holiday Archives

Sri Lanka revises tourist target

Holiday, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Sri Lanka revises its target tourist numbers

The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority has revised its target tourist numbers from an ambitious 3 million in calendar year 2025 to in excess of 2.6 million.

It was a huge jump from the 2.053 million visitors in 2024 and achieving in excess of 2.6 million visitor will still be a significant rise.

Arrivals to August 2025 were 1.566 million and therefore the target is still an ambitious leap.

In the press

The announcement of Sri Lanka’s revised tourist numbers came from Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) Chairman Buddhika Hewawasam when he spoke at the Connect and Conversations forum.

Read the Daily Mirror article here.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more.

Sri Lanka revises tourist target Read More »

Free Sri Lankan Tourist Visa

Accommodation, Ella, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, visa / By Mikeez

Free Sri Lankan Tourist Visa

Hot off the press on the 25th of July it was announced that 40 countries are now eligible for a free tourist visa to Sri Lanka.

As the country chasing 3m tourists for the calendar year 2025.
This will help complete with other free tourist visa countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

Hopefully, more travellers will discover this incredible and amazing island.

What countries are included for the Free Visa?

We first saw the announce meant in the Daily Mirror online.

Please click on the following articles to read what was released.

Here is the full list of 40 countries now eligible for visa-free entry:

Check this list to see whether you are eligible for a free tourist visa.

1. United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

2. Federal Republic of Germany

3. Kingdom of the Netherlands

4. Commonwealth of Australia

5. Kingdom of Spain

6. Republic of Poland

7. Kingdom of Belgium

8. Republic of Kazakhstan

9. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

10. United Arab Emirates

11. Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal

12. People’s Republic of China

13. Republic of India

14. Russian Federation

15. Republic of Indonesia

16. Kingdom of Thailand

17. Federation of Malaya

18. Japan

19. Republic of France

20. United States of America

21. Canada

22. Czech Republic (Czechia)

23. Republic of Italy

24. Swiss Confederation (Switzerland)

25. Republic of Austria

26. State of Israel

27. Republic of Belarus

28. Islamic Republic of Iran

29. Kingdom of Sweden

30. Republic of Finland

31. Kingdom of Denmark

32. Republic of Korea

33. State of Qatar

34. Sultanate of Oman

35. Kingdom of Bahrain

36. New Zealand

37. State of Kuwait

38. Kingdom of Norway

39. Republic of Türkiye

40. Pakistan

Only Apply at the Government Website

Please do not use intermediaries to buy your visa.

Logon to this link to the Official Sri Lankan Government Website to purchase your visa.

It’s easy and they tend to respond quite quickly.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Free Sri Lankan Tourist Visa Read More »

Top Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in July

Holiday, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Top Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in July

Where are the Top Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in July?

July in Sri Lanka is a hidden gem for travelers seeking fewer crowds, vibrant festivals, and diverse landscapes.

While the southwest coast sees some monsoon showers, the east and central regions remain sunny and welcoming—perfect for adventure and relaxation

East Coast Bliss

Top places to visit in July

Trincomalee shines in July with its calm seas and golden beaches.

Head to Nilaveli or Uppuveli for snorkeling, whale watching, and serene sunsets.

The historic Fort Frederick and Koneswaram Temple add cultural depth to your beach escape.

Hill Country Escapes

The central highlands offer cool weather and lush scenery.

Ella is a favorite for hiking trails like Little Adam’s Peak and the iconic Nine Arches Bridge.

Nearby, Nuwara Eliya charms with colonial architecture, tea plantations, and the Hakgala Botanical Gardens.

Wildlife & Heritage

Yala National Park is ideal for spotting leopards, elephants, and birds. July’s dry conditions make wildlife safaris especially rewarding.

For history buffs, Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura showcase ancient ruins and sacred temples that echo Sri Lanka’s rich past.

Festival Fever

Top places to visit in July

Don’t miss the Esala Perahera in Kandy, one of Asia’s most spectacular Buddhist festivals.

Expect dazzling processions, traditional dancers, and elaborately adorned elephants celebrating the sacred tooth relic of Buddha

Stay at GlenMyu Estate

To truly unwind and avoid the tourist rush, book a stay at GlenMyu Estate boutique villa near Haputale.

Surrounded by misty hills and tranquil nature, it’s the perfect base for exploring the central highlands while enjoying personalized hospitality and peaceful seclusion.

As there are only three guests bedrooms, with a maximum of seven people, on the five acre estate, you will experience the luxury of being away from the crowds.

The weather in the hills also provides some relief from the warmer and more humid areas on the island.

Travel Tips

– Focus your itinerary on the east coast and central highlands for the best weather.

– Pack light layers and a rain jacket for occasional showers.

– Book festival accommodations early—Kandy gets busy during Esala Perahera.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, ancient wonders, or quiet mountain retreats, Sri Lanka in July offers a magical mix of culture, nature, and serenity.

Let the island surprise you.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Top Places to Visit in Sri Lanka in July Read More »

A view from the middle floor lounge at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel, Bed and Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

The Smartest Way to Holiday in Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Food and Drink, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Organic, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, Reviews from our guests, Sri Lankan Cooking, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

The Smartest Way to Holiday in Sri Lanka

Why Booking All Three Rooms at GlenMyu Estate Is the Smartest Way to Holiday in Sri Lanka

🏡 Your Private Slice of Paradise in the Hill Country

When planning a holiday with family or close friends, privacy, comfort, and shared experiences are key.

That’s why booking all three rooms at GlenMyu Estate, a boutique villa nestled in Sri Lanka’s lush Hill Country, is a brilliant choice.

With exclusive access to the estate, you’ll enjoy the freedom to relax, explore, and connect—without the distractions of other guests.

Perfect for Families and Friends

GlenMyu Estate offers three beautifully appointed en-suite bedrooms—two doubles and one triple—accommodating up to seven guests comfortably.

Whether you’re traveling with extended family or a group of friends, having the entire villa to yourselves means:

– 🍽️ Shared meals and laughter around one table
– 🛏️ No awkward room assignments or shared bathrooms with strangers
– 🧘‍♀️ Freedom to unwind in spacious lounges and garden nooks
– 🐾 Exclusive access to the estate’s resident animals—including friendly rescue dogs, ducks, chickens, and cows

Five Acres of Space to Roam and Relax

Unlike crowded hotels, GlenMyu Estate offers five acres of landscaped gardens, forest trails, and hidden seating areas.

You can explore the spice garden, take a dip in the natural spring-fed pool, or simply enjoy the panoramic views from your room’s floor-to-ceiling windows.

Create Unforgettable Group Memories

Booking all three rooms transforms your stay into a private retreat.

Guests often describe their time at GlenMyu as magical—filled with:

– 🌄 Sunset walks and waterfall visits
– 🍛 Sri Lankan cooking demonstrations hosted by the owners
– 📚 Board games and books in cozy lounges
– 🐒 Wildlife sightings, including monkeys and endemic birds

Visitors rave about the estate’s peaceful atmosphere, gourmet food, and warm hospitality.

Many say they wish they’d stayed longer—and that having the whole villa to themselves made the experience truly special.

Value and Flexibility

Booking all three rooms often comes with special direct rates for longer stays.

It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy luxury, privacy, and personalised service—without the premium price tag of larger resorts.

Ready to Book Your Group Escape?

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, planning a reunion, or simply craving quality time with loved ones, GlenMyu Estate offers the perfect setting.

It’s not just a place to stay—it’s a place to reconnect, recharge, and make memories that last a lifetime.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The Smartest Way to Holiday in Sri Lanka Read More »

Why Sri Lanka Should Be Your Next Holiday Destination

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Natural Swimming Pool, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Why Sri Lanka Should Be Your Next Holiday Destination

Why Sri Lanka Should Be Your Next Holiday Destination — and Why GlenMyu Estate Is the Place to Stay

Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a breathtaking island that promises an unforgettable blend of rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.

Whether you’re craving golden beaches, lush tea plantations, exotic wildlife, or centuries-old temples, Sri Lanka delivers it all with vibrant charm and soul-refreshing beauty.

Top Reasons to Visit Sri Lanka

Here are our Top Reasons to Visit Sri Lanka:

– Diverse Landscapes:

From the rolling hills of Ella to the wild safaris of Yala National Park, Sri Lanka offers dramatic scenery and outdoor adventures that cater to every traveler.

– World-Class Beaches:

Unwind along the pristine shores of Mirissa, Arugam Bay, or Unawatuna — ideal for surfing, sunbathing, and soaking in tropical bliss.

– Cultural Riches:

Discover ancient cities like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, visit the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and immerse yourself in sacred traditions.

– Delicious Cuisine:

Sample aromatic curries, fresh seafood, and a fusion of flavors that tell the story of Sri Lanka’s multicultural heritage.

Lots of our guests enjoy a cookery demonstration with Summi at GlenMyu Estate.

Why GlenMyu Estate Should Be Your Home Base

Located near Haputale in the stunning Uva Province, GlenMyu Estate is a luxurious boutique villa that feels like a hidden sanctuary in nature’s embrace.

Surrounded by misty mountains and lush gardens, it offers the perfect retreat after a day of exploration.

Here’s why GlenMyu Estate stands out

– Exclusive Experience: With only a handful of thoughtfully designed rooms, guests enjoy personalized service and privacy.

– Eco-Friendly Elegance: The estate’s commitment to sustainability and harmonious living with nature sets it apart as a responsible luxury destination.

– Panoramic Views: Wake up to breathtaking sunrises and unwind with views stretching across the valley and tea-covered hills.

– Wellness & Rejuvenation: Enjoy organic meals, nature walks, and meditation corners that promote inner peace and vitality.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, GlenMyu Estate offers a unique way to experience Sri Lanka’s wonders.

Book your stay and discover a hidden paradise that you’ll never want to leave.

Plan your dream holiday to Sri Lanka — where vibrant culture meets serene luxury at GlenMyu Estate.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Why Sri Lanka Should Be Your Next Holiday Destination Read More »

Sri Lanka in August

Accommodation, Ella, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Reviews from our guests, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Sri Lanka in August

August is a great month to visit Sri Lanka.

This is our driest month in the Sri Lankan Hill Country at GlenMyu Estate.

Unlike other months you are unlikely to see any rain which could spoil some of the sightseeing when you are on holiday.

What is the month of August like in Sri Lanka?

Clearly, the weather around the globe is less predictable. Heatwaves in the UK, flooding in Spain and too many wildfires in the US and Australia makes planning your holiday less certain.

Sri Lanka is affected by Monsoons, however, in the hill country, typically we get little or no rain.

It makes it a safer place to visit when you want to avoid adverse weather.

The Weather in August in Sri Lanka

At GlenMyu Estate, near Beragala, Sri Lanka we find that August is a dry month. Fortunately, we have springs on the five acre estate, and to date have always had water throughout the year.

It’s great to spend time at the natural spring-fed swimming pool after a days exploring the sights nearby.

I have some links to weather sites so you can seed for yourself what you should expect.

Not good for the garden, but great for the guests

One of the reasons why the Sri Lankan Hill country is so lush is that it gets regular bouts of rain.

However, with little or no rain in August, we get the sprinklers on to keep the lawns in good shape.

Here is Patch enjoying the shoe looking at the swimming pool in the distance.

Is going in holiday to Sri Lanka in August a good idea?

August is a high tourist season in Sri Lanka due to the weather and the natural holiday period in the west.

We have found that many more Australians, New Zealanders and South Africans are visiting Sri Lanka in August.

If you are looking to avoid the Southern Hemisphere winter, then visiting Sri Lanka in August is a good choice.

Arugam Bay is great for surfing at this time of year. The East coast beaches are also open and visiting this less developed part of the island is great if you want to avoid the crowds.

Yes, it's great to holiday in Sri Lanka in August

As Sri Lanka is still developing its’ tourism offering the local people welcome tourists.

Unlike some established tourist spots in Europe, you won’t be squirted with a water pistol!

The East and North Coasts of the island were not available to visit during the countries civil war which ended over fifteen years ago.

If you are looking to explore a place which has not been overdeveloped then Sri Lanka is a great place to holiday in August.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Sri Lanka in August Read More »

Melbourne to Sri Lanka

Food and Drink, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, Reviews from our guests, sri lankan recipes, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

Melbourne to Sri Lanka - an easy choice for a holiday for Aussies

Dreaming of a tropical escape that’s just a direct flight away?

For Australians, Sri Lanka is an increasingly attractive destination—and getting there from Melbourne couldn’t be easier.

With daily non-stop flights operated by SriLankan Airlines, travellers can board in Melbourne and touch down in Colombo in just under 11 hours.

No layovers, no fuss—just a smooth journey to a land of lush landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality.

Let the magic begin!

Once you arrive, the real magic begins.

While Sri Lanka offers a wide range of experiences, those seeking a blend of comfort, authenticity, and culinary delight should look no further than GlenMyu Estate.

Tucked away in the emerald hills near Beragala, this boutique villa has become a favourite among discerning travellers—especially food lovers.

Quality cusuisine - read the reviews

Australians are known for their appreciation of quality cuisine, and GlenMyu Estate delivers in spades.

Guests consistently rave about the meals, describing them as some of the best they’ve had anywhere on the island.

Don’t take our word for it, read the guest reviews.

What sets GlenMyu apart is its commitment to freshness and sustainability. Much of the produce used in the kitchen is grown right on the estate’s five-acre property—from jackfruit and cinnamon to edible leaves, herbs, and tropical fruits.

Eggs come from the villa’s own free-range hens, and the garden-to-table ethos is evident in every dish.

A culinary expereince

The culinary experience at GlenMyu isn’t just about eating—it’s about connection.

Guests are often invited to watch or even participate in cooking demonstrations, learning how to prepare traditional Sri Lankan dishes with a modern twist.

It’s a chance to engage with local culture in a meaningful and delicious way.

Beyond the food

Beyond the food, GlenMyu Estate offers a serene retreat with panoramic views.

A natural spring-fed pool, and easy access to nearby attractions like Lipton’s Seat and the Pekoe Trail.

It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and every detail—from the warm hospitality to the scent of fresh-baked bread in the morning—makes you feel at home.

Melbourne to Sri Lanka - a good choice

So if you’re craving a holiday that’s both accessible and unforgettable, consider hopping on that direct flight from Melbourne to Sri Lanka.

With GlenMyu Estate as your base, you’ll discover that paradise isn’t just a place—it’s a flavour, a feeling, and a feast for the senses.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Melbourne to Sri Lanka Read More »

Sri Lanka in May

Birdwatching, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Life in Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Sri Lanka in May

What is the month of May like in Sri Lanka?

Here are my notes from May 2025.

The weather in Sri Lanka is getting less predictable which we fear is all part of global warming.
However, sometimes these changes are positive as we experience better weather elongating the tourist season.

As Sri Lanka looks to market itself as a year round destination providing you with an idea of what happens during each month will help you make a decision on whether to travel out of season.

An unexpected May in Sri Lanka

At GlenMyu Estate, we were a little surprised by the weather in early May 2025.

Normally we would expect regular rains in the Sri Lankan Hill country at this time of the year.

As it is the low tourist period it gives us a chance to do some maintenance around the estate.

The expected rains are when we start planting as the plants have time to establish without the intensity of the sun.

This year, we did have guests in early May and they had fabulous weather.

I had sent links to weather sites when they booked so that they knew what to expect. This year the weather surprised us and was good with on a few short showers during the month.

Another building

Going on holiday and finding out that there is building work going on next to the hotel you are staying is a bit of a nightmare. You don’t go for a restful holiday and expect to be disturbed by building work.

This is why, at GlenMyu Estate, we tend to carry out any noisy building work out of season. I won’t even cut the grass when we have guests on site as I want them to have a relaxing time and not be disturbed by the whirr of the brush cutter.

As over the last two years, we have had very few guests in May and June, we tend to carry out building work during these quieter months.

We plan to have our new building ready for the next peak tourist season in July 2025.

Not good for the garden, but great for the guests

One of the reasons why the Sri Lankan Hill country is so lush is that it gets regular bouts of rain. Often, this is only for thirty minutes or so.
This provides the opportunity to clear any humidity from the air and to provide the land which much needed watering.

May 2025 in Sri Lanka was therefore great for our guests but not for the garden. Fortunately we have plenty of springs at GlenMyu Estate and we can always water the garden when it is needed.

Is going in holiday to Sri Lanka in May a good idea?

Holidaying in the off season is always a risk. However, there are great deals for accommodation in Sri Lanka during May and June.

If you find you are in one part of the island and it is too rainy, you can always find some reasonably priced accommodation elsewhere at short notice.

You can follow the good weather and get a different experience than most travellers to the island that keep to the peak tourist seasons where the weather is historically better.

Experience Sri Lanka without the crowds

Getting a train ticket from Kandy to Ella, climbing the Lion Rock and seeing animals on a safari is more enjoyable without the crowds.

There will be more risk of rain but if you don’t want to be in competition with other tourists, the holidaying in Sri Lanka in May, may well be worth the risk.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Sri Lanka in May Read More »

The Perfect Temperature

Accommodation, Holiday, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Natural Swimming Pool, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

The Perfect Temperature

The Perfect Temperature….at least it is for us and our guests at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka

Nestled in the emerald hills of Sri Lanka’s Uva Province, GlenMyu Estate offers more than just luxury—it delivers a climate that many would call perfect.

The Perfect Temperature: A Year-Round Embrace at GlenMyu Estate

Perched some 400 metres below Haputale, this boutique villa sits at an elevation that gifts it with a temperate climate year-round.

This makes it a haven for travellers seeking comfort, serenity. It is a welcome break from the extremes of tropical heat or monsoon chill.

A Climate of Calm

Unlike the coastal lowlands of Sri Lanka, which can be hot and humid, GlenMyu Estate enjoys a cooler, more refreshing atmosphere thanks to its hill country location.

Daytime temperatures typically hover between 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F) throughout the year.

Evenings bring a gentle drop in temperature, often settling around 15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F). It’s perfect for cozying up with a warm drink and a view of the mist rolling over the hills.

Seasonal Shifts Without Extremes

– January to March: These months are dry and sunny, with crisp mornings and golden afternoons.

It’s ideal for hiking nearby trails or lounging by the estate’s natural spring-fed pool.

– April to June: The inter-monsoon period brings occasional showers, but the temperature remains mild.
The estate’s gardens burst into bloom, and the air is rich with the scent of fresh earth and flowers.

The second half

– July to September: Our driest month is August. It then turns slightly cooler and mistier into September.
This is when the hills wear a veil of fog in the mornings. It’s a magical time for nature lovers and photographers.

– October to December: Rainfall increases slightly. But the estate’s elevated position means it avoids the heavy downpours seen in other regions.

The temperature remains steady, and the lush greenery is at its most vibrant. Mid December sees an improvement in the weather as the Festive Season approaches.

Why It Feels Just Right

The secret to GlenMyu’s perfect temperature lies in its balance.

It’s warm enough to enjoy the outdoors comfortably. Yet it is cool enough to sleep soundly without air conditioning.

The villa’s design embraces this climate, with open lounges and shaded verandas. Large windows invite in the breeze and birdsong.

Whether you’re sipping tea on the terrace or exploring the nearby waterfalls and trails, GlenMyu Estate offers a climate that soothes the body and uplifts the spirit.

It’s not just a place to stay—it’s a place to breathe.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The Perfect Temperature Read More »

Les Français pourraient adorer passer leurs vacances au Sri Lanka

Ella, Food and Drink, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, sri lankan recipes, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

Pourquoi les Français pourraient adorer passer leurs vacances au Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka, surnommée la ‘ Perle de L’Océan Indien’, gagne en popularité auprès des voyageurs français.

Avec son climat tropical, sa culture fascinante, sa cuisine épicée et ses paysages variés, l’île offre une alternative exotique, chaleureuse et authentique aux destinations touristiques classiques d’Asie ou d’Europe.

Dépaysement sans excès de distance

L’un des attraits majeurs pour les Français est le dépaysement sans excès de distance.

En une dizaine d’heures de vol depuis Paris (souvent via Doha, Dubaï ou Istanbul), on atterrit dans un pays aux mille contrastes, alliant plages paradisiaques, plantations de thé verdoyantes et montagnes brumeuses.

Pour ceux qui veulent changer d’air sans traverser la planète, Sri Lanka est un excellent compromis

Le climat

Le climat est également un atout.

Alors que l’hiver s’installe en France, de novembre à mars, Sri Lanka profite de températures estivales et d’un ciel souvent dégagé, notamment sur la côte sud et ouest.

C’est une destination idéale pour échapper au froid, en couple, en famille ou entre amis.

Patrimoine et d’histoire

Les amateurs de patrimoine et d’histoire seront comblés. Le triangle culturel – Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura – regorge de temples anciens, de statues monumentales et de ruines fascinantes. Pour les Français, férus d’art et d’histoire, ces trésors offrent une immersion dans une civilisation bouddhiste millénaire, à la fois accessible et captivante.

Nature et aventure

Côté nature et aventure, les possibilités sont nombreuses : randonnées dans les montagnes d’Ella ou de Nuwara Eliya, safaris à la rencontre des éléphants et léopards dans les parcs de Yala ou Udawalawe, plongée ou surf sur les plages de Mirissa et Arugam Bay.

Ce mélange d’activités plaît beaucoup aux Français, qui cherchent souvent à varier les expériences lors de leurs voyages.

La gastronomie sri-lankaise

La gastronomie sri-lankaise, riche en épices, poissons frais, noix de coco et légumes, ravira les papilles des gourmets français.

Le rice and curry, les hoppers ou le kottu roti offrent un voyage culinaire à chaque repas, pour quelques euros seulement.

Les Sri-Lankais

Enfin, les Sri-Lankais, souriants et chaleureux, savent accueillir avec simplicité et générosité.

Beaucoup parlent anglais, certains même quelques mots de français, facilitant les échanges.

Pour les Français en quête d’une destination à la fois dépaysante, abordable, ensoleillée et culturellement riche, Sri Lanka est un véritable bijou à découvrir… avant que tout le monde ne s’y précipite.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Les Français pourraient adorer passer leurs vacances au Sri Lanka Read More »

14-day itinerary Sri Lanka

Accommodation, Ella, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Safari, Surfing, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

A 14-day itinerary Sri Lanka holiday.

A 14-day itinerary Sri Lanka holiday.

Sri Lanka is full with so many experiences that it is a challenge fitting in a 14-day holiday on this paradise island.

We wanted to suggest a journey through Sri Lanka, blending cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and wildlife encounters!

Here’s, what we consider to be, a well-balanced 14-day itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Negombo

Day 1: Arrival in Negombo

– Relax at Negombo Beach and explore the local fish market.

– Overnight stay in Negombo.

Negombo is only a twenty minute drive. So, you can be at the beach shortly after your arrival on the island.

Day 2-3: Dambulla & Sigiriya

Day 2-3: Dambulla & Sigiriya

– Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

– Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress for stunning views.

– Explore Pidurangala Rock for an alternative sunrise hike.

– Overnight stay in Sigiriya or Dambulla.

Day 4-5: Kandy

Day 4-5: Kandy

– Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

– Stroll around Kandy Lake and explore the Royal Botanical Gardens.

– Enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance performance.

– Overnight stay in Kandy

Day 6-7: Nuwara Eliya - 14-day-itinerary-sri-lanka

Day 6-7: Nuwara Eliya

– Take the scenic train ride from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya.

– Visit a tea plantation and factory.

– Explore Gregory Lake and the colonial-era town.

– Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 8: Horton Plains National Park

Day 8: Horton Plains National Park

– Hike to World’s End and Baker’s Falls.

– Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya or Ella.

Day 9-10: Ella

Day 9-10: Ella

– Visit Little Adam’s Peak and Nine Arches Bridge.

– Explore Ravana Falls and enjoy the laid-back vibe of Ella.

– Overnight stay in Ella.

Day 11: Yala National Park

Day 11: Yala National Park

– Embark on a safari to spot leopards, elephants, and other wildlife.

– Overnight stay near Yala.

14-day-itinerary-sri-lanka

Day 12: Udawalawe National Park

Day 12: Udawalawe National Park

– Visit the Elephant Transit Home.

– Enjoy a safari in Udawalawe National Park.

– Overnight stay near Udawalawe.

Day 13: Mirissa & Rekawa Beach

Day 13: Mirissa & Rekawa Beach

– Go whale watching in Mirissa.

– Relax at Rekawa Beach, known for turtle nesting.

– Overnight stay in Tangalle.

Day 14: Tangalle & Departure

Day 14: Tangalle & Departure

– Enjoy the serene beaches of Tangalle.

– Transfer back to Colombo for departure.

This 14-day itinerary for Sri Lanka balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

14-day itinerary Sri Lanka Read More »

Australians Holidaying in Sri Lanka

Holiday, Sri Lanka, Surfing, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Why are Australians Holidaying in Sri Lanka?

Why are Australians Holidaying in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is fast becoming a favourite destination for Australian travellers—and for good reason. With its tropical beaches, vibrant culture, wildlife encounters, and affordability.
This paradise island nation offers an ideal mix of adventure, relaxation, and climate that fits perfectly with the Australian holiday mindset.

Seasonal Timing

One key appeal is seasonal timing.

When much of Australia experiences winter (June to August), Sri Lanka enjoys warm, dry weather—particularly on the east coast.

For Australians seeking to escape the chill, places like Arugam Bay, Pasikudah, and Trincomalee offer sun-soaked beaches, warm ocean swims, and a laid-back island vibe.

It’s the perfect short-haul getaway that doesn’t require a long-haul flight to Europe or the Americas.

Surf culture

Surf culture also resonates strongly. Australians, known for their love of the waves, find Sri Lanka’s surf scene refreshingly uncrowded and beginner-friendly.

Arugam Bay is considered one of the top surf destinations in the world and has a relaxed, Byron Bay-like energy that feels familiar.

Weligama and Hikkaduwa also offer reliable swells and surf schools that appeal to both seasoned surfers and first-timers.

Wildlife Safaris

For nature lovers, wildlife safaris offer a unique experience just hours from the beach.

Australians used to African safaris or trips to Kakadu are amazed to find wild elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and hundreds of bird species in national parks like Yala, Udawalawe, and Minneriya.

Many tours are family-friendly, making Sri Lanka a great destination for Australian families.

Cultural Curiosity

Cultural curiosity also plays a part. Australians travelling overseas often seek meaningful cultural experiences.

Sri Lanka delivers with ancient cities like Anuradhapura, the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, and colonial influences in Galle Fort.

The country’s deep Buddhist heritage also provides a peaceful and reflective atmosphere, appealing to travellers interested in spirituality or history.

Value for Money

Importantly, Sri Lanka offers great value for money.

With the Australian dollar going far, it’s possible to enjoy boutique accommodation, great food, and private tours for a fraction of the cost of similar experiences in Europe or North America.

Short Travel Time

Add to that the short travel time—just 11–13 hours from major cities like Sydney or Melbourne—and you have a destination that offers sun during Aussie winter, warm-hearted locals, rich experiences, and a relaxed pace. For Australians looking for something beyond the typical Bali or Thailand trip, Sri Lanka is a refreshing and rewarding alternative.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Australians Holidaying in Sri Lanka Read More »

Sri Lanka Summer 2025

Accommodation, Birdwatching, Holiday, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Sri Lanka Holiday in the Summer of 2025

Thinking about a holiday in Sri Lanka during the summer of 2025?

At GlenMyu Estate, we are seeing a rise in visitor numbers during mid July, August and through to mid September.

August is our driest month and our guests particularly enjoy spending time at our natural spring fed infinity swimming pool.

A new summer destination?

Sri Lanka has been a favourite place to escape the winter blues for Northern Europeans.

The beaches on the west and east coast are idyllic at that time of year. You can also get your fill of culture, nature, hiking and history in the Central Highlands and cultural triangle.

Feeling the worn tropical sun during the depths of winter is good for the body and soul. It’s also an opportunity to arrive back at work with a suntan feeling refreshed and rested.

During the Northern Hemisphere summer months travelling to the Mediterranean was a shorter flight and inexpensive.

Now, as many of the resorts are suffering from over tourism and protests have made tourists feel unwelcome, lots of travellers are looking further afield.

Sri Lanka is becoming a more popular destination to experience during these summer months.

Since the countries civil was finished in 2009 the East and North of the island have been welcoming more tourists.

This part of the island is best visited during the summer months.

The beaches are different from the south and west and tourism is slowly developing.

Arugam Bay - re-found

Australians were regular visitors for the surfing at Arugam Bay.

Sri Lanka had many challenges including the global pandemic and a financial crisis and many Australians sought other destinations to escape their winter.

Now they are back and Sri Lanka is soundly on their tourist map again.

Many other nations have found Arugam Bay and as more Europeans seek to escape the European summer it will become even more popular.

Great ambitions for Sri Lanka during the summer of 2025

Tourism is one of the focuses for the government as it tries to rebuilt the economy.

Tourist numbers are rising fast.

They jumped from 719,000 in 2022 to 1.4 million in 2023.

The year 2024 saw 2.05 million and the plan is for 3 million in 2025 according to the newly released “Growth Scenarios for Tourism to Sri Lanka”.

Get here now - Sri Lanka Summer 2025

Given the ambitious targets by the Sri Lanka Tourist Development Authority, the message is loud and clear “Visit Sri Lanka soon!”.

We don’t envisage over tourism in Sri Lanka, but as numbers grow, unique experiences will get more challenging.

Great places to visit in Sri Lanka during the Summer of 2025

The beaches are not the only places to explore on this tropical island.

The Central Highlands are also good to visit during the summer months. Experiencing the sights around Ella, including Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana Waterfall and Little Adams Peak are great places to visit.

If you like hiking then perhaps the new Pekoe Trail is for you.

Several of our guests at GlenMyu Estate start the stages from and to Haputale.

Kandy and the Cultural Triangle

You are also able to visit the Cultural Triangle in Sri Lanka during the summer months. You may come across some rain however exploring the rich historical and cultural heritage in the area is worthwhile.

The Cultural Triangle encompassing ancient cities like Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy. There is an amazing array of ancient monuments, temples, palaces, and statues that showcasing Sri Lanka’s Buddhist traditions, royal history, and artistic achievements.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Sri Lanka Summer 2025 Read More »

Looking Up

Birdwatching, Holiday, Our Animals at GlenMyu Estate, Our dogs, Photography, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, Travel / By Mikeez

Looking Up!

Looking up at GlenMyu Estate and appreciating nature.

This morning I dumped my phone and just sat on black metal chair next to the lawn.

Listening to the birds, I inhaled deeply and connected with the nature around me.

Instead of looking at the grass that I needed to cut on the lawn, I looked up.

The early morning sun was glistening through the trees feeding me with vitamin D.

A kaleidoscope of greens and blues in the canopy above are colours that soothe the mind and I feel connected with nature.

I am joined by two of our rescue dogs at my side seeking a comforting touch.

Animals and wildlife are all part of what makes GlenMyu Estate a special place.

I, of course, had to pick up my phone to take the photos and video to add colour to my scribble.

Don’t worry, it was discarded again in quick time so that I could return to my mornings meditation.

Above and below the clouds

There are many places in the house and around the five acre estate where you can connect with nature.

The view from the lounges and the bedrooms often provide you with the sensation of being above and below the clouds.

Watching the clouds form and pass across the valleys below is more fulfilling than watching a screen, however big or small.

Slow down, connect with nature and replenish your soul

We have many guests that stay at GlenMyu Estate who race around the island to tick as many things of their Sri Lankan bucket list as possible.

When they arrive and settle in, many slow down and use their time here to get grounded and reenergised.

