Authentic Roots, Living Stories

Plastic pollution is one of the biggest challenges facing Sri Lanka — from rivers and lakes to coastal beaches and even inside the bellies of elephants. At Experience Udawalawe, we cannot ignore this reality. As a destination rooted in nature and heritage, we believe sustainability begins with the everyday choices we make.

That is why reducing single-use plastics is at the heart of our work. This commitment is not about sacrifice; it is about respect — for our land, our people, and the generations to come. By replacing plastic with natural, reusable, and culturally authentic alternatives, we show that small actions can create lasting impact.

• Refillable Water Bottles: We provide glass and clay vessels instead of disposable plastic bottles. Every refill is a simple act of conservation.
• Refillable Toiletries: Inspired by Sri Lanka’s Ayurvedic heritage, we use refillable herbal-based toiletries, replacing mini bottles with larger, reusable dispensers.
• Locally Crafted Utensils & Cutlery: We use clay pots, coconut-shell spoons, and cane baskets crafted by local artisans, supporting livelihoods and reducing waste.
• Plastic-Free Excursions: Our excursions are designed to leave memories, not litter. Guests are encouraged to bring reusable bottles, and we provide alternatives where needed.

Why It Matters: By reducing plastics, we protect rivers, fields, and wildlife, and revive traditions that once defined Sri Lankan hospitality.

SDG Impact:
• SDG 6 – Clean Water & Sanitation • SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption & Production • SDG 15 – Life on Land

Sustainability is not only about protecting nature — it is also about uplifting people. At Experience Udawalawe, we believe tourism must strengthen the families and entrepreneurs who make this place unique. Done ethically, tourism has the power to fuel local economies, and we embrace that responsibility fully.

• Supporting Local Farmers: More than 80% of our produce comes from nearby farmers and gardens, providing steady income and long-term partnerships.
• Working with Artisans: We collaborate with artisans who keep traditional skills alive, purchasing crafts directly from villagers.
• Women & Youth Enterprises: We encourage partnerships with women-led and youth-led initiatives, empowering them in sustainable tourism.
• Building a Circular Economy: By sourcing locally and minimizing packaging waste, we create a circular economy where resources are reused and money circulates within the community.

Why It Matters: By supporting entrepreneurs here in Udawalawe, we preserve traditions, create livelihoods, and reduce environmental impact.

SDG Impact:
• SDG 8 – Decent Work & Economic Growth • SDG 11 – Sustainable Communities • SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption & Production • SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals

The way we build reflects the way we live. From the very beginning, we made a promise: not a single tree would be cut to create this space. That commitment shaped every design choice, ensuring Experience Udawalawe grew in harmony with the land.

• Preserving the Landscape: By protecting every tree on our land, we kept nature intact and set an example of development that respects the environment.
• Upcycled & Recyclable Materials: We chose materials that last and can be used again, showing that waste can become value.
• Celebrating Local Design: Our interiors were created in partnership with Sri Lankan designers, supporting artisans while honoring heritage.
• Minimal Impact Philosophy: Every design choice followed a simple principle: minimize impact. Our buildings blend into the land, showing how tourism infrastructure can be responsible and beautiful.

Why It Matters: By preserving trees, reusing materials, and celebrating local artistry, we created a space that reflects our values in every detail.

SDG Impact:
• SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities & Communities • SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption & Production • SDG 15 – Life on Land

Community is not an afterthought here — it is the foundation. We believe tourism should not only showcase a destination but also enrich the lives of the people who live there. That is why our experiences are designed to ensure benefits flow directly to local families.

• Local Hiring & Training: Many of our team members come directly from Udawalawe, keeping skills and opportunities close to home.
• Community Transport Partnerships: We collaborate with jeep and tuk-tuk owners to provide authentic travel experiences, ensuring income flows directly to families.
• Supporting Villagers & Traditions: Villagers are partners, not performers, earning fair income while ensuring cultural practices remain vibrant.
• Empowering Women & Youth: We actively create space for women and youth to lead as entrepreneurs, guides, and artisans.
• Cultural Exchange: Our experiences connect guests and locals in authentic ways, building respect and understanding.

Why It Matters: By placing community at the heart of our work, we strengthen livelihoods, preserve traditions, and build mutual respect.

SDG Impact:
• SDG 8 – Decent Work & Economic Growth • SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities • SDG 11 – Sustainable Communities • SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals