Overview
Ensconced by the brilliant blue waters of Kalkudah Beach, on the Eastern Coast of Sri Lanka, is a treasure trove of undiscovered pleasures. As those turquoise waters lazily lap the 250m of honey golden sand, the coconut palms above whisper and whirl in a lazy languorous dance. Nestled within are sumptuously appointed 17 spacious luxury tents. Complete with private terraces, either overlooking the ocean or surrounded by well, manicured private gardens, the wide expanse of space between each abode reaffirms a sense of a private sanctum. The magnificent 30m infinity pool that glints sapphire in the everlasting summer, the tastefully picked and placed art décor, the wide spaces, the warm, attentive service, the delicious seafood virtually fresh off the boats, the decadent ayurvedic spa treatments in the very comfort of your own domain, these are just some of the treasures waiting to be discovered and delighted in, at Karpaha Resort, Kalkudah.
Rooms
The fully airconditioned 17 spacious luxury tents all come complete with king sized beds fit for royalty, en-suite indoor bathrooms with a freestanding bathtubs and en-suite outdoor shower areas, private garden/ spaces and furnished terraces. The Signature beach front Palam Suites offer a 110m2 space, which includes a 50m2 private terrace. This is the favourite pick of honeymooners who lap up the ocean view. The slightly more diminutive Kolaya Suites, nestled deep within the lush gardens of Karpaha, hides within its 90m2expanse a 40m2 furnished private terrace complete with comfy sun loungers that never fail to attract the quiet reflective duos looking for a private retreat. The spacious Seed Suites of 180m2 are just perfect for families or groups of friends looking for the perfect private paradise. The two bedrooms of these suites can be furnished with either two king size beds or one king size bed and two single beds. The two outdoor showers and the two en-suite baths with bath tubs means there is ample living space for a group of 4 to 6 people.
Dining
Dining at Karpaha is a feast for the senses. The seafood served at the beachfront restaurant is fresh off the boats of the local fishermen who haul in their nets before your eyes. Be it authentic local flavours, mingling the mixed heritage of Sinhala and Tamil cuisine, or the innovative and inventive fusion dishes, or the fine subtle flavours of European favourites, the in house menu will not disappoint. Private beach dinners, candle lit gastronomic adventures in the intimacy of your private garden or terrace, or your own cookery classes to learn your favourite on the menu – food is distinctively an adventure at Karpaha.
Things to do & local tips
Once you reach Karpaha you are loathe to leave. So plenty are the activities that can enjoyed within its private kingdom. Be it long easy afternoons at its infinity pool, or a lazy crawl in those azure waters that are always calm, enjoying the specialized ayurdvedic spa treatments, or an energetic game of volley ball, you will never be at a loss for activities to explore.
However many are the delights in and around Karpaha. Cycle out to the Batticaloa market, handpick organic produce, and learn how to cook with a local family to experience life in a typical tamil homestead on the eastern front. Go fishing on the lagoon with a local fisherman. Take a hike up Kudumbimalai Rock, known as ‘Baron’s Cap’ in the British colonial era. 534 meters above sea level, this vantage point gives spectacular views of the paddy fields, forests and Palmyra palms below. Follow up with a visit to the military museum. Take a trip in a tuk-tuk to Pasikuddah, explore the colourful temples, hidden ruins in the jungle, the old British harbour and clamber up Elephant Rock for a splendid view of this Beach Locality. Visit the world heritage sights of Pollonnaruwa, Sigiriya and Dambulla. Take an hours drive to Trincomalee and visit the famous temples Koneswaram and Sri Pathrakali Amman or go snorkeling on Pigeon Island. Wild Life Safari’s at MaduruOya or Minneriya, Deep Sea Fishing, Catamaran Cruises – many are wide and varied excursions that can be organized you suit your particular type of interests.