The environment in our five acres of Sri Lankan Hill country appears to guide you to refocus and take some much needed time out.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and appreciate nature

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Looking Up Read More »

Why French Travellers love Sri Lanka

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lankan Cooking, sri lankan recipes, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda / By Mikeez

Why French travellers love Sri Lanka

Why do French travellers love Sri Lanka?

We have welcomed many French guests at GlenMyu Estate Boutique Villa in Sri Lanka.

Here are the reasons why we think our French guests love visiting a exploring this paradise island.

Memories from childhood

One of our French guests mentioned that a favourite cartoon when he was growing up was Babar.

This series is about a family of Elephants who go on adventures including some to tropical islands.

He pondered that perhaps French travellers love Sri Lanka as Elephants and Tropical Islands are imprinted into your mind as children.

There is no science behind this idea, but perhaps there is something in this thought!

Why French travellers love Sri Lanka - Getting away it all in the Winter time

As the winter can be harsh in Europe with little sun, Sri Lanka is a well travelled place for French guests looking to escape for some sun.

The island doesn’t just offer fabulous beaches to get some winter sun.

It also has a bountiful mix of culture, nature and experiences to enjoy.

There is something for everyone.

Hiking

Perhaps hiking in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Horton Plains were you can see amazing views and be with nature.

Culture

Cultural experiences in the historic cities and UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura.

Wildlife and animals

Safaris in Yala National Park, Minneriya, Udawalawe National Park or Wilpattu National Park to see Elephants, Leopards and other wildlife.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Climbing UNESCO World Heritage site the Lion Rock in Sigiriya for tacking a section of the Pekoe Trail.

Why French travellers love GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka

We have been delighted to host many French guests over the few years that we have been open.

As the temperatures in the Sri Lankan Hill country are lower than those in the parts of the country our French guests love the relief before heading on to warmer climes.

The space at the five acre estate and beautiful gardens and scenery are other things that our French guests particularly enjoy.

Our French Travellers love the food, the bread!

We know how important food is to our guests.

Ru and the team are starting to get a reputation for the quality of dishes they serve to our guests. Read our guest reviews to find out more.

We use the best quality, locally sourced ingredients that we can find.

Our French guests are also amazed at the bread we serve. We bake a variety fresh bread everyday for our guests. It’s good to have something familiar when you are so far away from home.

And so much more

A Natural Spring Fed swimming pool surrounded by nature.

Five acres of Sri Lankan hill country to explore.

Wonderful experiences within a drive from the estate including Horton Plains National Park and Upper Diyaluma Waterfall.

Two stages of the Pekoe Trail start at Haputale which is a short twenty minute drive from the estate.

A place to relax and re-energise during your holiday in Sri Lanka

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Why French Travellers love Sri Lanka Read More »

Why Singaporeans like to holiday in Sri Lanka?

Ella, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Little Adam's Peak, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

Why Singaporeans like to holiday in Sri Lanka

There are lots of reasons why Singaporeans like to holiday in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka offers a unique blend of experiences that appeal to Singaporeans seeking a refreshing getaway.

Here are some reasons why it might be a great place for people living in Singapore to come to this paradise island on holiday:

Convenience

A shortish hop!

With direct flights taking under four hours, Sri Lanka is a convenient destination for a short holiday

Diverse Attractions

Different experiences around the island

From pristine beaches like Pasikuda, Mirissa and Arugam Bay to cultural landmarks such as Sigiriya, Pidurangala and ancient Buddhist temples in Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka offers a mix of relaxation and exploration.

Wildlife and Nature

The country is home to incredible wildlife.

Many guests hope to see leopards in Yala National Park.

Others enjoy an elephant safari at Udawalawe National Park.

Its lush tea plantations and scenic hill country also provide a serene escape

Our guests at GlenMyu Estate enjoy walking from Liptons Seat to Dambetenne Tea Factory and taking a tea factory tour.

Others hike one of the two sections of the Pekoe Trail that start in Haputale.

Affordable Luxury

Sri Lanka offers a range of accommodation, from budget-friendly options to luxurious stays.

We would recommend that you stay in a variety of accommodation during your travels around the island to have a range of experiences in different locations.

Rich Culinary Scene

The local cuisine, featuring dishes like kottu and egg hoppers, is a treat for food enthusiasts.

Our guests enjoy both the Sri Lankan dishes at GlenMyu Estate and also the Sri Lankan inspired fusion dishes prepared by the team.

Authentic Experiences

Sri Lanka tourist numbers are starting to increase, however there are still lots of untapped tourist spots to discover.

Even established sites such as Horton Plains National Park can have a low number of tourist during parts of the day making it a unique experience.

You will find warm hospitality and an authentic less commercialised travel experience when you visit some of the smaller hotels and restaurants. A homestay during your holiday with provide you with a special experience with a Sri Lankan family.

Something different

Sri Lanka is a destination offers something different for Singaporeans.

There is so much to see and experience on this small island.

Tourist numbers have not reached the levels yet so you can still find unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences and local culture.

Our Singaporean guests love staying at GlenMyu Estate

Since we opened in 2022 we have hosted several guests that live in Singapore.

One thing that really stood out was how much they enjoyed the food that Ru and the team serve.

In addition, staying on the five acre estate, without lots of guests, they really appreciated the space which we provide.

A maximum of seven guest can stay at the estate and there is lots of places to explore and get away from the crowds.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Why Singaporeans like to holiday in Sri Lanka? Read More »

How do I stay connected in Sri Lanka?

Birdwatching, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Little Adam's Peak, Natural Swimming Pool, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Staying connected on holiday in Sri Lanka

Staying connected in Sri Lanka has become much easier over the years that I have been travelling to the island.

Mobile coverage is generally quite good around the island.

Here are some practical options for you:

Tourist SIM Cards

Tourist SIM cards can be purchased from providers like Dialog or Mobitel at the airport or in major cities. These are the most popular choices for tourists due to their wide coverage and affordable data packages.

There are kiosks operated by the main providers in the terminal before you exit the airport. I have found that the sales clerks have been very helpful. They are happy to put the Tourist SIM card into your phone so you are ready to go.

A typical tourist SIM card costs around 1,400 LKR and includes generous data allowances. These packages are perfect for navigation, social media, and staying in touch.

eSIMs

If your phone supports eSIM technology, you can pre-order an eSIM online before your trip.

EeSIMS are a convenient option as it eliminates the need for a physical SIM card. You can also top up online if you find that you need more data and connectivity.

Wi-Fi Hotspots

Like in other countries, many hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi.

But, the speed and reliability can vary, especially in rural areas.

Data packages for commercial businesses are high compared to Europe and therefore sometimes the data runs out or the business only offers a slower MBPS to save costs.

Sri Lanka is not set up for you to sit in a cafe all day using the businesses data to work or surf the net. The costs are just too high for the businesses unlike Starbucks or another coffee franchise.

Roaming

This is probably the most expensive option. However, if you want to limit your connectivity, perhaps the cost will allow you to focus on your holiday and forget about back home.

It is recommended that you check with your home mobile provider for international roaming packages.

This option is convenient but is likely to be more expensive than local options.

Coverage

What is coverage like in Sri Lanka?

Coverage is generally good in cities and along the coast, but it can be spotty in remote areas like the Hill Country or National Parks.

WiFi at GlenMyu Estate

Keeping people connected is important to us at GlenMyu Estate.

Whether it’s keeping in contact with your family so that they know you are safe or with the office we have Wifi delivered by SLT Fibre.

We find that the speed is adequate for our guests requirements.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

How do I stay connected in Sri Lanka? Read More »

How long should I stay?

Accommodation, Birdwatching, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Little Adam's Peak, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

How long should I stay?

How long should I stay?

As GlenMyu Estate has evolved, we have found that most guests find that they wish that they had stayed longer with us.

Recently, we have been receiving more bookings for four night stays.
I came to the conclusion some time ago that seasoned travellers see the benefit of staying at one place for at least three nights.

I can see that in future, more guests will opt for longer stays.

Here are my thoughts as to why.

Race around Sri Lanka on your first time here

A typical first holiday on this beautiful island consists of a race around the island to see all of the headline sights. You must climb the Lion Rock, visit Kandy and the Temple of the Tooth, take the train journey, see Nine Arch Bridge, safari in Yala and get a tan at the southern beaches.

I don’t think that there is anything wrong with this.

Most people think that this will be there one and only experience of Sri Lanka. The fact is that once you have been here once, you will want to come back again.

At GlenMyu Estate we come across many guests that are on their second, third and even twelfth time on the island!

There is so much more!

What people find is that there is so much more to experience on this small island.

Delving deeper on your following trips allows you to explore and get to understand the people and culture to a higher level.

A British thing

Being brought up in Britain has left me with being diplomatic and not pushy. I know that guest should stay longer and ought to tell them. Unfortunately, culturally, I find it really difficult to do.

I really don’t want guests to get the impression that we are just trying to make more money.
We are not naturally pushy people.
But, I know that a longer stay is the right thing.

I just hope that guests read our reviews on Google, Booking.com and Airbnb and see how many guests recommend a longer stay.

One night is not enough!

Although we are happy that guests get to experience GlenMyu Estate, one night is hardly enough.

So many guests really don’t enjoy unpacking for one night. Also, if you arrive late in the day, you won’t get the chance to enjoy the estate. You could spend a day at the estate alone, enjoying the pool, garden tour and the delicious meals we serve.

Why stay for three nights

Some time ago I came to the conclusion that seasoned travellers stay in each hotel for at least three nights.

There are lots of reasons

Unpacking your suitcase every night

I see so many guests getting frustrated by having to unpack one night and repack the following morning.

This is exhausting itself.

So much to see

If you research where you are staying and what to do in the surrounding area you will find that one night is not enough.

For example, within reach of GlenMyu Estate, there are several hiking trails, the tallest and second highest waterfalls, viewpoints, temples and small towns to explore.

Searching on TripAdviser or Google for things to do will provide you with lots of things you may be interested in visiting.

We have a ‘thing to do’ section on our website.

Spending time at the estate

Lots of our guests enjoy spending some time relaxing and exploring the five acre estate.

I love to see guests reading a book after enjoying a swim in the swimming pool.

Travellers need to combine exploring with relaxation during their vacation.

Garden Tours and Cookery Demonstrations

We offer a complimentary garden tour and cookery demonstration at GlenMyu Estate.

These are experiences that you can enjoy after going sightseeing in the morning.

How do I decide on how long I should stay?

Many of our guests contact us directly by WhatsApp to make their booking.

I always ask if they want any recommendations on what to see and do whilst they are here.

We know what previous guests like and are happy to share links to the fabulous sites and experiences to explore in the Sri Lankan Hill country.

We learn from our guests

Some of our guests have discover places that we didn’t know about. Typically these places would be lesser known and off the beaten path.

Recently some architects stayed with us at GlenMyu Estate. Fans of Sri Lanka’s famous architect Geoffrrey Bawa, they had arranged to visit a Bawa designed church near Bandarawela.

We were not aware of this place.

The architects were delighted to show us photos of the beautiful church on their return. It was stunning!

Subsequently, we have suggested to other guests to visit the church, especially if they have an interest in architecture..

Ask your hosts beforehand

So, we would recommend that you message your hosts and ask them. They really should be the experts in their local area and you might get to see something that is not on your list.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

How long should I stay? Read More »

Making people happy

Cookery Courses, Food and Drink, Holiday, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lankan Cooking, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Making people happy

Making people happy – that’s what we aim to do!

This phrase really resonated with me whilst I was listening to a podcast.

Michel Roux Jr. was being interviewed by James O’Brien for the Full Disclosure Podcast.
Towards the end of the interview James ends saying that the impulse driving the hospitality industry is “making people happy”.

This impulse is ultimately what we aim to achieve at GlenMyu Estate.

We feel that we have an advantage

We feel that we have an advantage in our aims of making people happy.

For most of our guests GlenMyu Estate is not their first stop on their holiday in Sri Lanka. The estate is located just over five hours from the airport and therefore it is only the dedicated few that make GlenMyu Estate their first stop.

Fortunately for us, guests arrive already having been wowed by the country and the hospitality of its’ people. They come with smiles on their faces and rave about their experience so for on the island.

Fall in love with the Sri Lankan Hill Country

Cleary, we then have a job to do to continue the feeling that our guests have when they arrive.

We want to create an atmosphere where you feel relaxed and are visiting an old friend. In some hotels you can feel uncomfortable and not fully be able to let your hair down.

The atmosphere that we have tried to create is somewhere that you can truly relax and unwind. It was really important to us that there were comfortable chairs and sofas in the rooms and lounges. Space was also important, so, if you want to spend some time alone, you can.

We have not overdeveloped the land and only have three guest bedrooms. There is always space to swim in the pool and lots of places to explore on the five acre estate.

It makes us feel great when our guests connect and fall in love with GlenMyu Estate.

Full Disclosure with James O'Brien - one of my favourite podcasts.

Watch or listen to the Full Disclosure Podcast with James O’Brien and Michel Roux.

I tend to listen to lots of podcasts in the Sri Lankan Hill country and have waned myself off of television over the years I have lived here. There are many more podcasts that I subscribe to which gives me my fill in entertainment, news, sport and politics.

Food is an important part of what we do at GlenMyu Estate

Eating great food, prepared with love is a way of making people happy.

Ru and her team take pride in the dishes that they prepare for our guests. They are motivated when they hear the positive feedback from our guests.

We try to source as much as we can locally as it is fresh and tastes great. You will find that our menu is mainly plant based with some fish and chicken options.

If you read our reviews on Google, Tripadvisor, Booking.com and Airbnb you will see how much our guests love the food at GlenMyu Estate.

Shared experiences with friends and family

We love to see the smiles on pour guests faces as the sit and eat together.

Hearing the shrieks of joy as families enjoy the swimming pool together puts smiles on our faces. We know that family bonding is important and that we have the facility to enable people to come together and create memories.

Sharing the love for Sri Lankan cooking

Sri Lankans are very proud of their country and also their cuisine.

Our guests really enjoy our complimentary Sri Lankan cooking demonstration which is provided when they order our Sri Lankan sharing platter.

Ru’s mum, who has over 50 years experience in a Sri Lankan kitchen, shows our guests how the dishes are made.

The great thing is that you get to eat a delicious Sri Lankan meal after an entertaining hour or two.

Fresh fruits and vegetables

The colour of fresh local fruits and vegetables really add something special to the meals we cook. It is really important that we source the best ingredients that we can to cook for our guests.

Reconnecting with nature

Most of the world lives in cities and has pushed nature away.

Reconnecting with nature is good for the heart and the soul.

GlenMyu Estate has five acres for you to explore and enjoy. We have planted species on the estate to encourage wildlife to visit.

Listening to the birds as you swim in our Natural Spring Fed swimming pool is a beautiful experience.

Making a connection with our rescue dogs or watching the ducks wander around the land as they forage brings a bit of inner peace.

Connect with the animals at the estate

We have several rescue dogs at GlenMyu Estate.

Most visitors to Sri Lanka see the poor condition of the stray street dogs as they travel around the island. There are some good organisations that help these poor animals such as WeCare, Embark and Dogs of Ella.

All of our rescue dogs are vaccinated, friendly, and used to meeting guests. We would not recommend that you pet any dogs or cats in Sri Lanka as rabies is still an issue and dangerous for humans.

You can been comfortable in petting our dogs as they have all their vaccinations and love it when guests stay.

Look out for Clove, who thinks that you have come to visit her!

Our dogs add to our aim of making people happy during their stay.

Be happy and come to Sri Lanka on holiday.

Your experience of a holiday in Sri Lanka will put a smile on your face and you will remember your time here for many years.

The tourist boards’ new slogan is ‘You will come back for more’.

Once you have experienced this paradise island we are sure you will want to come back again one day.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Making people happy Read More »

Swimming with my wife

Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

Swimming with my wife

I like swimming on my own, however swimming with my wife is also an amazing experience.

What do I prefer – I am too diplomatic to say!

It was all her idea

Building a swimming pool at GlenMyu Estate was all her idea.

Sure, I thought that if we were opening a bed and breakfast facility, then a swimming pool would be a great addition.

The hitch came when it looked like we were running out of money to build the main house.

Being a conservative ex-banker, I wanted to finish the house first and then build the pool.

My wife insisted that we start the pool early, and, as usual, she got her way.

And then I found out that she couldn't swim

I was a little bit perplexed when we completed the swimming pool.

Trying it out for the first time, I realised that my wife couldn’t swim!

But my wife was the driving force behind building the swimming pool?!!!

The best decision

Building the swimming pool at GlenMyu Estate is one of my wife’s many excellent decisions.

She learnt to swim in her own pool. I guess that we had spent so much money on the pool that she was determined to use it.

I calculated the cost compared to my gym membership and personal trainer cost in London. Working out how much we would need to use the swimming pool to recoup our investment was an incentive for me!

The joy of swimming in an uncrowded swimming pool, as often as we want, is a real luxury.

It certainly was the best decision to build the pool in conjunction with the house construction.

No chlorine

One of my major bug bears with most pools is that you end up smelling of chlorine once you come out of the pool.

The thought of being covered in some nasty toxic smelling chemical was not a great feeling.

We do use a little chlorine from time to time in our pool at GlenMyu Estate. This usually when we don’t have much rains during August and September.

However, the small amount of cholrine we use is added at night. The great thing is that the chemicals evaporate and the smell has gone by the time of your morning swim.

It's not a bath, it's a swimming pool!

We find that swimming in a warm pool is energy sapping. Also the water does not give much resistance making it harder to swim.

My wife and I swam at a hotel pool near Galle earlier in 2024 and we really didn’t like it. We both felt exhausted in the warm water and really didn’t want to swim.

I was really disappointed as I wanted to expend some energy and reenergise myself after a long car drive.

Some swimming pools are too cold

Several years ago we stayed at a hotel near Haputale and used their swimming pool. Haputale is at an elevation of just over, 1,400 metres which is 400 metres higher than GlenMyu Estate.

The pool was cold. So cold that I used it once and didn’t want to use it again. It was not a pleasant experience (although probably very good for you!).

If the sun does not hit our swimming pool at GlenMyu Estate, sometimes it is a challenge getting into the cooler water. However, after a few lengths, my body is warmed up and attuned to the temperature. Once I get myself over this challenge, I love it!

Swimming with my wife - more often please!

The shared experience swimming with my wife is good for us for our fitness. It’s also good for our relationship.

Sure, she splashes sometimes and says that I haven’t swam enough, but it’s a great experience to spend some special time together.

Our guest love our pool

We have found that our guests love the swimming pool at GlenMyu Estate.

It’s a different experience for them on their holiday on this paradise island.

We have some guests that are used to cold water swimming in lakes or the sea and they love our pool.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and swim in our fabulous pool.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

Apart from enjoying the pool and the amazing five acer estate, you can visit sights like Horton Plains National Park, Liptons Seat and Upper Diyaluma Waterfall.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and so many more fabulous places to experience.

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Swimming with my wife Read More »

A view of Nine Arch Bridge, Demodara, Ella, Sri Lanka.

Heavy influx of tourists visiting Nine Arch Bridge, Ella

Ella, Holiday, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Heavy influx of tourists visiting Nine Arch Bridge, Ella, Sri Lanka

There was a heavy influx of tourists visiting Nine Arch Bridge in August 2024.

Here is the reason why this tourist attraction was so busy.

It was reported in the Sri Lankan Daily Mirror that on the 22nd of August there was a heavy influx of tourists to visit Nine Arch Bridge Ella.

Read the article by clicking on this link.

Why was there such an influx of tourists to see the bridge?

August is in the middle of school holidays for Sri Lankan children.
It was also a long weekend and therefore many local tourist visited the Sri Lankan hill country that weekend.

This is the main reason why there was lots of tourists visiting Nine Arch Bridge.

There has also been an increase in foreign travellers visiting the island.

Avoid public holidays or long weekends

If you like less crowded tourist spots then we would recommend that you check the public holiday in Sri Lanka. You can avoid the large number of tourists visiting Nine Arch Bridge

On public holidays and long weekends, you will be competing for space at the tourist spots with local travellers along with foreign tourists. Local tourists tend to visit Nine Arch Bridge in numbers during these times.

Take a day trip to visit Ella and Nine Arch Bridge from GlenMyu Estate

Ella Town is just over 1 hours drive from GlenMyu Estate.

Many of our guests take a Tuk Tuk to Haputale and then take the 1 hour train journey to Ella or Demodara Station.

Apart from visiting Nine Arch Bridge you can also do some great hikes near to the town

Little Adam’s Peak is a short hike that end with an amazing view.

Ella Rock is a little bit more challenging of a hike, especially as you reach the top.

There is also some stages of the new Pekoe Trail that you can trek.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Heavy influx of tourists visiting Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Read More »

Holidays in Sri Lanka in 2026

Holiday, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel, visa / By Mikeez

What are the public holidays in Sri Lanka during 2026?

Holidays in Sri Lanka in 2026.
What dates are the public holidays in Sri Lanka in 2026?
Is there anything that I need to know?

Find out more by reading on.

Public Holidays in Sri Lanka - What is a Full Moon Poya Day?

A Poya Day is a civil and bank holiday.

The full moon day is normally considered as the Poya day in every month.

Poya is the name given to the Lunar monthly Buddhist holiday of Uposatha in Sri Lanka.

Usopatha is a Buddhist Day of observance.

The Buddha taught that the Uposatha day is for “cleansing of the defiled mind”.

On each Poya day, both lay and ordained members of the sangha (community) intensify their practice, deepen their knowledge and express communal commitment through acts of lay-monastic reciprocity.

It is a day for practicing the Budda’s teachings and meditation.

Lay followers make a conscious effort to keep the Five Precepts or traditionally Eight Precepts.

For further information regarding the Precepts https://thebuddhistcentre.com/buddhism has some further reading.

Public holiday dates

Here is a list of Public and National Holidays in Sri Lanka during 2026 so you can plan your holiday.

Public Holidays in Sri Lanka - The Poya Days in 2026

Date

Day

Holiday

2nd January

Friday

Durutha Full Moon Poya Day

14th January

Wednesday

Tamil Thai Pongal Day

1st February

Sunday

Navam Full Moon Poya Day

4th February

Wednesday

National Day

15th February

Sunday

Mahasivarathri Day

3rd March

Tuesday

Madin Full Moon Poya Day

21st March

Saturday

Id Ul-Fitr

1st April

Wednesday

Bak Full Moon Poya Day

3rd April

Friday

Good Friday

13th April

Monday

Day Prior to Sinhala and Tamil New Year Day

14th April

Tuesday

Sinhala and Tamil New Year Day

1st May

Friday

May Day

1st May

Friday

Vesak Full Moon Poya Day

2nd May

Saturday

Day Following Vesak Full Moon Poya Day

27th May

Wednesday

Id Ul-Alha

29th June

Monday

Poson Full Moon Poya Day

29th July

Wednesday

Esala Full Moon Poya Day

25th August

Tuesday

Milad un-Nabi

27th August

Thursday

Nikini Full Moon Poya Day

26th September

Saturday

Binari Full Moon Poya Day

25th October

Sunday

Vap Full Moon Poya Day

8th November

Sunday

Deepavali

24th November

Tuesday

III Full Moon Poya Day

23rd December

Wedsday

Undavap Full Moon Poya Day

25th December

Friday

Christmas Day

Please note that these date were researched and found at a Sri Lankan Government website providing dates for public holidays. https://publicholidays.lk/poya-day/

Public Holidays in Sri Lanka - What does it mean for me as a tourist to Sri Lanka?

Some of the Five Precepts have a noticeable effect on Poya Days for visitors.

Meat, Fowl and Fish products are not available to buy.

Alcohol is not available in most places.

All the Wine Stores and Supermarket alcohol sales are closed. Most bars and restaurants also are not allowed to sell alcohol on the day.

Buddhist Temples will be busy

A special Buddhist program is conducted by temples on Poya Days and is called Sil (sometimes spelt Sill).

Typically it starts early in the morning around 6 a.m. and comprises of sermons, discussion, blessings and meditation. It can last for 12 hours and the attendees are normally provided with food and drinks during the day.

If you do decide to visit a temple either during a Poya Day or outside the holidays please remember to dress and act appropriately.

What should I wear?

Trousers/pants/skirts or any other dress long enough to cover the knee.
A shirt/t-shirt/blouse or any other dress should cover the shoulders.
No hats and head cover.
No shoes/sandals or slippers.

When taking pictures.

It’s really important also not to take photos with your back to the Buddhist Statue.

Please do not touch, sit near or climb on a Buddhist Statue.

Please also get permission to take photos and never take pictures during worship.

Whatever you plan to do on your holiday in Sri Lanka we hope that you enjoy your time on this Paradise Island.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Holidays in Sri Lanka in 2026 Read More »

Holidays in Sri Lanka in 2025

Holiday, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Holidays in Sri Lanka in 2025

Holidays in Sri Lanka in 2025.
What dates are the public holidays in Sri Lanka in 2025?
What do I need to know? Find out more by reading on.

Public holiday dates

Here is a list of Public and National Holidays in Sri Lanka during 2025 so you can plan your holiday.

Public Holidays in Sri Lanka - What is a Full Moon Poya Day?

A Poya Day is a civil and bank holiday.

The full moon day is normally considered as the Poya day in every month.

Poya is the name given to the Lunar monthly Buddhist holiday of Uposatha in Sri Lanka.

Usopatha is a Buddhist Day of observance.

The Buddha taught that the Uposatha day is for “cleansing of the defiled mind”.

On each Poya day, both lay and ordained members of the sangha (community) intensify their practice, deepen their knowledge and express communal commitment through acts of lay-monastic reciprocity.

It is a day for practicing the Budda’s teachings and meditation.

Lay followers make a conscious effort to keep the Five Precepts or traditionally Eight Precepts.

For further information regarding the Precepts https://thebuddhistcentre.com/buddhism has some further reading.

Public Holidays in Sri Lanka - The Poya Days in 2025

Date

Day

Holiday

13th January

Monday

Durutha Full Moon Poya Day

14th January

Tuesday

Tamil Thai Pongal Day

4th February

Tuesday

National Day

12th February

Wednesday

Navam Full Moon Poya Day

26th February

Wednesday

Mahasivarathri Day

13th March

Thursday

Madin Full Moon Poya Day

31st March

Monday

Id Ul-Fitr

12th April

Saturday

Bak Full Moon Poya Day

13th April

Sunday

Day Prior to Sinhala and Tamil New Year Day

14th April

Monday

Sinhala and Tamil New Year Day

18th April

Friday

Good Friday

1st May

Thursday

May Day

12th May

Monday

Vesak Full Moon Poya Day

13th May

Tuesday

Day following Vesak Full Moon Poya Day

7th June

Saturday

Id Ul-Alha

10th June

Tuesday

Poson Full Moon Poya Day

10th July

Thursday

Esala Full Moon Poya Day

8th August

Friday

Nikini Full Moon Poya Day

5th September

Friday

Milad un-Nabi

7th September

Sunday

Binari Full Moon Poya Day

6th October

Monday

Vap Full Moon Poya Day

20th October

Monday

Deepavali

5th November

Wednesday

III Full Moon Poya Day

4th December

Thursday

Undavap Full Moon Poya Day

25th December

Thursday

Christmas Day

Please note that these date were researched and found at a Sri Lankan Government website providing dates for public holidays. https://publicholidays.lk/poya-day/

Public Holidays in Sri Lanka - What does it mean for me as a tourist to Sri Lanka?

Some of the Five Precepts have a noticeable effect on Poya Days for visitors.

Meat, Fowl and Fish products are not available to buy.

Alcohol is not available in most places.

All the Wine Stores and Supermarket alcohol sales are closed. Most bars and restaurants also are not allowed to sell alcohol on the day.

Buddhist Temples will be busy

A special Buddhist program is conducted by temples on Poya Days and is called Sil (sometimes spelt Sill).

If you do decide to visit a temple either during a Poya Day or outside the holidays please remember to dress and act appropriately.

What should I wear?

Trousers/pants/skirts or any other dress long enough to cover the knee.
A shirt/t-shirt/blouse or any other dress should cover the shoulders.
No hats and head cover.
No shoes/sandals or slippers.

When taking pictures.

It’s really important also not to take photos with your back to the Buddhist Statue.

Please do not touch, sit near or climb on a Buddhist Statue.

Please also get permission to take photos and never take pictures during worship.

Whatever you plan to do on your holiday in Sri Lanka we hope that you enjoy your time on this Paradise Island.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Holidays in Sri Lanka in 2025 Read More »

A New Year's resolution - to swim every day.

How to relax

Animals that live at our visit GlenMyu Estate., Ayurvedic medicine and plants, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Music, Natural Swimming Pool, Our Animals at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, Travel / By Mikeez

How to relax.

How to relax.

Reading relaxation tips recommended by Mind Organisation.

I was not surprised to see many tips that relate to GlenMyu Estate.

We find that our guests really need some downtime on their holiday. It can be quite tiring rushing around the country visiting the tourist spots in the heat.

As they leave ready for their next adventure, we can see that they are relaxed and energised for the next part of their trip around this paradise island.

What were the tips on how to relax in Mind Organistaions' article?

The tips were as follows:

Take a break
Try active relaxation
Focus on your breathing
Get creative
Spend time in nature
Picture yourself somewhere serene
Listen to music
Do a tech check

What is Mind Organisation?

Mind Organisation say that “We’re Mind. We’re here to fight for mental health. For support, for respect, for you”.

They are an organisation that aims to get support and respect for people experiencing a mental health problem.

What tips on how to relax relate to GlenMyu Estate?

As GlenMyu Estate has evolved over the last two years since opening, we have found that our guests naturally do several of the items on the list whilst they are on holiday here.

Taking a Break

Clearly being on holiday, guests are taking a break from their normal everyday lives.

However, we also find that many of our guests take a break from their travel and exploration of the island when they are here.

Often, they decide to chill out at the five acre estate rather than packing too much in on their holiday.

As the Sri Lankan hill country has a temperature more akin to a UK summer, some find it a relief to get away from stifling heat.

Many of our guests say that that they get their best nights sleep at GlenMyu Estate on their holiday. We do not use air-conditioning at the property as it is not required as it does not get too hot.

Active relaxation - what's that?

Active relaxation is gentle exercise such as walling (at your own pace), classes such as Yoga, Pilates or gentle stretching.

At GlenMyu Estate for guest enjoy walking around the garden.

The property is on a slope and therefore you automatically do some gentle exercise by climbing up the pathways and stairs. I often find myself creating a little heavier due to the slope.

Getting creative

GlenMyu Estate is an environment which inspires creativity. We have had several guests bring their sketchbooks or paints with them to spend time on their art.

Picking up the camera to take some photos and videos.

Some authors have stayed at the estate and worked on their books without the detraction of home.

It delights us that we have created an environment that guests can relax and get creative.

Spending time in nature

At GlenMyu Estate we have tried to work with nature and plant species that enhance and repair the biodiversity that was wiped from the land.

Historically the estate was part of a larger tea plantation and subsequently used to grow sugar cane. After being abandoned for many year it was full of Guinea Grass, fast growing cattle fodder. This took all the light and nutrients in the soil from other plants.

After years of replacing the Guinea Grass with endemic species and planting to develop a food forest for animals and humans GlenMyu Estate was open to guests.

Our guest love the garden tour and seeing what we fruits, vegetables,and spices are grown.

For some, it is a revelation on where their food comes from and the work entailed to get to onto their plate.

There is also plenty of wildlife to see, whether it is the animals and birds that are regular visitors or the residents on the land.

Picture yourself somewhere serene

There is no need to picture yourself, because you are there in the moment.

GlenMyu Estate is a beautiful environment reflecting the nature that surrounds us.

