Review Author: Aini Hulugalle

Review Date: 16 Apr 2017

Review Body: The Backwaters Camp site in Eluvankulam is in an idyllic location, situated right on the banks of a large stream off the Kala Oya - very peaceful and so convenient for getting to the Wilpattu National Park, just a 10 minute drive at most. There were 7 of us staying here over 3 days and we had a most enjoyable time. The kids had a blast, exploring the place, spotting rare and colourful birds that flitted before us. The highlight of our stay was when we set off at dawn on our last day, for a final park run and we spotted a leopard crossing the road, not long after we had entered the park. It stopped to stare at us and then continued on its way. The Backwaters is ideal for wild life enthusiasts and it is appealing to all because it is fitted out with many conveniences not always offered on campsites. So glad to have discovered this place.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Melissa G, London, United Kingdom

Review Date: 03 Mar 2019

Review Body: The Backwaters is a little bit of paradise. On arrival we were warmly welcomed and given a cool, damp hand towel and delicious chilled fruit juice. This is how it goes, thoughtful touches, great food, comfort and wonderful jungle surroundings. Our simple but stylish room felt like a tree house with palm squirrels, lizards and birds.chirping and hopping about on our balcony! Don't miss the sunset river safari, it's beautiful and very interesting - even if you aren't a birder. On returning I felt like I had been meditating for a week! Backwaters' great staff organised a wonderful safari to Willpattu and our transfer to Dambulla. Most amazing of all they found my missing Panama hat and posted it on to me free of charge! Thank you for a wonderful stay Backwaters, I wish it had been longer.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: nanceke, Luxembourg

Review Date: 26 Jul 2019

Review Body: We chose this lodge as we like the idea of an eco lodge which tries to make a difference for the environment. We were not disappointed. The container bungalows were very nice with all the necessary equipment for a back to nature experience with the necessary comfort. Staff and the owner were very friendly. Food was very good( please note that in Sri Lanka mild is not the same as not spicy - no chili should normally do the trick ). We loved the fact that you could swim in the river and we saw elephants near the river during our boat trip. Location of the lodge is very good , only a couple of minutes foto the entrance to Wilpattu NP which made it easy to be there first thing in the morning. Very good price- quality stay !

Review rating: 5

Review Author: khairy60, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Review Date: 25 Jun 2019

Review Body: We chose this lodge as we like the idea of an eco lodge which tries to make a difference for the environment. We were not disappointed. The container bungalows were very nice with all the necessary equipment for a back to nature experience with the necessary comfort. Staff and the owner were very friendly. Food was very good( please note that in Sri Lanka mild is not the same as not spicy - no chili should normally do the trick ). We loved the fact that you could swim in the river and we saw elephants near the river during our boat trip. Location of the lodge is very good , only a couple of minutes foto the entrance to Wilpattu NP which made it easy to be there first thing in the morning. Very good price- quality stay !

Review rating: 5

Review Author: RJTE, Oxford, United Kingdom

Review Date: 11 Mar 2019

Review Body: We stayed at Backwaters for two nights as a jumping off point for a safari in Wilpattu National Park. The hotel is situated in its own mini reserve with acres of woodland to explore and a beautiful river nearby. We opted for the early evening boat ride up and down the river at sunset which was tranquil (its not motorised) and full of birdlife. We went full board and the food was excellent and varied. In fact it was probably some of the best eating we had in the whole 3 week stay. As for the safari. The hotel is only 5 minutes from the park entrance and most people use the other park entrance in the north. So for a lot of the safari we did not see anyone else. We would stay again.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Ashans1, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Review Date: 16 Jun 2019

Review Body: Stayed here for 2 days and it is easily one of the best places to immerse yourself in nature and relax. Lounging by the river on a hammock with a book in hand is highly recommend. Also recommend is the food! Sri Lankan food done right and even improved. Rooms were cozy and comfortable. The staff was great! Helpful and friendly. Plenty of great activities, we did the morning bird watching boat ride with a guide who was super knowledgeable and highly recommended. Entrance to the Willattu national park is just 10 minutes away as well and that’s superb to get an early start into the park. Can highly recommend

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Harun M, Dhaka City, Bangladesh

Review Date: 16 Apr 2019

Review Body: A great escape for nature lovers. Friendly service by the staff and management. Great Sri Lankan food. No Wi-Fi in the cabin (only at the reception area) meant no screen time for our kids which they did not like but as parents it is just what we wanted. It was a relief to see our kids reading books (not PDF... Real books for a change) resting on the hammocks by the serene lake. Although we could not spot any Leopard, the safari at Wilpattu forest arranged by the hotel was fascinating. Also recommend the village trek by Tuk Tuk and the evening boat ride in the lake.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Krishni Ratnayaka

