The story starts in the mid-1980s. A spontaneous investment opportunity lead to the purchase of a 20-acre estate in a part of the island most people considered the “middle of nowhere” or “Kelaawa”. Fast forward to 2024, through many years of hard work and sheer effort the estate is now sprawling with plots of what Sri Lankan is most famous for; tea, rubber and coconut. In the midst of it is a mahogany plantation of over 500 maturing trees on the edge of a trickling stream. Naming the campsite was the easiest task. Thanks to the continuous infrastructural development of the region, the estate is now just 1.5 hours from Colombo and its skyline is visible on a clear day (Boring Nelum Kuluna) or night (Disco Nelum Kuluna).
Our goal was to build a reclusive getaway from the hustle and bustle, but not too far in case we needed to get back to our daily routine in a hurry. A day spent in a glamping tent surrounded by lush greenery was truly liberating and even therapeutic. Curious monkeys, giant squirrels and hornbills would grace us with their presence during their morning forages. The perfect weekend….
We turned a vision into a rough sketch on Microsoft Excel first, then made it happen as soon as we physically could. The longing to get away from the mundane fueled the progress.
Cautiously built in between the stunning trees is a 240 square-foot glamping tent with all the simple niceties one would prefer having. Running electricity + standby power, air-conditioning and an en-suite bathroom to keep the guest comfortable if they wish to spend all day lazing inside. A kitchen where our local ladies would love to cook up some traditional food to enjoy. A beautiful plunge pool which blends in with its surroundings. Outdoor dining under the mahogany shade.
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