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Accommodation

Stafford Bungalow

Ragala, Sri Lanka

Destinations

Sri Lanka

Accommodation

Stafford Bungalow

Stafford Bungalow is a beautifully restored 130-year-old planter’s bungalow, situated within the scenic Stafford Tea Estate in the village of Ragala, near Kandapola in Sri Lanka’s hill country.

Originally built in 1884 by a Scottish plantation manager, this charming four-bedroom bungalow retains much of its old-world character, featuring wooden floors, fireplaces, and a gabled roof. The property is set amidst meticulously kept lawns, bordered by colourful flower beds, and offers sweeping views of the surrounding tea plantation and the majestic mountains beyond.

The bungalow was upgraded in 2013 and can comfortably accommodate up to 11 guests. It can be booked by the room or as a whole villa, making it an ideal option for families or small groups seeking a peaceful retreat. Stafford Bungalow and the tea estate are owned by the Hemas Company, which is committed to environmental conservation and supporting the local village community. The tranquil setting and charming atmosphere provide a perfect escape to the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country.

What we love

The bungalow dates back to 1884 and offers a glimpse into colonial-era architecture
Nestled amidst lush tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, a stay here promises tranquility and peace
The hotels level of personalised service is exemplary with attentive staff ensuring a comfortable stay for every guest
Ideal location for some stages of the Pekoe Trail

This is not an easy place to reach so you will need a car or taxi on hand

There are limited alternative dining options nearby, so you’ll probably be eating your meals exclusively at the bungalow

Be mindful of the cooler climate in Nuwara Eliya and pack appropriately

Family-friendly with spacious rooms and outdoor spaces for children to explore and additional beds and cribs available on request. Cooking demonstrations offer a fun and interactive family experience, also on offer are educational trips to learn about tea cultivation, local flora and fauna.

Like many hill country plantation bungalows, the winding roadway that leads to Stafford Bungalow is rustic, but worth the effort for those in search of rural bliss. The village of Ragala is about 40 minutes away from Nuwara Eliya. Around six hours from Colombo airport unless you consider air taxi options. You can also head to the south coast via a daily sea plane service between Hatton and Koggala

What our travellers say

We went to Sri Lanka as a three-generation family of three. The superb trip was organised by Samanthie and the team and it's difficult to see how it could have been bettered.

Roy Wood (February 2026) Read the whole review here Google

Red Dot organised the most wonderful 3-week holiday for us. Samanthie built a trip around the amazing sights we had requested visiting, together with her own suggestions and a wide mix of hotels, which gave us the flavours of both traditional Sri Lanka and the sleek, stylish contemporary version of the country. Our Driver made the whole experience incredibly special for us.

Alie C (February 2026) Read the whole review here Trip Advisor

I can’t thank Cherylle and the Red Dot team enough for their meticulous planning of our family holiday to India travelling through Rajasthan over Christmas. As a family of all adults, every suggestion from daily activities to hotel choices was simply perfect. We travelled through Delhi, Ranthambore (an unforgettable tiger safari!), Jaipur and Agra and I truly feel we experienced the very best of each destination while moving at a relaxed, well thought out pace

Daisy Stanton (February 2026) Read the whole review here Google

My partner arranged a holiday trip at fairly short notice to Sri Lanka with Red Dot on a recommendation, Samanthie was so patient & helpful with her suggested itinerary which we followed with some minor amendments. On arrival at Colombo we met Manjula our chauffeur/guide who was absolutely brilliant!

Andrew S (February 2026) Read the whole review here Trip Advisor

Dulmini and the Red Dot Team arranged a fantastic trip for us around Assam and North East India. Faultless service. I cannot recommend them more highly.

Martin Thomas (February 2026) Read the whole review here Google

Wonderful company. Our holiday in Sri Lanka was perfect. Local knowledge made all the difference

Sandra Nicholson (February 2026) Read the whole review here Google

We looked up, and communicated with umpteen tour operators. Though Red Dot seemed to have offices in Sri Lanka and the UK, they seemed to have the best reviews. We were fortunate enough to correspond with Cherylle, who not only assured us of the safety of our friend, but created a personalised, and flexible, itinerary which we could not have done ourselves.

Jayant Banerji (February 2026) Read the whole review here Google

A 14-day tour with Red Dot Tours was the perfect antidote to the bleak UK winter. After a glowing recommendation from a friend, we contacted Red Dot Tours and were not disappointed. Our consultant, Lahiru, curated a seamless itinerary. Throughout the planning phase, Lahiru was incredibly responsive; the final itinerary—delivered via a user-friendly 'Guest Portal'—was impressively detailed, covering every hotel stay and excursion.

Phil Blair ( February 2026) Read the whole review here Google

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