Located in the beautiful hill station of Ambewela in Sri Lanka, known as the renowned Ambewela Farm, Often referred to as ‘Little New Zealand’, this beautiful farm is about 17km away from Nuwara Eliya and spreads across 150 acres. The Ambevala Farm is mainly popular for its dairy products. Here you can find cows roaming free as they graze on the farm’s lush pastures by the windmills. The atmosphere is pleasant, and the sky is almost always crystal blue. The farm was originally established with the help of the New Zealand government in the ‘60s, and due to its milk production, yoghurt, cream, and cheese production, the farm is an eye-catching spot for tourists and visitors. It is a must-visit!
Why You Should Be Visiting The Ambewela Farm
Here is a helpful guide as you visit the Ambewela Farm for your trip to Sri Lanka this year. Take notes and have an enjoyable trip.
Ambewela Farm History And Origin
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The farm was established with the help of the New Zealand government during the ‘60s. It is also known as ‘Little New Zealand’. The farm has a successful and extensive milk, cream, yoghurt and cheese production. Not only is the weather completely different from that of the usual in Sri Lanka, but the little English cottages belonging to the staff and the green meadows and cows give a very countryside vibe to the entire place.
Visitors can enter the sheds where huge stud bulls are caged, and rabbit breeding and cow sheds can also be visited. Not to forget the automated milking processes.
There is an outlet at the farm entrance where you can purchase the farm’s produce including fresh milk. Ambewela Farm is open throughout the year from 9 am – 6 pm every day. This is your go-to place if you love a little countryside experience.
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Ambewela Farm Location And Timings
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The farm lies about 17km away from Nuwara Eliya and the best way to commute is through a car. A lot of people might now know but Ambewela farm is the most extensive grassland on the island of Sri Lanka. The rugged mountains, bright green vegetation, different breeds of animals, a plethora of birds, colourful blooming flowers and the misty weather are an ideal rejuvenation spot. Nature enthusiasts and those who like to watch birds often come to the site. The climatic and economic state of Ambewela makes it a perfect place for dairy farming. The farm is open year-round, from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm daily, but it’s best to check beforehand as they sometimes close entry to the farm for certain periods.
Ambewela Farm Activities
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Ambewela Farms has two farms, Ambewela Farm and New Zealand Farm. Due to the hill station’s cool environment, Ambewela Farm has a superior breed of cattle, modern top technology and lush pastures where cattle graze freely. It is due to the organisation of international standards that locally produces the best quality of milk and its products. There are animals like rabbits, goats and cows on the farm. There’s a sales centre where they can purchase their farm produce. The farm also has a restaurant serving food and beverages prepared organically. Even the dairy products they sell are made with cheese and milk. The most sought-after item on the menu is their delicious strawberry milkshake, in which locally-grown strawberries and locally processed-milk are used. There is a facility to hire a guide that can help you in exploring the farm. Their products include Ambewela Fresh Milk, Ambewela Yoghurt and Cheese. Young ones get the opportunity to be educated about animal husbandry, agriculture, etc.
The Ambewela Farm boasts of having purebred Ayrshire cattle, and the New Zealand Farm has purebred Friesian cows, with both doing a great job of raising several animals. The pedigree breed of cows needs a ton of attention, and to keep the quality of the milk maintained, the management takes utmost care to provide the animals with a good diet and sterilised water. In addition to this, the cattle are given special healthcare by two veterinary surgeons who look after the animals all day long. The farm also produces dairy products like cheese and yoghurt. The most extensive and beautiful grasslands of the island of Sri Lanka are also a part of the Ambewela farms. This is a must-visit spot!
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Ambewela Farm Travel Routes
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By Air: The nearest airport to Nuwara Eliya is Hatton (NUF) Airport, about 24.9 km away from the town.
By Road: Ambewela farm falls at a distance of 20 km from Nuwara Eliya. You can reach by car or taxi and reach in 45 minutes and rent taxis from Ambewela railway station.
By Train: Ambewela Railway Station is the second-highest railway station in Sri Lanka.
Tourist Spots Near Ambewela Farm
From the breathtakingly beautiful Victoria Park to the bustling streets of Bale Bazaar. Here are some amazing tourist spots near Ambewela Farm that you must check out.
1. Victoria Park, Nuwara Aliya
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Victoria Park – Victoria Park is a magnificent park located in the centre of Nuwara Eliya. Victoria Park stretches 27 acres and comprises well-trimmed lawns, tall trees, and a variety of flora and fauna. There’s a children’s play area and a few rides as well.
It has a huge collection of flowering plants. Visitors can stroll through colourful flower beds of roses, marigolds, dahlias and more, adding more beauty to the landscape. One can also look out for exotic birds like the Kashmir Flycatcher and the Indian Blue Robin. The park also consists of a children’s play area and a mini train. The vibrant, natural backdrop clicks the best pictures ever. The park is open between 9 am – 6 pm on weekdays and 7 am to 6 pm on weekends.
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2. Buddhist Temple In Sri Lanka
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Divurumpola is a Buddhist religious shrine near Welimada town in Nuwara Eliya in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. Divrumpola Temple( Divrumpola Raja Maha Viharaya ) is directly linked to the Ramayana trail in Sri Lanka. According to legend, this temple is the spot where Sita underwent the Agni Pariksha to prove her chastity after she was rescued. There are idols of the Hindu gods Ram, Sita, and Lord Hanuman here. The temple is situated 20 Km from Nuwara Eliya Welimada road.
3. The Shri Bhakta Hanuman Temple Premise
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Sri Bhakta Hanuman Temple is located on the summit of a scenic mountain in Ramboda, Sri Lanka. The temple was constructed in 1999 by Chinmaya Mission. It was built in dedication to Lord Hanuman and it has become one of the important sites of Ramayana Tour in the beautiful country of Sri Lanka. It comprises an 18 feet Hanuman statue, making it the tallest Hanuman statue in all of Sri Lanka. Sri Bhakta Hanuman Temple is neither too big nor exorbitantly decorated. The nearby garden area is crystal clean and well-maintained by the Chinmaya mission. The idol is made of black granite, carved exquisitely and stands high at around 16 feet. Devotees come here to worship their beloved Lord Hanuman.
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4. Old Streets Of Sri Lanka
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Popularly known as the Winter Market, this bazaar is a fun place offering an extensive selection of winter clothes despite the island hardly having winter. This is one of the top attractions of the city. A variety of tailored products are available here: sweaters, scarves, gloves, jackets, hats, etc., in almost every style, colour and budget. Along with winter clothes, the market has a variety of household items, local handicrafts, artisanal products, and souvenirs. Bargaining is fully encouraged here if you want great prices for your purchases.
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Often referred to as “Little New Zealand”, Ambewela Farm is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. Now that you have the perfect guide to plan your trip to this exotic location, why wait? Book your tickets for a trip to Sri Lanka and prepare for an awesome experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Ambewela Farm
What is the climate in Nuwara Eliya like?
Due to its high altitude, Nuwara Eliya has a subtropical climate having no specific dry season and a gloomy, cloudy season. The mean annual temperature is 16 °C.
What is the entry fee at Ambewela Farm?
The entry fee is 250rs per person.
How much time does it take to cover the farm?
It takes about 1 - 1.5 hours to explore the entire farm and its facilities.
Is there accommodation near the farm?
Yes, there are several budget hotels and lodges available in Nuwara Eliya.
When is the best time to visit the farm?
April is the busiest time of the year for tourists and they can encounter a lot of traffic at that time. December to July is conducive to visiting the farm.
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