Ambewela

Ambewela is a small town located in the Nuwara Eliya District, approximately 20 km from Spring Acre. It is suggested to plan a day trip to this region, where you can visit the following locations on your way to Horton Plains: Kande Ela (lake), Kande Ela nature trail, Ramya Horticulture strawberry farm, Ambewela Farms, Milco Factory and then go on to Horton Plains.

Due to the high altitude of 6,064 ft (1,848 m), the mean annual temperature in the Ambewela area is below 17.5 °C (63.5 °F), while frost is expected during December and January. Ambewela is also famous for being the highest (in altitude) and widest grassland in Sri Lanka. Mammals such as Sambar Deer, Leopard, and Elephant dominate the majority of the forest cover around the area. The area is also sometimes called "Little New Zealand". One of the less-known but picturesque lakes on the way to Horton Plains is the Kande Ela Lake at Mipiimana. Boat rides are available on the lake.

Kande Ela Forest Garden is located adjoining the lake. The Forest Department maintains the Kande Ela Forest Garden for educational purposes. There is a nature trail through the forest with many examples of Soil conservation methods, Types of plants, Environment pollution, and Traditional culture. The nature trail is approximately 5 Kilometers and takes about one hour to complete.

The climatic and economic conditions in Ambewela make it an ideal location for dairy farming.

Ambewela Farms comprises two farms, Ambewela Farm and New Zealand Farm. Blessed with the hill country's cool climes and pristine environment, Ambewela Farm boasts superior cattle breeds, modern technology and top-quality pastures where cattle graze freely. The result is an organisation of international standards locally, producing the best quality milk and milk products.

The Ambewela Farm has purebred Ayrshire cattle, and the New Zealand Farm in Ambewela rears purebred Friesian cows, with both farms maintaining a pure line of cattle. These pedigree cows require a great deal of attention, and to maintain the quality of the milk, the farm management takes great care to provide them with a balanced diet and sterilised drinking water. In addition, the cattle are given excellent healthcare by two resident veterinary surgeons at the farm that tend to the animals on a 24-hour basis. The farm also produces yoghurt and cheese. The most extensive grasslands of Sri Lanka are also a part of the Ambewela farms.

In addition to the cattle, Ambewela Farm has Rabbits, Pigs and Goats. The farm also cultivates different varieties of vegetables and seed potatoes. A cheese factory, Goat yard and thousands of animals can be seen in Ambewela farms.

A visit to the Ambewela Farm and the New Zealand Farm is a must, especially if you have young children.

Going past Ambewela junction towards Horton Plains, you can view the Milco Factory. This is one of Sri Lanka's few milk powder-producing factories. If you are hoping to visit the factory, it is recommended to call them on 052 567 0728 or 052 567 0726 before making any plans, as factory visits are sometimes suspended for various reasons. However, a factory outlet sells produce under the Highland brand, such as fresh milk, milk powder, butter, cheese, yogurt and ice cream.

Click below to get driving directions to Ambewela on Google Maps: