 2022
“Magical place nestled behind rice paddies.”
Lisa
“Perfect to get some rest.”
Mathieu
Day trips from Sahana Safari Eco Retreat
The south-east of Sri Lanka is full of wildlife, ancient temples and beaches. We are happy to help you arrange transport or a guide.
Kataragama
A sacred town for Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims alike, with temples that come alive during the evening ceremonies.
Buduruwagala
Seven Buddhist figures carved into a huge rock face, over a thousand years old, at a quiet spot among the trees.
Maligawila
A giant standing Buddha statue carved from a single block of limestone, hidden in the forest.
Sithulpawwa
An ancient rock monastery inside the Yala area, with caves and views over the jungle.
Budugallena
A remote monastery complex in the jungle of the Rahathungala hills near Buttala.
Ella
A hill town with tea plantations, the walk up Little Adam’s Peak and the famous Nine Arch Bridge.
Arugam Bay
A laid-back beach town on the east coast, known for its surfing.
Book your stay
The easiest way to book is through Booking.com. Do you have a question first, or want to arrange a safari or a pick-up? Send your hosts a message through Booking.com.
20th Mile Post, Raja Mawatha
Buttala, Sri Lanka
Show on map
Nearest airports: Mattala (about 68 km) and Weerawila (about 58 km)