Andriyala

The Andriyala is, at best, a two star guesthouse which had been included in our tour package as a luxury boutique hotel. It is a 3 bedroom bungalow, poorly furnished, unwelcoming, with as much ambiance as a dentist waiting room. It had cracked window panes, different glass panels in the doors and no curtains over them for privacy or sleeping. The bedding was of poor quality. The bathroom had a window that didn’t close and could not be secured. There was a single small dining room with only one table for all to share. This “dining room” had a washbasin in one corner and a shabby toilet directly off it. Externally, the garden was pleasant enough but the swimming pool deck and steps were constructed from old railway sleepers which were rotten in places with large holes and splinters.

This is a pretty place and a small hotel. Staff were helpful and welcoming. Room was clean and bathroom modern. The gardens are very pretty and the pool was lovely and cool. We had dinner outside next to the pool with the fire lit as it’s cooler in the mountains. Food was good and the chef came and said hello too which was nice.

Location: The hotel is about 15 minutes' drive from Haputale and 5 minutes away from the Diyatalawa train station. Check-in: We were served cinnamon tea with palm sugar upon check-in. While our room was being cleaned, we waited in the hotel lobby where the friendly chef shared the hotel's history with us. Room: Our room featured a plush king bed, high ceilings, and sliding doors that open completely for an indoor-outdoor experience. The plunge pool is located next to the deck, overlooking the property's main pool and garden. The pool includes a jacuzzi. The room comes with a well-stocked coffee bar, and the spacious cupboard includes slippers and robes. The deck features two bean bags for lounging. The furniture and decor are modern and tasteful, offering a sense of quiet luxury. However, the room lacks privacy as it is next to the parking lot. The Wi-Fi in the room is fast and reliable. Food: We had dinner served in our room. The food was mild, and the dishes needed more seasoning. Service: The hotel manager, housekeeper, gardener, and chef are extremely friendly.

Staying at Andriyala was an unforgettable experience! The suite is spacious, with an amazing view that left us in awe every day. The bathroom is beautifully designed and even offers a breathtaking view, adding a touch of luxury to every moment. The private infinity pool was the highlight of our stay, offering a serene and relaxing escape. Meals were delicious and served on the deck, a perfect spot to unwind while soaking in the tranquil surroundings. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, going above and beyond to ensure we had a memorable stay. This peaceful oasis, so close to busy Ella, is a rare find. We feel lucky to have discovered such a calming and luxurious retreat. Grateful to the wonderful team at Andriyala - we can't wait to return!

Andriyala was an accidental find , we were initially scouting for places in Ella but it seemed too busy. So we looked at nearby areas and lucked out finding Andriyala. Set in a peaceful location with tastefully furnished rooms ,it is ideal for anyone looking to base themselves in a quiet location with the ability to visit Ella and Haputale easily from there. The service is truly outstanding and nothing was too much trouble for Shannen and Dinosha ( hope I spelt the names right!). The chef Premathilaka was also great at rustling up good food and on the last day made us a fantastic sri lankan breakfast and introduced us to kithul. I would definitely stay here again