Listen to music

We find natures music to be the soundtrack that we listen to at GlenMyu Estate.

Whether it its the streams full of water blocking out unwanted noises.

Or the birds that let you know that it’s time to get up in the morning or that they are off to bed.

Natuure’s soundtrack helps you to relax.

Do a tech check

Although we do have free Wifi at GlenMyu Estate, we are always delighted on how little our guests spend on their devices.

We also do not have televisions at the estate. Who needs to watch poor quality programming anyway. Netflix will be waiting for you when you get home!

This allows you to live in the moment, reduce stress and really enjoy your holiday.

Relax on Holiday at GlenMyu Estate

We love it when our guests are truly relaxed after their stay at GlenMyu Estate.

It is really important for you to make sure you allocate some downtime during your vacation. Hopefully you will visit GlenMyu Estate and switch off in this environment delivered by nature.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and immerse yourself in the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

How to relax Read More »

No televisions, no problem

Animals that live at our visit GlenMyu Estate., Birds, Birdwatching, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Life in Sri Lanka, Natural Swimming Pool, Our Animals at GlenMyu Estate, Our dogs, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

No Televisions, No Problem!

No Televisions, No Problem

I don’t know about you, but I really didn’t enjoy watching television when I was away on holiday.

Whenever we would get to our hotel room my wife and I would flick through the channels to find something that we would like.

There is something about watching television when you are in your own country.

You know what you like, you know when the program is on and you know where to find your favourite programme.

I can't find it, there are too many advertisement breaks.

We tended to watch a lot fo BBC programmes in the UK and therefore didn’t to have to deal with advertisement breaks.

There is something about the rhythm of the programme, even when you watch commercial tv, that is quite comforting. You are used to the timing and the length of the advert break. Years of programming our brains makes it alright.

Television abroad - no thanks

However, I used to get frustrated watching television on holiday as the rhythm wasn’t comfortable for me.

It was a real turnoff.

So, I didn’t watch any television programmes when I went on holiday.

The world has changed

Since moving to Sri Lanka in 2016 the world has been through some incredible changes.

Sitting down in front of the television to relax after a stressful day in the office is no longer the norm.

The global pandemic left lots of people stuck at home looking for entertainment to while away the hours.

Netflix and other streaming services became the go to place for entertainment. Binge watching box sets was what everyone was talking about.

When we were in the UK we only watched a few programmes when they were being broadcasted. Most if what we viewed was on catch up.

No televisions at GlenMyu Estate, no problem

Since living in Sri Lanka we have been weaned off television.

I could see from our first six months on the island that we really craved our favourite programmes that we enjoyed together.

However, as we couldn’t get our usual BBC programmes, we used to buy the occasional DVD and watch them together.

The environment in the Sri Lankan Hill Country has changed our requirements in life. It’s hard not to be affected by the surrounding nature. Whether it’s the noise from the birds, the ever changing view from the lounges or spending time on the five acre estate, sitting in front of a square box does not seem to be important now. If we don’t know who is in Masterchef, the Bake Off or Strictly, it really doesn’t matter.

Immersed in nature

Living in London for many years we were really out of touch with nature. So many people living in big cities must be in the same position.

I don’t know what happened to me.

In the UK I wasn’t interested in birds and trees. My inquisitiveness appears to have been injected into my veins since living here. Planting trees and watching them grow, getting up early to catch the birdsong or making sure I catch the sunset sky.

It’s hard to get the feeling over to you. You really need to come and experience this for yourself.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

No televisions, no problem Read More »

German Tourists in Sri Lanka

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Mini Adam's Peak, Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

German Tourists in Sri Lanka.

German Tourists in Sri Lanka.

What our German guests say about their stay at GlenMyu Estate when on holiday in Sri Lanka.

Here are some Booking.com reviews from our German guests.

10 Punkte reichen eigentlich nicht, es müssten mehr sein! Es ist eine moderne, neue, liebevolle und sehr kleine (3 Zimmer) Anlage, die direkt von den beiden Chefs betreut sind. Alle sind so nett, der Ausblick ist atemberaubend, die Lage abseits und ruhig.

Melanie January 2024

Es gibt tolles, originales, selbst gemachtes Frühstück mit regionalen Lebensmitteln und auf Wunsch auch geniales Abendessen. Ihr müsst unbedingt auch mit der Mutter von Ruthi kochen, es ist ein tolles Erlebnis und man erfährt so viel.

Der Pool und der Garten ist auch genial. Die Tiere sind mein persönliches Highlight, sie sind so lieb und süß! Die Gastgeber haben sich auch immer rührend gekümmert, ob mit Tee oder TukTuk, es war nie aufdringlich.

Rimma – March 2024

Ein zauberhafter Ort mit super lieben Menschen, leckerem Essen, atemraubendem Blick aus dem Zimmer und Lobby, Wasserfall auf dem Gelände… Einzigartig. Sehr besonders. Danke.

Bereits bei unserer Ankunft wurden wir sehr herzlich von unseren Gastgebern Michael und Ruwanthi und ihren zehn Hunden empfangen. Als Willkommensgruß gab es einen selbst gemachten wunderbar schmeckenden Fruchtsaft. Der Zugang in dieses moderne Haus war atemberaubend, denn er öffnete einen Blick ins Tal, wo man im Hintergrund einen Nationalpark sieht. Die Zimmer sind sehr ansprechend und zweckmäßig eingerichtet, hier hat man von jeder Stelle diesen wunderbaren Blick in die Ferne.

Elisabeth – January 2024

The garden and the swimming pool

Nachdem wir an den Weihnachtstagen vor Ort waren, hatten die Gastgeber auch das Interieur sehr ansprechend gestaltet. Ruwanthi ist eine unglaublich gute Köchin, die auch Einblicke in ihre Kochkunst gewährt. Es werden vorwiegend selbst angebaute Produkte aus ihrem Garten zum Kochen verwendet. Michael ist sehr hilfsbereit, was die Möglichkeit von Ausflügen in der umliegenden Gegend betrifft.
Nachdem der Pool mit Naturwasser aus einer Quelle gespeist wird, war er etwas kühl zum Schwimmen. Dafür liegt er aber wunderbar eingebettet im Grundstück, mit Fernblick.

Our German guests that visited in 2023

Daniella – May 2023

Ruwanthi und Michael sind sehr herzliche Gastgeber, gehen auf alle persönliche Bedürfnisse eine und versuchen jedem Gast einen wundervollen Aufenthalt zu gestalten. Sie helfen bei der Organisation von Erkundungstouren und es wird täglich frisch mit überwiegend selbst angebauten Lebensmitteln gekocht. Ein wahrer Traumaufenthalt – sehr zu empfehlen.

We had the pleasure of staying at the GlenMyu and the experience was nothing short of extraordinary. The view over the landscape from my room was simply astonishing, offering a breathtaking panorama that made every moment special. The homemade food served was a delightful surprise – and with homemade I mean also ingrediance/fruits from the own garden. The culinary creations were not only delicious but also reflected a genuine passion for providing guests with a memorable experience.

Phillipp – November 2023

The owners and the team were incredibly welcoming and warmhearted, creating an atmosphere that felt like a home away from home. Their personal touch added a unique charm to the stay, making it more than just a typical hotel visit. It was superbly clean, creating a hygienic and comfortable environment.

Location and overall stay

The location of the hotel was ideal for those seeking adventure and exploration. With a tea factory visit, mesmerizing waterfalls, and the famous train ride from Haputale to Ella or Nanuoya nearby, there was always something exciting to do in the area.

Overall, our stay was a delightful experience, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, culinary excellence, and warm hospitality. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable and rejuvenating getaway.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

German Tourists in Sri Lanka Read More »

Good News for Tourists to Sri lanka

Holiday, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel, visa / By Mikeez

Good News for Tourists to Sri Lanka.

The Minimum Room Rate will end by the 31st May 2024.

Perhaps they will also rethink visa fees!

The change to the minimum room rate is good news for tourists to Sri Lanka and especially to the hotels based in Colombo.

Some hotel operators were happy with the MRR, however many thought that it would deter business coming. They believe that they have lost some MICE business as there are more economic places to hold business meetings and conferences.

You can read more in the Daily Mirror article by clicking on the link.

More good news for tourists rising Sri Lanka

Recently there has been some controversy about the visa process being outsourced to a company called VFS Global.

There have been many newspaper articles highlighting the issues about the increase in cost to tourists.

The good news is that the single entry visa will be reviewed and hopefully this will make it cheaper for travellers to visit Sri Lanka.

Proposed development of a tourist hub in Galle, Sri Lanka

The government wants to advance plans to develop the port of Galle into a tourist spot.

A new passenger terminal is planned and this will enable more tourist vessels to embark and visit the historic Dutch port.

Doing away with tourist visas altogether?

“Travelling should be simple as getting off the plane and getting out,” Fernando told reporters in Colombo yesterday.

Sri Lanka already gives free visas to 67 countries around the globe. Tourism Minister Harin Fernando opined that Sri Lanka should consider doing away with visa altogether for tourists

Visit Sri Lanka and stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Good News for Tourists to Sri lanka Read More »

Sr Lanka Tourist Visa May 2024

Holiday, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel, visa / By Mikeez

Sri Lanka Tourist Visa May 2024.

Update – Sri Lanka Tourist Visa May 2024.

Visiting Sri Lanka just got more expensive as the country outsources the online system for getting your visa.

The visa price has increased from US$50 to US$75.

However, there will also be an administrative fee of US$18.50 charged by the company that issues your holiday visa.

What are the visa fee costs?

The only government authorised vehicle to purchase your online visa is operated by IVS-GBS and VFS Global.

There is an eVisa fees waiver scheme for citizens of China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan.

You can see the visa fees in the following link.

Where do I buy my Sri Lankan Tourist Visa?

The best place to buy your visa is online at the official government website.

The outsourcing and increase in fees appears to have taken many by surprise.

The Sri Lanka Daily Mirror article “Sri Lanka now has highest visa costs in Asia” can be read by clicking the flowing link.

Is Sri Lanka still worth visiting?

Despite the increase in visa fees we still think that Sri Lanka is worth visiting.

There are so many things to do and see on this paradise island.

Our guests at GlenMyu Estate love their experience around the island.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Sr Lanka Tourist Visa May 2024 Read More »

Exceptional Rating on Booking.com

Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

An exceptional rating on Booking.com!

We are delighted with our customer reviews on Booking.com at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka.

Are you looking for a Bed & Breakfast near to Haputale and Ella, Sri Lanka?

If you are looking for a Bed and Breakfast near to the popular tourist town of Ella perhaps GlenMyu Estate is a place for you to consider.

Maybe you are getting off the train at Haputale Station to visit Lipton’s Seat or Adisham Bungalow.

You may be looking for a little bit of luxury within reach of Upper Diyaluma Waterfall or Horton Plains National Park.

These are all places that the guests at GlenMyu Estate enjoy in a place that is away from the tourist crowds.

Find our what our guest think of us.

Read our reviews on Booking.com, Airbnb, TripAdvisor and Google to see what our guests say about us.

Here are a few snippets from our reviews on Booking.com

Really an amazing and wonderful place! Good for the soul.

This is definitely the best place in all of Sri Lanka. I recommend it with all my heart.

The views, the pool, the decor, the hosts, the food. It was all fabulous and 100% worth the long drive up into the mountains.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Exceptional Rating on Booking.com Read More »

4 reasons not to hate February

Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

4 reasons not to hate February.

4 reasons not to hate February.

I used to think it was the worst month of the year.

But then I moved to Sri Lanka.

Why I used to hate February

The weather was awful…. and the light!
When I lived in the UK I really didn’t like February because of the weather.

The grey skies, cold weather and potential snow meant that it wasn’t my favourite month.

It’s hard to get the enthusiasm for anything when days short of light and uncomfortable temperatures just want you to stay in and hibernate.

January was bad enough

It was a long wait until January payday, but February……

The festive season really hits the bank balance pretty hard.
Whether it’s buying presents for the extended family, getting together with friends or attending Christmas parties, the costs add up.

With the bank account drained in December, it was a long wait until January payday. Thanks to Dry January, some manage to have a good excuse not to go out during this hard month. After the excesses of the festive season it was better for my waist.

We used to get paid early in December (18th rather than the 25th). This meant that it was around six weeks before the next paycheque!

January comes at last!.... but....

January payday comes – it doesn’t get any better!

It’s great to see the balance increase in your account in January, but then comes the credit card bill!

This makes February another hard month before the bank account is under less strain.

The worst month for a birthday?

It just happens that my birthday is in February also!

The elements and knowing that everyone else is under financial strain doesn’t make you feel like celebrating very much. I wouldn’t want to put more stress on my friends and family. And who wants to go out to a bar or restaurant on a dank, bleak evening.

Valentine's Day - Bah Humbug!!!

And of course, you have another expense to come – Valentines Day!

Restaurants bump up prices.

Roses in February – we know that they are not real or full of chemicals.

How much do I spend for love from my bleak looking bank account

And then February got better

We moved to Sri Lanka as my wife wanted to spend time in her home country with her elderly parents.

Living in the tropics changed my feelings towards the month of February.

We are fortunate to live in the Sri Lankan Hill Country at GlenMyu Estate. When we originally came to Sri Lanka we lived in Colombo, however the weather was too hot for me.

The Sri Lankan hill country has temperatures more akin to a UK summer around 26 °C during the daytime.

I now spend my days in shorts and t-shirts for most of the year and don’t have to consider covering up in February.

The Peak Tourist Season in Sri Lanka

Another thing that I now love about February is that is during the peak tourist season in Sri Lanka.

Ordinarily you would think that would not be great as the island would be too crowded.

At GlenMyu Estate we get to meet lots of new people interesting people and share the estate with them. We find that our guests love Sri Lanka and can’t believe that they haven’t visited the island before.

4 reasons not to hate February (if you are in Sri Lanka!).

Our 4 reasons why a holiday in Sri Lanka in February will lift the February blues.

Here are our reasons why visiting Sri Lanka in February may improve your mood and put a smile on your face.

1. The weather is great

Sri Lanka’s peak tourist season is during mid December until the end of March. At this time of the year the best weather is in the South and West of the country.

Of course, you can visit GlenMyu Estate and the Sri Lankan Hill Country for most of the year. Ella town, which is just over an hours drive from the estate is a must see place in all the guide books.

2. Time at the beach will put a smile on your face.

What can put a smile on your face more than spending time at the beach.

Getting a tan during February and then going back to the office will get your colleagues talking.

There are so many beaches in the South coast to discover which deliver different experiences.

3. Some of the sunsets are bliss

We have some great skies during February. In the evenings you may get lucky and experience spectacular colours across the sky before the sun goes down.

4. Hike and feel great

There are lots of opportunities to get out and hike in a more pleasant temperature than back at home.

We love Horton Plains National Park which is an 11 kilometre hike in a montane cloud forest.

You really do feel good completing the walk and if you are staying at GlenMyu Estate you can look forward to a dip in the pool. Your muscles and legs will be thanking you for the relief that the natural spring fed pool provides you.

So, my conclusion is that generally February is not great, unless you happen to visit Sri Lanka and forget all the negative issues you face back at home.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and get away from the February blues.

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

4 reasons not to hate February Read More »

A High Performance Holiday

Birdwatching, Food and Drink, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Our Animals at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lankan Cooking, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

A High Performance Holiday?

The title of one of my regular podcasts intrigued me. Here’s what I learnt from The High Performance Podcast.

I listen to lots of podcasts

One of my pastimes in Sri Lanka at GlenMyu Estate, in between visitors, is to listen to podcasts.

Some are educational, some are for my mental health and others are just for fun.

A recommendation from a guest

One of our guests and I were chatting about podcasts. He runs a successful business in Colombo and continues his business education with a mentor.
The mentor suggested that he listen to The High Performance Podcast.

This was a podcast that was not in my list of regular listening. The guest liked the podcast as there were lots of interviews with renowned and successful sportspeople, amongst others.
As the guest was interested in a range of sports there was a motivation to listen regularly to this podcast.

The High Performance Podcast

This podcast is hosted by Jake Humphrey and Professor Damian Hughes.

Jake is a former television presenter. He stepped away from presenting sports to concentrate on the High Performance Podcast.

Damian is a Professor of Psychology and Change. He has written several books and is a keynote speaker.

They aim to “turn the lived experiences of the planet’s highest performers into your life lessons”.

A High Performance Holiday

A High Performance Holiday.

This is a catchy and intriguing title is important to capture ones interest and it worked with me.

The shocking statistics around the British holidaying public

A British Airways Survey for YouGov revealed that “survey reveals 50% of UK working adults do not take their full annual leave allocation”.

Amazingly ” a third of working Brits (36%) who did not take their full annual leave said it was because they ‘just didn’t get around to it”.

And “42% confessed that they have felt stressed about work whilst on holiday”.

Do you check your work emails when you are on holiday?

Yes lots of people do!

The survey revealed that “48% have checked work emails whilst away and more than a third (39%) have gone one step further and responded“.

Taking your leave is good for you

A 40-year study by the European Society of Cardiology revealed that taking a holiday could help people live longer.

At the ESC Congress in Munich, Germany (28 Aug 2018), Professor Strandberg said: “The harm caused by the intensive lifestyle regime was concentrated in a subgroup of men with shorter yearly vacation time. In our study, men with shorter vacations worked more and slept less than those who took longer vacations. This stressful lifestyle may have overruled any benefit of the intervention. We think the intervention itself may also have had an adverse psychological effect on these men by adding stress to their lives.”

The dangers of presenteeism

Feeling that you always have to be present at work, always connected and available is dangerous in the form of stress and burnout.

Whoop (the Health Monitor Band company) employees are rewarded for getting adequate sleep and rest. What a great idea.

Always working on holiday?

They realise that fully shutting off from work is not always possible. Sometimes a compromise is required. Jake has an agreement with his wife that his work phone is locked in a safe all day and in the evening he is allowed 10 -15 minutes to pick up work calls and e-mails.

Joe Wicks has a technique where he takes time out as “mini retirements” where he takes on less work and is present with his family and friends. This was a result of hearing a phrase “don’t wait until you are older to retire, have mini retirements every year”.

The main elements required for a High Performance Holiday

A second phone

Dr Peter Atia gave Damian and idea to have a sequin phone so that he could turn off.

What a great idea! (apart from the potential landfill question when phones are at the end of their lives).

Having a phone that is only used for personal and family matters can allow you to switch off from the office. If it does not have WhatsApp, Email and job related accessibility, it can just be used for family photos and family calls.

The value of getting new ideas and energy

Alex Scott loves to travel. She gets her education and learning about life from travelling around the world, learning about different cultures and meeting people.

She says that it gives her so much energy and makes her fell alive.

Prioritising going on holiday.

Getting the team to take full responsibility when you are away.

It’s sometimes hard to delegate but it can be really good for your team. If you can get your team on board that when a colleague is on holiday they will not be contacted under any circumstances it will be good for both you and your workmates.

Show me your calendar

Shane Pariss did an exercise with Jake where he asked him what are the most important things in his life?

Jake replied “his children, his wife and finding some time for himself”.

Shane then asked him to show him his diary and he would show Jake his priorities!

Tips on how to have a High Performance Holiday

Jake and Damian provide a few tips on how to have a High Performance Holiday.

Delete all, your work apps (or lock your phone up or get a non work phone).

Plan your holiday well in advance.

Create a boundary in the office where no-one is contacted whilst on holiday.

Keep away from tech when you are on holiday

Be where your feet are – make sure you are fully there and connected in the moment when you are away.

Have some downtime between activities – holidays should not be totally organised.

Remember why you are going on holiday.

Can GlenMyu Estate provide elements of a High Performance Holiday?

There are elements that allow our guests to have a high performance holiday when they are at GlenMyu Estate.

Although we do provide free Wi Fi for our guests we find that it is not used very much when they are here on holiday. The environment appears be right for people to switch off and appreciate the environment and enjoy nature.

I love it when I see guests sitting on the sofas in our lounge reading a book or just watching the clouds.

Walking around the estate or spending time at the swimming pool is a good form of exercise bot physically and mentally. The opportunity to listen to the bird song, watch our ducks in the stream or pet our dogs are simple things in life away from all the tech back home.

We find that our guests really do switch off

Although lots of our guests do explore the wonderful sights in the hill country, many change their plans and just spend time on the estate to relax.

Watching guests pick up a pencil and start drawing on a notepad, playing badminton as a family or swimming in our pool is a good use of their downtime.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and switch off

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

We find that our guests really do switch off.

A High Performance Holiday Read More »

Practice Friluftsliv in Sri Lanka in 2024

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Life in Sri Lanka, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Little Adam's Peak, Natural Swimming Pool, Sri Lanka, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Practice Friluftsliv in Sri Lanka in 2024.

Why you should practice Friluftsliv in Sri Lanka in 2024.

The Swedish concept of friluftsliv (open-air living) is something we aspire to do at GlenMyu Estate.

It’s not just Sweden, this practice is also a common philosophy in Denmark, and Norway.

Unwinding outdoors is engrained in the culture in Norway.
Some firms make it part of their working week.
Going for a jog or a walk during your lunchtime, despite plunging temperatures is a common sight.

What is Friluftsliv?

Frilufstliv was first popularised in the 1850s by Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen in his 1859 poem “On the Heights”.

The concept is much older.
Its literal translation is “free-air life”, but Ibsen used it to convey a spiritual connection with nature.

To modern Norwegians, it means participating in outdoor activities, but also has a deeper sense of de-stressing in nature and sharing in a common culture. Could this outdoor life hold the key to Norwegians’ health and happiness?

Friluftsliv is not a specific activity.

Hiking in the forest, kayaking along the fjords and skiing in the mountains could all be part of it, but so could picking cloudberries or simply sitting in the woods.

How do I practice Friluftsliv?

Unwinding in the open air is so ingrained in the culture, some companies build it into the working week.

I make sure that I take some time out every day to spend time on the five acres we have at GlenMyu Estate. As the land is in the Sri Lankan hill country walking up and down the inclines can increase the heart rate. The lowest part of the land is around 90 metres lower than height at the entrance gate.

Walking around the pathways and surveying what grass cutting and weeding needs to be done. I get ideas on what we should plant or whether we should put in another seat to enjoy the surrounding nature.

Swimming in the natural spring fed swimming pool surrounded by the hills and the birds providing a musical backdrop is another way that I practice Frilutftsliv.

Friluftsliv and GlenMyu Estate

An outdoor culture is a bit easier in the tropics due to the climate.

Unless you really suffer from the heat or sunburn, being outdoors is the natural place to spend your time in Sri Lanka.

Spending time at the beach or hiking through the rainforests or the tea estate of the Pekoe Trail all reflect friluftsliv.

In our opinion, swimming at the pools at Upper Diyaluma Waterfall is the perfect way yo practice Friluftliv.
After the twenty minute hike to the top of Sri Lanka’s 2nd tallest waterfall you will enjoy the cold water pools.

Being out in an unspoilt natural environment will make this a memorable experience.

We normally send guests off after breakfast from GlenMyu Estate so that they can enjoy the nature before the larger crowds arrive later in the day.

Horton Plains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of our favourite places in the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

Walking through the fresh air, at an elevation of 2,200 metres is exhilarating. The beauty of the flora and fauna in this montane cloud forest is amazing.

It is certainly a place where you can practice friluftsliv.

Even our staff at GlenMyu Estate practice Friluftsliv.

One of our staff members at GlenMyu Estate always takes the long way round to the house rather than a direct approach.
When asked why, he said that it was beautiful walking on the far side of the land.
It’s something we encourage him to do as we know that it is good for him.

Enjoy the outdoors at GlenMyu Estate.

Average annual temperature in Beragala is 21.3 °C / 70.4 °F.

The temperature range in at Beragala is a maximum of 26.4 °C/(79.5) °F in July.
Minimum night time temperature is 16.5 °C
(61.7) °F.

This means that you can enjoy the temperatures during the day and get a good nights sleep.

Connect with nature

As you walk around the five acres at GlenMyu Estate you will come across some animals, birds and insects.

There is a large variety of birds that visit the estate. We also have to types of monkey that regularly visit the trees to forage (and annoy our dogs!).

Connecting with nature is an important part of the enjoyment when you stay at GlenMyu Estate.

Spend time with our dogs, ducks, chickens and cows.

Guests love the connection that they make with the rescue dogs that we have on the estate. Clove will give you a great welcome. The other dogs will say hello and them leave you alone as they go about their day (or sleep!).

The ducks forage around the estate and swim in the ponds that are scattered around the estate.

One of my favourite images of 2023 was seeing a French executive lying on the ground, looking upwards to the trees whilst petting one of the dogs.

He really loved the dogs whilst he was here and really connected with them.

We really enjoy guests that connect with our animals.

A Swiss lady arrived in early 2024 and had a passion for cows. I suppose that Switzerland has an abundance of the animals eating lush grass in the mountains.

Whilst showing the couple around the garden at the estate we had to wait for a while. It was the time for the cows to be put to bed in the cowshed. We waited for our new bull calf to arrive.
He was petted by his new admirer before heading to his bed.

It was a beautiful sight and a great memory for both the guest and also myself.

A walk around the garden

Ru normally does the garden tour.

I also do to but I miss quite a few plants of interest because Ru designed and planted most of the grounds.
Of course, I am very proud of how my Jackfruit, Mango and Avocado trees are coming on, but there is much more to see.

It’s a delight when guests smell the leaves of the mandarin and lemon trees trying to guess what it is.
The curry leaf gets a variety of reactions.
If someone bites onto one of the pepper pods they are normally seeking some water to cool them down

You walk, you see, you learn.

I love it when guests discover that a pepper is grown as a vine.
The amazement that green coffee on the tree becomes a breakfast drink.

Seeing a Jackfruit on the tree and then eating a Jackfruit Burger later on is an experience.

Harvesting sap from the Kithul Tree becomes the syrup that they pour over their breakfast for sweetness.

Some people are a little embarrassed that they didn’t know where some of the food they eat comes from. I was the same.

I used to enjoy cloves in my mulled wine over the festive period when living in the UK. I didn’t have a clue about where a clove comes from .

Here, at GlenMyu Estate, we have planted thirty clove trees. In around five years we will be harvesting our own cloves from the trees we have planted.

When I was living in London, I had no idea about where my food come from and how much work went into producing it.
I thought that peanut grew on a tree.
I’m sure that I got this belief from an advert I saw in television as a child.

They are grown on the ground. I was amazed when we grew them and how delicious they tasted.

Removing the shells however, is another story and I appreciate the work that went into producing the packet of peanuts that I enjoy with a Lion lager!

Are you ready to practice friluftsliv?

We think that everyone should be able to practice Friluftsliv.

GlenMyu Estate and the places you can visit on a day trip are ways that you can get closer to nature on holiday in Sri Lanka.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and practice friluftsliv.

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Practice Friluftsliv in Sri Lanka in 2024 Read More »

One day is not enough at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka

Birdwatching, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

One day is not enough at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka.

One day is not enough at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka.

Actually, you will find you will want to stay longer once you experience it here.

Read our reviews and you will see that this is what our guests say.

It's a great feeling.

We feel great when our guests say that they will be back.

Now, you could just interpret this as them being polite or trying to make us feel good.

What we have experienced, however, is that several guests have already returned.
Others have given recommendations to friends and family who have stayed with us. Many of our guests plan to come again in the future, and we are confident that they will.

I should have told you.....book more than one day

When we receive a booking on Airbnb or Booking.com for just one night, I don’t feel comfortable saying it’s not enough.

We don’t want to look like we are money grabbing as that is far from what we are.

For many of our guests, it is their first time in Sri Lanka, and they try to see the whole island in one trip.

The fact is, there is so much to see on this tiny island, that you cannot do anything but touch the surface on your first trip.

Once you come here, you will want to stay longer

There are many reasons why guests want to stay longer when they come to GlenMyu Estate.

Exhaustion

Traveling around the island is quite exhausting.

Your senses are hit by all kinds of colours, smells and range of temperature.

Sri Lanka is a fantastic holiday to spend your holiday.

However, it does take longer to get from A to B and it can be quite tiring.

Activity levels when you spend hours behind a desk

Sri Lanka can be full on when it comes to activity. If you are not ready for this, you can get quite tired.

Lots of the sights to see have lots of steps to climb.

When you are doing these kinds of activates in the heat and when you are not normally active it can be quite exhausting.

Just think about skiing. You are supposed to do exercises to increase the strength of your legs and things before you go. If you were take part in any physical activity you are advised to warm up and warm down.

Great experiences like climbing the Lion Rock in Sigiriya or doing the pilgrimage to Adams Peak have lots of steps.

It’s a challenge going uptime and sometimes more painful coping down!

Coping with the heat and humidity

Most of our guests are not used to the temperatures around the island. Anaradhapura and Polunnaruwa are in the dry zone.

Being at the beach is a lovely experience. However, we regularly see the sigh of relief from guests when they arrive to a more accommodating temperature in the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

A good nights sleep, without the need for air-conditioning

We are fortunate to be in an area where are located as the temperature usually results in a good nights sleep.

Several guests have arrived at GlenMyu Estate either tired from the noise of an air conditioning unit, or with the onset of a cold. It takes some time to get used to using air conditioning unit and getting the right temperature for you.

The good news at GlenMyu Estate is that the temperature in the Hill country means that we don’t use air conditioning. With minimum(night) and maximum temperature (day) range between 16.5 °C (61.7) °F and 26.4 °C (79.5) ° during the year according to Climate Data.

Real Simple state that “For the best possible sleep environment, keep your bedroom between 16 °C /60 °F and 22 °C/ 72 °F, (65 degrees/18 °C is typically ideal)”.

The food, the food, the food! You will want to stay for more than one day.

We are starting to get a reputation for the food the Ru and the team serves to our guests.

Eating at GlenMyu Estate is an experience itself.

Read our reviews and see what our guests say about the food.

More than a stay, an experience

This is a quote from our Polish guest Greg, who wrote this line in his Google review of his stay here.

We believe that it really reflects what we are all about at GlenMyu Estate and have now taken this quote as our strap line.

So much to see, one day would never be enough

There are so many great experiences and sights within reach of Glenmyu Estate. Staying for one night means that you will not be able to touch the surface here.

Here are some photos of Matt and Millie who experienced Upper Diyaluma Waterfall pools on the way to GlenMyu Estate.

They also saw a spectacular sunrise at Lipton’s Seat.

What they didn’t get to do was a hike at Horton’s Plains and see the view from World’s End. Maybe next time!

So, if they had stayed for one day, they would not have had these superb experiences.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate for more than one night and explore the Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

One day is not enough at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka Read More »

Sri Lankan Visa - where should I buy one?

The best place to buy a Sri Lankan Tourist Visa

Holiday, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel, visa / By Mikeez

The best place to buy a Sri Lankan Tourist visa?

Where is the best place for me to buy a Sri Lankan Tourist Visa?

I don’t want to get scammed or have to pay more through an agency?

Don't use an agency if you can avoid it!

You may pay a large additional fee for purchasing a visa through an agency.

The ETA is a simple and quick way to purchase your Tourist Visa and therefore we would recommend that you avoid using an agency.

Use the Official Sri Lankan Visa site and buy it online.

The best way to buy a Tourist Via for Sri Lanka is to visit the ETA section on the Official Sri Lankan Government Website

30 days or 90 days Visa?

Save money and hassle

Sri Lanka offers the following:

Tourist Visa with Double Entry for 30 days.
Cost: US$ 50

Tourist Visa with Double Entry up to 90 days.
Cost : US$ 50 Twice the relevant country Tourist Visa fee.

Check the Official website for current prices

Please note that these fees were sourced from the Official Sri Lankan Government website in January 2024.

