Nuwara Eliya is a picturesque city in the Central Province of Sri Lanka that is known for its cool climate and stunning natural scenery. The city has many accommodation options, ranging from expensive high-end hotels to more affordable guesthouses and hostels. However, for foreign tourists, there is no reason to stay in a bunk bed hostel with other strangers when you can spend just a few more dollars and stay in a nice villa or guesthouse that even locals could afford easily.
Staying in comfortable accommodation is not only more comfortable but also offers a better experience overall. Not only will you have your own private room and bathroom, but you’ll also have access to amenities such as room service, housekeeping, and in some cases, luxury facilities like swimming pools and spas.
In this article, we’ll review two of the top hotels in Nuwara Eliya, Jetwing St. Andrews, and Mirage Kings Cottage.
Jetwing St. Andrews
Jetwing St. Andrews is a part of the Jetwing Hotel chain, one of the most prominent hotel chains in Sri Lanka. It is situated in the heart of Nuwara Eliya and boasts a rich history that dates back to the colonial era. Once you step inside the hotel, you’ll be greeted with charming decor that takes you back in time. The hotel has an old-world charm with a modern twist. The rooms are spacious, well-furnished, and equipped with all the necessary amenities. The hotel offers a range of rooms, including deluxe rooms, super deluxe rooms, and suites.
When it comes to dining options, Jetwing St. Andrews doesn’t disappoint. The hotel has two restaurants, the Old Course Restaurant and the Road Hole Bar. The Old Course Restaurant offers a range of international and local cuisine, including Sri Lankan, Indian, Chinese, and Western dishes. The Road Hole Bar is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing. The bar serves a variety of drinks, including cocktails, mocktails, and a range of spirits.
The hotel’s service is also worth mentioning. The staff is friendly, accommodating, and always willing to go the extra mile to make your stay comfortable. although we had some issues with room adjustments, upgrades, and downgrades that we didn’t expect. Despite this, Jetwing St. Andrews is a good place to stay, and we would rate it 6/10 as of now.
Mirage Kings Cottage
Moving on to Mirage Kings Cottage a luxurious boutique hotel located on the outskirts of Nuwara Eliya. The hotel is situated in a peaceful and secluded location, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of the mountains. The hotel has four deluxe rooms, which are spacious, tastefully decorated, and equipped with all modern amenities.
This property offers a range of activities for guests, including basketball, badminton, indoor table tennis, and carrom. There’s also a small outdoor hot water bathing area for guests to enjoy. The food at Mirage Kings Cottage is also excellent, with custom-made dishes available upon request. The service is outstanding, with the staff making sure everything is clean and tidy and always ready to help guests with any requests or needs.
I’d like to note that Mirage Cottage Kings is not in the same range of hotels as Jetwing St. Andrews, so a direct comparison between the two wouldn’t be appropriate. However, for Mirage Cottage Kings, the overall satisfaction rating could be added as 7/10.
In conclusion, while there are many options for accommodation in Nuwara Eliya, it’s important to choose one that offers comfort and convenience. While hostels may seem like an attractive option due to their lower prices, they may not always offer the best value for money. By choosing a comfortable hotel or guesthouse that is affordable for locals, travelers can enjoy a more authentic experience and make the most of their time in this beautiful hill town.
