Ranweli’s architecture blends with the unique and rich natural environment. The serene and idyllic location has been fully utilized in the layout of the land, featuring indigenous flora and fauna,and borders the wide sandy beach on one side, and the river on the other.

Bird Watching

Sri Lanka is blessed with an abundant avifauna. There are 226 resident birds, 133 migrants, 90 vagrants and 33 endemics (26 definite and 7 proposed).

Ranweli is located in a coast wetland estuary and this contributes to a large diversity of over 130 species of birds. Bird watching on the river and mangroves by boat is offered as a special facility to our guests. A three-hour tour has been developed with the assistance of the Field Ornithology Group of Sri Lanka (FOGSL), an affiliate of Bird Life International (an international bird conservation organization).

Key Facts

• Accompanied by an expert ornithologist
• Duration: 3 hours, commencing at 07:00hrs. (Breakfast during tour)
• Rates: US$ 30 per person; minimum 2 persons per tour
• Reservations in advance at the reception

Common Birds of Ranweli

Nature Walk

Our trained naturalist will guide you along the Ranweli nature trail, where selected shrubs and trees are described. You can also view 17 floral species, of which one is on display daily at our “flower of the day” exhibition. A list of trees and shrubs, totaling 80 varieties, is available to our guests. Detailed interpretation programmes are also available on selected flora and fauna.

This relaxing two hour walk in our extensive 9 hectare (22 acre) garden, also includes a pass through our boardwalk where the mangroves and their ecosystem can be observed from a higher elevation. The site contains a very rich mangrove forest of Rhizophora spp, a true mangrove. The rare and protected Nypa fruticans, the only palm that grows naturally in water, is also found along the river bordering Ranweli.

Key Facts

• Accompanied by an expert naturalist
• Duration: 2 hours, commencing at 10:00hrs
• Rates: US$ 15 per person
• Reservation in advance with reception

Cycling

Two exciting tours on bicycles through the lush countryside is available. These provide an opportunity to enjoy the natural environment and view historical sites including many local Catholic churches and Buddhist temples. The guests will be accompanied by a member of the staff and will have an opportunity to interact with the local community in the villages. A route map with the descriptions of the sites will be provided to participants.

Key Facts

• Accompanied by a Ranweli guide
• Tour 1: 16 kms/2 hr duration - US$ 10 per person; minimum 2 persons
• Tour 2: 26 kms/4 hr duration - US$ 15 per person , minimum 2 persons
• Cycle Hires: Half day - US$ 05 per person, Full day: US$ 08 per person
• Reservation in advance with reception

River Cruise

Glide along the waterways by canoe or motor boat in the environs of Ranweli and explore the unique ecosystem around the mangroves. Discover the numerous indigenous aquatic and terrestrial plants and enjoy a green wonderland of breathtaking beauty.

Observe water monitors (Varanus salvator) swimming lazily in the waterways or sunbathing on the branch of a tree and a variety of butterflies and dragonflies.

This fascinating and tranquil tour is provided from half an hour onwards. Alternatively you can choose to take a canoe and explore the waterways yourself.

Key Facts

• Accompanied by a boatman
• Rates: US$ 15 per hour - Maximum 6 persons
• Reservation in advance with reception

Rates are subject to change without notice

Craft Demonstrations

Ranweli is closely linked to our local village and the villagers often enjoy meeting the guests and sharing information about their traditional lifestyles, handicrafts and customs. Demonstrations of traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts and industries are offered. These are offered complimentary to our guests in order to enhance the cultural experience.

Programmes

• Basket and mat weaving
• Cadjan weaving
• Pottery demonstration
• Rope making from Coir fibre
• Toddy tapping
• Preparation of treacle, jaggery and vinegar from the sap of a palm flower
• Sri Lankan cookery
• Programme on the medicinal value of herbal drinks
  

Butterfly Tour

We organize guided tours in the surroundings of the hotel where you can observe over 50 species of butterflies.

You may also have the opportunity to witness the entire life cycle of the butterfly.

Key Facts

• Accompanied by a naturalist
• Reservation in advance with reception

Nature Tours

Anaivilundawa
Wildlife Sanctuary and International RAMSAR Site

Anaivilundawa, located only one hour from Ranweli, is a man made wetland constructed in the 12th Century AD and is located on the western migratory bird route. This is a sanctuary with prolific bird life in beautiful surroundings. The vegetation of the site consists of a scenic forest in the low country dry zone and in addition to birds, mammals such as mouse deer, hare, mongoose, squirrels, wild cats (such as civets), wild boar and fruit bats and reptiles and amphibians like land monitors, water monitors, lizards, geckoes, skinks, and tortoises can be sighted.

There are over 100 species of birds at this site. However, of special interest are species such as Spoonbills, Ibises, Darters, Harriers, species of Bee-eaters, and the Jungle Fowl an endemic species which is the national bird of Sri Lanka that are not found in the Ranweli environs.

Key Facts

• Accompanied by a Naturalist
• Air-conditioned car or mini van
• A picnic breakfast is included
• Rate US$ 75 per person; minimum 2 persons

Sinharaja Biosphere Reserve
1 or 2 days tour can be arranged on special request to Sinharaja, Sri Lanka's premier undisturbed stretch of rainforest.

Please inquire for rates from the Reception.

Special Archaeological Tours

Panduwasnuwara & Yapahuwa

This 1 day tour will take you to Panduwasnuwara one of the ancient Royal Capitals of Sri Lanka which is only an hours drive from Ranweli. This sprawling 50 acre moated and walled 'sleeping city, some of it still unexcavated, was an expertly planned and well laid out metropolis with a stately palace, royal audience hall, store houses, granaries, monastic complexes, shrines, bath houses, toilets and ponds. Beautifully proportioned platforms, terraces, pavements and doorways enhance its architecture. Handsome stone sculptures and carvings adorn it and rock inscriptions record events at the time.

After your visit to Panduwasnuwara you will be taken to Yapahuwa: a citadel built on a huge rock boulder in the style of the 5th Century Sigiriya rock fortress. Well defended with double ramparts and moats, Yapahuwa holds many attractions for sightseers which include the remains of the King’s Palace, Royal audience hall and other stately structures such as shrines and baths.


Key Facts

• English speaking guide, air-conditioned car or mini van.
• US$ 75 per person – minimum 2 persons
• US$ 70 per person – 3 persons
• US$ 65 per person – 4 persons
• US$ 60 per person – 5 persons