We drove 40kms along the Kandy road, a short detour at Giriulla Road off Pasyala, which led to a boho-chic outpost ‘Casa Heliconia’, Kaleliya, hidden in a rural village and surrounded by lush paddy fields and dense foliage.

The property is named after ‘Birds of Paradise’, the exotic Heliconia plant, which is found scattered throughout its 2 acre manicured gardens and interiors.

We were greeted with a tropical ‘Woodapple Juice’ and were taken around the property by a friendly hotel staff member.

Although the property seems stylishly petite, it seems like an architectural triumph to blend in the boho-chic interior with a typical Sri Lankan countryside setting.

The first two pavilions are where the villa’s two rooms are located; The Temple Angkor (which we occupied) is inspired by Cambodian temple ruin architecture and design, has an outdoor washroom, a firewood cooking stove and a small dine-in veranda while the Chateu Lilac is more contemporary chic – its vibrant colors likely to appeal to a young holiday makers like ourselves. This room also has an outdoor shower and terrace area which is close to the villa’s third pavilion where the swimming pool is housed.

Each room is adorned by antique artifacts and scavenger architecture in copper basin sinks or shower heads and is equipped with amenities of modern comfort; king size beds, free Wifi, ipod docks, air conditioning and hot water.

The surrounding area is remote, with only the occasional farmer and livestock for company in neighboring farm lands. The property is overlooked by a stunning nearby stupa and activities that could be arranged are bike rides, village walks and temple visits.

We met Tim, the owner of the Manor House Concepts, who briefly took us through the inspiration of the ‘Jungle Glam’ concept “We like to think of ourselves as a hideaway with a difference.

Although we've used hints of bohemian and glamourous styles for the interior, we’ve preserved the spirit of the surroundings, and added the odd contemporary twist to bring it to life.”

The Doll House

The Dollhouse is a typical chill out zone equipped with a large TV, home theater system, laptop & printer, books & DVDs and even a drum kit, should a guest want to jam during their holiday.

Casa Heliconia Indulgences

The food at the hotel is more Sri Lankan inspired and is highly commendable while you could also indulge in some western favourites. Also note that the hotel offers a simple light lunch menu.

Breakfast

String Hoppers, Dhal Curry, Potatoe Curry

Verdict: The curries were rich and delicious.

Dinner

Chicken served with Grilled Vegetables & Mashed Potatoes

Verdict: Delectable!

Dessert

Truffle tart with Vanilla Ice Cream

Verdict: By far the best Truffle Tart I’ve ever had

How to book

T: 0094 (0) 81 720 1115

E: [email protected]

W: http://www.casa-heliconia.com/

Text by Keshiya Leitch