The fees will no doubt be revised in future, so please visit their website for current pricing

SAARC

South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Countries pricing is slightly lower.

Buy when you arrive at BIA?

There is a limited facility at Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo to buy a visa on entry.

Additional costs will apply.

It will also delay your entry after a long flight, so we would recommend that you purchase your visa by ETA in advance.

Please note that your airline may not permit you to fly without a visa.

It is important that you check with your airline before you fly.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

The best place to buy a Sri Lankan Tourist Visa Read More »

My wife’s birthday present to herself.

Animals that live at our visit GlenMyu Estate., Holiday / By Mikeez

My wife's birthday present to herself

My wife’s birthday present to herself.

You may be surprised what the lady, who worked in the fashion industry before moving to Sri Lanka, bought for herself.

A dream made real.

I didn’t know when we met where we would end up.

It’s not something that you discuss on an initial date.

I don’t have the type of character that would naturally discuss dreams and aspirations.

We did discuss a future plan. I saw it as a change at the right time of my life. A chance to get some time back.

My wife is Sri Lankan and we met when she was working in the UK.

And how did you meet?

Lots of our guests at GlenMyu Estate ask how we met. Some are surprised that we met on the dance floor in International Student House, near Great Portland Street.
At the time she was in the country only occasionally and we always danced together when we met. It took her almost nine months to ask me out. Yes, she asked, I didn’t read the signs.

A relationship and a plan.

During our years in the UK my wife always said that her plan was to go back to Sri Lanka at one point.
Our relationship blossomed and I guess I was in on the plan.
Maybe I didn’t listen hard enough, but I understood that the reason she wanted to go home was to live with her parents.

What I didn’t hear (or listen to) was that she really wanted an organic farm and to look after animals.

Things evolved.

Plans change in life and our initial idea of living in Colombo and using a smaller version of the house at GlenMyu Estate as a holiday home changed.

I really couldn’t manage with the heat in Colombo (almost 10 degrees Celsius more than the hills). The feeling of being a prisoner in the morning and evening avoiding the mosquitos was also not pleasant. Although there are mosquitos in the hills, the temperature results in very few bothering me. I can sit out in the evenings in the cooling air and not be pestered.

Our plan changed and it fell in line with my wife’s dream of living in the mountains and creating an organic farm.

A lot of work, a bed and breakfast and lots of animals.

Roll on to the present time and after a lot of hard work and persistence we created GlenMyu Estate.

The estate is funded by having guests stay with us when they are on holiday in Sri Lanka. Being around an hour away from Ella, Nine Arch Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak etc, we are a good alternative to the busy tourist town. We have great reviews from our guests and they rave about Ru’s food.
As we only have three bedrooms availability is getting scarce during the peak holiday periods.

We have gathered some animals which are an added interest to the guests that stay.

My wife's first birthday present to herself.

As you get older it’s hard to chose a birthday present for your partner.

In the UK it was a little easier as Ru was really interested in cooking. So, cook books were welcomed.

I managed to get several books signed by Rick Stein over the years through my brother who drove him around for a period and also standing in line at a book signing at Waterstones. There were books from other authors and Le Cordon Bleu as Ru carried out a short course there.
My mother lives in West Cork, Ireland and there are books from great producers such as Gubbeen and by her acquaintances including also Darina Allen from Ballymaloe.

In Sri Lanka, living away from Colombo, it is a little more difficult choosing a suitable present.

As we were driving from Haputale to Beragala, my wife decided that she wanted to buy four ducks for her birthday. I guess this is where buying her own birthday presents started.

The ducks were installed at GlenMyu Estate and have multiple over the years to around twenty. They add something special to the environment and I find watching them quite meditative.
Ru has a special relationship with our original mother duck who follows her around and is more like a pet.

Her latest birthday present to herself.

In December 2022 we took ownership of our rescue cow Maali.
She has also become a great addition to the estate and provides us with manure for our organic garden.

Unfortunately, being alone, behaviour problems started to arise and she would try to play and heat butt our dogs, ducks and chickens in the afternoon.

Having read more about the issue it was clear that cows, being a herd animal, need some company of their own kind.

An opportunity arose to chose a new birthday present.

One of our neighbours had a bull calf which was destined for the slaughterhouse.
Females are the important ones as they produce milk and generate an income for these smallholders.

Ru was given the opportunity to rescue the bull calf and, after a little discussion with me, she decided that this would be her birthday present to herself.

The birthday present would not just be purchasing the bull calf, but also building a new cowshed where he and Maali could stay. Maali’s accommodation was not big enough for two.

My wife's birthday present.

My wife used to work in the clothing and fashion industry. I think that if you asked us ten years ago what she would be getting for a birthday present, a bull calf would not have arisen as a choice!
Life has changed and perhaps there will be another life saved with her choice of birthday present next year.

Not just a bull calf for her birthday.

The day of my wife’s birthday included feeding stray dogs with the big batch of chicken and rice that had been made that morning.

Lots of poor creatures were fed on the way to the beauty salon where she spent a lot of the remainder of her birthday being pampered

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and meet our animals.

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours or so drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

My wife’s birthday present to herself. Read More »

Favourite meal in Sri Lanka.

Cookery Courses, Food and Drink, Organic, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, Plant Based Menu, Recipes, Ru's Recipes, Sri Lankan Cooking, sri lankan recipes, Vegan, Vegetarian / By Mikeez

Our guests' favourite meal in Sri Lanka.

Our guests’ favourite meal in Sri Lanka?

I think that this is our guests’ favourite meal in Sri Lanka. There are lots of dishes that we prepare for guests at GlenMyu Estate that we hear sounds of delight and praise.

The food is great. It is mainly prepared with the most local fresh ingredients that we can source. As a result, many of our dishes fall within the plant based, vegetarian and vegan categories.

What is our guests' favourite meal in Sri Lanka?

Well, I think that it is our Sri Lankan sharing platter.

There are lots of reasons why I think that it our guests’ favourite meal in Sri Lanka.

Some of our guests may disagree, as there are so many meals that Ru and the team create that are delicious.

However, maybe I’m a little biased, as I love our Sri Lankan sharing platter so much that I limit how often I eat it!

Why is it our guests' favourite meal in Sri Lanka.

There are several factors that make our Sri Lankan sharing platter special for our guests.

One of the main reasons is the memory you get from the whole experience.

Normally when we prepare the dishes, Ru’s mother offers a free Sri Lankan cookery demonstration.

Ru’s mum has been cooking for so many years that it’s hard to count. Her husband loves her food and that has been one major joy in their relationship. It’s funny when I ask Ru’s father “How was your lunch?” when someone other than his wife was the chef. The normal response is “It’s okay”.

This is not the most positive response!

In the past when Ru has cooked for him, he has been known to say “Ask your mother how you should cook this”.

I have found that there is little tact and diplomacy in Sri Lanka in these matters and straight talking in the norm!

An entertaining afternoon.

Ru’s mums’ Sri Lankan cooking demonstration normally starts around 4.30 p.m.

The other staff help out by preparing some of the ingredients including chopping the vegetables, preparing the coconut milk and grinding the kollu.

The cooking demonstration adds to the experience.

By participating in the Sri Lankan cookery demonstration (yes you may get your hands dirty!) it adds to the overall experience.

Seeing how your food is prepared and cooked before being delivered to the table appears to add to the flavour of the dishes. I think that guests feel part of the experience.

By the way, the Sri Lankan sharing platter is delicious.

Ru’s mum is really a great Sri Lankan cook. The years of experience come out in the dishes she prepares. Not only are the dishes great tasting, they are also a balanced meal providing you with protein, carbohydrates and vegetables.

There is no meat or fish in our Sri Lankan sharing platter unless you want something on the side) and it is enjoyed by both meat and non meat eaters.
The range of flavours and textures in the dishes means that you replay don’t need any meat or fish with this meal.

It is served with either rice or paratha and you will definitely leave the table full!

Make your own mind up!

Perhaps you will disagree with me and your favourite meal in Sri Lanka at GlenMyu Estate will differ from mine.

We hope to see you in Sri Lanka and have the opportunity to let us know.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and enjoy delicious food when you are on holiday.

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Favourite meal in Sri Lanka. Read More »

What’s your New Year’s resolution?

Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool / By Mikeez

New Year's resolution?

New Year’s resolution?

2024 is approaching fast!

This year I’m going to make a resolution that I can keep to!

New Year's resolution - I have failed so many times.

Do you know the feeling?
You try something but don’t see it through.

A friend asks “What’s your New Year’s resolution” and I make one up on the spot!

Most of my New Year’s resolutions have been last minute ones where I haven’t been fully committed to see them through.

Into the gym in January .....for a while.

Yes, like may other people, after the indulgence of the festive period, I have hit the treadmill at the gym for many Januaries.

Unfortunately my commitment levels have not been high. As the weather conditions got more challenging in the UK with the cold and some sleet for snow, to was easy to give up.

New Year's resolution - the one that did work for me.

One that worked for me one year was to give up sweets (candy).

I think the overload of chocolates and sweets consumed during the run up to Christmas spurred me to make a resolution to give up sweets for a year.
The tins and boxes of Celebrations. Rose’s and Quality Street were finished and I did not want any more.

After a few weeks of abstinence I lost the craving and my interest level dropped in a sweet treat. Going to the Newsagents and not picking up aa snickers or a mars bar was easy.

I got to the end of the year and succeeded in my goal.

My craving had gone and I continued going for another year and a half (two and a half years in total) before I picked up another sweet.

And on and on....

The habit and craving had dissipated and even now I have no real desire to have a sweet. When I was last in the UK I did pick up one of my favourite sweets and I was disappointed with the taste. So nowadays I hardly have any sweets.

The New Year's resolution goal?

I really need to get healthier.
Getting older, it’s easy to slip out of the exercise routine and put on a few pounds.

When I first came to Sri Lanka I was living in Colombo close to Parliament. There is a walking track next to the lake which surrounds the parliament building.

I started walking the two kilometres to the walking track. The track is almost four kilometres there and back. I would then walk the two kilometres back home.

When I was walking I would listen to music or podcasts to pass the time. The music was inspiring and some podcasts were also motivational or just for my entertainment.

I downloaded the NHS Couch to 5K and started to do intermittent jogs.
After a while I was doing some jogging as advised by the narrator.

I was felling pretty good about myself, felt healthier and had lost some weight.

A habit easily broken

When we moved to the Sri Lankan Hill country my wife and I walked every morning along the A4 road which runs by the entrance to GlenMyu Estate.

As we are at a more comfortable temperature in the hills, we really enjoyed our walk.

Then we got dogs!
Unfortunately our habit of walking in the morning was destroyed by the dogs that we have collected and now reside at GlenMyu Estate.

As the dogs are protective of us and we would meet lots of other dogs on the road, it became uncomfortable.

And that was it. Our good habit was broken.

A new good habit.

One of the best things we did at GlenMyu Estate was to build the Natural Spring Fed swimming pool.
When we calculated the cost, my wife and did a rough estimate of how many times we would need to use the pool for it to pay for itself.

A good new habit was started and we started swimming lengths weary evening.
We got fit, felt great and lost some weight.

A few excuses and the habit is broken.

Along came some feeble excuses.
It started raining in the afternoon.
We went to the UK and will start swimming when we get back – it didn’t happen.
The waters too cold.
We need to empty and clean the pool.
The guests are using the pool.

So, our good habit was broken again.

Running up to the time to make a New Year's resolution

We were back from the UK.

Of course, we had put on weight and lost fitness from overindulging when spending time with our friends and family.

The plan was to start swimming but there were unusually heavy rains Sri Lanka during late October and through November. Another excuse!

Inspiration comes when really needed.

We had consecutive guests at GlenMyu Estate that swam in the pool once or twice a day.
They loved it and were surprised that we did not use the pool daily.

One set of guests said as they left inspired us to start swimming again. It was not quite a challenge laid down, but it was all that we needed.

An early New Year's resolution!

Why wait to the New Year to start when you have no excuse?

The pool was there, it was available for me to use when our guests were out exploring the Sri Lankan Hill country or eating breakfast.

In the evening, before the sun goes down a window to swim is also open.

I have started early.

Once I had started and started marking the days and distance that I was swimming, it was easy to make swimming daily a habit.

Actually, swimming twice a day is starting to become a habit. Sometimes I do miss my evening swim as circumstances get in the way, but I don’t feel bad as I’ve completed my morning swim.

I'm excited about my progress and what's to come.

There are my first steps (or strokes!) on my journey and I already feel a bit leaner. By completing my daily swim and swims provides a sense of achievement.
I’m determined to continue my goal of swimming every day with a second swim as a bonus.

What's your New Year's resolution going to be?

I do feel lucky that we have a swimming pool at GlenMyu Estate and my resolution and goal does not have many challenges for me to succeed.
The only thing that should get in the way is me and I will not let it be an option.

I hope that you set a challenging, but reachable New Year’s resolution.
Starting the habit starts with one step, so just put one foot forward and start on your journey. Good luck!

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and swim in the natural pool.

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

What’s your New Year’s resolution? Read More »

Swimming in the mist – a unique experience.

Holiday, Natural Swimming Pool, Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Swimming in the mist.

Whatever the weather swimming in the natural spring fed pool at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka is a unique experience.

Despite the weather, swimming when the mist sweeps through the Sri Lankan Hill Country it is a great experience.

The mist provides silence apart from the sounds of the water and some birds flying around.

Water temperature is refreshing and invigorating. The feeling when I finish my swim is amazing.

Swimming in the morning before the sun comes up.

The best start to a morning is to enter the swimming pool and get my exercise out of the way early. Swimming is good for you in so many ways and my muscles get a good workout without the stress as they are supported by the water.

The birds are up and about and provide the background music. As I swim I watch the birds swoop by as they choose where they start their day.

Swimming in the evening.

At the end of the day the colours by the pool make an evening swim a special place to be.

It’s so tranquil watching the colours change as the sun goes down. Any tiredness from the day is washed away by the cool, refreshing water which has been gently warmed by the sun during the day.

Sometimes it just me at the pool. It’s a great time for reflection and giving thanks for another wonderful day in the Sri Lankan Hill country.

The Sri Lankan Hill Swallows swoop and take a sip of water from the pool. I have no idea why they really want to do this. Below the pool we have a large stream where they could drink from. There may also be the added benefit of scooping up an insect of two that are on water. Perhaps a small fish that inhabit the stream.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Swimming in the mist – a unique experience. Read More »

Is Sri Lanka Worth Visiting?

Accommodation, Cookery Courses, Holiday, Sri Lanka, Sri Lankan Cooking, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?

Here’s why we think you should visit this paradise island before it reaches its’ target of 5 million tourists.

Sri Lanka offers something for everyone.

Sri Lanka offers a wide variety of experiences for you to enjoy on holiday.

Whether you love the beach, history, culture, hiking, animals or nature it packs in a lot for a small island (similar in size to Ireland).

If you are after nightlife then stopping in Colombo, Galle, Kandy or Ella should keep you entertained.

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting? It is for the variety of what's on offer.

Backpacking, climbing mountains, river rafting, whale watching, riding a zip wire and wave boarding are all on offer to get your heart racing.

Tranquil walks through nature and birdwatching tours. Yoga & meditation retreats and remote glamping are available for those who want a quieter time to work on ones soul.

Tourist numbers are going up.

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?

We would recommend that you visit sooner than later.

The Tourist Board in Sri Lanka has a plan to increase tourist numbers from under 2 million to 5 million by 2029.

We hope that the country will not get to a level where it needs to restrict numbers. We don’t want to be like Barcelona, The Sechelles, Bhutan, Machu Picchu, Galapagos Islands, The Forbidden City and Lord Howe Island.

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?It packs a big punch for a small island.

Sri Lanka is 65,610 sq. km. in area which compares with the Republic of Ireland which is 70,273 sq. km.

The road network has been improved in more recent years however, it does take longer than anticipated to get around. We have lots of German guests at GlenMyu Estate who are used to flying down the autobahn. They are surprised when the same distance covered Sri Lanka can take three or fours times the time to complete. However, Sri Lanka is all about the journey and enjoying what you see on the way.

The variety of experiences and what you will see makes the time you spend on this paradise island worth it.

Come at different times of the year.

The country is now marketing itself as an all year round destination and a place where you will visit again and again.

Monsoons hit the North West and South East of the island at different times of the year.
This opens up parts of the island which are best to see in particular months.

The high tourist season has been during the Northern Hemisphere winter during December to March. The South and East of the country are monsoon free and getting a tan when others are shivering at home is an attractive proposition.

The North and the East.

The North and the East coasts are best seen during April or May to September when lots of European tourists are in the Mediterranean seeking the sun.

This part of the country has only been open in more recent years as it was not a place you could visit due to the civil war which ended in May 2009.

Investment in tourism has started in the North and East. Guests that have stayed with us at GlenMyu Estate have advised to go now, before it gets too busy.

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting? Different months, different places to explore.

You can experience the Sri Lankan Hill country for most months in the year.

In October the island is hit by the inter Monsoon and you would need to have good luck during that month to get some rain free days.
Climate change looks like it is changing the weather patterns in Sri Lanka, so there is no guarantee that you will be basking in the sun.

Recent guests from Australia stayed at GlenMyu Estate during the tail of the Inter monsoon and had a spectacular sunrise at Lipton’s Seat. You can read about their experience on our blog post “Sri Lanka’s most beautiful place”.

So, holidaying in Sri Lanka can pose a bit of a risk however you may win by by being derived a unique experience.

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?- Summary

We would say that Sri Lanka is definitely worth visiting.

From our experience every one of our guests have loved their holiday in Sri Lanka. They are amazed by the people, what they see and the food that they eat around this small island.

Come over and experience this gem before it gets too busy.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Is Sri Lanka Worth Visiting? Read More »

A view from the lawn of the the house at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and Bed & Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

5 things I love about gardening.

Holiday, Life in Sri Lanka, Natural Swimming Pool, Our Animals at GlenMyu Estate, Our dogs, Sri Lanka, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, Travel, Vegan, Vegetarian / By Mikeez

5 things I love about gardening.

5 things I love about gardening.

From London banker to unpaid gardener in Sri Lanka.

The money is lousy but I wouldn’t change it for the world!

When I moved to Sri Lanka, I did not envisage ending up changing my office job for one outdoors.

A career banker, based in and around London, I had no idea where I would end up.
My destination was working for free on the 5 acre estate in Sri Lanka that we have developed into GlenMyu.

I had little experience as a gardener in London. Why would I when the only outside space was a small terrace? There was very little room to plant anything at all!
I had little idea also that I would end up having a love for gardening and don’t find it like work at all.

1. Things I love about gardening- Gardening is my form of meditation.

I get lost in my thoughts as I use my brush cutter keeping the pathways and lawn in good shape.

It’s amazing how calming and relaxing it is. I do make sure that I am alert enough not to have an accident though, so it’s not like I’m in a trance.

Maybe the hum from my brush cutter through the ear plugs I use gives a sense of comfort.

Trying to get the grass as even I as I can do, on the hill country slopes, is my continuous focus.

I don’t practice meditation, however, this is the closest I get. I love it!

2. Making the GlenMyu Estate garden look good, makes me feel good!

I take a lot of pride in my work and try to make the grounds as attractive as possible.

When guests say that the garden looks good, I feel good. Actually I feel great. It makes all my efforts worth it.

I say my efforts, however there is a team at GlenMyu Estate who all contribute to making the garden look good.

Ru is the designer of the garden (and most things) at GlenMyu Estate. Some of our daily workers are so adept at using the besom to sweep up the grass cuttings and leaves, I could never be as efficient or fast.

Doesn’t everyone like a pat on the back for the work that they have done?.

3. I get to feel closer to nature and I feel that I am improving the estate as a home for wildlife.

One of our aims at GlenMyu Estate is to restore the land from an abandoned tea estate to a home for wildlife. Encouraging biodiversity on the land which makes it a healthy place for plants and animals to visit and live.

GlenMyu Estate was part of a larger abandoned tea estate prior to being bought by my wife. It had also been a sugar cane estate which had failed when the government started to import sugar cane.

Over the years the land was overrun by Guinea Grass which was brought in during Colonial times as a fast growing cattle feed. This fast growing plant takes th light and nutrients from the endemic plants of Sri Lanka and dominates the landscape. It is not a good environment to welcome biodiversity.

Out with the old, in with the new. Things I Love aboutgardening

We have slowly removed the Guinea Grass over the years and replaced the plants with a fruit forest to feed us and the animals. Hundreds of endemic species have been planted and are starting to establish themselves on the five acre estate.

We regularly see dragon flies during the day, a variety of butterflies and some fireflies at night. This, we understand, shows that the land is healthy.

There are no chemicals or pesticides used at the estate and everything that we grow is organic.

4. Things I love about gardening -Getting to enjoy the fruits of my work.

It’s a pleasure walking around the garden on attractive paths and weed free borders.

The order calms the mind and allows me to concentrate on the nature that surrounds me.

Listening to the birdsong, watching the parrots flit from tree to tree and the Kingfisher fish in our stream.

The sound of the water softening any vehicle noise, the feel of the ground on my bare feet and playing with the dogs on the lawn.

A landscape that could be painted.

An inspiring landscape which brings out my hidden artistic side which was out of sight during my banking career.

One of the best things about GlenMyu Estate is our swimming pool.

The pool is fed by a natural spring and the only heating is from the daytime sun.
We don’t add chlorine to the water so I swim in a completely natural environment.

An evening swim is refreshing and eases the muscles that I have used during the day.

Finishing off the evening with a well deserved bottle of local Lion lager beer puts icing on the cake!

Our dogs turn up from time to time looking for a petting.
Maali our cow comes over and looks for her head to be patted. It’s as if she just wants me to remember she is around.

I sometimes have to chase the Eagles when it perches on branch eyeing our chickens and ducks.

Moving on the monkeys when they are trying to eat our Jackfruits, Mangos and Avocados when they are in season (don’t worry there is plenty for them to eat on the periphery of the estate).

There are lots that I love about gardening at GlenMyu Estate.

It's more than just cutting the lawn.

I don’t just cut the lawns and paths around the estate in my gardening duties.

Cutting and replanting coleus, cutting down fallen branches and general weeding is all part of my day in the garden.

It’s great to get variety in my day.

5 things I love about gardening - Summary

Gardening is my form of meditation.
Making the GlenMyu Estate garden look good, makes me feel good!
I get to feel closer to nature and I feel that I am improving the estate as a home for wildlife.
Getting to enjoy the fruits of my work.
The reward of a swim at the end of the day (and perhaps a Lion lager!).

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and enjoy the gardens.

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

5 things I love about gardening. Read More »

5 million Tourists in Sri Lanka – better come quickly!

Holiday, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

5 million Tourists in Sri Lanka

5 million Tourists in Sri Lanka – This is the target for 2029.

You’d better come quickly before the paradise island gets too busy!

According to Travel Weekly “Sri Lanka hails ‘amazing comeback’ as it targets five million tourists by 2029”

In the article of the 8th November 2023 the chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau has laid out a five-year recovery plan. The destination aims to target five million tourists by 2029.

Prior to this the he country’s best-ever year in 2018, when 2.3 million travellers visited the island.

A new tagline.

Next year advertising is planned to commence with a new tagline ‘You’ll come back for more’.

The country will need to build on infrastructure if it is to meet its 2029 target. Additional rooms will need to be developed for the range of guests from backpackers to higher spenders.

Come now before it gets too busy(5 million tourists in Sri Lanka).

Much as we applaud the ambition to achieve 5 millions tourists in Sri Lanka by 2029 a lot needs to be done to facilitate these numbers.

We already see some stresses at the historic peak season between December and April.
This is the time of year where travellers want to escape from the cold Northern Hemisphere winter.

The most beautiful train journey in the world.

Taking a train from Kandy to Ella is a popular way to see some of the country.
It is a truly spectacular journey with the section between Nanuoya (Nuwara Eliya) and Ella being particular scenic.

This experience is becoming one of the poster boys to advertise a holiday on this paradise island.

Although the train tickets are now available to be purchased online many of our guests have difficulty buying a ticket.

The journey from Kandy to Ella is around 6 hours, so you do need to book a seat. Unfortunately we have had guests that have arrived exhausted from their train journey as they were unable to secure a seat. This does not provide the best experience for them. It’s also not what they were expecting from their trip in paradise.

Some have been able to purchase train tickets at an exorbitant price from ticket agents who have scooped up batches of tickets when they have been released online.

More train tickets?, more trains? (with 5 million tourists in Sri Lanka).

If the tourist numbers in Sri Lanka are going to rise to 5 million by 2029 there will be a requirement for more tickets and more trains. Whether the train lines and schedule can deal with an additional capacity is something that we will no doubt find out in time.

We hope that a solution is found so that tourists can experience this beautiful journey.

So, come quickly!

Our recommendation is to come quickly to enjoy this paradise island.

There are opportunities to find crowd free places in Sri Lanka now, however this may not last for long.

You’ll come back for more’ - we agree.

We do support the tagline ‘You’ll come back for more’.

From our experience a majority of our guests plan to revisit Sri Lanka. They love their experience travelling around the island. The warmth of the welcome from local people is one of the major attractions. This is supported by so many things to see and do.

Sunbathe at the coast, safari, trek the new Pekoe Trail, see waterfalls, temples and ancient cities and just some of the things on Sri Lanka’s list.

Visiting at different times of the year opens up sides of the island that are avoided during the North West and South East Monsoons.

More than a stay, an experience.

One of our recent guests wrote these words in his review.
We, at GlenMyu Estate, love it and “More than a stay, an experience” is our new tagline.

We only have three bedrooms, so we advise you to come quick and and book early.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

5 million Tourists in Sri Lanka – better come quickly! Read More »

Crowd Free places in Sri Lanka

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Crowd free places in Sri Lanka?

Crowd Free places in Sri Lanka.

Do you want to get away from the crowds?
Do you like Non-Touristy, Off-beat places to visit whilst you are on holiday?

Read on to find out our thoughts, and what we recommend to do when you are on holiday in Sri Lanka.

Everyone is looking for a unique experience.

Social Media outlets like Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) appear to have driven a desire for people to strive for unique experiences.

It’s important to get that individual ‘Instagram Moment’ shared with the world.

The more unique it is may make you ‘stand out from the crowd’ and get more like.

There are lots of people that want to be pioneers and be the first. What kudos you will receive, how great will you feel when your name is shining in those bright lights!

Gen Z and Millennials

Gen Z and Millennials have aspirations to travel. What better way to grow your social media audience by getting selfies in crowd free places.

According to the Deloitte US article “Gen Z and Millennial Travel: The Wanderlust generations” their love of travel.
This is fuelling new opportunities for technology, media & entertainment, and telecommunications companies.

Is there any such crowd free places in Sri Lanka.

With the population of the planet being 8 billion and rising according to Worldometers there would appear to be very few places on earth that are crowd free (or will be for long).

Beat the crowds - get there early

I’m sorry, but although you are on holiday and probably want a lie-in, we recommend that you get up early and beat the crowds.

Our guests Millie and Matt got up early to visit Lipton’s Seat. Their experience was unforgettable and special to them. You can read about their adventure in the following article “Sri Lanka Most Beautiful Place”.

Here are the reasons why we recommend getting up early “6 Reasons to Get Up Early”.

By giving up your lay-in on holiday you have more of a chance in beating the crowds.

Crowd free places in Sri Lanka.

Two Indian Lawyers stayed with us at GlenMyu Estate in late April 2023 and experienced some crowd free moments.

This is typically when there are low tourist numbers after the main December to March tourist season.

We recommended that they leave early and return for a late breakfast. You can read more about our advice in our article “6 Reasons to Get up Early”.

As India has a population of 1.4 Billion according to Worldometer there must be very few places in that country where you can experience a crowd free place.

We were delighted that our advice provided them with this special experience which will be with them for many years to come.

Avoid the weekends

We would also recommend that you avoid the weekends.

This is because that’s when the local Sri Lankan community are likely to travel.
Going on the weekend amplifies the numbers visiting the sights to the foreign tourists.

Visit in the off season.

The main tourist season has been mid-December until April.
This is a natural time of year to visit the island as it is cold in Northern Europe.
Also the island is hit by two main monsoons: the North West Monsoon (November to March) and the South West Monsoon(April or May to September).

You can read more about the climate in Sri Lanka on the World Bank knowledge-portal website “Sri Lanka -Climatology”.

During the peak holiday season (mid-December to April), the South and West Coasts are free from the monsoon .

If you take a chance and visit during the lower tourist seasons. You will have a change of seeing more crowd free places.

It is a risk but have seen several guests get lucky taking this route.
They also get to benefit from the lower prices in the off season and the additional attention from underworked staff.

Come quick!

Sri Lanka Tourist numbers are increasing.

Monthly and weekly tourist arrivals are published on the website. If you click this link to the website you will see the rise in numbers month by month captured to the previous year.

Although the target number for 2023 was 2 million, in September 2023 it was expected to achieve over 1.5 million.

Also the government are planning to increase tourist numbers from their target of 2 million to 4 million. This will mean you are less likely to be able to experience a crowd free place on the island. You can read the article in Travel Bulletin about the tourist number targets.

You can read more about their plans in the following articles.

Sri Lanka is promoting itself as an all year round destination.

The North and East of the country is being developed for tourism since the Civil was that ended in May, 2009.

April to September are good months to visit that part of the island as it is monsoon free.
There are less hotels in this part of the country and therefore you are more likely to have some places to yourselves and be able to avoid the crowds.

We had some English visitors in July 2023 who had a great time in Jaffna and Trincomalee.
Their recommendation was to visit now before it gets developed!

October

October is the time of the year when Sri Lanka endures the inter-monsoon. The number of visitors to the island dropped from 136,405 in August to 111,938 in September and 109,199 during October 2023.

We had an Australian visitor in October who was our only guest for the night she stayed at GlenMyu Estate.
She mentioned that she was also the only guest at two other hotels she had visited.

If you can risk the rains, then there are normally good bargains to be had during the inter-monsoon period.
If you really want to go home with a tan, you probably want to avoid the inter-monsoon.

However, some of our French guests has visited the East Coast in October and they advised the the weather was quite pleasant.

So, perhaps look east if you want to visit during October and avoid the crowds.

In summary - our recommendations for a Crowd Free Sri Lanka.

Do some research
Get up early to avoid the crowds
Avoid the weekends
Consider visiting during the off-season.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, World’s End, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Crowd Free places in Sri Lanka Read More »

Moving Abroad from the UK to Sri Lanka

Holiday, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Moving abroad

Moving abroad, starting a new life – that’s what I did when I moved to Sri Lanka.

And then we opened a bed and breakfast in the hills.

There appears to be a lot of people that are looking to start a new life and leave their home country.

This headline from Timeout is a strong example of some peoples feelings “F*** This. I’m Moving Abroad” .

According to this article written in October 2022 4.5 million people in the UK had considered leaving the country that year.

“A broken rental market to rising energy costs and a government that seems to change every five seconds” are cited as some of the factors that inspire people to consider a move abroad.

The introduction of Digital Nomad Visas in certain countries have made this option attractive to some, despite the issues that Brexit has caused making it more difficult to move to the EU states in Europe.

Vloggers showing the pros and cons of moving abroad.

I regularly watch You Tube videos of people that have moved to different countries for a new life. There are always challenges encountered and some and positive about their move abroad. Others, however, regret it.

Here are a few videos showing the good, the bad and the ugly.

We moved to Sri Lanka.

My wife and I (who is Sri Lankan), moved to Sri Lanka in 2026.

