Best Budget-Friendly Accommodations in the Highlands

Tired of breaking the bank just to enjoy breathtaking views? Sri Lanka’s highlands, with their rolling tea plantations, misty mountains, and cascading waterfalls, are calling your name. And guess what? You don’t need to empty your wallet to experience this paradise. In fact, according to recent data from collaborated businesses in the Sri Lankan tourism sector, there has been a 38.72% increase in budget travellers exploring the highlands in 2024 compared to the previous year. This surge proves that experiencing the magic of Ella, Haputale, and Nuwara Eliya on a shoestring is not just possible, it’s becoming the preferred way to travel! Let’s dive into the best budget-friendly accommodations these highland gems have to offer, ensuring your Sri Lankan adventure is both unforgettable and affordable.

Discovering Affordable Gems in Ella

Ella, a backpacker’s haven nestled amidst verdant hills, is renowned for its stunning viewpoints like Little Adam’s Peak and the iconic Nine Arch Bridge. But beyond the attractions, Ella also boasts a fantastic range of budget-friendly stays. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple, or a group of friends, you’ll find something that suits your needs without compromising on comfort or experience.

Guesthouses in Ella: Homely Comfort on a Budget

Guesthouses in Ella offer a warm, local experience, often run by families who are eager to share their hospitality. These are perfect for travellers seeking a personal touch and insider tips on exploring the area.

• Ella Flower Garden Guest House: Nestled amidst a lush garden, this guesthouse offers rooms with private balconies and stunning views. Amenities include free Wi-Fi and breakfast. Price range: starting from approximately $15 per night.
• Ella Mount Heaven: As the name suggests, expect heavenly mountain views from this guesthouse. Rooms are simple but clean, and the friendly owners can arrange tours and transport. Price range: around $12-$20 per night.
• The Bamboo Room Ella: For a unique experience, consider this guesthouse built with bamboo. It offers a tranquil setting slightly away from the town centre, with comfortable rooms and a communal vibe. Price range: from $18 per night.

Hostels in Ella: Social and Wallet-Friendly

If you’re looking to meet fellow travellers and save even more, hostels are the way to go. Ella’s hostels are vibrant hubs, often with common areas perfect for socialising and swapping travel stories.

• Hangover Hostels Ella: Don’t let the name fool you – this hostel is known for its clean and comfortable dorms and private rooms, a lively atmosphere, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views. They often organise social events and tours. Dorm beds start from around $7, private rooms from $25.
• Ella Jungle Hostel: For nature lovers, this hostel is a dream. Located slightly outside of Ella town amidst the jungle, it offers a unique, rustic experience. Expect dorms and basic private rooms, with the focus on nature and community. Dorm beds from approximately $6.
• Tomorrowland Ella: A popular choice for backpackers, Tomorrowland offers a social atmosphere, clean dorms, and private rooms. They have a restaurant and bar, and can help with tour bookings. Dorm beds from around $8, private rooms from $30.

Haputale: Misty Mountains and Budget Bliss

Haputale, often shrouded in mist, offers a different charm compared to Ella. Known for its serene landscapes and tea plantations like Lipton’s Seat, Haputale is perfect for those seeking tranquility and stunning views without the Ella crowds. And yes, budget accommodations are readily available here too!

Affordable Guesthouses in Haputale

Experience authentic Sri Lankan hospitality in Haputale’s guesthouses, many of which are family-run and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding tea estates and valleys.

• Haputale Tea Garden Resort: Surrounded by tea gardens, this guesthouse offers rooms with incredible views and a peaceful atmosphere. They have an on-site restaurant serving local cuisine. Price range: starting from around $18 per night.
• Vasantha Guest House: A highly-rated guesthouse known for its friendly owners and clean, comfortable rooms. Many rooms offer stunning views. They can also arrange transport and tours. Price range: approximately $15-$25 per night.
• Leisure Mount View Holiday Inn: Despite the name “Holiday Inn”, this is a guesthouse offering budget-friendly rooms with mountain views. It’s located conveniently close to Haputale town and offers a restaurant. Price range: from around $12 per night.

Hostel Options in Haputale

While hostels are less common in Haputale compared to Ella, you can still find a few great options that provide budget-friendly dorm beds and a chance to connect with other travellers.

• Haputale Hostel: This is a central hostel in Haputale, offering dorm beds and basic private rooms. It’s a good base for exploring the town and surrounding attractions. Dorm beds from around $7.
• Cloud Holiday Home Haputale: While technically a holiday home, it offers dorm-style accommodation and private rooms at hostel prices. Expect a relaxed atmosphere and helpful staff. Dorm beds from approximately $8.

