Hikers Only - Misty Mountain Lodge

The area and views are incredibly beautiful, but bring plenty of warm clothes because the thin blankets won’t keep you warm. We didn’t get any hiking recommendations, even though we’d read the owner was very informative; the place has changed hands since then. The lady chef welcomed us with ginger tea and treated us very warmly. Sleep was difficult, though, because locals and even the owner joined loud late-night drinking sessions, and the noise echoed through all the rooms.

A good affordable option for hikers, probably the best budget choice around. It works well as a stop at the end of the Pekoe Trail. Book ahead and check the price. Signal and internet are limited across the area.

The home-cooked breakfast was simple and really tasty, and dinner was ready at the time we requested. The cook made authentic Sri Lankan food, including vegetables from the garden. They also sell local beer and bottled water. When the power went out during dinner, emergency lights were on, so we didn’t have to eat in the dark. We were trekking for two days from Nuwara Eliya to Ella and stopped here overnight. Walking through the village, meeting people, and being greeted by their little kids got us excited and made us feel at home. The lodge is secluded, reached by stairs, and surrounded by greenery and flowers. Two housekeepers welcomed us with refreshing black tea and ginger. Since we were the only guests, we could choose a room. There are plenty, each with at least four beds. They were basic but spotless, with clean bathrooms, soap, fresh towels, and hangers for drying clothes. For hikers, it’s better than many other places. It was cold at night, but we were exhausted from the trek and slept fine. You can use extra blankets if needed, and they were enough for us. There’s no Wi-Fi, and the local network doesn’t work. We didn’t mind being disconnected and enjoyed sitting outside in nature and having real conversations. The building feels outdated and needs an upgrade, especially the living room, but I’d still recommend it as a memorable place to unplug and see a part of Sri Lanka that few people get to experience. The local kids are very friendly. Many walk for hours to school, so bringing stationery to share can be appreciated. Pens are especially popular.

We texted the owner and got a reply at first, then nothing more. We were on the Pekoe Trail and walked 22 miles hoping to find rooms, only to arrive and find the place closed. They could at least have told us it was shut. Instead, we stayed at safari hill eco lodge, which was absolutely amazing and which I highly recommend.