Our original plan to live in Colombo changed around a year or so into living in the country. I realised that I couldn’t live in the city as the temperature was too high reaching 35/36 degrees Celsius on a regular basis. Living in air conditioning was something that I didn’t want to do. Being a prisoner twice a day when the mosquitos were out to play was also an experience that I didn’t want to live with full time.

I think that it is important that you consider whether you can actually live in the climate of the country you are considering to move to before you take the plunge.

We also realised that the attractions of living in a city was not what we wanted at this stage in life. The benefits and attractions were not what we wanted at this time. We had experienced all the culture, restaurants, bars and nightlife in London and no longer wanted this.

Running to the hills.

My wife had purchased part of an abandoned tea estate some years ago. We had planned to develop a holiday home for ourselves there.

I liked the climate in the Sri Lankan Hill Country which is normally around 25-26 degrees Celsius, which is more like a summers day back in the UK. The air is a lot healthier in the hills being surrounded by trees and plants. The regular sprinkling of rain also clear the gunk out of the air making it feel very fresh and good for you.

As we started to build a two bedroom property for ourselves, somehow it morphed into a four bedroom property.

After going through the global pandemic and then the financial crisis in SriLanka we were in a position to open our bed and breakfast, GlenMyu Estate.

We love our new life abroad.

Do we regret our move abroad? Certainly not.

Would we recommend that other move to Sri Lanka?

This is too difficult a question to answer and it really depends on your circumstances, desire for a new experience and was you really want in life.

We had the advantage of my wife being from the country and being able to communicate as she speaks the language. This issue with not being able to speak the local language is an issue that is mentioned regularly by the Vloggers who have emigrated.

We were also at the right time in our life to want a change. Living in a big city had been done and we were not using all the benefits you have by living there.

We had an advantage but it was not all plain sailing.

Despite the advantages that we had, it really has been a challenge building and then living in a new country. It’s not like being on holiday and we are not people that want to sunbathe all day and drink G & T’s every evening.

All I can recommend is that, if you want to move abroad, then rent a place for at least a year so that you can get a full experience of living in that country. You will have gone through all the weather patterns during the 12 months and works out the differences from your home country.

At that stage you will at least have a better idea of whether you could really make the change.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to see what we created in the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Moving Abroad from the UK to Sri Lanka Read More »

Changing jobs at 50 – moving to Sri Lanka

Holiday, Life in Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Changing jobs at 50.

Changing jobs at 50 – inspired by Gina d’Albiac of True Colours Coaching I thought I would write about my experience of changing jobs at 50 yeas old.

Some of the items that True Colours Coaching can help you with resonates with my move from a career in Banking in the UK to a new life in Sri Lanka:

Explore your purpose and how to live a more fulfilling life
Uncover a career- or life-path where you are free to be yourself and to do something that is in line with your values.

These two elements reflect my change in life and what happened when I changed jobs (and countries) at the age of 50.

And that was then.

A career in Banking in London was fulfilling for a long period of my life.
I was motivated, learning, challenged, energetic, ambitious, happy, rewarded, developed, and much more.
Most of my work was a happy experience and of course there are always ups and downs. I did feel, at the time, that I had a fulfilling life.

My wife and I had a good lifestyle and really enjoyed living and working in London.

There is a saying that “familiarity breeds contempt”. Although these words are a bit too strong a description of what I went through, being in a career for so long eventually creates a desire for change.

I had experienced credit booms and busts over my career and there were periods where the enjoyment and fulfilment were stressed. In addition to this, despite earning well, my wife and I were not able to spend as much time together as we would have liked.

Business travel and long hours became the norm and it was clear that we both needed a change.

50 - a good moment to change my job.

My wife and I had a plan to relocate to Sri Lanka. Shortly after my 50th birthday we landed on this Paradise Island. Ru is Sri Lankan and this would enable her to spend more time with her parents and reduce the amount of work travel she was enduring.

I had some projects to do in Sri Lanka before deciding on next steps so was engaged for a while.

My change of job at 50 had not yet been determined.

It didn't go to plan.

After some months being based in Colombo, it became clear that the work travel and stress my wife was experiencing was not going to change.

Same experience, different location.

We ran to the hills!

Maybe this is a little bit of an exaggeration. My wife had purchased part of an abandoned tea estate in the Sri Lankan Hill Country many years ago. We planned to build a small holiday home for ourselves so we could escape from the heat of Colombo from time to time

Once we started building, we added some additional rooms and eventually we ended up with GlenMyu Estate.

Changing jobs at 50 - From Banker to Gardener??????

My job role changed once GlenMyu Estate was open. I became an unpaid gardener maintaining the grass pathways and lawns around the estate. A far cry from my work in London, but I really do feel fulfilled and love it. I’m very proud when I see the results of my efforts trying to get the grass as flat as Lords Cricket Ground. (I’m still working on that!).

Fulfilment is added to when meeting our new guests on a regular basis. I really enjoy talking to them about their experience of Sri Lanka and providing some recommendations on what to do and se when they are staying at GlenMyu Estate.

The pay is lousy but my new job is the best.

Sure, I was better off financially when I was living in the UK. I was able to drive in a nice car, eat in a good restaurant and holiday a few times a year.

I now am able to spend more time with my wife, the stress levels are lower and it doesn’t really matter whether I have the latest i-Phone. We keep on dropping our older phones around the estate so a new phone wouldn’t be shiny for too long!

I really enjoy my new job and my new life. I’m very happy that I decided to change my job at 50.

We both feel privileged to be in a position to live our new lives and know that continuing to work hard and do the best for our guests at GlenMyu Estate should result in a long and fulfilling job and life.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to experience the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Changing jobs at 50 – moving to Sri Lanka Read More »

Inspiration to paint in the Sri Lankan Hills

Is this my favourite place?

Holiday, Our Animals at GlenMyu Estate, Our dogs, Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Is this my favourite place?

Is this my favourite place? I often think where is my favourite place to live? At this time in my life, it is the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

My favourite places have changed throughout my life.

I think that my feelings about places have changed over the years. There clearly was a right time and right place at different times of my life.

Formative years in the countryside.

When I was young I spent my secondary school education at a boarding school on a 64 acre estate in the Suffolk Countryside. I loved it there. Spending the time with my school friends, playing rugby with my teammates and enjoying the grounds was a far cry from Brixton, South London.

London - a city with so much to offer

Starting in Banking in Mayfair (the most expensive property on the Monopoly board!) was a great place to start my career. Unfortunately I did have to commute, so it wasn’t ideal.

Working in Kilburn and being able to walk to the office was a joy. The vibe in the area as it was slowly becoming gentrified was an interesting time in my life.

London’s pace and energy was a great place to live in my mid twenties until my mid forties. I used as many of the elements that this city offers (within my budget). The atmosphere in the pubs, bars, restaurants and nightclubs were just what I wanted at that period. London emits a power that inspires and creates art, music and fashion. It was a pomace that I felt comfortable and proud to live during that time.

Colombo, Sri Lanka - a new place, a new continent

Moving to Sri Lanka at fifty was a deliberate choice to slow down the pace of life and get some time back. Living in Colombo initially was enjoyable. My early morning walk along the walking tracks that abut Parliament was a healthy start to the day. The smiles and relationships that we started to build with the people we met on our walk or in the neighbourhood gave us a good felling of community.

As I got older the realisation that family, friends, people and community are a major part of what makes living in a place more enjoyable and brings elements of happiness.

And then to the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

My favourite place at this time in my life is GlenMyu Estate and the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

What makes GlenMyu Estate my favourite place?

Great people make this my favourite place.

We are so fortunate to have great neighbours that have a similar outlook on life. They go through the same trials and tribulations that we go through living in the hills means that we have empathy for each other. The fact that most have travelled widely, have lived interesting lives and enjoy good food and drink are a bonus.

We get to meet people

Starting GlenMyu Estate and inviting guests into our house was quite daunting at first. We were not hoteliers and would it work. Both my wife and I had lived on our own together in North West London for many years, so how would we manage with strangers coming in and out of the house?

Well, it worked out great and we love it.

We live on the top floor of the house and have a separate entrance which gives guests their separate space.

Meeting new guests exploring this paradise island adds so much colour to our lives. We really enjoy getting to know our guests, finding out about their lives and where they live. As our guests are on holiday and they have enjoyed their tour around the country spirits are positive and high.

Having people to stay with us is one of the most enjoyable parts of living here and the main reason that it is my favourite place.

The estate keeps us busy

With fives acres to maintain and look after we are always busy. There is always something to do, Lawns and pathways need cut, shrubs and trees need pruning and trees, flowers and vegetables need planting.

We are continually developing the estate to improve it for ourselves and our guests. The development of our version of Lombard Street is taking longer than I wanted. Our circular pathway around the border of the estate needs completed. We always have new ideas on what we want to do and the work needs to be planned between guests and seasons.

We wait for the rainy season to start and clear areas in readiness for planting. The rain doesn’t come and we can’t plant what we planned.

There are great places to visit nearby

We love living at GlenMyu Estate because it is close enough to so many great places to visit. A day trip to Ella to see Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana Waterfall or people watch from a bar in the high street. Visiting the UNESCO heritage site Horton Plains became one of our favourite places to go when we first started living here. Being in the Montane Cloud Forest and enjoying the eleven kilometre hike makes life interesting and makes you feel good.

Finding Upper Diyaluma Waterfall when accompanying a German couple on their trip was a wonderful find. We feel that we were lucky to visit the second tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka before it gets too busy with tourist.

Seeing the views from Lipton’s Seat, Haputale looking over the manicured tea estates are also an enjoyable experience. There are so many other places to see and visit nearby, like the stages of the new Pekoe Trail and we never have enough time to go as regularly as we would like to.

Never a dull moment

Whether it’s the animals, the weather or our staff’s stories, there is never a dull moment for us at GlenMyu Estate. We have a crazy cow who keeps us entertained. Ru is regularly nursing one of the chickens who may be under the weather. We can be searching for a duck who has decided to nest in a dangerous location as the nigh falls. Some of our dogs are needy and refuse to let me get on with my work unless I spend time petting them.

My favourite place - at the moment.

So GlenMyu Estate and the Sri Lankan Hill Country is my favourite place at the moment. I love it when guests stay and enjoy their time here so much. The reviews that they leave make both Ru and I feel great and it gives us inspiration to work hard and provide our guests with the best experience.

We hope that this also becomes their favourite place also.

Is this my favourite place? Read More »

Best places to visit in the Sri Lankan Hill Country

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

The best places to visit in the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

We are often asked by guests that stay with us at GlenMyu Estate Hotel where are the best places to visit in the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

There are so many places of interest to visit on a day trip from the Estate that guests could stay at least a week and still not really get to see everything. That’s why we love it when they say they will be back ….and some have!

GlenMyu Estate - Close to all the action!

GlenMyu Estate is located 4 kilometres from Beragala Junction on the Wellawaya/Koslanda Road.

We are not in the heart of the action (which is what our guests love!) however we are close enough to intersperse enjoying our five acre estate with day trips to see the sights.

So many choices in the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

The options that are available for you to visit include strenuous and lighter hikes, spectacular waterfalls, peaks and tea estates, gardens and a historic house.

Ella Town - only one hour away.

The tourist town of Ella is only one hour’s drive.

You can also experience some hikes, see a waterfall and visit the high street with the bars and the shops.
A day trip fro GlenMyu Estate to see Nine Arch Bridge is also a great experience and you can read about our own experience in the following article “Our Day Trip to Nine Arch bridge”.

Templed Out?

There are some temples of all (most) religions to see however, normally by the time guests have arrived at GlenMyu Estate they have seen enough Temples, Churches, Kovils and Mosques in Colombo, Kandy, the ancient cities of Anaradhapura and Polunaruwa.

The best places to visit in the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

We provide a list of places to visit in the Sri Lankan Hill Country reachable from GlenMyu Estate.

Our guests like different things and preferences differ.
The antithesis in an experience at Upper Diyaluma Waterfall compared to Flying Ravana Zip Line is a contrasting example.

Some places are for the more adventurous and some for the more relaxed.

We have not placed the experiences in any order of preference as we know that everyone is different.

This is what make life interesting and is one reason why we love welcoming guests to GlenMyu Estate Hotel.

Wonderful Waterfalls

The Tallest and the Second Highest Waterfalls Sri Lanka are within one hours drive from GlenMyu Estate.

Diyaluma Waterfall

Less than one hours drive from GlenMyu Estate, Diyaluma Waterfall is the second highest waterfall in Sri Lanka at 220 metres high.

Bambarakanda Waterfall

This waterfall is the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka at a height of 263 metres. It is also the 461st tallest waterfall in the world!

The falls are located under one hours drive from GlenMyu Estate.

Of course, we can’t forget about Ravana Falls which are located outside of Ella Town and a good for part of your day trip.

Testing Treks and Happy Hikes.

Horton Plains National Park

This UNESCO Heritage Site is a mountain grassland and cloud forest. It is between 2,100 and 2,100 metres in elevation and has an array of flora and fauna worth seeing alone. Horton Plains National Park also boasts two precipices and a beautiful waterfall to visit on this eleven kilometre hike. World’s End (870 metre drop) and Lesser World’s End (270 metre drop) are spectacular view points. Baker’s Falls is a stunning cascade of water, whatever the time of year.

The Pekoe Trail

This is a new 300 km trail with 22 stages that starts in Kandy and passes through Nuwara Eliya, Hatton, Haputale and Ella.

You can read more about the Pekoe Trail at the official website. This is a new trail and in May 2023 some of our guests hiked from Haputale to Lipton’s Seat. They have shared their photographs with us. See our article “Photos of the Pekoe Trail”.

We must also not forget the short hikes to Lipton’s Seat and Little Adam’s Peak.

Lipton’s Seat and Dambethenna Tea Factory

A visit to Lipton’s Seat to see the view that the Tea Baron Sir Thomas Lipton surveyed his empire. It is a favourite place to visit for many of our guests who enjoy the short hike to the top. Many guests visit to the Dambethenna Tea Factory after the hike to see how tea is processed.

Some of our visitors get up early in the morning to see the sunrise and come back to GlenMyu Estate for a late breakfast.

Little Adam’s Peak

The two hour hike to the top of Little Adam’s Peak is quite easy and easy to find.

You will reach the peak which is an elevation of 1141 metres and see some beautiful views.

Up for something a little tougher?

Ella Rock is a tougher hike to navigate. You can see more in this Vlog by

We can also provide you with a guide to see some of the hikes off the beaten track such as Pilkington Point and Millennium Point.

Another good hike is to visit a remote school close to Koslanda. You can read about our experience in the following article.

A historic house.

Adisham Bungalow and St Benedict’s Monastery is located just outside Haputale.

The Bungalow was previously the country house of Sir Thomas Lester Villiers. It now it houses St. Benedict’s Monastery and has beautiful manicured gardens. There are three rooms in the main house that are available for guests to see.

You can read about our experience at our article “Our Day Trip to Adisham Bungalow”.

A bit of bird watching.

Thangamale bird sanctuary is located on the same road before you approach Adisham Bungalow.

There are lots of birds that visit GlenMyu Estate. So if you just want a relaxing day you can just sit back and identify the different birds that visit the estate throughout the year.

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.

You can also contact us directly to ask about our direct booking rates.

Best places to visit in the Sri Lankan Hill Country Read More »

India and Sri Lanka – living with Nature

Holiday, Organic, Our Animals at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, Travel / By Mikeez

India and Sri Lanka - living in harmony with nature.

Both India and Sri Lanka have cultures of living in harmony with nature. In addition to providing an excellent experience for our guests, living and being closer with nature is one of our main aims at GlenMyu Estate.

A statement at the UN Biodiversity Summit in 2020.

In an article from the Hindustan Times (Oct 1st 2020) it was reported that Prakesh Javadekar, when delivering a speech at the Biodiversity Summit at the UN, stated that “India has a culture of harmony living with nature”.

He states that “Since time immemorial, India has a culture of not just conserving and protecting nature, but living in harmony with it”.

He added “As enshrined in our Vedic scripts ‘Prakriti Rakshati Rakshita’ that is if you protect nature, nature will protect you” .

Tree cover had been significantly increased and animals had been protected.

Mr Javedekar held the post of Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change at that date.

Restoring degraded and deforested land.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India aims to restore 26 million hectares of degraded and deforested land and achieve land-degradation neutrality by 2030.

If these targets can be achieved they must be applauded.

We, in Sri Lanka are doing our bit as well.

On a smaller scale there are people and organisations in Sri Lanka working towards restoring environments for nature to thrive and for lands to be restored. Of course not everyone sings on the same hymn sheet and there are huge challenges to make a significant difference.

There is always going to be a battle between conservation and development. We know what side we favour.

Hopefully, a combination of individual effort, awareness and education will encourage others to follow suit.

The concern about Global Warming and the extreme weather and catastrophes we have seen around the planet in recent years means a change in focus is both critical and urgent.

Restoration of the land at an abandoned tea estate.

GlenMyu Estate was formerly part of the much larger Viharagalla Estate. When Ru purchased the land it had been a tea estate and then a sugar cane estate. We understand that the product of sugar cane became unviable and it was abandoned.

There was apparently lots of prospective buyers that looked at the land over the years but did not think it was worth purchasing.

Ru made a brave decision to purchase the 5 acres which was mainly inhabited by Guinea Grass which is used as quick growing cow fodder. There were various trees spread around the land but the Guinness grass was the main resident.

Initially Ru wanted to build a holiday home for herself and the family to use. It was only whilst cleaning selected areas that the land started to reveal what it could become. There were lots of ideas and decisions made and changed before the site for the holiday home would be placed.

What to do with the five acres?

We were fortunate to meet our neighbours, some of wheat been developing their own properties with a view to living with nature. One neighbour has developed a diverse forest over the last thirty years and that were able to give us advice about what to plant and what works in this area. They also provided us with saplings and alerted us to SALT (Sloping Agriculture Land Technology) to secure the slopes and retain our valuable topsoil.

Another neighbour developed an Analog Forest over thirty plus years at Belipola which is around thirty kilometres from GlenMyu Estate. They have developed training programs so that others can follow their example.

Dr Ranil Senanayake gave us great advice on what to plant to encourage the return of wildlife to the land. He was also able to identify what creatures were already residing at the property.

A change of plans.

As the house developed into a larger property than we planned and we also particularly liked the climate here, our plan for GlenMyu Estate changed.

We decided in order to live with nature we would not overdevelop the land and provide a habitat for animal life whilst operating a hotel which could fund the development and maintenance of the estate. The land would become a place where guests could come and reconnect with nature. We realised that having lived in a city for many years that we were detached from nature. The development of GlenMyu Estate would allow us and our guests to reconnect.

Providing food and and a safe habitat for animals became part of the plan. The creation of a food forest on the land, the produce of which would be used to feed ourselves, our guests and the animals.

You will see when you visit GlenMyu Estate that we have planted Jackfruit trees, Mango Trees, Avocado Trees and many other food trees and plants. They are at a distance from the house where we will not be able to harvest the crop and therefore they will be food for the birds, animals and insects that are part of the local biodiversity settles on the land.

It's important that we do not use chemicals.

We do not use any chemicals or pesticides on the land at GlenMyu Estate. Although we do not have certification (as we feel there is no need) you can see from some of the insects that visit the land that we are not using chemicals. We have various, beautiful, dragon flies and in the evenings you will most likely see fireflies lighting up the night sky.

Dragonflies are a good indicator of a clean environment according to a Earthbuddies in their article “Dragonfly, The Environmentally Important Fairy-Like Insect“.

Springer state that “A major cause of the decline (in the number of Dragonflies) has been suggested to be the use of systemic insecticides” in their article “Chlorantraniliprole application differentially affects adult emergence of Sympetrum dragonflies in rice paddy fields”.

How did it turn out?

Have we managed to live with nature?

We have found the the development of the five acres at GlenMyu Estate will always be work in progress rather than something that it completed.

Working with nature means that you will not always plant the right tree in the perfect place for it. A porcupine may visit the land during the night and dig up and destroy some of your work. The unpredictable weather patterns have meant that we were unable to plant saplings when we had planned to. We have realised that you should work with the environment rather than push it. This means that we have to be patient.

Since starting the hotel we have had to take some staff away from working on the land so that they can service our guests.

In summary, we have made a lot of progress and are happy with where we are in our plan, but there is always more to do.

Our Cow and a dog. Wandering around GlenMyu Estate. Inspires my though for the day — Malli and Patch getting to know each other.

The view from the lounge — The remarkable view from the main lounge at GlenMyu Estate, Beragala, Haputale Sri Lanka.

It’s Good for the Soul when you wake up to a view like this.

A view of the patio and seating at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel, Bed and Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka. — Al Fresco eating at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel, Bed and Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

Getting the balance right.

It is a challenge getting the balance right between living with nature and generating income from the hotel. Historically the period between mid December and Mid April has been the peak tourist season in Sri Lanka. During these months our main focus is to provide the best experience for our guests. It is a drier part of the year and therefore not the time to plant around the estate.

As the number of tourists visiting the island reduce and there is more rain we change our main focus towards planting and developing our food forest.

Sri Lanka Tourism has an ambitious target to increase the tourist numbers to seven million by 2030. This is a huge increase from the target of 1.55 million for 2023.

We have seen an increase in tourist numbers outside the normal tourist season.

Sri Lanka is actually an all year round destination as visiting the East Coast and Jaffna is from April to December when the South West Monsoon hits the country.

The beaches on the east side of the country are beautiful and have a different feeling than those on the south and west coasts.

Living with Nature - good for the mind body and soul.

Our guests really enjoy their stay at GlenMyu Estate and especially when Ru takes them around the garden. Reconnecting with nature and getting to know where a large part of the food that they will eat whilst they are here is a joy. Knowing that you are going to eat organic healthy food that has been picked from the garden provides a sense of wellbeing.

We can see that when our guests get closer to nature it really is good for their mind body and soul.

I was reading about the idea behind the Scandinavian word “friluftsliv” and the love of the outdoors and feel that we have inadvertently created this environment for our visitors.

If you want to read about what our guests say about their stay at GlenMyu Estate please read our reviews on Booking.com, Airbnb, TripAdvisor and Google.

A little bit of luxury and getting closer to nature.

We have provided comfortable bedrooms and lounges with spectacular views of the Sri Lankan countryside at GlenMyu Estate. Space to roam and a Natural Spring Fed Swimming Pool to get some exercise surrounded by a sea of green allows you to immerse in nature.

Lots of our guests explore the fabulous sights within an hours drive from the estate. However, many change their plans and stay the whole day at the estate rather than battle with the other tourists to see Nine Arch Bridge.

We love it when guests stay at the estate as it is a reflection of what we have created.

GlenMyu Estate is still a work in progress – and nature will mean that it always will be. We hope that guests that stay with us now will return again and again to see the trees and plants grow and change the landscape. Several of our guests have planted Lemon Trees, Avocado Trees and other species. This allows our guests to be part of the development of the estate.

A stay at GlenMyu Estate and connecting with nature.

You can find our more about GlenMyu Estate at our website and contact us by WhatsApp to inquire about direct booking rates.

We have social media channels where you can remotely see what we are doing at the estate.

India and Sri Lanka – living with Nature Read More »

Getting away from it all

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Getting away from it all

Getting away from it all – a phrase/idiom that we all know.

We reveal why a stay at GlenMyu is a perfect place to “get away from it all”.

The phrase “getting away from it all” is something I have heard so many times in my life.

I probably heard it mostly at the office when it came up to one of my colleagues annual leave.

We all need to ‘get away from it all” for lots of reasons.

A little research

I thought I’d better do a little bit of research before starting to write down my thoughts.

The inspiration for my writing is to reason why GlenMyu Estate is a great place to “get away from it all” was from a recent review we received from one of our guests.

We tend to find that guests want to stay at the estate for a while to get away from it all.

GlenMyu Estate is a place where you can restore your mind body and soul.

So, what does “getting away from it all mean?”

The Online Cambridge English Dictionary defines this idiom as “to go somewhere, usually on holiday, where you can completely relax and forget your responsibilities or problems”

We certainly think that we fit the bill at GlenMyu Estate.

I came across a wonderful Scandinavian word “Friluftsliv”.
We think that we provide lots of the attributes to this idea.

You can read more at our article “What-is-friluftsliv“

The English Club Online says that the phrase means “If you get away from it all, you go somewhere to escape from your usual daily routine”.

Getting away from it all - The Movie.

“Getting Away from it all” was also a movie made in 1972.
Two city couples decide to leave the hectic urban life and retreat to the country.

They find that rural living isn’t quite what they thought it would be.

The movie starts Larry Hagman of Dallas fame, Barbara Feldman, Gary Collins and Edra Jane Peaker. There are many other renowned actors in the cast.

At GlenMyu Estate you can experience a different kind of living compared to the city, hopefully with a different results than that in the movie.

How do you "get away from it at GlenMyu Estate.

When we lived in London, like many others living in a city, we managed in a small space.

It was around 58 square metres which was not unusual in London.

We felt quite lucky!

A small terrace was our only outside space. However, being North facing it could only be used for a few months of the year.

GlenMyu Estate is set in five acres of the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

Guests regret not booking for a longer time

If you read our reviews there is a regular theme where guests wish that they had stayed longer.

It makes feel great that our guests enjoy the experience at GlenMyu Estate so much.

However, we really see ourselves as a place that you stay four or five days on your second holiday in Sri Lanka.

Your first experience should be a dip in the water and you should get an overall flavour of the island.

Spending one or two days at each hotel, guests house or homestay is a sensible thing to do.

The second trip to Sri Lanka should be a deeper dive. We recommend spending three or four days at each place. This will enable you to explore more places and get to know more about the culture and how people live.

They don’t want to leave

It’s heartbreaking for us when guests that we have bonded with in a small period of time leave and go on to their next destination.

There is regularly a reluctance to leave the estate. It is also not unusual for guests to change their travel plan and extend their stay.

We may be doing the wrong thing

I do question what we are doing from time to time!

Another guest review said that when they left they had “GlenMyu Depression!”.

You can read Stefan’s review on Booking.com

“We had an incredible time and enjoyed every second of it! From the house itself, to the pool, the food and the dogs and of course the hosts – everything has just been great. Leaving this place after just two nights felt wrong and we fell into a post GlenMyu depression.”.

Depressions is certainly not the result we want from their stay!

We love the fact that guests love it here.

Although I know that everyone should stay for at least three days, I don’t feel that it is my place to give that message.

If I was at the other end of this message I would think that the hosts were just being greedy and trying to squeeze some more money out of their guests.

It's not about the money!

Once you meet myself and my wife you will quickly understand that making a quick buck is not what we are about.

We really want guests to have the full experience of the estate, what we are trying to do here and explore the wonderful places nearby.

Getting away from it all for longer

Realistically you could spend ten days on holiday at the estate and still feel you could have been here longer.

Here’s my logic why:

Day One – most guests arrive in the afternoon. They settle in and have a fabulous meal crafted by Ruwanthi

Day Two – a morning at Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, stop at the clay pot makers. Then spend an afternoon at the estate.

Day Three – a trip to Ella Town to see Nine Arch Bridge (hopefully with a train going over it). And perhaps a short hike to Little Adams Peak

Day Four – A trip to Bambarakanda Waterfall. It’s Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall.

Day Five – get cup early and go to Lipton’s Seat to watch the sunrise. Do a Tea Factory Tour at Dambetenne Estate to see how tea is processed. Taste some tea at Stassens Organic Tea shop and buy some tea for yourselves and as gifts.

Day Six – After your early start the previous morning a leisurely day at the Estate. Swim in the pool. Visit the waterfall. Get a free fish pedicure in the stream. A garden tour with Ruwanthi.

Day Seven – An early start to go to Horton Plains National Park and complete the eleven kilometre hike. Back to the estate in the mid afternoon for a swim to ease those bones and muscles. Watch the informal cookery demonstration by Ru’s mother.

Day Eight – Hike a stage of the Pekoe Trail. There are four stages within reach of GlenMyu Estate.

Day Nine – Another relaxing day at the estate to re-energise. It’s good to get some downtime on holiday.

Day Ten – A trip to Ella to see Ravana Waterfall, Ravana Cave and climb Ella Rock.

There are other things to do and see in the area.
They are more of a deeper dive than the regular tourist sites that I have mentioned above.

We are not greedy!

However, we are aware that annual leave is limited and we have learnt to share.

As much as we would love to host guests for longer periods than this Sri Lanka is a fabulous island to explore.

There are lots of other great hosts and sights to see around the country and we would feel a little guilty holding on to you for too long!

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Getting away from it all Read More »

Hindu Festival in Sri Lanka

Holiday, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Hindu Festival in Sri Lanka

During mid August there is an annual Hindu Festival that takes place close to GlenMyu Estate Hotel. It normally lasts for around three days, however this year it was extended to five days. The Festival is part of the local culture here in Sri Lanka and we understand that it consists of rituals to gods that provide water which is essential for life. Across the road from the estate lies the stream that provides water for the villagers and this is the focus for parts of the festival.

As it can be noisy and the festivities can take place overnight we close the hotel during this period so our guests do not get disturbed. It also allows the Tamil Hindu workers at GlenMyu Estate Hotel to enjoy and participate in their festival which is very important to the community.

Worshippers at the source of the water just above GlenMyu Estate Hotel.

The local Hindu village along with family and friends get together.

There was a large crowd gathered for the occasion.

A healthy offering.

It is traditional in the Hindu community to offer fruits and coconuts to their gods.

We knew there was a festival because the band was playing.

Spectacular colours at the Hindu Festival.

The array of beautiful colours make it a spectacular local event.

You can hear the level of the noise from the band as one devotee takes part in his ritual to the gods.

Although this looks painful the devotee is mentally ready and prepared to go through this pain barrier. We understand from one of our workers that did this a few years ago that they regularly fast and only eat vegetarian meals on the run up to the ceremony.

A large crowd has gathered at the road above GlenMyu Estate to take part in the festivities.

Cleary the celebrations are all too much for some!

Do not read further if you are squeamish!

DON’T LOOK IF YOU ARE SQUEAMISH.

Some of the traditions are not for the fainthearted.

The Festival takes place just above GlenMyu Estate on the A4 road between Beragala Junction and Koslanda.

Windows looking toward the valley making the best of the view. — Windows making rooms with views

A stunning red sky view from the House at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and Bed & Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka. An inspirational landscape

Stunning sunsets from the House at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and Bed & Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

Surrounded by Nature – The House at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and Bed & Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

Light falling on the Natural Spring Fed Swimming Pool at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and Bed & Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka. — A ray of light falling on the Natural Spring Fed Swimming Pool at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and Bed & Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

The Natural Spring Fed Infinity Swimming Pool at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and Bed & Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka. — Reflections on the beautiful Natural Spring Fed Swimming Pool at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and Bed & Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

The Natural Spring Fed Infinity Swimming Pool at GlenMyu Estate

Swimming at the natural pool at GlenMyu Estate — An early evening swim.

The Luxurious Mango bedroom at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel, Bed and Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka. Wonderful for Valentine's Day in Sri Lanka — One of the three luxurious bedrooms at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel, Bed and Breakfast, Haputale, Sri Lanka. A great place to relax. A perfect place for Valentine’s Day in Sri Lanka

A stay in the Sri Lankan Hill Country on your holiday.

GlenMyu Estate is a three bedroom boutique hotel in the Sri Lankan Hill Country on a five acre estate.

GlenMyu Estate is on Booking.com and Airbnb. Contact us directly by WhatsApp to ask about our direct booking rates.

Visit our website or contact us by WhatsApp for further details.

