Ensconced in the cool climate of Sri Lanka’s verdant central highlands, Nuwara Eliya grew famous as a colonial hill country retreat — and as the heart of the island’s tea industry. It is now a tranquil springboard for mountain hikes, national park visits and tea factory tours. A whole host of accommodation options cater to a wide range of budgets, from intimate guesthouses to grand historic hotels. Whether you’re eager to kick back in a converted factory, dine in splendour at a classic country club or take high tea on manicured lawns, our pick of the best places to stay in Nuwara Eliya has it all.

Founded as an agricultural settlement in 1846, Nuwara Eliya became popular with British planters and civil servants. With colonial-era buildings, rose gardens and fields of strawberries, the town retains a quirky nostalgic charm, and is still sometimes referred to as 'Little England'. Sri Lanka's tea pluckers remain one of the island's most marginalised communities, however, and opportunities in the region are limited. Consider taking the time to investigate non-profits and small-scale projects looking to create positive change in the area over the course of your stay.

Don't miss the chance to stock up on some of the world’s finest orange pekoe after tours and tastings at tea factories, or to play a round of golf on one of the oldest — and quirkiest — courses in Asia. The Horton Plains National Park, where purple-faced langurs, sambar and leopards roam, is stunning and well worth exploring, as are stretches of the acclaimed Pekoe Trail hiking route. The best places to stay in Nuwara Eliya tend to be heritage properties — including restored members’ clubs and a striking hillside factory. With the exception of the latter, which is nestled amidst undulating tea-clad hills, our favourite hotels sit within the town itself, close to pretty Gregory's Lake and the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club. 

The Best Places to Stay in Nuwara Eliya

For a Colonial-Era Hotel

• The Grand Hotel is a luxurious colonial-era property with a family feel. Originally built as Barnes Hall, the holiday residence of the fifth Governor of Ceylon, this historic building has been transformed into a beautiful base from which to explore Nuwara Eliya. From cycling tours to the heated indoor pool, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained!
• Jetwing St Andrews is a restored Georgian-style mansion. Bright, well-appointed rooms are smart and soothing, with crisp white linens and pastel accents. Part of one of Sri Lanka’s most reputable family-owned hotel groups, the property prides itself on its excellent service. Choose this spot for long evenings warmed by log fires with cracking cocktails in hand, or lively games of billiards.
• The Hill Club, once frequented largely by English and Scottish tea, coffee and cinchona planters, continues to be both a hotel and a members' club. Think cosy guest rooms furnished with antique wooden pieces, reading and billiard rooms, and superb clay tennis courts. Guests are expected to dress for dinner in the Mixed Bar or Main Dining Room. One for those seeking a smart, old-fashioned atmosphere. 

For a Tea Factory Experience

• Heritance Tea Factory is set amidst lush hills, boasting striking scenery on all sides. This clever, characterful conversion includes elegant, contemporary rooms, a fitness centre and a spa as well as an excellent tea museum. Don’t miss the terrific high tea — this is one for those eager to combine soothing seclusion with the promise of a good brew!

For a Boutique Hideaway

• Jetwing Warwick Gardens has just five guest rooms. A former private residence, the house has a classic, old-fashioned feel with four-poster beds, fireplaces and polished wooden furnishings. Manicured gardens are lovely for afternoon tea and drinks, and the views are stunning. 
• Amaya Langdale is a polished 11-bedroom boutique hotel, complete with a refreshing outdoor pool and small spa. Interiors fuse traditional and contemporary elements to create a tranquil, luxurious experience. The chefs use locally grown produce to craft delicious Sri Lankan and international fare. 
• Goatfell takes boutique indulgence to the next level. An exceptional retreat tucked on a hillside near Nuwara Eliya, this little hotel has an infinity pool, swish suites with draped four-posters, and dazzling views of tea-clad hills. The cuisine is sensational. A romantic favourite. 

For a private cottage or apartment

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private cottage, we recommend that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Nuwara Eliya is five hours’ drive from Bandaranaike International Airport, and most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pickup. The roads twist and turn so it’s worth having a reliable driver who knows the route well.
• The most beautiful route to Nuwara Eliya (reached from nearby Nanu Oya Station) is by train from Kandy. Tickets are very affordable, and the rickety train travels slowly through a picturesque landscape of rolling tea-clad hills. Times vary but the journey generally takes 3-4 hours.
• The monsoon rains are expected between May and October, whilst the town grows especially busy during Sri Lankan New Year in April, when city dwellers escape the heat of Colombo for the horse races at Nuwara Eliya's racecourse. Many hotels offer great low season rates — bear in mind that places book up quickly during the high season!

Still not sure?

• Broaden your search to include the best places to stay in Haputale.
• Alternatively explore our pick of all the best places to stay in Sri Lanka.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.