Hidden Hill Country Villages to Stay in Instead of Ella

Introduction to Hidden Hill Country Villages

If you're planning a trip to Sri Lanka, you've likely heard of Ella, a popular hill town that attracts many tourists. While Ella is undoubtedly a beautiful destination, it can get quite crowded and commercialised. If you're looking for a more authentic and peaceful experience, consider staying in one of the many hidden hill country villages instead. These villages offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Sri Lankan culture, enjoy stunning natural beauty, and relax in a more laid-back atmosphere.

As a New Zealander, you're probably no stranger to beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Sri Lanka's hill country has a similar charm, with its rolling hills, tea plantations, and scenic hiking trails. By staying in a hidden village, you can experience the best of Sri Lanka's natural beauty without the crowds and noise of Ella. In this article, we'll explore some of the best hidden hill country villages to stay in, and provide you with practical information and advice on how to make the most of your trip.

Before we dive into the details, it's worth noting that Sri Lanka is a long-haul destination from New Zealand, and you'll need to plan carefully to make the most of your trip. However, with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and friendly people, Sri Lanka is an incredible destination that's well worth the journey. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or just starting to plan your trip, this article will help you discover the hidden gems of Sri Lanka's hill country and create an unforgettable travel experience.

Why Avoid Ella?

While Ella is a beautiful town, it's become increasingly popular with tourists in recent years. This has led to a surge in development, with many new hotels, restaurants, and shops springing up to cater to the influx of visitors. As a result, Ella can feel quite commercialised and crowded, especially during peak season. If you're looking for a more authentic and peaceful experience, you may find that Ella isn't the best fit for you. Additionally, Ella is quite touristy, which can make it difficult to truly immerse yourself in Sri Lankan culture and connect with local people.

In contrast, the hidden hill country villages offer a more laid-back and authentic experience. These villages are often smaller and more rural, with a stronger sense of community and a more relaxed pace of life. By staying in a village, you can experience the real Sri Lanka, with its friendly people, delicious food, and stunning natural beauty. You'll also have the opportunity to support local economies and contribute to the preservation of traditional ways of life.

Haputale: A Hidden Gem

One of the best hidden hill country villages to stay in is Haputale, a charming town located in the Badulla District. Haputale is situated on a ridge, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a cool, misty climate. The town is small and peaceful, with a few shops, restaurants, and guesthouses, but it's largely untouched by tourism. This makes it an ideal destination for those looking for a authentic and relaxing experience.

Some of the top things to do in Haputale include:

• Hiking to the top of Adisham Peak, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside
• Visiting the Dambatenne Tea Factory, which produces some of Sri Lanka's finest teas
• Exploring the Haputale Market, which sells a range of local produce and handicrafts
• Taking a scenic train ride through the hill country, which offers breathtaking views of the landscape

Bandarawela: A Hub for Outdoor Activities

Another great hidden village to stay in is Bandarawela, a town located in the Badulla District. Bandarawela is a hub for outdoor activities, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the surrounding countryside. The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with rolling hills, tea plantations, and scenic valleys.

Some of the top things to do in Bandarawela include:

• Hiking to the Lipton's Seat, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside
• Visiting the Bandarawela Lake, which is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation
• Taking a bike tour through the hill country, which offers a unique perspective on the landscape
• Exploring the local markets, which sell a range of fresh produce and handicrafts

Welimada: A Rural Retreat

If you're looking for a truly rural retreat, consider staying in Welimada, a small village located in the Badulla District. Welimada is a peaceful and picturesque village, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a strong sense of community. The village is surrounded by rolling hills, tea plantations, and scenic valleys, making it an ideal destination for those who love nature and the outdoors.

Some of the top things to do in Welimada include:

• Hiking to the top of the hill, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside
• Visiting the local temple, which is a beautiful example of Sri Lankan architecture
• Taking a village tour, which offers a unique insight into rural Sri Lankan life
• Relaxing in the peaceful surroundings, which are perfect for unwinding and recharging

Planning Your Trip

If you're considering staying in one of Sri Lanka's hidden hill country villages, there are a few things to keep in mind when planning your trip. Firstly, it's a good idea to research your accommodation options carefully, as the villages can be quite small and remote. You may want to consider staying in a homestay or guesthouse, which can offer a more authentic and immersive experience.

Additionally, you should plan your itinerary carefully, as the villages can be quite far apart and transportation options may be limited. You may want to consider hiring a driver or taking public transport, which can be a fun and affordable way to see the sights.

Finally, be sure to respect local customs and traditions, as the villages can be quite conservative and traditional. This includes dressing modestly, removing your shoes when entering temples or homes, and being mindful of your surroundings.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

In conclusion, Sri Lanka's hidden hill country villages offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience. By staying in a village instead of Ella, you can immerse yourself in Sri Lankan culture, enjoy stunning natural beauty, and relax in a more laid-back atmosphere. Some of the top hidden villages to stay in include Haputale, Bandarawela, and Welimada, each of which offers a range of activities and experiences.

The key takeaways from this article are:

• Consider staying in a hidden village instead of Ella for a more authentic and peaceful experience
• Research your accommodation options carefully and consider staying in a homestay or guesthouse
• Plan your itinerary carefully and consider hiring a driver or taking public transport
• Respect local customs and traditions and be mindful of your surroundings
• Take time to relax and unwind in the peaceful surroundings and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the hill country

By following these tips and considering the hidden hill country villages, you can create an unforgettable travel experience in Sri Lanka. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or just starting to plan your trip, we hope this article has been helpful and informative. Happy travels!