Perched high in Sri Lanka’s central highlands near Dickoya, Camellia Hills is a luxurious, chic five-bedroom boutique tea bungalow offering spectacular panoramic views of the shimmering Castlereagh Reservoir and the surrounding pine-topped tea valleys.
This intimate and secluded retreat provides a serene, slow-paced escape from the bustle of the city, working harmoniously with its natural environment.
Guests can enjoy exceptional farm-to-table dining on a breezy outdoor terrace, unwind in the infinity pool, or sip Ceylon tea on the veranda. With its private, home-like atmosphere, breathtaking natural vistas, and easy access to local adventures, Camellia Hills delivers a perfect blend of modern luxury, colonial charm, and tranquil highland scenery.
Their story
Founded on the historic Dunkeld Estate, which dates back to 1875, Camellia Hills has a rich heritage. The land was acquired by a Sri Lankan family in 1948, and in 2017, the third-generation of that family built the boutique bungalow on a retained portion of the estate.
Today, Camellia Hills aims to integrate sustainability across its entire offering. Partnered with Travelife, the property is committed to reducing its environmental impact, sourcing responsibly, and actively uplifting surrounding communities through various service and conservation initiatives. Read more about them.
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Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- Camellia Hills uses a small-scale design that follows the site’s natural contours and preserves established vegetation. Its limited footprint helps reduce disturbance while supporting local habitats and biodiversity.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- Camellia Hills actively reduces its energy footprint by using energy-efficient LED lighting throughout the property and installing motion sensors and automatic controls in less-frequently occupied areas.
- Additionally, the bungalow utilizes solar energy for water heating, reducing its reliance on conventional energy sources.
Pioneer in waste management
- The property employs a waste-management approach focused on reduction, separation, and responsible disposal. Recyclable materials (paper, cardboard, glass, metal, and plastics) and organic kitchen waste are separated for appropriate recycling or disposal.
- To minimize single-use plastics, the bungalow utilizes reusable glassware, crockery, cutlery, and refillable glass bottles.
- Water conservation measures are also in place, including the installation of water-flow restricting nozzles on taps and showers.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- Camellia Hills places fresh, seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine at the center of its dining experience. The property grows its own organic herbs and vegetables in an on-site garden.
- Other ingredients, including meat, seafood, and specialty items like strawberries from Nuwara Eliya, are sourced from local markets and nearby towns to maintain low food miles.
Actively protects nature and community
- Camellia Hills is dedicated to biodiversity and community support. The property preserves wildlife habitats by maintaining natural gardens and native highland vegetation.
- In partnership with Travelife, they support the local economy through employment and local sourcing. Community initiatives include educating children from the Dunkeld Upper Division on sustainability, wildlife conservation, reforestation, and biodiversity. They also support local women with home garden projects, regularly donate jackfruit trees to the Upper Dunkeld community, and run community service projects.
Most Popular Activities Near Camellia Hills
- Sri Lankan Cooking Experience
- Birdwatching
- Scenic Tea Estate Walks
- Sundowners at the Secret Viewpoint
- Fisherman Canoe Ride on Castlereagh Reservoir
- Late Night Wilderness Walk
- Hiking The Pekoe Trail (Stages 7 & 8)
- Guided Tea Factory Tour
- Real Life Stories Behind Your Cup of Tea
- Visit to the 19th Century Christ Church Warleigh
- Afternoon Picnic by a Waterfall
- Climbing Adam’s Peak
- Visit to Horton Plains National Park
- White Water Rafting
Best Time To Visit Camellia Hills
- The best time to visit for outdoor activities like hiking, walks, and canoe rides is from January to April, and during July and August, when the skies are clearest and there is the most sunshine.
- However, the wetter months of May, June, and September through November offer a cozy, visually stunning atmosphere as rains replenish the hills and fill the reservoir.