I recently had the privilege of travelling to Sri Lanka—not as a tourist chasing beaches and resorts, but as a guest in the homes of local families in the small town of Kamburupitiya, in the Matara District of the Southern Province. This visit was made possible through a UK-based charity that I deeply admire. Every penny they receive goes directly to children in need: no offices, no paid managers, no waste—just two remarkable people. Mr. G (the chairman and Ruvini’s father) and Mr. Devsiri Hewavidana, known to everyone simply as Dev, dedicate their own time and money to ensure that help reaches those who need it most.
When I told Devsiri I wanted to see the real Sri Lanka, he kindly arranged accommodation with local families. I offered to pay for their hospitality, as I would have in a hotel, but what I received was far richer than anything money could buy.
For the first part of my stay, I lived on a small tea and cinnamon farm with my wonderful hosts, Premawantha (Dev’s brother-in-law) and Chula. My room had a balcony overlooking the lush jungle, and every morning I woke to the sound of birds and the smell of fresh spices. They fed me so generously—delicious home-cooked meals and fruits picked straight from the trees—that I’m sure I left a few pounds heavier.
The following week, I stayed in the town house of Miss Chandrani, a teacher from a local school, and her lovely daughter, Kithmini, along with her family. I also met Ananda and Dammi, whose kindness and hospitality touched me deeply.
Between these stays, I visited several schools in the area—Ullalla, Mapalana, and Sapugoda—where I attended classes, met children, teachers, and parents, and experienced a warm, joyful welcome. The children’s energy and enthusiasm were infectious. Everywhere I went, I was treated like an honoured guest—sometimes even like a celebrity. I was even invited to a birthday party, and the lovely Imasha acted as my guide and companion.
One of the highlights was my special appearance as the chief guest at the Massmule school sports meet—a truly unforgettable honour.
I also visited family homes and witnessed firsthand how much these wonderful people need. The poverty is striking. Many families struggle to cover even their basic needs, yet they welcome you with open arms, offering whatever they have, no matter how little. The children need so little to be happy—an ice cream or a piece of chocolate brought smiles as wide as the ocean. In schools, there are no mobile phones—not because they aren’t allowed, but because most families simply cannot afford them. In one computer class I attended, there were just five very old Dell computers, and only two were working.
Yet despite these hardships, the children are full of hope. They know that if they finish school, they will have a chance to change their lives. £20 a month—the cost of just a few coffees for me—can feed a family for an entire month or pay for extra classes for a child.
Before coming here, I had grown skeptical about charities and how they spend their money. But after seeing Mr. G’s work first-hand, my faith has been restored. He knows every family in need by name, and he makes sure that help goes exactly where it is most needed.
I am not a wealthy person, but I believe every penny counts. This trip has shown me that kindness, when given directly, can transform lives.
To all the people I met in Kamburupitiya—thank you for your warmth, generosity, and unforgettable hospitality. You have given me more than I could ever give in return.
An Invitation to Future Travellers
If you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka, I encourage you to go beyond the hotels and tourist resorts. Visit the rural heart of the country, experience the true warmth of its people, and discover life beyond the beaten track. Stay with local families in Kamburupitiya, support the local schools, and see for yourself the joy your presence and contribution can bring. It’s not just travel—it’s a way to give back to a community that will welcome you with open arms.
1️. Tea & Cinnamon Farm Stay
“Morning views from my balcony in Kamburupitiya—lush jungle, birdsong, and the smell of cinnamon in the air. Thank you, Premawantha and Chula, for your warm welcome and incredible meals!”
2️. Home with a Teacher’s Family
“One week with Miss Chandrani, her daughter Kithmini Aloka, and their family—filled with laughter, kindness, and home-cooked meals made with love. We also shared a wonderful trip to Yala National Park. For families like theirs, going on holiday together is a rare luxury, so it was a real privilege for me to help make this special day possible.”
3. School Visits
“Ullalla, Mapalana, Sapugoda… three schools, dozens of smiling faces, and children eager to learn despite having so little.”
4️. Chief Guest at Massmule
“An unforgettable honour—serving as chief guest at the Massmule school sports meet. The energy and excitement were contagious!”
5. Simple Joys
“An ice cream. A piece of chocolate. The joy in their faces says everything. These children don’t have much, but they give the biggest smiles in return.”
6️. Computers in Class
“Five old Dell computers. Only two working. But their determination to learn is stronger than any obstacle.”
7️. Giving Back
“£20 a month—a few coffees for us—can feed a family or fund extra lessons for a child here in Sri Lanka.”
8️. Farewell & Gratitude
“Here I am . with Devsiri and his wife Ruvini and their relatives (left) and with Amasha, Imasha and their family on my last day
“Thank you to everyone in Kamburupitiya for your generosity and open hearts. You’ve given me more than I could ever give back.”
