The property was located really close to Udawalwae park which was ideal. Room was basic enough but exactly what you’d need for a quick stay. Clean and comfortable. We also had a lovely balcony area where we sat out and had tea which was lovely.

Die Familie ist unglaublich nett, ich habe mich sehr wohl gefühlt. Noch am selben Tag meiner Ankunft wurde eine Safari für mich organisiert. Der Guide (ältester Sohn der Familie) ist der angenehmste, den ich mir hätte vorstellen können. Er ist ruhig, lässt sich Zeit und ihm entgeht nicht das kleinste Tier. Der Preis (exkl. Eintritt in den Nationalpark) ist total fair. Ich war sehr begeistert von all den Informationen, die er mit mir geteilt hat sowie den ganzen Tieren, die wir gesehen haben. Zurück in der Abkunft gab es (das beste!) Dinner. Am nächsten Tag wurde ich ins Elephant Transit Home gefahren. Auch wurde ich bei der Organisation meiner weiteren Reise unterstützt (Busse rausgesucht, zur Haltestelle gebracht etc.) Vielen lieben Dank für den schönen Aufenthalt und bis bald!

Silent bungalow have their own jeeps and can take your directly to Udawalawe National Park Safari with the owner’s son as driver and guide. Dushal was incredible at pointing out mongoose, lizards, birds, and sharing facts about elephants. I’d recommend asking if you can leave for the safari to arrive at gates opening as it seems lots of animals are less active in the middle of the day. The dinner provided at 7.30pm by the owner was sensational and was well needed after a day of travel. The owner genuinely made me feel welcome! There’s also a beautiful cat (cats) that wanders the premises If you arrive late in the evening, stay one night, and do an early morning safari (3 hours, 4 hours, or half day), you’ll have an amazing time.

These comments aren’t a reflection on Silent Bungalow itself but more a suggestion to align with expectations Unfortunately, I was the only guest at the bungalow for two nights. While this isn’t the fault of the owner, there really was not much to do at the Bungalow nor was it very easy to get into the village to eat meals or look around. The village was also fairly deserted as it was the low season (May) - another reason to limit your time here. In all fairness, the accommodation (basic bed, fan, bathroom) is close to what you’re paying for. However any mobile data or wifi connection is non existent. The bungalow is about a 20 minute walk from Ret Junction (close to where the Elephant transit home is located). I’m not sure what the solution here is but just note that Silent Bungalow isn’t suitable for anyone wanting to spend time in Udawalawa itself. Even the owner himself, Sudath, didn’t really suggest anything to do around the town. Was also unfortunately locked into the property at 5.30am when I wanted to go watch the sunrise. This isn’t so much a budget oasis in the jungle but rather a budget friendly stopover for your safari trip.

Hosted by a very friendly and welcoming family, we felt right at home at this lovely place. Cooking class was fun, educational and we ended with delicious food! Safari to nearby park was great as well.