Knuckles

Sir John’s Bungalow

Sir John’s Bungalow is situated on the north side of the Knuckles mountain range, one of the most picturesque regions of Sri Lanka. It is conveniently located at the 29th kilometre post on the scenic Matale – Pallegama road.

The one hundred year-old Bungalow blends authentic colonial design flourishes such as roaring fireplaces, with modern conveniences. You can enjoy uninterrupted views of Sri Lanka’s northeastern plains, and, on a clear morning, you can even see the majestic Pidurangala mountain in the north. Sir John’s Bungalow is centrally located within a leisurely two hour car ride from Kandy/Sigiriya, three hours from Polonnaruwa or one hour from Wasgamuwa National Park. There are also elephants, buffaloe, deer, mongoose and other wildlife in the area.

Why do we love Sir John’s Bungalow?

Birds, flowers, waterfalls…access to the magic of the Knuckles range from this cosy hotel; the property enables guests to indulge in nature while enjoying modern conveniences. A perfect retreat to experience a pristine environment and enjoy all that nature has to offer.

We love Sir John’s Bungalow because in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, Sir John’s Bungalow offers an unusual staying experience in contrast to other Knuckles hotels. Solar energy and spring water are harnessed for use and the emphasis is on strict eco-friendly principles, doing no harm to the environment.

What can I look forward to?

Beautiful sunrises, waterfalls, flora, fauna and the music of birds and crickets. Welcome to the garden of Eden!

Comfort

Sir John's Bungalow offers accommodation in Gonamade Standard room, Laggala Standard room, Wasgamuwa Standard room, Riverstone Suite, Sir John’s Suite and 3 Standard rooms in the upper block. Sir John's Bungalow keeps its old-world charms and comforts while being tastefully outfitted with contemporary amenities, like blazing fireplaces.

King-sized beds, a flat screen TV, gorgeous teak floors, and attached bathrooms with hot water showers are standard in every bedroom. The four-legged cast iron bathtubs in both the Riverstone suite and Sir John's room can be filled for a protracted, soothing soak.

Experiences

There are hikes along the British-built horseback riding trail and through the town of Rathkinda in the Knuckles valley that will take you past terraced rice fields and irrigation streams and end with a satisfying picnic lunch and a cool river bath. For the ambitious, a twelve-kilometre hike that adds a five hundred-metre ascent up the Manigala mountain range and a journey through rich montane forest to Trek Two. There's also a one hour downhill mountain bike ride on paved roads from the Bungalow to the villages of Rathkinda.

Gastronomy

Local food always takes centre stage on Sir John's Bungalow's menus. Try their dinner soup and kiribath (coconut milk rice) which is served at breakfast. Enjoy the nicely composed fresh fruit platter at the breakfast, served with the beautiful view towards the mountains.

The Executive Chef, who is passionate about both Sri Lankan and Western cuisine, insists on using fresh herbs and vegetables from their backyard garden in addition to daily purchases of other food from Rattota town. Dinners may be pre-planned and will try to accommodate special dietary needs.

+61 484 757 847
/ ab@experientialjourneys.com.au

Knuckles

Sir John’s Bungalow

Sir John’s Bungalow is situated on the north side of the Knuckles mountain range, one of the most picturesque regions of Sri Lanka. It is conveniently located at the 29th kilometre post on the scenic Matale – Pallegama road.

Why do we love Sir John’s Bungalow?

What can I look forward to?

Beautiful sunrises, waterfalls, flora, fauna and the music of birds and crickets. Welcome to the garden of Eden!

Comfort

Experiences

Gastronomy

Image Gallery

Private Touring

Exclusive, private and customised just for you

Every journey with Experiential Journeys is a privately guided tour and there’s room for spontaneity too!