Lake Front Bungalow - Anuradhapura

This quaint bungalow on the shores of the Tissawewa Lake has 3 rooms with attached bathrooms for up to 7 guests and an open living and dining area with one of the best views in Anuradhapura. It is the ideal place to rest in a peaceful, serene environment after an exciting and exhausting day exploring the ancient city of Anuradhapura. Water’s Edge Bungalow is one of those well-hidden tranquil eco-retreats, just a few minutes' drive from all the archaeological sites. The space The vast gardens are full of native birds and you will be treated to blissful bird songs all day long. Enjoy a cup of tea on the verandah in the evening and gaze out over the gardens, across the still waters of the lake at the mighty buddhist stupas which have been standing there for thousands of years. Watch a local boatman slowly paddle by as he fishes for his daily catch of fresh local fish. To most Sri Lankans a visit to Anuradhapura is a pilgrimage - inspiring but crowded. To most visitors to Sri Lanka it is a magic place - inspiring but crowded. Nobody comes to Anuradhapura without visiting the ‘ancient city’ with a surfeit of incredible stupas and exquisite stone carvings. But to really experience Anuradhapura is to discover its well hidden tranquil spaces, which led us to return as often as possible for endless exploration and inspiration. Back of Beyond Water’s Edge Bungalow is one of those well hidden tranquil places, just a few minutes’ drive from the famous ancient sites. On the shores of the Tissawewa lake, set in a large tree-filled garden, the elegantly simple bungalow reflects the serenity of three great ancient stupas across the water, which can be seen day and night. Water’s Edge was designed and cared for as a family holiday home, and is now open to you with all its serenity and comfort. The elegant open plan bungalow has 3 rooms for a maximum of 7 adults. The large rooms all have Air Conditioning and are tastefully furnished and have spacious attached bathrooms with hot water showers. The airy lounge with the living and dining area opens out to the 2 acre garden full of indigenous trees, and a small paddy field which we cultivate if the rain gods cooperate. The garden rolls down to the Tissawewa lake overlooking the ancient stupas of Ruwanweli, Jetawanaramaya and Mirisawetiya. Enjoy this breath-taking view from the open veranda. As the day ends and darkness takes over, the stupas gently remain, glowing in a delicate light that keeps them with us throughout the night. For those who rise early, the magic continues - to sit quietly on the steps of the veranda, watch the dawn breaking, listen to the birds sounds and hear the distant echo of temple drums…no words, only experience! Our friendly staff includes a house-keeper and cook, and delicious home-made Sri Lankan and western meals will be served in the dining area. Please note that alcohol is not served on the property. However, guests are most welcome to bring their own. It is possible to book the entire bungalow, as well as separate rooms. Separate driver’s quarters are available at a nominal rate. Guest access Guests have access to the public areas of the bungalow and the large garden with a lovely view of the ancient buddhist stupas across the water. Other things to note * This property is called Back of Beyond Water's Edge Bungalow. Back of Beyond Sri Lanka are a family owned group of 8 eco-retreats around the island of Sri Lanka and we offer a loyalty discount for multiple bookings made in a single trip so do get in touch with me for more details. * Preserving the natural environment is important to us. We have tried to use modern methods of environmental construction and consistently practice sustainable energy use. Back of Beyond properties leave a major proportion of the land untouched, or rejuvenated as a wild habitat where needed. We are discovering how critical these ‘wild pockets’ are as refuges for wildlife, as man increasingly takes control of the natural landscape - even in the most remote areas. Please note that it is best to observe any wildlife silently with minimal disturbance to their natural activities. * By making the reservation, guests have acknowledged and accepted that they are entering a wildlife area, staying in an unfenced property, and that their stay / tours conducted might take or bring them into contact or vicinity of wild animals (including snakes, spiders, etc.). Back of Beyond staff members, associates and/or agents cannot be held liable for any encounters involving the behavior of wild animals. Thus, the stay and entry into the wildlife area and Back of Beyond property is at your own risk and responsibility.