The Spice Lodge

We felt welcome and well looked after from the moment we arrived. The staff were attentive, the room was spacious and spotless, and the decor and little details were lovely. The common areas were immaculate too, and the whole place had a calm, elegant feel. It was close to everything we wanted to visit while still being peaceful. Truly 10/10. I’d happily come back on my next visit.

Little Adams peak is close enough for an easy walk, and the city centre is nearby too, about 15 minutes on foot. When it was dark, we preferred taking a tuk-tuk. They cost a bit more in Ella than elsewhere, but were still affordable. The lodge was beautiful and very clean, and the owners were warm, friendly, and helpful. Sometimes a little squirrel comes to the terrace. We also recommend the cooking class run by the host family.

The cooking class was a real highlight. We joined the morning session from 11 am to 1 pm and made dhal, coconut sambal, cabbage curry, and eggplant curry. Everything turned out great, and we’ll keep making the recipes at home. We asked for a fully vegetarian class, which was no problem. There’s another class from 4 pm to 6 pm with different recipes, so you could even take both. Breakfast was delicious. We chose the local option, coconut roti with dahl and coconut sambal, though western choices like bread and egg are available too. The family who run this gem are incredibly welcoming and can help arrange water, beers, a tuk-tuk, or anything from town. The bed was comfortable and the bathroom clean. It’s on a hill near Little Adam’s Peak, so there are some stairs, but they’ll help with your luggage if needed. We shared the room or outdoor space with a few geckos, but they do a great job keeping the mosquitoes away.

We only stayed two nights and wished we could have stayed longer. Kamal and his family made us feel so welcome, and Kamal went out of his way to help us have a great stay. He even drove us to a beautiful waterfall for the day and can help with travel and suggestions. The Sri Lankan breakfast was spectacular, I could happily eat it again and again. Our room was spacious, clean, and had an unreal view. The town centre, with its restaurants and bars, is just a quick 15-minute walk away. It’s peaceful here, away from the bustle but still close by, just how we like it. The internet worked fine too. I’d highly recommend staying here and hope to return one day.