Hindu Festival in Sri Lanka Read More »

10 Reasons why you need a holiday

Holiday, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

10 Reasons why you need a holiday

If you are finding it difficult to have a reason to go on holiday here are ten things that hopefully will inspire you to book your next trip. We will also let you know why selecting Sri Lanka and making GlenMyu Estate an essential part of our itinerary. Here are our ten reasons why you need a holiday.

Our list is not exhaustive but hopefully some of the items on our list will inspire you to book you trip!

1. Spend quality time with your family.

Do you find it difficult to spend good quality time with your family and friends? We include friends as they are really part of your extended family. Isn’t there always something that gets in the way. We are all too busy to even think. You always have those chores to do at home. Taking the kids to their tuitional class or their after-school activities. After a hard days work and commute you just want to relax and lose yourself on your current Netflix binge

An escape from your normal daily routine with no concerns about who’s doing the dishes, the laundry and grocery shopping is what you need.

With little distractions you will be able to put that much needed time into your family making memories and strengthening that bond.

At GlenMyu Estate we don’t have TV’s for guests (the WiFi is there though!) so you can spend more time with each other. We have some good old fashioned board games, a badminton set to play on the lawn and lots of dogs to pet.

2. Take a break from work

We all appear to be working longer hours and much harder nowadays whilst we wait for AI and Robots to take over our jobs! You can feel exhausted and are getting much too familiar with those four walls in your office. What you need is some sunshine and a top up of vitamin D from the morning sun. A change of environment where you can reward yourself for the hard work you have been putting in at the office is what you deserve.

One of my favourite places in the morning is sitting on the lawn soaking up the morning rays that bathe the land here at GlenMyu Estate.

3. Relax and get some inspiration

It’s hard to get inspired when you are on the same hamster wheel day after day. The same faces on the commute to work, the same order at the coffee shop and the same old sandwich for lunch.

Doing something different and sampling new food and cuisines adds more variety to life and can inspire you to change some habits when you get home. I have seen guests at GlenMyu Estate get inspired and excited about discovering new flavours and a desire to cook after savouring what Ru serves. We hold an informal cookery demonstration run by Ru and her 70-ish year old mother which brings back a love for food.

4. Have something to look forward to

We all need goals and dreams don’t we? Having something to look forward to helps you get through the work weeks until that well deserved break arrives.

Knowing that a holiday in Sri Lanka will take you miles away from home in a different time zone means that you can really have a proper break.

5. Heal your body, mind and soul

I don’t meditate myself however I appear to accidentally do this when I am at GlenMyu Estate. By getting back to nature, having food made with love and doing a different form of exercise helps reenergise your body, mind and soul. GlenMyu Estate is in five acres of land and you are surrounded by nature.

We have tried to create an environment which is good for our guests and also good for the animals that visit the trees, flowers and other plants to feed upon. It is joyous to watch the birds fly by or temporary seek some nectar from the flowers. Watching our ducks wander around the property foraging for food or having a bath in the streams is my kind of meditation.

With distractions like this your mid is far, far away from your normal routine.

A swim in the natural spring fed swimming pool, looking at the surrounding greenery and listening to natures soundtrack is good for the body and soul.

6. To learn something new

Exploring another country provides you with lots of opportunities to learn something new and have different experiences. Whether it’s language, culture or just how others live their lives. I have certainly learnt a lot since I have been living in Sri Lanka and it has opened my mind and has been an interesting experience.

Sri Lanka is full of sounds, smells and experiences that you will remember. A multi cultural small island with an amazing range of things to do and experience. This small island has a variety of beaches around its coastlines which can be family friendly, a surfers paradise, a party place and a place to fish or sail.

Visiting the temples in the cultural triangle provides you with the opportunity to delve into and find out more about the blended culture.

A safari in Yala, Wilpattu, Minneriya and Udawalawe all are different experiences with different types of animals to see.

7. Life is going to fast - time out to enjoy life

How many times have you heard the phrase “life is short”?

And it truly is. Embrace the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and discover new things. Smell the roses on the way and create memories with the one that you love. These experiences will be with you for many years to come and another reason to get together with your family and reminisce about the good times you have had on holiday.

We recently had a family staying with us at GlenMyu Estate and one of my lasting memories of their time here will be the time they spent playing cricket and badminton on the lawn. I will also remember the squeals of anticipation and excitement as the family dipped their feet into the stream and were given a free pedicure by the tiny fish. Sometimes the simple things make lasting memories.

8. Release that stress

Looking after your mental health appears to be the buzz word in recent years. We think that it is really important and it helps getting away from your normal environment and relieving the pressure. By focussing your mind on other things, learning something new and not having deadlines helps you get your feet back on the ground.

An image that comes to mind is when Richard Gere walked barefoot on the grass towards the end of the movie. The joy he has doing this simple thing is easily absent from our lives.

I often walk barefoot on the grass on the lawn at GlenMyu Estate or sit and wait for the dogs to come and find me for petting.

9. You need a break

Most people have a really hectic schedule. I always knew what I was doing for at least ten days in advance when I was working in London. Actually I could also tell you what I would be doing every hour over those ten days with some accuracy!
It’s really not the way to live life – well at least that’s my thinking.

I remember in the early days of my previous career I used to work through break time and lunchtime to meet deadlines. A wise older colleague of mine explained that I could not concentrate for hours after hours and it was essential to take a break to enable me to reenergise and refocus. And, off course, he was right!

10. Having fun and a good time

Don’t you find that when you are on holiday you are able to loosen up a bit and relax more? Holidays are meant to be fun and it clearly has so many benefits for you. Guests at GlenMyu Estate regularly complain that the food is so tasty that they will put on a bit of weight whilst they are here. Holidays are a time to be a little bit indulgent and discover new things. So, it’s time to treat yourself, feel good, have some fun and laughs and an overall good time. These are things that you can take home with you and talk about with your family and friends for years to come.

We love having guests at GlenMyu Estate as when they arrive they have already had a good time on their tour of the island and been provided with Sri Lankan smiles and hospitality on the way. Hearing their stories and how much they love the island and their people is heartwarming.

We hope to hear your stories when you are on holiday in Sri Lanka and look forward to providing you with a warm welcome at GlenMyu Estate.

10 Reasons why you need a holiday Read More »

One of the rescue dogs at GlenMyu Estate and Hotel, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

A holiday for Animal Lovers

Holiday, Our Animals at GlenMyu Estate, Our dogs / By Mikeez

A holiday for animal lovers.

When we initially opened GlenMyu Estate Hotel, in the Sri Lankan Hill Country, we were concerned that having dogs would be detrimental to the business. What we have found though is that there are animal lovers from all parts of Sri Lanka and the World

The animals that we have at GlenMyu Estate have really added to the guest experience. We have been amazed that one of the reasons that guests have chosen us is because we have our rescue dogs.

All vaccinated and loved.

All of our dogs are vaccinated and are also used to greeting new guests on a regular basis. Sometimes I feel sorry for the dogs (and guests) because I can see how quickly a relationship and friendship is developed, only to be broken when the guests leave to discover more parts of this paradise island.

So you thought that you didn't like dogs?

We have had a few guests come that are not too keen on dogs. However, I don’t know how the dogs manage it, but they are able to forge a relationship really quickly. We recently had a family stay and the mother didn’t want the attention from the dogs unlike the rest of her family. A few hours later she was cuddling one of our abandoned puppies and didn’t want to let her go!

There was also a Sri Lankan family comprising of Mum, Dad and three delightful daughters. The girls were pinned close to their mother when the alighted the car and were met by several excited dogs. Within an hour they were playing with the dogs and there were tears in the morning when the left as the youngest wanted to take one home with them!

The house with the seven dogs.

Early on we had a French family living in Colombo stay at GlenMyu Estate. The parents and their two young daughters really loved their time here and picked out their own favourite dogs.

On their second visit their mother told us that we were known as “the house with the seven dogs” and that they had remembered all their names!

We often have puppies at GlenMyu Estate.

Over the few years we have been at GlenMyu Estate we have had puppies from time to time.

As spaying a neutering dogs in Sri Lanka is not the norm there are lots of unwanted puppies that turn up throughout the year.

Sri Lankans are animal lovers however we do wish that a sterilisation programme was enacted by the government to control the population.

We have lots of tourists arrive and comment on the number and poor condition of the street dogs that they have seen around the island.

There are charities and organisations that do their best to help, treat and care for the street dogs. However, the challenge is huge and overwhelming. We just do our best to care for these animals at GlenMyu Estate. After providing them with them with a good start in life with a good diet, additional vitamins and the relevant vaccinations we try to re-home them with loving families.

Were you always animal lovers?

Both Ru and I had been around dogs and animals all of our lives through each of our parents who had dogs, cats and so on. However, we had never had the full responsibility of the animals ourselves. Living in London in a small apartment, working long hours and travelling meant that it was not feasible to have a pet. We were so busy that it was not even a consideration.

Living in Sri Lanka has reconnected us with animals.

Ru’s dream was always to have an organic farm up in the mountains with her own animals. I suppose that the original intention was to have farm animals that we functional on a farm. However, the focus has changed since we have been in Sri Lanka and the main driver is being animal lovers providing a good safe environment rather than seeing their role as part of farming.

A holiday for animal lovers?

There is so much to enjoy about a stay in the Sri Lankan Hill Country at GlenMyu Estate. Sri Lanka’s Hill country offers lots of wonderful places to see and visit. Ella Town is around one hours drive and lots of our guests visit Nine Arch Bridge, climb Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak. They also visit Ravana Waterfall and Ravana’s Cave.

Hiking at then UNESCO Heritage site of Horton Plains National Park and seeing the spectacular views at Lesser World’s End, Greater World’s End and the beautiful Baker’s Falls is a favourite.

Upper Diyaluma Waterfall is a relatively new discovery for us and as it is only a 40 minute drive it is now one of the most popular day trips. A visit to Lipton’s Seat and seeing how tea is processed at Dambetenne Tea Factory is also a great experience.

After exploring the area coming back to the five acre estate and being welcomed by the dogs adds to your holiday memories.

GlenMyu Estate has more than street dogs to provide interest for animal lovers.

We also have a rescue cow called Maali. She has been a resident at the estate since December 2022 and adds to the landscape. Maali provides us with manure for our organic garden and grass around the estate. She is interested to meet new guests and give them a sniff and perhaps even a lick with her coarse tongue!

You will see lots of ducks wandering around the estate foraging for food and then bathing in the streams that run through the land. They are a perfect way to lose some hours watching them go about their daily lives. We find them very relaxing (apart from when they are mating!) and it is our form of meditation.

Our chickens and roosters also wander around the estate looking for tasty things to eat. We do keep them in an enclosure for part of the day to protect them from predators such as the mongoose and eagles.

Meet some of our animals.

Here are some of our dogs that will be happy to meet you!

Our ducks provide a relaxing experience at the estate.

And Maali may also welcome you

Other visitors to the estate.

Apart from the animals that we care for at GlenMyu Estate there are lots of visitors, some you will see and some are hidden. Occasionally you may see a Barking Deer in the distance eating leaves and fresh grass. You are unlikely to see a porcupine or Wild Boar as they tend to come in the middle of the night, however you may see the damage that they do to our crops.

There are a variety of birds that visit the estate daily and seasonally. We have a bird book to help you identify what you see whilst you are here.

We also have lots of squirrels and occasionally a beautiful Giant Squirrel eating our Jackfruits on the tree.

GlenMyu Estate Hotel - a holiday for animal lovers.

To find out more about a holiday in the Sri Lankan Hill Country please visit our website and contact us via the WhatsApp button to inquire about direct booking rates.

We are also listed on Airbnb and Booking.com.

You can also see videos of the animals that visit the estate on our social media channels.

If you are particularly interested in the dogs we have a separate YouTube Channel.

Read our guest reviews

Please read how our other guests have found their stay at GlenMyu Estate on Google, TripAdvisor, Booking.com and Airbnb.

A holiday for Animal Lovers Read More »

A selfie at Nine Arch Bridge, Demodara, Ella, Sri Lanka

Nine Arch Bridge, Ella

Holiday, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Nine Arch Bridge, Ella, Sri Lanka - Our Guide.

As you travel around this paradise island and make your way towards Ella, the majestic sight of Nine Arch Bridge may end up being one of your most memorable experiences.

This 100+ year old bridge is in situated in the most beautiful setting abutted by tea fields and with the lush jungle as the background.

Nine Arch Bridge is in a stunning spot and, if you happen to time your visit when a train goes over the bridge, it will be a very special experience.

A stunning spot.

A visit to Nine Arch Bridge has become one of the main tourist attractions of Sri Lanka. If you combine your visit with a trip to see one of the other amazing sights close to Ella will make it a very special day. You will savour the amazing natural scenery at Nine Arch Bridge along with perhaps a hike to Little Adams Peak or Ella Rock.

There are also several other sights to see in and around Ella and it is a great place to visit on a day trip from GlenMyu Estate.

How to get there.

You will have a choice of various different options on how to get to Nine Arch Bridge including travelling over it on the train itself.

Taking the famous blue train, which travels at a slow speed, will enable you to enjoy the view of the Sri Lankan Countryside. There are lots of Instagram photos of passengers sitting on the steps enjoying the scenery. The more adventurous hang out of the door to get that, now so common, Instragram pose.

Take care!

Of course this is dangerous, despite the slow sipped of the train, so it’s not something we would recommend.

Surely there are enough of those photo shots now – we would recommend that you consider something more original!

The most popular journey takes you from Kandy to Ella which is around a 6 hour journey (providing the train is not late!). However you could consider taking the super pretty part of the journey from Nuwara Eliya (Nanuoya Rail Station) to Ella which will cut your train journey down to a more palatable 2 hours 27 minutes (or 2 hours 18 minutes for the faster train).

Train Tickets - where are they?

Sri Lankan Railways launched an online portal to purchase train tickets last year.

So why are there no tickets available when I tried to book online?

Well, I cannot really say however I have my own conspiracy theory of course!

Several guests have contacted me looking for tickets. I have been to Haputale Railway station and they have advised that the seats are all sold out several weeks in advance.

I hope that you are lucky enough to purchase these disappearing tickets online in advance however this will continue to get more difficult as more and more tourists visit Sri Lanka.

What we advise our guests.

We have advised our guests who are making there way to Kandy to enquire at their hotel there to source tickets (with seats!) for them. A premium will have to be paid (surprise surprise!) however this has worked for some guests.

If you cannot bear the idea of a 6 hour (or more) journey standing up then another option is to make your way to Nuwara Eliya. Hopefully some passengers will have disembarked from the train and you may then get a seat (fingers crossed).

Other ways to get to Nine Arch Bridge

Reaching Nine Arch ridge is most easily accessible from Ella and you will probably need some transport unless you are really into hiking!

Our Day Trip from GlenMyu Estate to Nine Arch Bridge

In June 2023 we did a day trip from GlenMyu Estate, Beragala, to visit Nine Arch Bridge.

We got to the bridge at around midday and were very happy that we managed to see a train cross over the bridge.

You can read about our trip in the following article “Our day trip to Nine Arch Bridge“.

How to get to Nine Arch Bridge, Ella

There are multiple options and ways to get to the Nine Arch train bridge.

The starting point to the bridge is quite close to Ella’s main street, so you can decide if you want to walk or get a Tuk Tuk.

Perhaps you have rented a scooter or motorbike which will get you there on your own.

Other options to get there.

Tuk Tuk from Ella Town

You can take a tuk-tuk from Ella town to the Nine Arch Bridge parking spot, then hike the remaining 5-10 minutes on foot, which was the quickest and easiest option.

On foot

Another option is that you can walk to Nine Arch Bridge by following the Ella-Passara Road, turning left at Sri Kanaser Temple (where all the street food stalls are) and following the signs past multiple guesthouses until you arrive at the bridge.

When you decide to walk, it takes about 20 minutes to get there. You have to follow the road towards Little Adam’s Peak and turn left at the small colored temple. Then follow Lake Front Cottage on Google Maps.

By car – park and walk.

If you have hired a car you can drive part of the way and then walk from a parking spot or hire a Tuk Tuk to take you to the bridge.

As we live in Sri Lanka and have our own car we drove and parked which left just around a 5 minute walk to the bridge. There was a small parking fee charged at the shop for our parking (around 50 rupees).

However we also had a snack (warm corn on the cob) and a cup of tea when we returned to the car after visiting Nine Arch Bridge.

How we drove to Nine Arch Bridge

Before we arrived at Ella Tunnel and Ella Town we took a left hand turn down the Ella Halpe Road and followed Google Maps to the location of the parking spot.

It was a challenging road to drive and I wish we had taken a Tuk Tuk!

We drove to “Nine Arch Bridge Car Park” which is B on google maps (see the location on the right).

The shop where we parked.

After we had seen the train we needed some refreshment and enjoyed sone tea and hot corn on the cob from a small shop near the parking spot.

Would I recommend driving to Nine Arch Bridge?

Although I have lived and driven in Sri Lanka for several years I would recommend choosing an alternative transport to get to Nine Arch Bridge.

The roads are quite narrow going to Nine Arch Bridge and really it’s much more suitable to hire a Tuk Tuk or go by foot.

You have to be quite brave to navigate the small lanes and hope that you do not meet another vehicle on the route.

Our guests at GlenMyu Estate normally hire a Tuk Tuk with a guide for the day and it it a much more relaxing experience.

Best time to visit the Nine Arch Bridge

This really depends on what your aim is. Do you want to visit when there are few other visitors there? Do you want to see the sunrise or sunset? Do you want the buzz of the crowns waiting to see the train cross the bridge?

It’s all about what you would like to see.

Train Times at Nine Arch Bridge.

The trains pass the bridge about 5 times a day (12 on the schedule I found at Sri Lanka Trains). However the exact times change all the time because the trains are quiet often delayed in Sri Lanka. But usually there should be one every hour. You can check the train schedule here.

If you miss the train don’t worry as there are some small cafes where you can get a snack and a drink near the bridge. The Bridge is quite pretty even in the absence of a train so you will still be able to get some beautiful pictures.

Our best advice is to ask a Tuk Tuk driver what time the train is due – they appear to have the inside knowledge.

Nine Arch Bridge viewpoint

The viewpoint of Nine Arch Bridge is also really worth considering a visit.

There are actually three points where you have to check the bridge and take photos.

From below in the tea fields, walking on the rails of the bridge and from the viewpoint.

Why stay at GlenMyu Estate?

Although GlenMyu Estate is just over an hour away from Ella and Nine Arch Bridge we have found that lots of our guests enjoy staying outside of the busy tourist town of Ella.

Ella is a great place for travellers who want to enjoy the buzz of a lively evening with lots of other like minded tourists. However, Ella is far from what Sri Lanka is really about and many tourist like to stay in a place which is quieter and feels closer to nature.

We only have three bedrooms at GlenMyu Estate so it is more of a bespoke service. Ru lived in the UK for many years and therefore is able to cater for a western palette and adjusts the level of spice accordingly.

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb. You can contact us directly on the WhatsApp button on our website to ask about the best direct rates.

Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Read More »

Sir Thomas Lipton, the Scottish Tea Baron.

Photos of Lipton’s Seat

Hiking in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Photos of Lipton's Seat

Lipton’s Seat is a great place to visit in the Sri Lankan Hill Country with stunning views over the tea plantations that were owned by Scottish tea Barons Sri Thomas Lipton. Our guests at GlenMyu Estate have been generous enough to share their photos of Lipton’s Seat with us so we can give you a taste of what you will see.

Lipton’s Seat is located 25 kilometres away from GlenMyu Estate and it takes just over 1 hour to drive there. The last part of the journey is best done by foot as the road is quite small and suitable for a Tuk Tuk.

Mike and Ru's photos of Lipton's Seat

Ru and I went to Lipton’s Seat many years ago and it was quite cloudy so our photos are not fantastic. We will return , inspired by our guests wonderful photos and hopefully add some better ones in future.

Patrick and Fabienne’s photos of Lipton’s Seat

Our German guests Patrick and Fabienne were generous enough to share the wonderful photos of Lipton’s Seat that they took early one morning.

They were hoping to get to Lipton’s Seat to see the sunrise however missed it by a few minutes. However, I’m sure that you will agree that their photos are inspiring and wonderful. They certainly make you think that it is worth getting up early to see this wonderful sight.

Stefan & Vera's photos of Lipton's Seat

Stefan and Vera, our German/Austrian guests visited Lipton’s Seat when there were some atmospheric clouds. They did get a good view of the tea fields on the day and were delighted that they made the trip. They took a picture of the statue of the tea Baron himself, Sri Thomas Lipton.

Millie and Matt's photos of Lipton's Seat.

Millie and Matt, our Australian/British couple visited Lipton’s Seat in early November 2023. They set off early (4.30 a.m.!!!) to see the sunrise at Lipton’s Seat.

You can see from the photos and their experience that it was well worth getting up early.

Amazingly, due to the low numbers of tourists in early November (and the reluctance to get up early) they were the only visitors at Lipton’s Seat. What an experience having the beautiful piece of this paradise island all to yourself.

I’m sure that Millie and Matt will remember this uniques experience for years to come.

Greg and Kasia.

Greg & Kasia are from Krakow, Poland and they stayed at GlenMyu Estate in early December 2023.

The weather wasn’t great when they arrived at GlenMyu Estate, however the next morning delivered a beautiful day. They left the estate around 8.30 am and took a Tuk Tuk to Lipton’s Seat.

They managed to get some great photos. I especially like the photos of the tea pluckers at work.

Thank you Greg and Kasia for allowing us to share your photos.

GlenMyu Estate

GlenMyu Estate is located in the Sri Lankan Hill country within driving distance of many great sights of interest including Lipton’s Seat.

With only three bedrooms and in 5 acres of land, it is a great alternative to the more tourist town of Ella.

Please visit Google, Tripadvisor, Booking.com and Airbnb to see what our guests think of their holiday at GlenMyu Estate.

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb. For best direct rates please contact us directly view the WhatsApp button on our website.

Photos of Lipton’s Seat Read More »

Boutique Hotels in Sri Lanka

Holiday, Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Boutique Hotels in Sri Lanka

Is GlenMyu Estate a Boutique Hotels in Sri Lanka?

The Cambridge dictionary definition of the word “boutique’ is used to describe a small fashionable business that sells a particular product or service.

Dictionary.com defines it as “any small, exclusive business offering customised service”.

We consider GlenMyu to fit into this category.

Small but generous

We have three spacious on-suite bedrooms at GlenMyu.

We are therefore considered small compared to the traditional type of hotels.

All bedrooms come with a comfortable King-Size bed and you can wake up in the morning to spectacular views of the vista looking towards the southern coast of the Island.

The floor to ceiling windows open onto small balconies where you can take in the fresh air and inspect the picturesque surroundings.

The floors are made from titanium cement which provides a clean and luxurious feel.

The bathrooms all have generous showers and modern fittings.

Two of the three rooms come with a concrete bath.

Windows in the bathrooms are tinted for privacy and look out towards the southern aspect.

We are exclusive!

Only three double bedrooms.

With only three rooms available and only open for a limited number of days during the year we also consider that we are exclusive.

Space to Swim

Our natural spring fed swimming pool is one of the things we most enjoy at the estate. Surrounded by a lush green landscape supplied by mother nature we feel really fortunate to be able to have a refreshing swim either in the early morning or late afternoon. It really feels luxurious having the thirty six feet pool to yourself and knowing that there may be only a few other guests staying at the property to disturb your meditative time.

A customised service Bespoke dining

We provide a sample menu on our website however we discuss the requirements with our guests and make the food fresh on the day.

We have an organic garden on the estate and a majority of the produce is used seasonally in our menu. We endeavour to source other produce from small local suppliers as much as possible to reduce the food miles and ensure that the food is fresh.

We are enjoying welcoming guests and we have had great feedback on the stays to date. You can see our reviews on Google, TripAdvisor, Booking.com and Airbnb.

A very special and unique place. Fantastic house with magnificent views. From the bed you have a view of the entire valley. Pool with local spring water that provides a very comfortable temperature.

No question, the best place I have ever stayed. An absolutely beautiful spot with so much heart that, like the other reviews suggest, is like coming home.

WE LOVED EVERYTHING....The house is an architectural gem taking full advantage of the panoramic view, set in beautiful gardens.

If you are interested in staying at GlenMyu our rates and on our website and if you want to contact us please follow this link.

Boutique Hotels in Sri Lanka Read More »

Our day trip to Ravana Waterfall

Holiday, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Our day trip to Ravana Waterfall, Ella.

In June 2023 we enjoyed a day trip to see Ravana Waterfall which is located a drive outside the busy tourist town of Ella, Sri Lanka. It’s comfortable seeing a few of the sights in and around Ella from GlenMyu Estate and we combined seeing the waterfall with a trip to Nine Arch Bridge, Demodora. You can read about our day trip to Nine Arch Bridge in the following article.

From GlenMyu Estate you can see the tallest (Bambarakanda Waterfall) and second highest (Diyaluma Falls) waterfalls within 40 minutes to an hours drive. We had been to Ravana Falls some years ago and the opportunity arose to take my wife parents on a day trip when we closed the hotel for a few days to recuperate.

Ravana falls is named after the demon King Ravana who according to traditional folklore is believed to have ruled Sri Lanka.

According to legend, it is said that Ravana had kidnapped princess Sita and had hidden her in the caves behind this waterfall. This is known as the Ravana Ella Cave.

You can read more about King Ravana in the World Historical Encyclopaedia and also at Sri Lanka Travel.

It is renowned for being one of Sri Lanka’s widest waterfalls, this 82 ft

Where is Ravan Waterfall?

Ravana Waterfall is located around six km from Ella Railway Station between the 12th and 13th milepost on the Ella – Wellawaya Road.

It took us a little longer to get to the falls than anticipated ….I made a mistake relying on my wife providing directions!

Our day trip to Ravana Waterfall

We arrived in the mid afternoon as we have been to see Nine Arch Bridge earlier in the day.

There are convenient car parking spaces near to the entrance to the falls.

There were lots of people at the falls enjoying the water. There is a “viewing platform” by the side of the road as you get to the waterfall. This is a popular place with tourists…..and monkeys!

There are several shops selling souvenirs, food and drinks as you approach Ravana Waterfall.

We recommend getting to Ravana Waterfall Early!

Similar to most places to visit in Sri Lanka we recommend that you get there early. You can read our article “6 Reasons to get up early” for some tips.

The main reason, as you can see in this video, is that everyone else will be there at the same time as you.

Here is a selection of photos I took on or day trip to Ravana Falls.

A place to stay to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is a convenient and comfortable place to stay if you wish to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

What will I find at GlenMyu Estate?

3 Kingsize Double Bedrooms with Spectacular Views

2 Spacious Lounges with views over the hills below the house

A Natural Spring-Fed Infinity Swimming Pool

5 Acres of land to explore

Delicious bespoke meals freshly prepared by the host

A selection of places to dine

A place to relax and be closer to nature.

The House at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and B & B, Haputale, Sri Lanka. — A look up at the house at GlenMyu Estate, Hotel and B & B, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

Light on the Honeymoon Bed for Valentine's Day in Sri Lanka Romantic Celebrations — The Honeymoon Bed in the Mahogany Bedroom. Also for Valentine’s Day in Sri Lanka

Our day trip to Ravana Waterfall Read More »

Less touristy places to stay near Ella for couples.

Accommodation, Food and Drink, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Less touristy places to stay near Ella for couples?

Are you looking for less touristy places to stay near Ella for couples? GlenMyu Estate is a boutique hotel about 1 hr away from Ella.

Our love letter to Ella Town.

We still love you and will visit you often.

Ella, what is all the fuss about?

A romantic aspiration of a visit to Ella is to travel by train over “the most beautiful train ride in Sri Lanka” and arrive in the beautiful hill town.

Strolling down towards the high street enjoying the small shops selling trinkets which you will mull over later during your stay.

Walking past the bars and restaurants and sitting by the window enjoying a meal together.

Reaching your accommodation and being wowed by your bedroom and the view.

Planning your excursions to Little Adams Peak, Ella Rock, Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana’s Cave and Ravana Waterfall.

Wandering around Ella Spice Garden and experiencing a Tea Plantation.

Afternoons and early evenings having around in a hip bar enjoying a snack and drink together.

Deciding whether you will get up early and catch the sun together in a breathtaking spot.

Will you sleep in or try to get that romantic time together that you will remember for years to come?

The most 'Instgramable' place in Sri Lanka?

I don’t even know if that’s a word – but you get what I mean.

Must see places to visit in and around Ella.

Little Adams Peak, Ella Rock, Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana’s Cave and Ravana Waterfall.

Wandering around Ella Spice Garden and experiencing a Tea Plantation.

Another must do is to have a meal in a drink at one of the cool restaurants in Ella High Street. Sitting there at a window seat watching the world go by at Chill Cafe, Rainbow Cafe or The Barn by Starbeans.

Some photos of our recent trip to Ella for lunch.

We visited Ella in May 2023 for a spot of lunch and here are some photos I took on the day.

We love Ella but.....

We love Ella for the vibe that it has there, the variety of shops and bars, the opportunity to people spot and the energy it radiates. If you are looking for a bit of nightlife and the opportunity to meet other travellers this tourist town is a great option.

However, if you want to get away from the crowd and immerse yourself in nature and get to understand more about local people, staying a little outside the main town is probably a better choice.

Over development spoiling the natural beauty.

Like several other towns in Sri Lanka, Ella has seen a vast amount of development in recent years to cater for the increased tourist numbers visiting the region. The development has not been controlled which has led to the town not being as pretty as it could have been moulded into.

There is a great Blog post by ‘Forest Bird’ that gives a good history of the development of Ella and his views on what the town has become.

It’s amazing to think that Ravana waterfall was completely overgrown and you had to be a proper backpacker to see this.

I love that Ella was a remote honeymoon spot.

Have a read of the blog – it’s really interesting.

A place to Vlog

There are Vlogs from travellers of all ages providing videos and commentaries of their experience in Ella.

People love it in Ella and it’s definitely worth a visit. However, lots of our guests at GlenMyu Estate have been disappointed and felt that it was a bit too touristy.

Lots of travellers dreams are about experiencing things together with their boyfriend, girlfriend, husband or wife, not with lots of strangers trying to get that Instagram shot.

Here are some Vlogs about travellers experience of Ella.

A little bit further away from Ella.

There are some wonderful sights to see and experience that are a little bit further away from Ella.

Seeing the sunrise at Lipton’s Seat, near Haputale, is a wonderful experience.

Here are some photos taken by one of our guests.

An early morning visit to Upper Diyaluma Waterfall.

A little bit different.

Don’t we all want to be a little bit different and stand out from the crowd?

A unique experience is what travellers appear to be seeking nowadays.

What does your aspiration and dream of your visit to this paradise island look like?

GlenMyu Estate Boutique Hotel - something different.

GlenMyu Estate is located close to Haputale and is just over an hours drive from Ella Town. This makes it a good place to stay of you want to do a day trip to Ella to see the sights but stay in a quieter location.

As there are only three bedrooms at GlenMyu Estate in the five acre estate you will have the space to spend the time together and be away from the crowd.

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Valentines Day

Who wants to spend time with other couples on that special day with each other? I used to hate going out to overpriced restaurants to have my girlfriend (now wife) to be disappointed with the atmosphere and food.

Here are some of what our guest said about their experience at GlenMyu Estate at Valentines Day 2022.

Michael had great recommendations for, but ended up not leaving the estate at all because we were just content roaming around the beautiful estate itself with dogs, chickens, ducks and the rescue cow Maali, and enjoy the magnificent views right there. Cannot recommend this dreamy place enough!

Each dish is deliciously served in a Michelin restaurant format. We celebrated Valentine's Day here and they made a table setting with candles for us

No need to wait for Valentines Day

GlenMyu Estate can be romantic all year round..

