Forest Paddy Homestay

The hosts were nice and helpful, always saying hello, and the area felt safe and quiet because it's secluded. The property sits off the main road down a path on its own bit of land. Each room has balcony seating, the shower had hot water, and you can rent a scooter for 2,500 a day, which is the standard price. Just be aware that a tuktuk can't pick you up right outside. You have to walk a minute up or down a steep hill to the road. The main problem was the damp. The bathroom smelled terribly of drains, and the room stayed damp the entire time. We opened the windows and doors whenever we were in the room, but it didn't improve. Each morning there was moisture on the windows, and the bedsheets and our clothes always felt damp. It didn't feel healthy. Another couple staying there told us they had the same issue in their room. The bedsheets also had a few stains, and the WiFi was good enough for receiving messages, but not for sending them or loading anything. We left a day earlier than planned, partly because we'd seen everything in Ella and partly because of the damp and smell. The host did give us a half night discount.

We were welcomed with tea, biscuits, and cake when we arrived. The private room was well equipped and the best price around. The mother and son were lovely, always smiling, and their pet dog might be the cutest in Sri Lanka.

The family running this homestay were very kind, and their puppy, shadow, was so cute. Service was great and breakfast was good. The rooms are basic but nice and clean, in a lovely spot that's quiet but still within walking distance of Ella. They're still building extra rooms, so it's unfinished at the moment, though it should look even nicer when it's finished. I'm happy with our stay.

The family were sooo kind and helpful, and the private patio was nice. We had refillable water and laundry, and rented a scooter. It gave us some trouble, but the family were super amazing about giving us a good deal for it. It's a beautiful, quiet spot overlooking the jungle, and only a 10 minute walk into the city, which is so convenient. You can escape the noise here. Would 100% recommend!