In January 2026, Galkadawala Forest Lodge reached its 20-year milestone two decades of quiet regeneration, thoughtful design, and deep commitment to Sri Lanka’s Dry Zone landscape. What began as a rewilding experiment has evolved into a thriving intermediate forest and an ecolodge that continues to inspire visitors from around the world.
As Galkadawala enters its next chapter, the Maulie de Saram Trust has been established to share this journey with future generations encouraging creativity, new ideas, and innovation, while safeguarding the values that shaped it.
Bringing together ecology, architecture, the arts, and sustainable living, the Trust serves as a platform for learning, collaboration, and cultural exchange.
A place where nature shapes understanding, and quiet landscapes inspire thoughtful living.
Our Work
stewardship
- Galkadawala Forest Lodge – a living forest, ecolodge, and space for learning
- #50 Pahalawela Road, Pelawatte – a cultural venue for exhibitions, workshops, performances, and creative gatherings
programs and activities
- Workshops, retreats, exhibitions, lectures, and performances
- Artist and researcher residencies
- Architectural, ecological, and biodiversity research
- Opportunities for young artists, designers, and researchers, including subsidised or free programmes where appropriate
- Encouraging community participation in wildlife conservation
- Promoting sustainable and responsible tourism practices among industry stakeholders
sustaining the vision
- Maintaining Galkadawala as an ecolodge to support the Trust’s initiatives
- Preserving the ambience, ethos, and cultural values of both properties in line with the founder’s vision
Trustees
- Maulie de SaramFounder of Galkadawala and #50 Pahalawela Road
- Rangi AmerasingheFurniture designer. Was a traditional Sri Lankan dancer. With a lifelong connection to Galkadawala and #50, she brings a deep sensitivity to their preservation and cultural significance.
- Nisayuru BasnayakaGraphic designer and artist with a keen interest in Sri Lanka’s flora, fauna, and reforestation. Closely connected to both properties from childhood, he contributes to their vision and promotion.
- Anuradha Nadaraja (Trustee-designate)Photographer specialising in wildlife and food, and an experienced traveller in Sri Lanka’s wild landscapes. His visual storytelling and engagement with nature support the Trust’s direction.
Advisors
architecture
- Vijitha BasnayakaArchitect of Galkadawala and #50, continuing to guide their evolution.
- K. D. LakshmanArchitect and leading artist, closely involved in the design of #50. His paintings are an integral part of both properties, contributing to their distinctive character and atmosphere.
- Pavithra MadhubhashaArchitect contributing to the ongoing development of both properties, with Vijitha Basnayaka.
forestry, horticulture & visiting curators
- Dr. Asanga WijethungaForest ecologist and Senior Lecturer, University of Rajarata; contributed extensively to research and documentation of Galkadawala’s flora
- Dr. Himesh Dilruwan JayasingheEngineer and Botanist, and researcher, with deep passion, focused on plant taxonomy, ecology, and conservation
Engage with Us
Workshops, retreats, exhibitions, and collaborations with like-minded individuals and groups are warmly welcomed.
Contact: Maulie +94 77 373 2855
… A continuing journey of learning, creativity, and care for the land …