A bath for two!

For best rates please contact us directly on WhatsApp (press the green button on this page).

We are also listed on Airbnb and Booking.com.

Look at our reviews on Airbnb and Booking.com, Google or TripAdvisor.

See more about a Stay in the Sri Lankan Hill Country at our website.

Follow us on our Social Media platforms.

Less touristy places to stay near Ella for couples. Read More »

A garden tour for guests at GlenMyu Estate

A walk around the garden

Ayurvedic medicine and plants, Holiday, Sri Lanka, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

A walk around the garden

One of the many highlights of staying at GlenMyu Estate Hotel is walking around the garden on the five acre estate.
It’s a healthy and revitalising experience and allows you to get a little bit closer to nature.

We have worked with nature in our attempts to provide an environment where guests can feel like they are away from it all. However, GlenMyu Estate is located close enough to great sightseeing around Ella 9i.25 hrs drive), Horton Plains National Park, Lipton’s Seat and more.

The garden is naturally an ongoing project and we are constantly making improvements to enhance our guests experience whilst creating an environment suitable for flora and fauna.

Do we know what we are doing?

We are not experienced gardeners and we believe the beauty of the landscape is as a result of trying something, making a mistake and then trying something different. Nature really has educated us letting us know what plant is suitable for each location around the estate.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

A short history of GlenMyu Estate

Ru purchased the five acres of overgrown land in 2006. We had a brief look at part of the land we could access and Ru just decided to gamble and go ahead with the purchase. Having some streams delivering water and an electricity connection was enough to start with.

The land had been part of the much larger Viharaghalla Tea estate. It was divided and a previous owner used it to cultivate sugar cane. We understand when the government decided to start importing cheap sugar cane the estate was no longer viable. It was left unused for many years apart from the monkeys that enjoyed the fruits from some of the trees, something that they still enjoy today.

When my wife and I visited the land it was drizzling and it was impossible to navigate around the estate without proper gear and machete to drive a pathway.

A caretaker with little work to do.

A caretaker looked after the estate whilst we lived in London however, he was just tasked with securing the estate rather than do much work. He grew some vegetables and spices for his own use. Guinea Grass, which was growing wildly over the estate was cut and used for cattle feed. Sticks were cut from broken tree branches and sold to local villagers for firewood. He managed to supplement his income and we were happy with the situation.

When we visited Sri Lanka annually we would come to the land and he would clear a pathway or two so that we could explore a little bit more of the area.

As the grass was very long we were terrified as leeches jumped on us for a quick meal! Fortunately for visitors today they will only meet the occasional leeches on rainier parts of the year as we have cut the grass on the pathways quite short. There are also several concrete pathways creating a safe environment accessing the house.

I was amazed to see coffee growing wild on the land. There were also small but very sweet tomatoes growing in different places. There were some Jackfruit Trees and Mango Trees that had already been established. Some large Mara Trees (Para Mara – Albizia saman f.muell.) and also Kithul Trees (Caryota urens) scattered around the land. Most of the land was wild and really difficult to navigate so I limited my exploration.

Now - what a change!

Roll forward to 2018 and we were based at the land and decided that we would start clearing some of the jungle and make some pathways so that we could get around.

Between 2018 and 2021, when we completed and moved into the house at GlenMyu Estate, there was a substantial amount of work done. We were on site all the time and therefore managed to do something everyday.

Events that we were not in control of meant that we were not in a rush. The Easter bombings and then the global Covid-19 pandemic resulted in very few tourists visiting the island and therefore we had time on our hands.

Now we feel that by not racing to finish the landscaping, so we could open GlenMyu Estate Hotel earlier, we have a much better offering for guests. We also think that nature would have let us know quite quickly if we had tried to force things.

Pathways so that you can explore the land.

Once you have parked at the drive in front of the house you will be met by the lawn which is surrounded by trees and flowers. We have two different types of Jackfruit Tree on either side of the lawn and we harvest the Jackfruit and use them in dishes for our guests. A Pulled Jackfruit Burger or a Jackfruit Curry are popular with our guests. They love that the farm to fork is almost as short as you can get it!

We had more flowers around the lawn but the introduction of our rescue cow to the Estate has meant that the area has been trimmed! Maali appears to enjoy the buffet we put on for her. You can read more about our rescue cow in the following article “We got a Cow!”.

Walking to the Natural Spring Fed Infinity Swimming Pool.

A pathway and steps takes you to our swimming pool. It’s fed from a spring and is a great place to refresh yourself after a day of exploration of the sights near to the hotel. We love day trips to the montane cloud forest at Horton Plains National Park.

A trip to Upper Diyaluma Waterfall is a special way to spend a day. Lipton’s Seat, Adisham Bungalow and Bambarakanda Waterfall are also within an hours drive. Ella Town is also around an hours drive and a day trip to visit Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana Waterfall, Mini Adams Peak or Ella Rock are other great day trips.

At the swimming pool you can look across the stream to our interpretation of Lombard Street. This is currently under development and you can read more about our plans in the following article.

Around the house.

There is a grass pathway which takes you in a loop around the front of the house and you can enjoy some seating in a quiet place on the estate where all you see and hear is nature.

You will see some colourful flowers such as coleus and hibiscus withe red petals. Ru often makes a hibiscus and ginger tea for our guests.

Climbing up the steps back to the house you will then find a pathway alongside the lawn where we grow some basil, mint and peppermint (also great as a tea).

Towards the terraces.

On your walk towards the terraces you will come across two varieties of mandarin trees, some lemon trees and papaya trees. Papaya grows quite well n the estate and is a regular offering at breakfast.

You might meet some of our ducks bathing in the ponds as you climb up the steps. We have several varieties of bananas growing on the estate some of which you will see on the left hand side. More banana trees will greet you when you climb the steps and then looking to the right you will see our mandarin orchard. There are lots of other fruits and vegetables that we grow on the terraces and Ru will be happy to tell you when we have growing at the time.

Vanilla Time!

As you climb the steps back up to the main driveway you will see vanilla vines wrapped around the trees. Ru has to hand pollinate the vanilla every morning before 10 am when they are in flower. We use the vanilla and some of our duck or chicken eggs to make our vanilla ice cream.

Looking back to from where we have climbed you can see our Mandarin orange orchard, Areca nut trees and Banana trees.

At the road you will come across more lemon trees (we use a lot!) and you will also see an Avocado Tree. When it is avocado season we are in heaven!

Walking across towards our vegetable garden you will come across some pomegranate trees and some luffa vines. We harvest the luffa and make loofah sponges which are used in the kitchen and bathrooms.

The Vegetable Garden.

We have recently constructed two greenhouses where we grow tomatoes and many other items. GlenMyu Estate’s gardens are fully organic so we don’t use any chemicals to keep pests away. Ru can tell you about what else we have growing in the vegetable garden.

Crossing the wooden bridge

When you have crossed the stream over the wooden bridge you can see more banana trees. Above this area is our pepper and cinnamon forests. They are quite young at the moment and therefore we won’t get a harvest for some years.

Climbing up the hill on the grass pathway to Whale Rock you will see our clove orchard on the left. The trees are coming on well and we expect blossoms to come in the coming two to three years. According to our research the best harvest is normally between fifteen and twenty years old so we have a while to go!

A dead end - at the moment.

Near to whale rock you will see several avocado, jackfruit and mango trees which I have planted from seed. As these trees are located far from the house we do not expect to be able to eat any of the harvest from these trees and they will be food for the birds and animals that visit the estate.

At the moment we have yet to complete the pathway which will allow you to complete a loop around the perimeter of the land. We will update this article when it has been completed.

Walking back down towards the pool you will come across lots of mulberry plants, the berries of which we harvest every morning (if the birds don’t get there first!).

After you walk around the garden perhaps a refreshing dip in the pool is the order of the day.

A lot more to see on your walk around the garden.

There are lots of items that we have planted that I have not mentioned in this article and they are there for you to discover. Some plants are new to me and therefore taking a tour with Ru will provide you with a more details explanation of what we have in the garden.

If Ru is busy and you get the second class tour hosted by yours truly – I will do my best!

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

A walk around the garden Read More »

Flights from Turkey to Sri Lanka are duet start in the coming few months.

Direct Flights from Turkey to Sri Lanka

Holiday, Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Direct flights - Turkey to Sri Lanka.

There was exciting news in June 2023 when it was announced that Turkish Airlines would commence direct flights from Turkey to Sri Lanka.
At GlenMyu Estate we have already received some Turkish guests that love outside the country and we are looking forward to meeting new customers.
The new direct route will be an opportunity for other European Passengers to use Istanbul as a hub when they are flying to this Paradise Island on holiday.

Press about the new flights from Turkey to Sri Lanka.

There was much ado about the news which will bring more tourists to Sri Lanka. The Tourist Authority is planning for 2 million tourists in 2023 and perhaps this new route will help to achieve the target. At the time of writing Tourist numbers had dipped for the first week of June and expectations was that tourist numbers would pass 600,000 by the end of June 2023. If achieved, that would mean another 1.4 million tourists for the remainder of 2023!

The Sri Lankan Cival Aviation authority were excited in this press release.

Financial Times of Sri Lanka also released the following press statement.

Daily News advised that they expect to have The frequency is expected to be four flights per week on their article. Read more here.

It is expected that the new flights will bring, not just tourists from Turkey, but also it should boost arrivals from Europe, the US and Canada.

Connecting to 129 Countries World-wide

In Newswires despatch they state that “This will enable Sri Lanka to quickly connect with 129 countries in the world with shorter flight and connection times at Istanbul Airport”.

What is GlenMyu Estate?

GlenMyu Estate – in short

3 Kingsize Double Bedrooms with Spectacular Views
2 Spacious Lounges with views over the hills below the house
A Natural Spring-Fed Infinity Swimming Pool
5 Acres of land to explore
Delicious bespoke meals freshly prepared by the host
A selection of places to dine
A place to relax and be closer to nature
Within reach of the following tourist sites

Find us on Booking.com and Airbnb.

Direct Flights from Turkey to Sri Lanka Read More »

Vegan Recipes our Guests Love

Cookery Courses, Organic, Recipes, Ru's Recipes, Sri Lanka, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, Vegan / By Mikeez

Vegan Recipes at GlenMyu Estate

At GlenMyu Estate we have adapted our menus to reflect our guests tastes and requirements. We have been surprised and delighted that we have had so many guests that are Vegan since we opened in late 2022. Our guests enjoy the Vegan recipes that Ru cooks for them and here are some Vegan Recipes that our guests love.

Why Vegan?

Well, I guess we have to move with the times. In order to care for the planet, use locally produced ingredients and change to a more healthy lifestyle is reason enough.

We don’t profess to be a Vegan venue and will always cater for the range of guests that visit GlenMyu Estate, however, we have found that there is a growing demand for Vegetarian or Vegan food.

It’s amazing that, when we have a pair of guests, one Vegan or Vegetarian and one that eats meat, after sampling the Vegan or Vegetarian food that we serve then often the request is for non meat from then on.

Another reason for concentrating on Vegan and Vegetarian food is that we grow organic produce at the 5 acre estate and we like to serve food with ingredients that is as fresh and tasty as we can.
We don’t have the ability to serve everything we need from the garden however it is important to us to support local producers and help the local economy.

Other options are available!

We still serve fish or chicken if our guests request this. As we are and Island surrounded by water it would be wrong for us not to offer a seafood option.

Our aim at GlenMyu Estate.

Our aim however, if we can make it economically viable is to mainly cater to Vegan and Vegetarian clients in the future. We would hope that our non vegetarian guests would be happy to forego meat as the food is so tasty. So, I guess that it is over to you! If we have mainly Vegan or Vegetarian guests and can make it work we will be able to achieve our aim.

Nevertheless, we aim to make GlenMyu Estate the go-to place in Sri Lanka for fabulous Vegan and Vegetarian food.

Great ingredients in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka is a country that is abundant in vegetables, fresh fruits, herbs and spices. That is why Sri Lanka is a great destination choice for Vegans and Vegetarians. Rice and Curry is a staple meal in Sri Lanka.

There are many variations of Sri Lankan Vegetable curry and the ingredients will vary from house to house, restaurant to restaurant and hotel to hotel.

We provide garden tours at GlenMyu Estate so you can see where the ingredients is sourced from.

There are some classic Sri Lankan recipes that you will find on your travels around the Island. You will find that there may be slight differences to recipes and tastes around the country. I have found that Parripu (Dhal Curry/Red Lentil Curry) changes in density and taste depending upon who makes the curry and what additional ingredients they use.

Varieties of Rice

In Sri Lanka there is a large variety of types of rice which also changes the taste of your meal. Back in the UK we would normally buy Basmati Rice, Long Grain or Brown Rice (or Arborio when making Risotto).

In Sri Lanka you will come across healthy Red Rice, Rose Rice and White Rice in most shops.

Varieties include:

Suwendel.
Kuruluthuda wee.
Madathawalu.
Sulai.
Murungakayan.
Pachaperumal.

Each type of rice brings a different texture and taste to your dish.

You can read more about the different types of rice in Sri Lanka in the following link.

Guest favourites at GlenMyu Estate Hotel

Here are some of the Vegan recipes that our guests love at GlenMyu Estate.

Ru keeps experimenting with new recipes from ingredients grown on the 5 acre estate so there will be more exciting meals to sample in the future at GlenMyu Estate.

Sri Lankan Vegetarian Sharing Platter

Although this meal is called Vegetarian, it is actually Vegan.

This is the most popular choice for our guests that stay with us at GlenMyu Estate, whether they are Vegan, Vegetarian or meat eaters.

Ru’s mother is the main chef preparing this meal and she regularly does a complimentary cooking demonstration which our guests love. Some even get involved on the cooking themselves.

The Sri Lankan sharing platter dishes vary depending upon what ingredients are available from the garden and to purchase from local suppliers.

Normally it would include one or two types of Jackfruit curry, Aubergine (Eggplant) curry, Banana curry, Kohlu (a lentil curry), Mallum and a fish tasting salad.

The platter is normally served with Parathas which are wonderful for dipping into the different dishes and soaking up the gravy.

Complimentary Cooking Demonstration.

A guest cooking with Ru’s mother.

Find our more about a stay at GlenMyu Estate Hotel

We are listed on Airbnb and Booking.com.

See our Food menus.

Our food menus are regularly updated on our website.

Please visit our food menus at this link.

Mushrooms in Cashew Sauce

Another favourite dish which has a taste of this Tropical Island.

Abalone or Oyster mushrooms (whatever is available locally and fresh) in a creamy cashew sauce served with green beans and a fresh side salad.

Breads are also served and a delicious soaked in the cashew sauce ensuring the cleanest of plates.

Roasted Pumkin Ravioli.

Handmade Ravioli stuffed with roasted pumpkin served with tile bread and red pepper salsa.

Ru is happy to show you how she makes the Ravioli from scratch.

Ru Making pasta at GlenMyu Estate.
Please subscribe to her channel Ru’s Recipes for more videos and YouTube Shorts.

Vegan Mac and Cheese

Macaroni serves with Cashew Cheese.

Mushroom Risotto

A classic mushroom risotto.

Pulled Jackfruit Burger.

Jackfruit harvested from the garden in a Barbecue Sauce served with chunky chips and fresh crispy salad.

The chips will be made with potato or sweet potato depending upon what is available.

Soups, Soups, Soups

Although we are on a Tropical Island sometimes there is nothing better than a hearty soup.

The temperatures in the Hill Country of Sri Lanka get cooler in the evenings and therefore a warming soup accompanied;anied with freshly made bread is a really comforting light evening meal.

Our favourites are:

Carrot & Ginger – a touch of ginger really adds to that warming taste.

Roasted Pumpkin – we love pumpkin. When it is roasted and blended it makes a delicious soup.

Leek and Potato – another homey staple that is a simple winner with our guests.

We have Vegan Desserts too!

Sometimes you just need sweetness to finish a delicious meal.

Fresh Fruits with Vegan Ice Cream – A simply classical dessert.

Pineapple and Cinnamon Sorbet – Locally sourced Pineapple and Cinnamon from the garden at GlenMyu Estate.

Baked Banana, Banana Sorbet topped with Caramelised Cashew Nuts – naughty be soo, so nice.

Rice pudding with freshly cut oranges – Mandarin oranges sourced from our garden.

We are listed on Airbnb and Booking.com.

Read our reviews - see what our guests think of our food.

Our guests love the food that we serve. Please see our reviews on Booking.Com, Airbnb, Google and TripAdvisor.

Homemade breakfast with freshly baked bread and jam every day in addition to fresh fruit and local specialities. The dinners are simply fantastic and made with love from mostly local ingredients

Food: ....THE FOOD!! Ruwanthi and her mother's cooking is beyond delicious, the best food I've ever had? I think so yes!

The food is exceptional, with products directly grown in the garden.

Vegan Recipes our Guests Love Read More »

Mike at Worlds End, Horton Plains National Park.

Hike Around Horton Plains National Park

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Horton Plains National Park / By Mikeez

January 2023 Hike around Horton Plains National Park

Hiking at Horton Plains National Park is one of our favourite places which is within reaching distance of GlenMyu Estate. My wife and I have been three times with friends at different times of the year. It’s great to have such a wonderful landscape close to where we live. This is a summary of our experience of our hike around Horton Plains National Park in January 2023.

We would have completed a lot more hikes since moving to GlenMyu Estate however we were hampered by the building of the house, landscaping of the land and Sri Lanka’s fuel crisis.

Fortunately the country is in a better position now and we can get petrol regularly which enables us to travel a bit more.

My oldest friend visited Sri Lanka for the first time since our wedding some seven years ago. It was great to have him at the estate to show him what we have created and understand why we live on this paradise island.

We had some guests whilst he was here and he could see how we love having more people enjoying the house and estate.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate when visiting Horton Plains National Park

We are listed on Booking.com and Airbnb

Our hike around Horton Plains National Park.

It was also important to show my friend what marvellous sights and places of interest are close to GlenMyu Estate.
Before coming over I had given him a few places that I really wanted for him to see and Horton Plains was one of them.

The weather had not been kind during his holiday (however he still managed to get sunburnt at our pool) so we had to time our hike.
The weather looked okay in Viharaghalla and Beragala. However, it can change a lot when you get to Horton Plains which is a much higher elevation that GlenMyu (2,100 metres compared to 990 metres).

It took around 1 hour 15 minutes to get to the park and a light drizzle of rain was waiting for us there.

The entry price has gone up!

It has been while since I have been to Horton Plains and I last remember the entry fee to be around 5,000 rupees.
Since the financial crisis and the depreciation of the Sri Lankan rupee prices have changed in the country.
The price we paid in January 2023 was as follows:
Sri Lankan Rupees
1 Foreign Adult 8,833.75
Other fee 150.00
Service Charge 3,533.50
VAT 1,900.00
Total 14,417.25

This is around US$40/Euro€37/GBP£32

I don’t know whether the Service Charge is fixed for multiple adults.

If you are converting from US$, £ Sterling of € Euros it probably still is a reasonable price for such a wondrous place to visit.

You will need to check the price when you visit as I have no doubt that there will be further increases.

Also, we paid in cash and I don’t think that they have credit card facilities available there.

Pricing Update - March 2023

Two of our guests visited Horton Plains National Park in March 2023.

They kindly provided a copy of their ticket giving a breakdown of the entry fee.

The cost for two Foreign Adults and additional fees was Sri Lankan Rupees 23,890.50.

The cost breakdown in Sri Lankan Rupees was as follows:

2 x Foreign Adults 16,900

JOCOV??? 300

Service Charge 3,360

VAT 3,109.50

Total 23,830.50

Here is a copy of an entry ticket for May 2023 which is a slightly lower price.

Meeting a Samba Deer

After parking the car we had a small bite of breakfast that my wife had thoughtfully prepared for us. We normally provide a takeaway packed breakfast for our guests when they visit Horton Plains so that they have some early sustain to start their hike.

We met a Samba Deer in the car park who was very interested in what we had to eat and no doubt is used to visitors. Of course, we didn’t share our food however the deers antlers did bump my head as he got a bit too close.
As these are wild animals you need to keep your distance.

A drizzly start to our hike around Horton Plains.

There was a light dusting of rain as we started the hike and we both used rain jackets. The temperature was around 16 degrees celsius and with a slight wind it was a little chilly.

Clockwise or Anti Clockwise?

As you start the hike you have a choice in what direction you tackle the 11 kilometre hike.
To the left is a harder start and to the right is a little bit easier.

Taking the left you see the main sights in this order
Mini Worlds End
Greater Worlds End
Bakers Falls

Taking the right hand track reverses this order.

There, of course, is plenty of other things to see on the way with the variety of flora and fauna that awaits you.

I have been both ways and always take the left track for the following reasons:

I prefer the easier walk at the end of the hike.
There is a better chance of seeing the views at Mini Worlds End and Greater Worlds End earlier as it is more likely to cloud over later in the day.

However there were lots of people going anticlockwise around so the choice is yours!

A change in weather

It was not long after we started that we had to remove our jackets as the weather improved and we were in sunshine.
It was interesting seeing the clouds blowing through the hills.

Put your sunscreen on!

Although there may be cloud cover you can easily get sunburnt at Horton Plains. We have had guests that have suffered a little by not taking precautions. Suntan lotion and hats are recommended for the walk (and a rain jacket).

Read the Information Boards

There are lots of information boards on the walk which give you information about the geography, flora and fauna that you will see. Some plants, birds and insects are either endemic to Sri Lanka or too Horton Plains itself.

A tough start to our hike at Horton Plains

Initially the walk is quite easy however you will come across some rougher patches which are more tricky. You will need to be careful climbing down through this red coloured rock.

Mini Worlds End

We approached Mini Worlds End and there was a short opening in the clouds where you could get an idea of the 270 metre drop to the bottom of the precipice.
There were other people enjoying the view (and the rest) and we had a short chat about there experience in Sri Lanka.

We spent a bit of time there catching our breath and the view.

On the way to Greater Worlds End

The walk to Greater World End was not as difficult.
We saw some beautiful scenes and cloud formations on the way.

Got there but no view!

This is the reason why we recommend guests to go early to Horton Plains. You are more likely to get a good view of the precipices from both Mini Worlds End and Greater Worlds End if you do.

We caught a small glimpse of some of the 1,200 metre drop below Greater Worlds End but it was not clear enough to get a really good view. Well, I guess we will have to go again!

On to Bakers Falls

The hike to Bakers Falls was lovely and not too difficult. However, if you are not primed for hiking it can be quite tiring.

There are steps down to Bakers Falls and the scene at the bottom is worth it.

There is a beautiful cascade of water coming down the wide rocks creates wonderful patterns.

One of the local Sri Lankans was disappointed with the amount of water coming down the fall however we were very happy. We sat for some time enjoying the cool spray and movement of the water.

Completing the Circle of our Horton Plains Hike

After some rest at Bakers Falls we continued our walk towards our original entry point. It is X km and does takes some time. We were in no rush so we enjoyed the scenery as we went on our way and spoke to some fellow travellers.

Success- we made the hike at Horton Plains

Back to the starting point generated a feeling of achievement and we had some refreshments when we got back to the car.

There is a small shop where you can get drinks and Sri Lankan snacks however we had some leftover cake and Cinnamon Tea in a flask waiting for us.

The road home

It was a good feeling driving the car out of the National Park and we could see some more Samba Deer in the distance foraging in the fields.
Leaving the park and climbing down through the cooling forest before reaching Oyiha was enjoyable and was the start of our way home to GlenMyu Estate.

Would I recommend hiking Horton Plains National Park?

Although the price of entry has increased I still think that it is a fantastic experience.

The park is a UNESCO Heritage site and is a unique area in Sri Lanka.
It is well maintained by the park staff and they were working on improving some pathways when I last visited.

The flora changes throughout the year and I still plan to visit at different times to get the full experience of Horton Plains.

If you are fit enough to do the hike I would certainly recommend it. I would consider it as a great experience to do when staying at GlenMyu Estate or other hotels within reaching distance of the park.

Upper Diyaluma Waterfall - an alternative

We also recommend our guests to visit Upper Diyaluma Waterfall which is only a 40 minute drive from GlenMyu Estate. The hike is a lot less arduous however it is beautiful going from pool to pool as you walk down the spectacular scenery.
You can read more about our trip to Upper Diyaluma Waterfall at this link.

Hike Around Horton Plains National Park Read More »

The Pekoe Trail

Accommodation, Hiking in Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail / By Mikeez

The Pekoe Trail

The Pekoe Trail is a newly developed 300 kilometre hike in the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

It is designed as a 22–day walk from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya via Ella, Haputale, and Horton Plains

You can find out more at the Pekoe Trail Website.

GlenMyu Estate is a perfect place to stay if you are tackling Stage 12 or Stage 13 of the Pekoe Trail.

The Pekoe Trail is part of the European Union’s 5.7 million Euro (LKR 2.2 billion) support for Sri Lanka’s national tourism strategy. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) also provided approximately $787,000 (approximately LKR 283 million) to support the trail.

Reasons to Hike the Pekoe Trail

Be one of the first!

In January 2023 Ultra Marathon Runner Hyun Chang Chung ran the 300 kilometre Pekoe Trail in 59 hours. What an achievement!

You can read more at the FT Article and watch the video which will give you a flavour of what you will experience.

By tackling the trail and recording it on on of the hiking Apps then you will help promote the hike to other walkers by sharing your experience.

Here is a video taken by Marc Ramsey in February/March 2023 which gives a beautiful insight into the Pekoe Trail.

The Pekoe Trail is an example of sustainable tourism that uplifts local communities.

It also raises awareness about the importance of protecting the pristine, natural environment.

An Ultra Marathon on the Pekoe Trail

Ultramarathon trail runner Hyun Chang Chung completed his 300 km run along the Pekoe Trail, non-stop in 59 hours.

Hyun is quoted “The diversity in elevation, terrain, and environment as it winds around tea estates, nature reserves, and local communities puts The Pekoe Trail on par with some of the best trails in the world. This is my fourth visit to Sri Lanka, and I’ve found one more thing to love about it.”

Where should I stay in between stages?

As the Pekoe Trail is a newly created hike and recently they have published a list of recommended properties to stay on the trek.

GlenMyu Estate is located near t stages 12 & 13 of the Pekoe Trail and is a comfortable place to relax after an arduous hike.

The Natural Spring Fed Infinity Swimming Pool is a wonderful place to ease those muscles.

We can also arrange for a masseuse to come to the estate and massage your legs so you are in better condition to attempt the next stage of the trail.

Find out more about a stay in the Sri Lankan Hill Country

We are listed in Airbnb and Booking.com

Horton Plains National Park

You may also be interested in a hike around the UNESCO heritage site Horton Plains National Park.

The Hike is around 1 hour 15 minutes/30 minutes drive from GlenMyu Estate.

If you want to read our Blog Post about Horton Plains National Park, Lesser World’s End, Greater World’s End and Bakers fall click HERE.

The Pekoe Trail Read More »

Garden Tour

Ayurvedic medicine and plants, Organic, The Organic Garden at GlenMyu, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Garden Tour around GlenMyu Estate

At GlenMyu Estate we find that one of the highlights for our guests is to enjoy a relaxed and informal garden tour around the 5 acre estate.

We are continuously landscaping parts of the estate and we see it as a forever work in progress. It’s enjoyable experimenting with different fruits, vegetables, spices, trees and other plants to see what works in different areas around the land.

Our aim is to reinstate many endemic plants and trees in conjunction with developing a fruit forest. We want to encourage more wildlife to come and live and forage on the land.

Guests enjoying the garden at GlenMyu Estate.

The fruits, vegetables and spices that we grow on the estate are used as ingredients for the dishes Ru serves to our guests. You will see that we have planted all around the 5 acre estate so that the wildlife can eat some of the produce in a peaceful environment.

It’s amazing how quickly some of the plants grow and some of our Avocado, Jackfruit, Clove and Mango trees have been established over a few years.

We have made pathways around the estate which makes it safe and easy to walk and enjoy the surroundings. There are part of the land which are quite steep so you can get a bit of a workout on your walk during your garden tour.
There are several places to sit, rest and enjoy the surroundings whilst listening to nature provide its’ background music.

A little bit of history to the Land.

GlenMyu Estate was originally part of the much larger Viharaghalla Tea estate and our 5 acres was abandoned many years ago. It was subsequently used as a sugar cane estate. We understand that this ceased when the government started importing cheaper sugar cane making it unviable enterprise for a previous owner of the land.

A lot has changed.

The current owner, Ru (my wife), bought the land almost 20 years ago. It was a real gamble as we could not navigate the 5 acres as it was totally overgrown. It was also raining when we viewed the property and, unprepared for rain, we only ventured in around 200 metres.
Despite not seeing much of the property, the decision was made to go ahead with the purchase, at least to get a foothold in the area.

Although we looked for other lands to buy around the country, something kept bringing us back to Beragala. We eventually fell in love with the area and the search for something better was over.

If you saw the land, overgrown with Guinea Grass (used as cow fodder) and looking like a jungle, you may well have asked “What have you done”.
However Ru felt that the climate, the availability of water and electricity was at least something positive about the land.

There were some large established trees on the land also which were regularly used by monkeys as their playground.

The Climate

What I love about GlenMyu Estate and this little piece of the Hill Country is the climate. Sri Lanka doesn’t have seasons like were experienced in Europe, however it does have 2 monsoon seasons.

Fortunately for GlenMyu Estate, we are located in a place where we don’t experience the full wrath of either monsoon and are in the Inter-Monsoon area.

It you visit one of the many weather websites you can see that Beragala or Viharagala has an average annual temperature in of 21.3 °C (70.4 °F). The annual rainfall is 1652 mm ( 65.0 inch).

You can see the weather forecast for Beragala at Meteologix or for Viharagala at JustWeather.

Why I love it at GlenMyu Estate!

For me, most of the year is like a reasonable English Summer and I can be in shorts and a t-shirt all year round. We do have some rainier periods (Mid-April until Mid-June and Mid-September until Mid-December) which helps with the garden and the planting we do.

Climate change however, appears to have had some affect on the normal wetter and drier periods and we can never be certain when the weather will change.

Developing the garden

My wife and I don’t have much experience of developing a garden. And, we certainly didn’t think we were capable of making something that would be of such interest to our guests.

Fortunately, along with the internet and a few books, we have some wonderful neighbours who held our hands part of the way. Some of our neighbours have been living in the area for 40 years, some are botanists and some have developed forests. We fell we are very lucky to have such an abundance of resources and knowledge locally.

The Plant Nurseries (both private and government run) have also been very helpful in providing advice.
There is also a great Ayurvedic Plant Nursery in Haldumulla who supplied many of the endemic plants we are re-introducing to the land.

Also, you will find that the older generation of Sri Lankans have a good knowledge of plants, where they grow and what benefits (including medicinal) they have.

Sometimes nature tells you what you can plant by establishing certain types of trees and plants in the land. We have learnt by trying something in one place and mother nature lets us know whether it will work or not.

Protecting the top soil and securing the slope

As we are in the hill country and there are periods where the rain can be heavy there can be small land slips. One of the most important things we have done is to secure the slopes by planting trees to ensure that the ground has a strong foothold.
One of our neighbours alerted us to creating hedgerows on the land along contour lines which helps stabilise the land.
You can read more about SALT technology on this article by International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)

What will you see on the garden tour at GlenMyu Estate?

Well, that depends on who is taking you on our garden tour!
If I take you I always say to guests that you get the second class tour!
The reason being is that my wife has planned and planted most of the garden (with help from the staff off course!).
Therefore, my knowledge is quite a bit less and although I am learning, I’m sure that there are things that I miss.

