Lodges in Matale

Lermann Germany

I give a 10 not for the accommodation, which was really simple, but for the real and raw experience of living a couple of days together with Niro, Umanga and their family. We saw the beautiful sides as their hospitality, the stunning nature, good organic food. But we also saw the struggle and need for financial support as they lost their original land (some photos are still from the old land) and termites are breaking their home. They have good intentions, trying not only to help themselves, but having worked together with the school in the village and helped people build their homes. Right now they need help on their own home. So if you'd like to get to know them and support them, come and check out their place.

Laura United Kingdom

The setting was absolutely beautiful, nestled in the jungle, with a charming wooden sign showing the way. This is a hidden gem, teeming with spice trees, vegetables, a lake, and breath-taking views. You have the opportunity to pick and cook vegetables from the estate, all of which are organic. They use recycled and upcycled furniture and utensils, and the kitchen is constructed with mud walls, where food is cooked with firewood in true Ecovillage style. This is my third visit to Sri Lanka, and I must say this place is the best I have stayed at, untouched by the tourist industry. All other places you visit are crowded with tourists. This is the place to be if you want to experience authentic Sri Lankan food, nature, and village life. I stayed here on my way to Kandy/Ella, and the place is conveniently located on your route to the hill country from Dambulla/Sigiriya. It's just one hour away from Kandy, Matale, Dambulla, and Sigiriya, making it a great stop for two or three days on your journey. I strongly recommend this place for people who want to experience something out of the ordinary and savour authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. We did the hike to the temple (the charge is Rs 5000), and it's well worth it. I couldn't do the hike within the estate, as we didn't have much time. You can see many spice trees, streams, a tropical forest within the estate. The estate is lush with spice trees, vegetables, and an abundance of edible greens. And, of course, there are monkeys that occasionally disturb the crops! I have visited spice gardens in Matale, which are model farms, but Silver Hill is an estate full of spice trees. You see so many plants, just like in the horticultural garden, which is truly amazing. You feel relaxed from the moment you step into the place, and honestly, I felt like I had complete freedom to do as I pleased.