About Buttala

Far from the beaten track, Buttala is a small town in Sri Lanka’s mountainous south eastern province of Uva, famed for its terrific tea and abundant wildlife. As this remains a relatively little-known destination, accommodation options are limited, consisting of simple guesthouses and charming tented camps. Our pick of the best places to stay in Buttala offers unforgettable immersion in nature, in all its wild and remote beauty – ideal for adventurous explorers.

Whether you’re journeying from Sri Lanka’s verdant Hill Country to the superb beaches of the south coast, or heading to the eastern surf haven of Arugam Bay, Buttala is stellar spot to slow down and experience the island’s more secluded side. The popular sights of Ella — the Nine Arches Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak and Ella Rock — are easily accessible for day trips, as are lush tea estates and hillside waterfalls aplenty. This is a region for nature lovers eager to unwind in tranquility, spending days spotting wild elephants on expertly guided walks, or watching crocodiles slink along the surface of lakes as birds flit overhead.

Discover lakes teeming with wildlife, magical hikes and delectable dishes, far from the bustle of Sri Lanka’s most touristic sites, before heading up towards the mountains or down to the sparkling waves of the Indian Ocean. The best places to stay in Buttala are charming, relaxed and remote, representative of this enthralling region bursting with marvellous wildlife and gorgeous landscapes.

The best places to stay in Buttala

For eco-living

Tree Tops Jungle Lodge is a back-to-basics retreat for those eager to forget civilisation exists. Think canvas tents with double beds, mosquito nets and battery-run lamps (there’s no electricity here). Sip sunset G&Ts, savour delicious curries crafted by the friendly team, immerse yourself in nature through guided jungle walks — and keep an eye out for wild elephants wandering past your hammock! A magical eco-experience.

For self-catering

If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

Buttala is 5 and a half hours’ drive from Bandaranaike International Airport. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pickup with a reliable driver who knows the roads well, or a transfer by seaplane to a nearby lake.
Alternatively, split what would otherwise be a long journey from the Hill Country to the scenic beaches of the south or east coasts with a stay in Buttala. Again, this is a journey most easily made by car with an experienced driver.
For those looking to explore Sri Lanka by train, the popular station of Ella is 45 minutes’ drive from Buttala, and the Cultural Triangle, Kandy and Nuwara Eliya are a slow, scenic railway ride away.
Temperatures in Sri Lanka hit their peak in April and May, when it can be very hot for sight-seeing. Do book well in advance if travelling during the high season — from November to March — as accommodation fills up fast!