Ru showing some guest around the garden close to the Pomelo Tree.

My wife, Ru, normally picks salad leaves and other vegetables and fruits from the garden and sometimes includes this as part of her tour. I stay well away from the vegetable garden – it’s her domain!

Here are just some of the fruits, vegetables and spices that you will see on the tour of the garden. (There are many more but Ru will let you know!).

Vegetables
Yams, Jackfruit, Avocado, Lettuce, Cucumbers, Spring Onions, Tomatoes

Spices
Cloves, Cardamon, Cinnamon, Curry Leaf, pepper, coffee,

Fruits
Papayas, Bananas, Mandarin Oranges, Lemons, Mangos, Pomello, Passionfruit, Giant Passionfruit.

I have planted lots of trees myself since being at GlenMyu Estate . If I eat a good Avocado, Mango or Jackfruit, I normally save the seed and plant it somewhere on the land.
The plan is to eventually grow a fruit first which will be good for us, our guests and the animals that visit the property. We want to encourage more endemic species back to the property by providing an environment where they can thrive. We have already seen lots of Crane Flies (daddy long legs), Fireflies and Butterflies visit the property to eat. Occasionally we will see some deer at parts of the property that have been left for the wildlife.
In future we expect to see a large variety of frogs and birds come to GlenMyu Estate to forage.

You will see on your garden tour that lots of the trees I have planted are far away from the property. Therefore we are unlikely to be able to protect and eat the fruits from these trees and they will be a good source of food for the birds, monkeys and squirrels.

An informal garden tour - Don't expect Kew Gardens!

We offer the gardens tours to guests that stay at GlenMyu Estate and it is a relaxed and informal wander around the garden. It’s not a formal garden tour by a botanist or student of the subject. Both Ru and I are enthusiastic and interested in what we are developing on the estate and I’m sure that this will come through on the tour.

I look at our garden tour as similar to our cooking demonstrations – relaxed and informal …. and a bit of fun.

Find out more about a stay in the Sri Lankan Hill Country

If you want to find out more about a stay at GlenMyu Estate please visit our website.

You will also find us on YouTube, Instagram and Facebook (Meta!).

You can readout reviews on Google, Booking.com, Airbnb and Tripadvisor.

Garden Tour Read More »

Horton Plains Entry Fee 2023

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Horton Plains National Park, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lanka Entry Fee

The Horton Plains entry fee. What is the ticket cost to enter Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lanka?
Here we provide feedback from some of our guests who have visited the park in 2023.
Clearly, prices can change and we will update this post during the year as we are told by our guests about any increases. However, here we tell you about the entry cost paid by our guests in May 2023.

UNESCO Heritage Site, Horton Plains National Park, is a favourite day trip from GlenMyu Estate, Beragala, Haputale, Sri Lanka.

Our guests love the feeling of completing the 11 kilometre circular hike where they see Lesser World’s End, Greater World’s End and Baker’s Falls.
There is also an abundance of flora and fauna to see on the hike through this Montane Cloud Forest.

What are the entry costs to Horton Plains?

Entry fees to Horton Plains have changed over the time that we have been visiting this unique experience.

In May 2023, our guests left GlenMyu Estate early in the morning to reach Horton Plains at the best time to try to see a clear view from the precipices at Lesser World’s End & Greater World’s End.
It normally takes around 1 hour 15 to 30 minutes to get to the park entrance.
As our guest leave early we provide a takeaway breakfast to eat on arrival at the park or on the route.

Our guests provided a copy of their entry ticket to the park.
The entry fees totalled 22,597.50 Sri Lankan Rupees.
This cost was for 2 foreign adults.

The copy of the ticket provides the breakdown of the costs.

You can read our BlogPost about our hike in January 2023 to Horton Plains National Park.

What did our guests see at Horton Plains National Park?

Our guests were very lucky to get clear views at both Lesser World’s End & Greater World’s End. It was worth getting up early.
We recommend getting up early for lots of sights and activities when in Sri Lanka and you can read our BlogPost about why here.

In May it tends to rain in the afternoon and our guests were fortunate enough to complete the hike, see the views and get back to relax at GlenMyu Estate in the early afternoon.

As it had been raining the previous evening the water flow at Baker’s Falls was strong which provided a stunning cascade of water.

There are also lots of Flora and Fauna to see in this unique landscape and there are information boards as you travail the hike worth reading.

Our guests were so lucky to see Purple-faced langurs on their walk. We have been to Horton Plains National Park many times but have never seen these unique creatures.

Despite the weather in May and potential rain it is a good time to visit the park as the Rhododendron Arboreum are in bloom only at this time of year.
This has inspired us to also do the hike this month and we will update this post with pictures of our hike.

You can read more about the Rhododendrons at this link.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and visit Host Plains

If you want to stay in a peaceful part of the Sri Lankan Hill Country whilst you visit Horton Plains, Ella Town Nine Arch bridge, Diyaluma Falls and more Glenmyu Estate is an ideal place for your holiday.

Find us on Booking.com, Airbnb or book directly by contacting us via our website.

Horton Plains Entry Fee 2023 Read More »

Which Nationalities visit Sri Lanka the most?

Holiday, Sri Lanka, Travel, visa / By Mikeez

Which Nationalities visit Sri Lanka the most?

Tourists visit Sri Lanka from all parts of the world to explore the fascinating variety of sights, activities and culture the country has to offer. The Island has years if experience welcoming guests from all different parts of the Worlds. It’s interesting to know which Nationalities visit Sri Lanka the most so you know what other tourists you may meet in the country.

Sri Lanka Tourist Statistics

The Sri Lanka Tourist Development Authority issues annual, monthly and weekly statistics which breakdown the numbers of arrivals and country of origin.
There is comparison figures, month to month and year to year, however you must take into account that there have been external and internal factors that have affected tourist arrivals.

The global pandemic effectively closed the country to tourists and it took some months before Sri Lanka was off the red list for travel. There was also a lag before a more normal number of flights started arriving on the Island. In our experience flights really only started bringing a number of tourists in November 2021.

There was also effectively a halt in tourist numbers arriving in the country from late April 2022 until effectively November 2022 due to the government protests. The protests took place between 31 March and July 2022 as a result of the price of basic goods rising and food and fuel shortages.

Foreign Office warnings against travelling to Sri Lanka started to be lifted in August 2022 forward as the country started to settle down again after a change in government.

Flights from Russia started in September 2022 and other carriers followed in the latter part of the year. Tourist numbers increased to around 100,000 per month in early 2023 and it is hoped that arrivals will continue to move upward. The target tourist numbers for 2023 for Sri Lanka is 2 million and therefore the industry still has a way to go to achieve this goal.

Sri Lanka’s tourist numbers peaked at just over 2.5 million in 2018 according to the World Bank. Clearly the country has a long way to go to reach those numbers again.

Where do the tourists come from?

Visitors from the Russian Federation and India make up the highest number of visitors to Sri Lanka according to the official statistics.

This article from Outlook India states that in December 2022 there 19,000 from Russian and 17,000 from India.

The UK, Australia and Germany follow in passenger numbers. We, at GlenMyu Estate, see a lot of French, Swiss, Austrian and Scandinavian tourists coming to the Sri Lankan Hill Country to visit some of the sights including Ella, Nine Arch Bridge, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton Seat and Diyaluma Waterfall.

What countries is Sri Lanka targeting for tourists?

UK, Germany, France, India, China, Australia, Russia, the Middle East, and Scandinavia
During April and May 2023 the Tourist Development authority in Sri Lanka were targeting nine key markets.
If your country is not in that list please do not be offended. We at GlenMyu Estate have welcomed guests from the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Kazakhstan, Poland, Ecuador, Kenya, the US and many more.

What Visa do I need to visit Sri Lanka?

Well, you will need a visa to visit Sri Lanka.

As Tourist Visas have changed over the last few years, in Sri Lanka’s attempt to increase tourism, we would recommend that you visit the Government Visa Website to get the most up to date information.

As a tourist you can visit the country for the following activities:

Sightseeing, holidaying
Visiting friends and relatives
Medical treatment including Ayurvedic and yoga
Participate in sporting events, competitions and activities relating to cultural performance

The most efficient way to apply for a visa is online via an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation)

There are three types of ETA:

ETA for Tourist purpose with double entry for 30 (thirty) days
ETA for Business purpose with double entry for 30 (thirty) days
ETA for Transit up to 02 days Free of Charge basis (Documentary proof needed)

At present, there are Tourist Visas which cost between US$20 and US$50, depending upon length of visa and country of origin. Visa duration is up to 30 days or up to 180 days.

South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Countries visa cost is cheaper due to the special agreement between those countries.

If you are staying longer than 30 days then you should opt for the longer up to 180 days which costs US$50.

Visit the link for extending your visa for more than 30 days here.

What time of year should I visit Sri Lanka?

Similar to other parts of the world climate change appear to be affecting the weather patterns in Sri Lanka.

Therefore it is more difficult to know when the rains will come.

Know when the Monsoons come.

Beware the South West Monsoon…. oh… and also the North West Monsoon

Tourists visiting Sri Lanka should be aware of the annual monsoons that hit the country.

Make sure you check this before you decide what part of the Island to visit.

The North Eastern Monsoon

December to February
Rainy season in the dry zone
Regular showers in Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Trincomalee or Jaffna
This is an ideal time to visit the south and western beaches
It is also the best time to visit Colombo, Kandy, Galle or Nuwara Eliya
Whale watching season at Mirissa
You can experience the amazing wildlife in Udawalawe or Yala National Park
Horton Plains National Park and Knuckles Mountain range
Pilgrimage season of holy Adam’s Peak

The South Western Monsoon
May – September
There are intermittent rains in the wet zone
Also regular showers in Colombo, Kandy, Galle, or Nuwara Eliya
This is the best time to visit Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya or Dambulla
It is also an ideal to visit north and eastern beaches
It’s the best time of the year to visit Trincomalee, Jaffna, Mannar, Arugam Bay
During August-September there is the elephant gathering at Minneriya and Kaudulla.

Sri Lanka is an all year round destination.

Sri Lanka is a year-round holiday destination. This is due to its combination of weather systems ensuring that one or several regions, as well as a section of coastline, is statistically always expecting sunshine.

The peak season to visit Sri Lanka is between December and mid-April. The traditional summer holiday months are also favourable on the east coast which is at its peak from May to September.

In summary, please check the weather forecast for the part of the country you plan to visit and don’t discount visiting outside the peak season. Nowadays, tourists are looking for places to visit which are not overpopulated and they can see something without battling other people trying to get those Instagram shots.

Find out more about GlenMyu Estate.

We are listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.

Which Nationalities visit Sri Lanka the most? Read More »

Pekoe Trail Stage 11 Horton Plains to Udaweriya

Hiking in Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Pekoe Trail Stage 11

The Pekoe Trail Stage 11 is 13.12 km hike from Horton Plains to Udaweriya in Sri Lanka.

Experience the beautiful cloud forest in the UNESCO site.

Hiking the Pekoe Trail takes you from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya via Ella, Haputale, and Horton Plains.

You will experience a variety of terrain whilst enjoying the vista including tea plantations, mountains, rivers, paddy fields and more.

Reasons to hike the Pekoe Trail.

A glimpse of what you will experience on the Pekoe Trail.

The Pekoe Trail Hiking Ap to help you navigate Stage 11.

Visit the Pekoe Trail website and download the Pekoe Trail hiking App to help you navigate the stages of the 300 km trail.

Click on the following link to the official Pekoe Trail website.

Here is a video by Marc Ramsey of his experience of some of the stages on the Pekoe Trail.

Recommended places to stay on the Pekoe Trail

Recently a list of recommended places to stay has been published on the Pekoe Trail website. Click on this link for more details.

GlenMyu Estate - Hike Pekoe Trail Stage 11

GlenMyu Estate is within reaching distance of Stages 12,13,14,15,& 16 of the Pekoe Trail.
It is a really comfortable place to rest and recover from your hike based in the Sri Lankan Hill Country close to Haputale.

We have a Natural Spring Fed Infinity Swimming pool which is a wonderful place to ease those muscles after your hike.

For best rates contact us directly via our WhatsApp button on this page.

We are listed on Airbnb and Booking.com.

A Stay in the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A taste of what you will experience when you stay at GlenMyu Estate.

Please follow us on our Social Media sites.

Pekoe Trail Stage 11 Horton Plains to Udaweriya Read More »

The 6 best reasons to wake up early

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

The 6 best reasons to wake up early in Sri Lanka

The 6 best reasons to wake up early in Sri Lanka.
There are many reasons to wake up early in Sri Lanka. Here are our 6 best reasons to wake up early whilst on holiday.

Some will be unwanted, however, most of the time it is really worth it.

But it’s my holiday!

I know, I know!

You are on holiday and you were really looking forward to a lie in.

What I would recommend is for you to plan your itinerary around the Island which will provide you with enough time for rest day. Sri Lanka can be quite exhausting to travel around taking in new, sounds, colours, smells and information.

The 6 main reasons why you need to wake up early in Sri Lanka (in no particular order!)

Reason 1 - Seeing the Sunrise

We have spectacular sunrises in Sri Lanka which are worth getting up early for.

This a picture I took at the beach in Arugam Bay. It was a really special moment for my wife and I which we always will remember.

You don’t get a second chance and every sunrise if unique so it really is worth getting up early for.

Reason 2 - Avoid the crowds - especially at the weekend

Okay, maybe I’m just not a sociable animal!

Really though, it’s great to have experiences during your holiday in Sri Lanka where there are less crowds. Spending time, hand in hand with your partner walking on the pristine sand covering the beach is more memorable if you are alone. The image of a crowded beach doesn’t create that that same kind of romantic special moment

If you are fighting to get to the spot to take that selfie that will be a special reminder of your holiday it’s not great when there are lots of people trying to do the same thing.

Most people see a holiday as a time where they can wake up late and go out later in the day to explore. As crowds grow during the day the opportunities just are not as special.

We recently had guests visit Upper Diyaluma Waterfall early in the morning and return to GlenMyu Estate for a late breakfast. They were delighted as initially they had the place to themselves and the crowds staying in Ella arrived as they had finished. It was a really special experience for this young couple.

GlenMyu Estate is on Booking.com and Airbnb.

Reason 3 - Wake up early for the best photographs

Don’t miss “Golden Hour”.
The golden hour period is approximately between one half hour before sunrise, and one hour after sunrise. Golden hour is so named because early morning light is soft, and of course, golden!
The sun is low in the sky, shadows are softer, and the angles and length are more flattering.

According to website improvephotography the best time to take a portrait is with a couple of hours after sunrise and within a couple of hours before sunset.

Light changes quickly during this period and therefore it is important to get to the spot you want to photograph early to capture a range of photos. This will enable you to pick the ones where you like the light the best.

Reason 4 - It may get quite hot later on

One of the main reasons as a tourist in Sri Lanka to get up early is to avoid the heat later in the day.

It’s much more of a pleasure visiting tourist sites before it gets uncomfortably hot. Most visitors are not used to the temperatures (and sometimes humidity) and it can really sap you energy and enjoyment of the experience.

There is a song and a saying about “Mad Dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun”.
It’s a comical song but has a very salient point.

If you are not from a tropical country then seeing the wonderful sights in Sri Lanka such as climbing Sigiria Rock Fortress, Hiking Horton Plains National Park, visiting the temples in ancient Polunaruwa or seeing the view at Lipton’s Seat it can be quite exhausting. You will also need to carry plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated.

Reason 5 - Wake up early and you can relax in the afternoon

“The early bird catches the worm”
Get an advantage on your day so that you can fully relax after seeing a fabulous site or having an experience early.

By expending energy in the morning after, say, a hike around Horton Plains National Park or climbing the Lion Rock then your body will be ready for a relaxing afternoon.
The temperature is more likely to be warmer and the world is telling you to slow down and take it easy. Your body will tell you that it is ready to slow down and recover from the rigorous morning experience it has been through.

There are some fabulous, hotels, guest houses, homestays and beach huts around Sri Lanka and I would recommend that you allocate some time to enjoy them.
At GlenMyu Estate, Ru will usually do a garden tour showing the spices, fruits and vegetables that we grow on the estate. Sometimes this will incorporate picking some of the fresh ingredients required for the evening meal such as salad leaves, vegetables and fruits.

We always suggest that guests build in a little bit of downtime during their holiday in Sri Lanka. After all, you are on holiday! If you end up missing visiting a sight there is no guilt as you can always come back to Sri Lanka again.

Reason 6 - You are more likely to see the animals on a safari

Getting up early means that you will be more likely to see a wider range of animals on Safari. In Sri Lanka there are morning and afternoon safaris. If you do a morning safari you always have the opportunity to also do an afternoon safari to compare how many and what types of animal you see.

We would choose a morning safari as animals typically search for water sources early in the morning after a safe nights sleep. Most nocturnal animals are become active at dusk and remain active for a few hours after sunset.

Some animals are mostly active during sunrise and therefore you have the best chance to see them in the morning. They prefer the cooler parts of the day: early morning or early evening.

Getting up early at GlenMyu Estate

What we find at GlenMyu Estate is that by time our guests have arrived here they need some downtime.

Most travellers arrive after topping up the tan or surfing at the coast on on the 6 hour train ride from Kandy.

There are lots to see within reach of GlenMyu Estate which are best or essential to see early in the morning. So there will be times where you will need to wake up early here as well.

Are there any better time than those personal moments in the early mornings?

Some of the views from the Balcony early in the morning at GlenMyu Estate.

Another reason to get up early at GlenMyu Estate is to enjoy some healthy Kola Kanda.

We pick the healthy leaves from the garden.

An early morning swim or enjoy a balcony view.

From GlenMyu Estate you can reach some fabulous spots that worth getting up early for:

Horton Plains National Park – a UNESCO Heritage Site
We normally send our guests off at 6.30 am so that they reach the park shortly after it opens.
Ru gets up early and provides a sumptuous breakfast so that our guests have a great start to an early day.
The main reason for reaching Horton Plains National Park early is to have a chance to see the awesome views at Lesser World’s End and Greater World’s End.
If you leave it too late the clouds in the Montane Cloud forest may already be obscuring the view meaning you won’t get that Instagram picture or video!
The 11 kilometre hike takes between 3 – 4 hours depending on how often you stop.

Getting there early means that there will be less crowds for you to share this wonderful natural landscape with. Many of our guests have commented on the number of local Sri Lankans who arrive when they are finishing. I doubt that many see the World’s End views.

Read about our experience of our hike at Horton Plains National Park at our BlogPost.

It will also mean that you will get back to GlenMyu Estate in plenty of time to enjoy a swim in the refreshing Natural Spring Fed Infinity Swimming Pool.

Find us on Airbnb and Booking.com.

Upper Diyaluma Waterfall
The second highest Waterfall in Sri Lanka is a favourite spot for us and many of our guests and worth getting up early to experience.

Upper Diyaluma Waterfall is around 1,400 metres high so you really need to get there early so that you don’t experience the full force of the sun. We do recommend our guests to put sun tan lotion on in order to avoid getting sunburn. As the elevation of this and many other tourist sights in the area are quite high it is worth taking the precaution.

A guest who left GlenMyu Estate to get to Upper Diyaluma Waterfall for sunrise at 5.30 am suggested that it was still 30 minutes too late and she should have left at 5 am.
She had a wonderful time and was able to make it back to GlenMyu to have a late breakfast.

Read more about or trip to Upper Diyaluma Waterfall in our BlogPost.

Lipton’s Seat and Dambetenne Tea Factory

This is the viewpoint from where Scottish tea baron, Sir Thomas Lipton, used to survey his vast tea empire.

Lipton’s Seat is at an elevation of 1,970 metres.

It has a panoramic view over the hills and you can see Uda Walawe Tank (reservoir), Handapanagala Lake, the Wedihitikanda Mountains, Chandrika Lake and Hambanthota Port which is located on the southern coast.
You can see five provinces from the viewpoint including Uva, Sabaragamuwa, Central and Eastern Provinces.

Here as some beautiful photos taken by our guests at Lipton’s Seat in April 2023.

It had rained quite heavily on the previous evening which led to the clear skies in the morning. They left GlenMyu Estate at 5 a.m. however they said that they could have left 15 minutes earlier to capture the sunrise fully.

Find out more about GlenMyu Estate by visiting our website or contact us by WhatsApp.

Contact GlenMyu Estate to book your stay by visiting our website.
We are also listed in Airbnb & Booking.com.

The 6 best reasons to wake up early Read More »

Pekoe Trail Stage 21 Uda Pussellawa to Kandapola

Hiking in Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Travel / By Mikeez

The Pekoe Trail Stage 21

The Pekoe Trail Stage 21 is a 16.71 hike from Uda Pussellawa to Kandapola.

If it is a clear day you will be able to make out the contour of Haputale, Lipton’s seat and also Ella Rock whilst you are walking along the trail.

What is the Pekoe Trail?

The Pekoe Trail is designed as a 22 day walk from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya via Ella, Haputale, and Horton Plains.

It was opened in 2023 and was funded jointly by the European Union and The United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

The Pekoe Trail is a great example of sustainable tourism that uplifts local communities and raises awareness about the importance of protecting the pristine, natural environment.

Hiking Apps to use on the Pekoe Trail

The Pekoe Trail Official Website recommends to use All Trails, Wikiloc or Outdoor Active hiking apps.

Link to the All Trails App for stage 21

Here is the link to the Wikiloc App for stage 21

This the link to the Outdoor Active App for stage 21

Use Meta (Facebook) groups to

Although the Pekoe Trail is new there are already some posts on Meta (Facebook) showing peoples experiences on the Pekoe Trail such as

Pekoe Trail Sri Lanka – Hiking & Camping.

We plan to walk the Pekoe Trail.

We, at GlenMyu Estate, Haputale, plan to walk the Pekoe Trail over the upcoming few years as we have time between hosting guests. Our intention is to update the articles that we publish about the hike with a commentary along with some videos and photos. This will help you get an idea of what you mights see and encounter on your hike.

Where is GlenMyu Estate?

GlenMyu Estate is located 4 kilometres from Beragala Junction towards Koslanda and Wellawaya.

We are in reachable distance for stages 12 through to 17 of the Pekoe Trail.

Why stay at GlenMyu Estate?

There are so many reasons. We would suggest that you look at our reviews on Booking.com, AirBnb, Google and TripAdvisor to see what our guests think.

We have 3 guest bedrooms and we think that it is an ideal place for some R & R in between hikes.

3 Kingsize Double Bedrooms with Spectacular Views
2 Spacious Lounges with views over the hills below the house
A Natural Spring-Fed Infinity Swimming Pool
5 Acres of land to explore

Delicious bespoke meals freshly prepared by the host
A selection of places to dine

A place to relax and be closer to nature

Within reach of the following tourist sites

Diyaluma Waterfall and Upper Diyaluma Pools
Horton Plains National Park – Mini Worlds End, Worlds End and Bakers Falls
Adisham Bungalow
Lipton Seat
Dambetenna Tea Factory
Bambarakanda Waterfall
Thangamale Bird Sanctuary
Ella Town: 9 Arch Bridge, Little Adams Peak & Ravanna Waterfall

Other places to stay on the Pekoe Trail

Please click on the following link for other places to stay recommended on the Pekoe Trail website.

Pekoe Trail Stage 21 Uda Pussellawa to Kandapola Read More »

Pekoe Trail Stage 20 Loonuwatte to Uda Pussellawa

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

The Pekoe Trail Stage 20

The Pekoe Trail Stage 20 is a 12.37 km hike from Loonuwatte to Uda Pussellawa. Maverl at sights of beautiful rivers, caves and tea trails as you make your way through the trail.

What is the Pekoe Trail?

The Pekoe Trail is a new 300 kilometre hikes over 22 stages starting in Kandy and ending in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka.

It was funded by the European Union’s 5.7 million Euro to support for Sri Lanka’s national tourism strategy.
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) also provided approximately $787,000.

The trail opened in early 2023 and already lots of walkers have enjoyed tackling the individual stages of the trail and there are starting to be more social media posts showing what you will encounter.

An Ultra Marathon on the Pekoe Trail.

There has already been an Ultra Marathon on the new Pekoe Trail.

Ultramarathon trail runner Hyun Chang Chung ran the entire 300 km length of The Pekoe Trail, non–stop, in two and half days. It took him 59 hours in total. You can see more about Hyun’s endeavours in this video.

More information about the Pekoe Trail.

A map of the trail and its’ stages are on the official Pekoe Trail Website.

You can also see some YouTube Videos of hikers tackling the different stages of the trail.

Here are some videos to whet your appetite!

Hiking Apps for the Pekoe Trail

The official website recommends that you use All Trails, Outdoor Active or Wikiloc to help you navigate the Pekoe Trail.

All Trails Stage 20 of the Pekoe Trail.

Outdoor Active Stage 20 of the Pekoe Trail.

Wikiloc Stage 20 of the Pekoe Trail.

Where should I stay?

When an official list of recommended properties to stay overnight in between stages of the Pekoe Trail, we will update this article.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate Hotel for stages 12 to 16

If you want to properly relax in a unique property surrounded by nature please consider GlenMyu Estate as your luxury option. It’s a plan you will not want to leave and most of our guests stay for at least two to three days to fully enjoy the property and surroundings.

Relax together in a bath for two on Valentine's Day in Sri Lanka — Share a bath on Valentine’s Day in Sri Lanka

The best homestay in Sri Lanka — Relax in the lounge

A Traditional British Sunday Roast — Enjoying a Roast Chicken Dinner at GlenMyu Estate.

Ru making fresh pasta — The kitchen at GlenMyu Estate

Find us on Booking.com and AirBnb.

What will I find at GlenMyu Estate

3 Kingsize Double Bedrooms with Spectacular Views

2 Spacious Lounges with views over the hills below the house

A Natural Spring-Fed Infinity Swimming Pool

5 Acres of land to explore

Delicious bespoke meals freshly prepared by the host

A selection of places to dine

A place to relax and be closer to nature

Within reach of the following tourist sites

Diyaluma Waterfall and Upper Diyaluma Pools

Horton Plains National Park – Mini Worlds End, Worlds End and Bakers Falls

Adisham Bungalow

Lipton Seat

Dambetenna Tea Factory

Bambarakanda Waterfall

Thangamale Bird Sanctuary

Ella Town: 9 Arch Bridge, Little Adams Peak & Ravanna Waterfall

Pekoe Trail Stage 20 Loonuwatte to Uda Pussellawa Read More »

Pekoe Trail Stage 18 Ettampitiya to Loonuwatte

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, The Pekoe Trail, Travel / By Mikeez

The Pekoe Trail - Stage 18

The Pekoe Trail Stage 18 takes you on an 13.96 kilometre hike from Hali-Ela to Ettampitiya.

You will enjoy a walk through picturesque paddy fields, tea trails and hills, and also see panoramic views.

What will I see on Stage 18 of the Pekoe Trail?

At this stage we at GlenMyu Estate are yet to complete this part of the trail and we will update this article when we have done so. We will provide a commentary along with videos and photos.

Watch this video by Marc Ramsey of his trek through stages 16, 17, 18, 22, and 12 of the new Pekoe Trail in Sri Lanka to get an idea of what you will see.

Are there any recommended Hiking Apps?

The official website for the Pekoe Trail now has its’ own hiking App which you can download and it will help you with navigating the trail.

There are other APPs such as Wikiloc, All Trails and Outdoor Active which have already been populated with hikers experiences and are an alternative if you already have installed these apps.

An Award winning hiking trail

Despite only being opening in 2023, the Pekoe Trail has already won recognition at some prestigious awards.

The British Guild of Travel Writers awarded the Pekoe Trail ‘Best Wider World Tourism Project’ in 2023.

It also made National Geographic’s Coveted ‘Best of the World’ List for 2024.

Where should I stay?

Presently there is no list of recommended places to stay on the official Pekoe Trail Website. When this is available we will update this article.

GlenMyu Estate Hotel – a place to stay at Stages 12, 13,14,15,16 of the Pekoe Trail.

Booking.com

Airbnb

Pekoe Trail Stage 18 Ettampitiya to Loonuwatte Read More »

Pekoe Trail Stage 10 Dayagama to Horton Plains

Hiking in Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Travel / By Mikeez

The Pekoe Trail Stage 10

The Pekoe Trail Stage 10 is a 14.88 kilometre hike from Dayagama to Horton Plains in Sri Lanka. You can access this part of the Pekoe Trail is from Nuwara Eliya which is known as “Little England”. This stage of the trail will take you to the renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, Horton Plains National park.

Any Hiking Apps to help navigate the Pekoe Trail?

There are three hiking Apps that are recommended by the Pekoe Trail official website.

All Trails – Stage 10 of the Pekoe Trail.

Outdoor Active – Stage 10 of the Pekoe Trail.

Wikiloc – Stage 10 of the Pekoe Trail.

Why Hike the Pekoe Trail?

Here is a video from Travel Guru which gives a good insight into what you will experience.

Getting away from the stresses and hustle and bustle of everyday life and getting closer to nature is a good reason to hike the Pekoe Trail.

Where should I stay en route?

We understand at this time there is no official list of places to stay on the Pekoe Trail. When this list os published we will update this article.

There is a wide array of accommodation to choose from for any budget and we would recommend looking at the recognised accommodation websites such as Booking.com and Airbnb.

GlenMyu Estate is within good reach of Nuwara Eliya, Haputale and Ella which covers several stages of the Pekoe Trail.

We are on Booking.com and Airbnb.

Book direct with us by pressing the WhatsApp button our our website.

We love visiting Horton Plains National Park.

Here is a link to our BlogPost about our experience at Horton Plains National Park.

The Samba Deer at Horton Plains National Park.

A cloudy scene on our hike around Horton Plains National Park

Pekoe Trail Stage 10 Dayagama to Horton Plains Read More »

Pekoe Trail Stage 8 Norwood to Bogawantalawa

Hiking in Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Travel / By Mikeez

The Pekoe Trail Stage 8

The Pekoe Trail Stage 8 is a 15.85 km hike from Norwood to Bogawantalawa in Sri Lanka. Enjoy the scenic “The Golden Valley of Tea’” as you pass through hills, valleys, lakes and scenic mountain views.

A project jointly funded by the European Union and USAID

The Pekoe Trail is part of the European Union’s 5.7 million Euro support for Sri Lanka’s national tourism strategy.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) also provided approximately $787,000 in support of the trail.

The Pekoe Trail is designed as a 22 day walk from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya via Ella, Haputale, and Horton Plains.

The Pekoe Trail has diversity in elevation, terrain.
Your hike winds around tea estates and nature reserves. Interacting with local communities on The Pekoe Trail makes it an interesting experience where you can get a better understanding of how their culture and how local people live.

Explore diverse ecosystems ranging from grasslands to tropical forests as you enjoy the mountain views. The cool air of the Sri Lankan Hill Country is invigorating and a comfortable climate to walk in.

The Island has a rich heritage, culture and history which you will get to understand as you traverse forests, plains, rural villages, and Tea plantations

Hiking Apps for the Pekoe Trail.

The Pekoe Trail Official website suggests that you use either All Trails, Outdoor Active or Wikiloc.

We have added the links to the pages below:

All Trails – Pekoe Trail Stage 8

Outdoor Active – Pekoe Trail Stage 8

Wikiloc – Pekoe Trail Stage 8

GlenMyu Estate and the Pekoe Trail

GlenMyu Estate is located near Haputale and therefore in in good proximity for many parts of the Pekoe Trail. We plan to walk the different stages of the trail ourselves and update this article with our own commentary, videos and photos.

We, of course, think that GlenMyu Estate is a great place to stay in between stages or to recover over two or three days.

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