Location:
House of Lotus is a tranquil Yoga retreat set amidst a coconut grove by the sandy beaches of Dodanduwa, conveniently situated between the lively beach resort of Hikkaduwa and the historic city of Galle. The journey from Colombo’s international airport will take about three hours.
Description:
A few miles south of Hikkaduwa town, on the land side, is the saffron-coloured wall of House of Lotus, a secluded holiday retreat that promotes Yoga, Ayurvedic rejuvenation, meditation and Sri Lankan culture and heritage. Cornelia, the owner, has more than 20 years of experience in Hatha Yoga and is one of the instructors here along with her husband, Ernest. Other experienced yoga instructors also visit periodically when long-term programmes are being conducted. The main house is designed along the lines of a typical southern home with a central courtyard leading to five bedrooms with private verandas. You can rent the entire house or per room. House of Lotus welcomes anyone wishing to spend a quite and relaxing holiday with an experience of Sri Lanka’s culture and heritage.
Accommodation:
All five rooms have a/c, ensuite bathrooms and solar-heated showers. The rooms are well designed with private verandas and are furnished with four-poster antique king sized beds fitted with mosquito netting.
Facilities:
There are two separate pavilions for Yoga, conducted daily, and meditation. Relaxing Ayurvedic massages and herbal steam baths are supervised by an Ayurvedic medical practitioner. The swimming pool area, with surrounding patio, is situated in a relaxing corner of the garden. There is a library where guests can relax and read a book or listen to soothing fusion music. Meals are served at the open-sided patio of the main house which overlooks the lush tropical gardens. Mainly Sri Lankan vegetarian cuisine is served here and is prepared according to Ayurveda recipes using fresh vegetables, herbs and spices. Upon request, chicken and fish is also served. There are no set menus here as meals are prepared according to guests wishes or in the case of those undergoing Ayurvedic therapies, as recommended by the doctor. Alcoholic beverages are not served at House of Lotus.
Excursions:Take a stroll to the youthful town of Hikkaduwa with its array of beachside restaurants, cafes, and wayside boutiques. Hikkaduwa has some of the best surfing beaches and a wide range of water sports including diving over coral reefs, snorkeling, and windsurfing. Bentota Lagoon situated nearby, is ideal for jet skiing, water skiing, and boat trips along the river. Visit the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation Project, which is a pioneering effort in conserving the endangered Marine Turtle species that come to nest in along the west coast of the island. These coastal towns and villages also share a vibrant cultural heritage including folklore, music, and dance forms. Many temples, kovils, churches, and mosques are situated along the coast. The historical town of Galle, with its 17th century Dutch Fort, a UNESCO-protected World Heritage site, is a short drive from Hikkaduwa. With its well-preserved ramparts overlooking the cricket stadium, lighthouse staring into the Indian Ocean, a maze of narrow streets with colonial houses, interesting shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants full of character, Galle deserves a visit.
Pricing:
Rates available on request |
