Life amongst the Rice Paddies

Bite-sized trip

Itinerary:
Digana near Kandy
Duration:
3 days / 2 nights (flexible)
Price:
From £ 244.- per person (excluding flights)

Although only around an hour from the hustle and bustle of busy Kandy, Digana and its surrounding villages feel like a million miles away. From lush jungle to tumbling rice paddies, the only sounds you’ll hear are those of the wildlife, the gurgling of the nearby river, and perhaps the occasional swish of a scythe. You’ll spend 2 nights in a basic eco-lodge and take a hearty walk through one of the nearby villages.

Day 1 – Arrival at your eco-lodge in Digana

As you head into Sri Lanka’s countryside you’ll notice the roads becoming more winding and deserted until you reach a steep rocky lane. You might wonder how you’ll make it up there in your driver’s car, but not to worry, because the staff from the eco-lodge will come to meet you in their jeep. As you wind your way up into the jungle the staff will tell you a little about the lodge. The lodge is basic and rustic but this is a unique experience focusing on sustainable tourism.

Owner Nihal set up the eco lodge alongside his Dutch wife, Nel in order to give something back to the villagers. They’ve worked alongside the local community every step of the way to ensure that everything they do benefits those who need it. They employ only local staff from the villages and in his spare time Nihal gives free English classes. As if that wasn’t enough they use solar generators and fire wood to heat the hot water. If you need a hot shower, you’ll need to let them know an hour before!

Day 2 – Village tour

Today, it’s time to get to know the local area. Your first stop is the local school where your guide will show you around and introduce you to some of the teachers. If you happen upon one of the English classes you’ll have the chance to introduce yourself and talk about your life in the UK. From the school you’ll walk amongst the rice paddies and rainforest, passing local homes as you go.

Soon enough you’ll stop at one of the homes for a spot of lunch. Get ready for a feast of locally cooked food; the jack fruit curry is particularly interesting. On your way again you’ll stop by the stream for a rest. If you place your bare feet in the water hundreds of tiny fish will swarm around them and eat away the dead skin. Watch out for crabs though! With your feet feeling silky smooth you’ll walk the final stretch back to the car and head back to the lodge. After a quick cup of tea, you’ll plant a tree in the lodge’s grounds. Finally, it’s time to relax!

Day 3 – Departure

You’ll probably wake up early this morning to the sound of cicadas. Hopefully you remembered to pre-order the hot water for your shower last night! You can have a more leisurely breakfast this morning and perhaps have a chat with the staff or one of the other guests. Once you’ve had your fill and drunk as much tea as you can manage, it’s time to be on your way. Your hosts will be sad to see you go!