Review Date: 12 May 2017

Review Body: Super place for camping and relaxing . It is soothing to wake up in the mornings to the call of birds in the jungle patch . The boat ride on the backwaters was awesome saw many birds and an elephant at the waters edge . The meals supplied by Kumari (a lady from the village) was out of this world, typical Sri lankan food. It is great that Backwaters has made this facility available to guests, spared us the hassle of cooking. awaiting the opening of new rooms.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Camilla Cruse Johnpillai

Review Date: 15 Jan 2019

Review Body: We had an enjoyable getaway at the Backwaters and indeed was a great way to start off our travel diaries for 2019. A big thank you to Tarique, his beautiful wife and the team for making our stay so homely and special...we will definitely be back soon, and its just for the fabulous food!!!! 😊 With best wishes, Johnpillai family... Family-friendly · Thoughtful amenities · Helpful concierge

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Savani Jayasooriya

Review Date: 20 Mar 2019

Review Body: An amazing experience in the wilderness, just 4kms away from Wilpattu! The best thing about the lodge is their concept of up-cycling - shipping containers as elevated rooms, cut-out barrels for seating, pallets transformed into beds and more. Friendly, very attentive staff, and the food was just superb. Try their kulam pittu and crab curry 👌 Planning to do another visit super soon.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: savani_jay

Review Date: 23 Mar 2019

Review Body: An amazing experience in the wilderness, just 4kms away from Wilpattu! The best thing about the lodge is their concept of up-cycling - shipping containers as elevated rooms, cut-out barrels for seating, pallets transformed into beds and more. Friendly, very attentive staff, and the food was just superb. Try their kulam pittu and crab curry 👌 Planning to do another visit super soon.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Kanchana Abeywickrama

Review Date: 09 Jan 2018

Review Body: The Backwaters Lodge is an experience that one must have if you are planning to visit the Wilpathu National Park. Its located close to the park in absolutely beautiful location bordering a river/stream. From the time you go there the service was excellent and the food fabulous. It truly is place to experience nature.....All the best to the team at Backwaters Lodge...

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Amakarit, Kajaani, Finland

Review Date: 30 Mar 2019

Review Body: This hotel is very lovely, peaceful, clean and modern with spirit of recycle and friendly staff. National park Wilpattu is very close, entry about 10 minutes away. They can provide you day/ or full day safaris to National Park Wilpattu, boat trip to river(lovely for bird watching). Very helpful staff, all wishes were to delivered. I can highly recommend this hotel.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: pandatown, UK

Review Date: 21 Apr 2019

Review Body: Stayed two nights either side of a days safari in Wilpattu Nature Reserve. Accommodation very naturally set in trees alongside the river. Had a very enjoyable river trip being poked along with no engine. Lots of bird life to see. Staff very friendly and attentive. Highly recommended.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Ayesha Cader Hathy

Review Date: 29 Jan 2019

Review Body: Backwaters ,Absolutely 5 star concept. The setting is a superb stress buster located in the jungle in Eluwankulam bordering Wilpattu jungle. Comfortable unique concept rooms ,excellent service and lovely meals.Shall recommend this property highly.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Amandha Attygalle

Review Date: 12 May 2019

Review Body: A well planned and well run resort on an amazing piece of land. It is not only a place to stay, but an experience. Good room service · Quiet rooms · Family-friendly · Thoughtful amenities · Large suites · Helpful concierge · Spacious rooms

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Stefanie Pfg

Review Date: 23 Aug 2018

Review Body: Dear Backwaters Team, many thanks for these wonderful and unforgettable days with you. Your family atmosphere and your philosophy of sustainability convinced us. We took home many beautiful memories and will definitely come back.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Loshan Moonesinghe

Review Date: 12 Jan 2018

Review Body: an isolated or peaceful place. "nothing spoils the tranquillity of this quiet backwater". Great local food! The 'Kulam rice' which is the signature dish is simply delicious.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Annette Thomas

Review Date: 30 Dec 2018

Review Body: A fantastic eco hotel on the edge of Wilipatu National Park, great location for wildlife enthusiasts with very attentive staff. Family-friendly · Quiet rooms

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Dilum De Silva Mahawatte

Review Date: 18 Jan 2018

Review Body: Amazing little jungle hideout... wonderfully cozy & fascinatingly luxurious! Excellent food & service! What more can one ask for!

Review rating: 5

Itinerary Day 1

Itinerary Summary: Today you'll arrive at Backwaters Lodge and do an afternoon Safari

Itinerary Description: 1 pm - Start afternoon safari game drive at Wilpattu National Park 5 pm - Finish game drive and return to lodge Relax, dinner and overnight

Itinerary Day 2

Itinerary Summary: Backwaters to Wilpattu: Safari bliss

Itinerary Description: 6am: Pick-up from Backwaters Lodge, drive to Wilpattu National Park 8am: Breakfast 1pm: Lunch