Sri Lanka’s hill country has long captivated travellers with its rolling tea plantations, cool mountain air, and timeless colonial charm. Recently, the beauty of this region was showcased in a feature by National Geographic, highlighting the landscapes and heritage of Sri Lanka’s misty tea country, and among the iconic locations featured is Stafford Bungalow.
The feature, “See Sri Lanka’s misty tea country—in pictures,” captures the breathtaking scenery of Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands, where lush tea estates stretch across forested peaks and rolling hills. The region has been producing world-renowned tea since the 19th century, when British planters first established the plantations that still shape the landscape today.
Set within a private tea estate in the hills near Nuwara Eliya, Stafford Bungalow represents the heritage of Sri Lanka’s plantation era. Originally built in the late 19th century as the residence of Scottish tea planters, the historic bungalow has been carefully restored into a boutique luxury retreat while preserving its colonial charm.
Surrounded by emerald tea fields and mist-covered mountains, the estate offers an authentic tea-country experience. Guests can wander through the plantation, learn the delicate art of tea plucking, enjoy guided hikes through the highlands, and taste freshly brewed Ceylon tea directly from the source.
The Central Highlands are one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic regions. Mist drifts through valleys, historic railways wind through forests and plantations, and colonial-era estates remain scattered across the hills.
From Stafford Bungalow, travellers can explore the best of the hill country — from scenic tea estate walks and birdwatching to hiking trails that reveal sweeping views of Sri Lanka’s mountains. The region’s cool climate and peaceful atmosphere provide a refreshing contrast to the island’s tropical coastline.
What makes Stafford Bungalow particularly special is its sense of place. Unlike larger hotels, the bungalow offers an intimate experience with personalised hospitality, elegant heritage interiors, and stunning views across the surrounding tea plantations.
Guests wake up to mist-covered hills, enjoy breakfast overlooking the gardens, and spend the day exploring one of the world’s most famous tea-growing regions.
Being featured in a publication as respected as National Geographic reflects the unique character of Stafford Bungalow and the timeless appeal of Sri Lanka’s tea country. The estate represents the intersection of history, nature, and authentic travel experiences — exactly the type of destination modern travellers seek.
For those planning a winter sun escape to Sri Lanka, Stafford Bungalow offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the island’s highlands, where heritage meets luxury and every day begins with the aroma of freshly brewed tea.
