The Ibis Lodge, Wilpattu
Introduction
The Ibis Lodge is a 6 bedroom eco-retreat that is immersed in nature and located about 20 minutes away from the Wilpattu National Park entrance. Named after the Ibis bird species that is found in the surrounding wilderness, this is a tranquil setting by a lake that is frequented by over 130 species of birds and other small animals. The Lodge is constructed with local materials and is designed with the greatest respect to nature. Stay in comfortable rooms or the Tree House for the more adventurous; wake up at dawn to bird call and venture off on a bird trail or set off on an adventurous jeep safari into the magnificent Wilpattu National Park. The Sri Lankan food that is served here is prepared with much care using locally available fresh produce.
Location
The Ibis Lodge can be reached travelling north along the West Coast or from the sacred city of Anuradhapura which is approximately an hour away. The entrance gates to Wilpattu National Park is 20 minutes away from here.
Accommodation
There are 6 well equipped rooms and a rustic Tree House that provides a great experience of the surrounding nature. Rooms are named after the beautiful birds that are found on the property, and has interiors that are bright and airy. Rooms and public spaces have been constructed using locally sourced, eco-friendly materials.
Room Details & Amenities
- Bedrooms open out to a verandah with lake and garden views
- Furnished with twin or double beds
- Ensuite bathrooms have a vanity, w/c, and hot and cold showers.
- Air-conditioning
- Fan
Woodpecker: A spacious and airy room that look out on to the serene lake. Accommodate 3 adults.
Hornbill: A large twin room that can be converted into a double room. The doors open out to lake views. Accommodates 3 adults.
Jungle Fowl: An airy twin room opening out to lake views. Accommodates 2 adults.
Kingfisher: A spacious double room that accommodates 2 adults. Opens out to lake views.
Jacana: A double room with a connecting door to the adjacent Malkoha Room. Opens out to a verandah with lake and garden views.
Malkoha: A spacious double room with views across the lake and gardens. Malkoha connects to the adjacent Jacana Room. The Jacana and Malkoha can be shared by a family of 4 or 5 guests.
Eagles Nest: Nestled on the branches of a Tamarind tree, the Eagle’s Nest is a rustic tree house that lets you experience nature at its best. Interior is furnished with a double bed fitted with mosquito netting and a fan; and opens on to a small verandah looking out to the surrounding wilderness and lake beyond. The attached bathroom has a w/c and hot and cold shower.
Facilities
Relax in the lounge with a good book and cup of tea or take a refreshing dip in the organic pool. Dine at the main dining table or in a private location of your choice. Sri Lankan cuisine is served here prepared with fresh herbs and vegetables from the in-house gardens and fresh lake fish. Go on a guided bird trail with a naturalist. The Ibis Lodge has over 130 species of exotic birds. Go on a boat ride along the serene river or head off on a jeep safari into Wilpattu National Park. Wilpattu is home to numerous species of birds and mammals including the elusive Leopard subspecies – Panthera Pardus Kotiya, that is endemic to Sri Lanka; Sloth Bear, elephants, Sambar, crocodiles and so much more.
