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 an idyllic sanctuary for tea and nature lovers to relax and unwind. A whole host of accommodation options cater to a wide range of budgets, from little 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 got you covered.

Founded as an agricultural settlement in 1846, Nuwara Eliya became popular with British planters and civil servants. With colonial-era edifices, rose gardens and European crops (including leeks and strawberries!), the town retains a quirky nostalgic charm – it’s no coincidence that locals frequently refer to it as ‘Little England’.

Visit a tea factory to stock up on some of the world’s best orange pekoe, enjoy a round of golf on one of the oldest courses in Asia, and explore nearby Horton Plains National Park, where purple-faced langurs, sambar and leopards roam.

All the best places to stay in Nuwara Eliya are 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, perfect for discovering the very heart of historic Nuwara Eliya.

The best places to stay in Nuwara Eliya

For colonial grandeur

• The Grand Hotel is a luxurious colonial 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 charmingly restored Georgian-style mansion. Bright, well-appointed rooms are smart and soothing, with crisp white sheets 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.
• The Hill Club offers a wonderful escape to a bygone era, once frequented largely by English and Scottish tea, coffee and cinchona planters. Think cosy guest rooms furnished with antique wooden pieces, reading and billiard rooms, and superb clay tennis courts. This remains a members’ club, as well as a hotel, so 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 tea addicts

• 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. 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 an apartment or villa

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa 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 (at nearby Nanu Oya Station) is by train from Kandy — tickets are cheap 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. 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 our recommendations 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.