Nuwara Eliya: Colonial Charm on a Shoestring

Nuwara Eliya, also known as “Little England,” boasts a unique colonial atmosphere, with tea plantations, Victoria Park, and Gregory Lake. Don’t let the “Little England” moniker fool you – you can definitely experience Nuwara Eliya without breaking the bank. Budget accommodations are plentiful, offering a comfortable base to explore this charming town.

Budget Hotels and Guesthouses in Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya offers a wider range of budget hotels and guesthouses compared to Ella and Haputale, reflecting its status as a larger town. You’ll find options ranging from basic but clean rooms to guesthouses with colonial-era charm.

• Glenfall Reach Hotel: While called a hotel, Glenfall Reach offers rooms at guesthouse prices. It’s located slightly outside of the town centre in a peaceful area, with comfortable rooms and a restaurant. Price range: starting from approximately $20 per night.
• Araliya Green Hills Hotel (Budget Rooms): Araliya Green Hills is a larger hotel, but they also offer budget-friendly rooms that are still comfortable and well-maintained. It’s a good option if you want hotel amenities at a lower price. Price range for budget rooms: from around $25 per night.
• Single Tree Hotel: This hotel offers a mix of rooms, including budget-friendly options. It’s centrally located and provides easy access to Nuwara Eliya’s attractions. Price range for budget rooms: from around $22 per night.
• The Hill Club (Budget Rooms): For a taste of colonial grandeur on a budget, check if The Hill Club has any budget rooms available. This historic club sometimes offers rooms at surprisingly reasonable prices, giving you a chance to experience a piece of Nuwara Eliya’s past. Price range for budget rooms (if available): can vary, check for deals.

Hostels in Nuwara Eliya: Meeting Fellow Travellers

Nuwara Eliya has a growing hostel scene, offering affordable dorm beds and a social atmosphere for backpackers and budget travellers.

• Nuwara Eliya Backpackers Hostel: A popular hostel in the heart of Nuwara Eliya, offering clean and comfortable dorms and private rooms. They have a common area and can arrange tours. Dorm beds from around $8, private rooms from $35.
• Yoho Nuwara Eliya Lake Edge: Located near Gregory Lake, this hostel offers a scenic setting and a relaxed vibe. They have dorms and private rooms, and a garden area. Dorm beds from approximately $9.

Getting Around the Highlands on a Budget

While budget accommodations are sorted, consider how you’ll explore these beautiful highland towns. Public transport is an option, but for flexibility and reaching those hidden gems, a self-drive car is ideal. With Rofi Car Rentals, you can find a range of vehicles to suit your budget, from compact cars to SUVs perfect for navigating mountain roads. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover the true beauty of the Sri Lankan highlands.

Remember to check out our driving guide in Sri Lanka and recognition permit guide if you’re planning to drive. It’s essential information, especially for foreign visitors.

FAQ

Is it easy to find budget accommodations in the Sri Lankan highlands?
Yes, the highlands, particularly towns like Ella, Haputale, and Nuwara Eliya, offer a wide variety of budget-friendly accommodations including guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels. You can find options for every type of budget traveller.

Are budget accommodations in the highlands safe and clean?
Generally, yes. Guesthouses and hostels in these areas prioritize cleanliness and safety. Always read reviews before booking to ensure they meet your standards. Reputable booking platforms like Booking.com and Hostelworld can provide reliable reviews.

What’s the best way to travel between highland towns on a budget?
Public transport (buses and trains) is the most budget-friendly option for intercity travel. However, for exploring within each town and reaching more remote attractions, renting a car from www.rofi.lk can be surprisingly cost-effective, especially if you’re travelling in a group. It also offers much greater flexibility.

Is it safe to drive in the highlands?
Yes, driving is generally safe, but be prepared for winding roads and occasional foggy conditions, especially at higher altitudes. Drive cautiously and consider renting an automatic car for easier navigation on hilly terrain. Make sure you have the necessary driving permits.

Why choose Rofi Car Rentals for exploring the highlands?
Rofi Car Rentals offers a hassle-free platform to rent cars directly from individual owners. All cars are fully inspected, maintained, and insured, ensuring a reliable and safe experience without hidden costs. It’s a convenient and secure way to get around the highlands at your own pace.

Plan Your Highland Adventure with Rofi.lk!
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Source of data mentioned in this article: Data is based on collaborated business or focus group businesses Rofi partnered up with in the Sri Lankan tourism sector; businesses wish to remain anonymous.