A Perfect Pitstop – Thirasara Leisure Village

Most times, driving along our main roads is a tiring exercise and sometimes it is better to make a pit stop half way to your destination. If your next holiday is to the cultural triangle or the central province, take a break and enjoy the countryside. I found the idyllic pit stop.

Ideally situated just 65 kilometres and a leisurely 1 ½ hours drive from Colombo is the Thirasara Leisure Village. Surrounded by 48 acres of lush greenery is the eco village, Thirasara, an offshoot of the defunct Kabool Lanka warehouse and housing the now the spanking new MAS Fabric Park.  Thirasara consists of chalets that are tastefully designed and fully furnished with the most modern fittings and décor.  Chalets come in three categories: Luxury, Super Deluxe and Deluxe. Just minor details differentiate the three categories. These residential chalets have been specially designed and furnished by some of the country’s niche architects and decorators and are in harmony with the natural splendour and serenity in the area. All the chalets are fully furnished with compact kitchens, ironing rooms which can double up for domestics/driver’s quarters, stylish bathrooms, and comfortable dining and living areas.

Apart from luxury fittings and comfortable modern furnishings, the chalets also have large LCD TVs, hot/cold drinking water, ironing facilities, refrigerator, kettle and other modern amenities. However, it would be a shame to spend your time in front of the TV when there is so much outdoor fun around.

Just a moment’s drive away is an ideal mountain for climbing. Better known as Monrovia, this mountain is a 1000 meter climb and once you reach the top, the view is awesome. Head the opposite direction and the banks of the Ma Oya offer an ideal bathing spot. The river banks are perfect for exploring and sighting birds, butterflies and other fascinating insects. For the more adventurous, kayaking can be arranged or other outdoor activity like abseiling, rock climbing etc.

The 465 acre Fabric Park is also perfectly safe for cycling and exploration. Mountain bikes are available courtesy Thirasara.  Apart from that, this Park has been voted as having the best 4×4 off road track. Guests are invited to rev up their engines and experience the rush of burning rubber.

Close at hand is the MAS Institute of Management Training (MIMT) which offers vocational pathways through IT education, English language skills, textile and apparel processing programs and life skills. A fully equipped kitchen with well-known chefs provides meals for Thirasara guests on request, unless of course you prefer to cook your own in your chalets. I was also told that on request, a personal chef will be provided at the chalets.

In keeping with its commitment to eco-sustainability and environmental progressive processes to ensure minimal disruption to the natural habitat and the eco-system, the Park has dedicated 14 percent of its land to conservation of greenery, water bodies and wild life. This provides for an abundant supply of water and greenery which in turn attracts a variety of birds and insects. A pair of binoculars and a camera will provide for a good picture story when your return home! Day trips will be arranged to the famed Dambadeniya Viharaya, Dambulla Rock temple, Pinnawella Elephant orphanage, and even as far as Anuradhapura and Pollonaruwa ancient sites.

The best part about Thirasara is the affordability. With each chalet priced from Rs. 4000 to Rs. 6000 along with laundry and butler services, room service and housekeeping, this is a scoop. And a ‘cool dude’ is always there to show you around and explain your options.

So take a travel tip, opt for this pit stop, sit out on the verandha and let your body relax to the sounds of the winds blowing across the paddy fields while you enjoy the view. Yes, Thirasara is where you would ‘experience tranquillity’.