Nestled in the verdant hills of Sri Lanka’s Ella region, Mount Haven stands as a testament to nature’s splendour and human ingenuity. The brainchild of Upali Saranapala, and now managed by his son Dhanushka Ranasinghe, this boutique hotel offers guests an unparalleled experience that seamlessly blends luxury, tranquillity, and an intimate connection with the natural environment. Over a few days, we immersed ourselves in the unique charm of Ella Mount Haven, uncovering the essence of what makes this destination so special.
Architectural harmony with nature
The architectural design of Ella Mount Haven is a direct reflection of Saranapala’s vision, with nature playing a central role in every element. As Ranasinghe explained: “The idea was to do something making nature key. The view was the main reason for selecting this place.” This commitment to integrating the natural surroundings is evident from the moment you step onto the property. The hotel’s location, perched at an elevation that offers sweeping vistas of the Ella Gap, provides a visual feast that is both breathtaking and humbling.
Each room at Ella Mount Haven tells its own story. The diversity in design ensures that no two stays are alike. “The rooms are very unique from one to another,” Ranasinghe noted. “Some room walls are natural rock walls, which extend to the washrooms, some have wooden finishes, and the super deluxe rooms have plunge pools inside the room.” This thoughtful approach not only highlights the natural beauty of the area but also offers guests a variety of ways to experience it.
A culinary journey like no other
One of the standout features of Ella Mount Haven is its exceptional cuisine. The hotel’s culinary offerings are a tribute to Saranapala’s extensive experience in the restaurant industry. “We believe we offer the biggest buffet in Ella,” said Ranasinghe. The dining experience at Ella Mount Haven is a rich tapestry of flavours, with Sri Lankan, Chinese, and Indian cuisines taking centre stage.
Ranasinghe proudly shared a bit of history, adding depth to the dining experience: “My father was one of the first people who actually got down Chinese chefs to Sri Lanka to work in his restaurants in Colpetty in the 80s. Since then, he himself learned the art of Chinese cuisine and to date, he trains our chefs in the hotel too.” This dedication to culinary excellence is evident in every dish, from the spicy and aromatic Sri Lankan curries to the delicate and flavourful Chinese delicacies.
The perfect location for exploration
Ella is renowned for its stunning landscapes and clean air, which are among the best in the country. The hotel’s location leverages this to full effect. “We are in the centre of iconic sites in Ella, namely Little Adam’s Peak and Ella Rock, and on the side is the view of Hambantota/Kataragama,” explained Ranasinghe. This central positioning allows guests to easily access some of the most breathtaking natural landmarks in Sri Lanka.
Our exploration of the area confirmed the hotel’s prime location. We embarked on hikes to both Little Adam’s Peak and Ella Rock, each offering unique perspectives of the region’s natural beauty. The views from these vantage points, particularly at sunrise and sunset, are nothing short of magical.
An unforgettable stay
Ella Mount Haven prides itself on offering an experience that goes beyond mere accommodation. The hotel’s approach is meticulously thought out to cater to its primary market: transit tourists on tour packages. “We focused mostly on transit tourists,” said Ranasinghe. “These tourists are mostly visiting Sri Lanka on tour packages and it was ideal to promote the business to the tour companies since we could accommodate larger groups.”
Despite catering to large groups, the hotel never feels crowded. This is due to the intelligent use of space and amenities designed to enhance the guest experience. “We made sure to keep expanding so the traffic in the restaurant, especially during the season time, was controlled,” Ranasinghe explained. The hotel’s expansive layout includes two function halls capable of hosting 350-400 guests, spacious parking facilities, and ample open areas where guests can relax and soak in the Ella climate.
Our review: A three-day immersion
From the moment we arrived at Ella Mount Haven, we were enveloped in the serene ambiance of the place. The welcoming smiles of the staff and the immediate sense of tranquillity set the tone for our stay. Our room, one of the super deluxe varieties, featured a natural rock wall that extended into the bathroom, creating a seamless connection with the outdoors. The private plunge pool was an unexpected delight, offering a luxurious way to unwind while taking in the stunning views of the Ella Gap.
The dining experience at the hotel was nothing short of spectacular. The buffet spread was indeed the largest we encountered in Ella, with an array of dishes that catered to every palate. The Sri Lankan specialties, in particular, stood out for their authenticity and rich flavours. We had the pleasure of tasting a variety of curries, each one more delicious than the last, and the Chinese cuisine, a nod to Saranapala’s culinary legacy, was equally impressive.
During our stay, we took advantage of the hotel’s location to explore the surrounding area. The hike to Little Adam’s Peak was invigorating, and the panoramic views from the top were worth every step. We also visited the famous Nine Arches Bridge, a marvel of engineering set against a backdrop of lush greenery. The hotel staff were more than happy to assist with our itinerary, providing helpful tips and arranging transportation.
In the evenings, we enjoyed the tranquil atmosphere of the hotel’s open spaces. The cool breeze, the sound of nature, and the mesmerising views made for a perfect end to our days of exploration. The hotel’s commitment to providing a relaxing environment is evident in every detail, from the comfortable seating areas to the well-maintained gardens.
Ella Mount Haven is not just a place to stay; it is an experience that lingers long after you have left. The combination of stunning natural surroundings, thoughtful architecture, exceptional cuisine, and warm hospitality creates a destination that is truly unique. As Ranasinghe aptly put it: “Since we are located in a place with a heavenly view, all of our rooms are built where this view is visible from the inside of the room itself, and also with a lot of open spaces to enjoy nature.”
For those seeking a retreat that offers both adventure and relaxation, Ella Mount Haven is the perfect choice. It is a place where you can reconnect with nature, indulge in world-class cuisine, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you are a transit tourist or a traveller looking for an immersive experience in Sri Lanka’s hill country, Ella Mount Haven promises an unforgettable stay.