Evergreen Villa - Sinharaja

When you look at Google maps and given how some roads can be in Sri Lanka, there can be an initial worry. But the roads getting to the hotel are fine and easily manageable. But, when you're a few kilometres out. Google maps wants to take you over a bridge which hasn't been built. If you look to the left (on maps) you'll see another bridge, 50 metres away. Make your way over this bridge which then takes you back onto the road you need. It's then a single track road to the hotel. The hotel, itself is very pleasant, the grounds and the room. You have some lovely views of the nearby jungle/forest. The room is of a decent size, clean and homely, with a lovely little terrace. The hotel owner, guest, was warm and welcoming. The entrance to the national park is a 10minute walk away. The small restaurant, which is situated on the left as you look at the hotel, is decent to. hmm, there were a few things that left a bitter taste in my mouth. Firstly, as warm as the welcome was it wasn't really that informative, unless it was about taking a tour to the nearby national park, that was WELL covered. But there was no explanation as to how the shower worked (electric heated shower bit), no explanation as to where I was going to have dinner or breakfast. When it came to the national park, I paid LKR 6250 ($20) for a 4 hour trip, which turned out to be 2hrs due to the latish hour. But it would transpire by looking at Google that I over paid, it should cost $14. What's this got to do with the hotel you ask. When i arrived at the hotel, i told the host that I was going off to the national park. Before I could blink they were on the phone getting me a guide and told me it would cost me $35. I fully appreciate that you there's a need to make a few bucks from guests. But given how close the park is, not $20! I also don't appreciate being told by the host after my hike that it would have been better with him, because he could tell me the weight of ants on the moon, the height of a pot of plant and the price of a twix in Bali (I exaggerate of course). But he's a thing fella (host). I don't care about that, but you would have known that if you even cared to ask, instead of trying to take me on a journey to destination guilt.

We had an amazing stay at Evergreen Villa. From the balcony you got a perfect view to the rainforest and a river. We saw a lot of guest houses there but Evergreen got the best position. Also you got a windows so also inside the house you can see the rainforest. In the evening there are hundreds of fireflies, very romantic. Our guided tour was just perfect. The price was very fair and we could observe all kinds of animals, a lot of different monkeys, huge green lizards, two kinds of snakes (7 snakes in total), little frogs, caterpillars,butterflies and much more. Our guide was very patient with us and even made a lot of stunning pictures for us. If you like betlenut, this is the place where you find the best in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, the food was just amazing. Devilled Chicken and Mixed Noodles were just perfect. The whole damily is very charming, helpful and reliant. We are very happy that we stayed at this beautiful place. Finally, it is important to mention that at the moment there are only 2 appartments. After finishing the house it will be just 4. So the atmosphere is very private. Thank you so much, we will never forget our stay at Evergreen Villa.

Each room has own terrace, that offers breathtaking views while sitting on the comfy wooden armchairs. The room was clean and specious, which doesn’t happen often, with the glass front wall offering splendid view. Bathroom is specious and clean. The property is well looked after and short distance to the park entrance. The food was tasty and well presented. The guide organised by them was quite knowledgeable. The owner was very helpful and responded promptly.