
Essential Sri Lanka
Explore the highlights of the island on a journey infused with immersion and exploration.
Amba estate is an organic farm-stay social enterprise located in the Uva Highlands just a short drive from the popular town of Ella. Set in 130 acres of mountains, waterfalls, caves, and forests it offers a chance to relax in unspoiled nature and support an initiative bringing opportunity and education to the local community.
Nestled in tea fields in a remote valley, the estate was renovated with the aim to create a model of economic opportunity and now supports over 100 local families. The staff love to share stories and experiences with visitors and will show you around the tea plantation and factory. For those wanting to explore the hill country, you can collect honey with estate workers in the forest or follow hiking trails from the guesthouse to hidden waterfalls.
AMBA has created a simple but authentic, full-service guesthouse in the renovated old teahouse, tea worker’s cottages and two separate bungalows. The Old Estate Farmhouse is perfect for families with four double/twin rooms and a single room along with shared bathrooms. Clove Tree House, a 1930s planters’ bungalow, is also a great setup for families with a suite, a double and a twin room. For solo travellers and couples the Amba Line Rooms are great for comfortable privacy.
One of the great things about staying here is the opportunity to meet and spend time with the local people whose livelihoods AMBA supports. Your food will be prepared by staff in your house and eaten communally. Fresh, vegetarian and straight from the fields around you, it is a definite highlight.
We recommend staying at least two nights at AMBA to enjoy the hiking, sunsets and waterfall swims on offer. As well as exploring a less visited part of Sri Lanka we think this stay will leave you with a deeper understanding of the people working hard to preserve it for the future. We think everyone will love the community atmosphere and families will enjoy the space to run around and explore nature.
Eco/Adventure - This category covers gorgeous lodges in the jungle, comfortable safari camps and dreamy, but simple, beach cabanas. These places defy conventional categorisation: what is communing with nature to one person may be terrifying bugs to another! Many of these places are very comfortable and the service generally of a very high level - but please read the website review carefully and/or talk to us and be sure to have understood what you are letting yourselves in for!
Include this hotel as part of your Experience Travel Holiday of a lifetime.
Here are some popular holidays including this hotel or we can create a tailor made holiday, crafted for you.
Essential Sri Lanka
Explore the highlights of the island on a journey infused with immersion and exploration.
Family Adventure Sri Lanka
An action-packed trip perfect for adventurous couples or families. Wildlife, white-water rafting and quality hotels.
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Sri Lanka for Families & Friends
From luxurious villas to cultural experiences, this itinerary is designed for groups seeking relaxation, adventure, and quality time together.
Sri Lanka Summer Family Adventure
A great way to discover Sri Lanka from Easter through to August. Wildlife, rural adventures, and glorious beaches.
The Spirit of Sri Lanka
Packed with off-the-beaten-track cultural and wildlife experiences, this immersive holiday is led by remarkable women.
Map centered on AMBA Estate. Zoom out to view other hotels (H) and experiences (E) in the area.
Wondering when to visit Sri Lanka? Our Curious Traveller’s Guide to Sri Lanka will give you a more detailed breakdown of the best time of year to book a holiday, as well as tips on the best beaches, unmissable sites, and much more.
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