A long and narrow road, through the plantation, leads you to the highest point of the estate where Watta Bangalawa lies. The 100 year-old building, once a cinnamon peeling and stocking store, has been converted into a lovely two-storied residence. The property is set within a 34 acre working Cinnamon plantation, and guests are invited to watch cinnamon harvesting and peeling, and the distilling of cinnamon leaf oil, all of which are native to this region. Offering total seclusion, Watta Bangalawa is ideal for nature lovers and bird watchers. The house itself is simply furnished in a rustic style. It is by no means luxurious, however offers you the comforts and a real old-world charm you would expect from a working plantation.
The Telwatta Bird Sanctuary (with an abundance of migratory birds of all varieties) is a mere 5 minutes drive or a 10-minute cycle ride away. The sanctuary is also home to an array of local and indigenous birds. Thanks to its close proximity to Watta Bangalwa, variegated birds frequent the gardens during day and night with many migratory birds spotted during November to February.
A short distance away is also the only moonstone mines in the world, which are well worth a visit. Each moonstone mine has its own workshops, factory and showrooms, which could also be visited for good bargains of moonstone-studded jewellery!
The popular beach resort of Hikkaduwa is only 10 minutes away.
Watta Bangalawa has a distinct rustic quality, and is possibly more amenable to those visitors wanting to experience eco-friendly areas of southern Sri Lanka. The simple beauty of lush vegetation and clear skies creates an ambience of tranquillity and calmness best enjoyed by those wanting to experience an alternative to the usual tourist destinations of Sri Lanka.