The town of dramatic cloud forests and emerald tea plantations, Haputale, is a small, laid-back hill station perched on the edge of Sri Lanka’s central highlands. Away from the hustle and bustle of other tourist hotspots in the hill country, the charming town offers a tranquil escape for all.
1. Visit Lipton’s Seat at Sunrise
The one tourist attraction in Haputale that puts the town on the map for many of its visitors, Lipton’s Seat, is a must-visit. The historical landmark, set amidst sprawling tea fields, draws crowds for its panoramic views, making it one of the most iconic viewpoints in Sri Lanka. Just as it was a favourite lookout of Sir Thomas Lipton, the pioneer of Ceylon tea, the scenic viewpoint is also a favourite among the hundreds of travellers heading to the hill country.
2. Explore the Dambatenne Tea Factory
Wrapping up your visit to Lipton’s Seat, make your way to the Dambatenne Tea Factory located in the same vicinity. Dating back to 1890, it is one of the oldest and largest tea factories in Sri Lanka — a distinction not to be taken lightly in a country that is renowned for tea worldwide and has no shortage of top-tier tea factories. Visitors are offered a guided tour, which takes you through the entire tea-making process, from leaf to cup, while offering insight into the island’s tea legacy. At the end of the tour, you are treated to an immersive tea tasting session, where you can enjoy freshly brewed Ceylon tea overlooking the seemingly endless tea fields. True tea lovers can also purchase tea to take their favourites home.
3. Hike to Adisham Bungalow (St.Benedict’s Monastery)
Journey back in time to the period of British colonisation with a visit to the Adisham Bungalow. Once the abode of Sir Thomas Lester Villiers, Adisham Bungalow is a well-preserved, beautiful English country house. It dates back to the 1930s and boasts magnificent Colonial architecture, leaving visitors completely enthralled.
4. Walk Through Haputale Town and Market
As the sun goes down and the azure blue skies slowly fade away, one of the best things to do in Haputale is to walk through the atmospheric town and market. The atmosphere is very relaxed and laid-back, offering you a glimpse into simple, everyday hill-country life.
5. Take Nature Walks and Short Hikes
Haputale basks in the glory of being blessed with some of the most lush and untouched landscapes in the hill country. Surrounded by forests, tea estates, and lesser-known trails, the town is ideal for nature walks and light hikes. After a day in tranquil nature, retreat to one of the finest hotels in town; your options include Mandara Ridge Haputale.
6. Enjoy a Scenic Train Journey
The world-famous train from Kandy to Ella needs no introduction and is considered one, if not the most scenic, railway journey in the world. Haputale is one of the hill country stations that you pass through on this beautiful journey. So, treat yourself to the same immersive railway experience by boarding the train from Haputale train station to Ella, Nanu Oya, Badulla, or vice versa.
