A DAY TRIP FROM ELLA

Haputhale

Tea Plantations, Waterfalls and Wonder

Tucked away in Sri Lanka’s incredible central mountains, 4690 feet above sea level, lies Haputale, a charming little town. On a clear day, the mist clears to reveal breathtaking panoramic views stretching to the coastline. But on other days, the town transforms into a whimsical wonderland, enveloped in a thick, ethereal fog. This captivating dance between clear skies and swirling mist is just the beginning of Haputale’s magic.

Highlights

Liptons Seat
Dambatenne Tea Factory
Diyaluma Waterfall
Adhisham Monastery
Thangamale Bird Sanctuary
Idalgashinna Railway Station

Location and Best Times to Visit

Ella can be easily reached; it is just an hour’s drive away. Haputale enjoys refreshing temperatures year-round, with the best months to visit from December to September. May and July are the most popular months. Temperatures in the central highlands, Haputale’s, are cooler than those in Colombo, averaging around 24°C.

Unlike its more well-trodden neighbours like Ella, Haputale offers tranquillity for couples seeking a romantic escape. Bypassed by most tourists, this hidden gem boasts stunning landscapes – rolling hills draped in emerald tea plantations – but with a distinct lack of crowds. Here, you can truly immerse yourselves in the beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country, hand-in-hand and undisturbed.

Reaching Haputhale from Colombo by car takes just under five hours. It is a beautiful drive through the winding roads of the central highlands, with tea plantations and stunning views of peaks and valleys.

Sunrise at Lipton's Seat

Just under an hour from Haputhale, Lipton's Seat is a legendary viewpoint for sunrises, named after tea magnate Sir Thomas Lipton. It is arguably one of the best views in Sri Lanka, as the vantage point allows one to witness the first rays of sunlight peek over the horizon, painting the sky in a breathtaking display of lilac, pink, and orange hues. This spectacular sunrise experience makes Lipton's Seat a must-visit for couples seeking an unforgettable romantic moment in Haputale. Not only will you witness a magical play of light and colour, but you will also be standing on the very grounds where Sir Thomas Lipton himself surveyed his sprawling tea empire. However, keep in mind that this ethereal beauty can be fleeting. Late mornings often see the landscape cloaked in mist, so plan your visit for the early hours to capture the scene in all its glory.

Dambatenne Tea Factory

Haputale is renowned for its tea fields, and strolling through one highlights the visit. Pair this experience with the sunrise at Lipton’s Seat, and the walk back down through the tea plantations to the Dambatenne tea factory is breathtaking. It is likely one of the best activities for couples to enjoy in the tea country.

Pass the friendly tea pickers heading up to work in the plantations. They are happy to guide you along the way.

Dambatenne Tea Factory is nestled among lush green mountains. This historic factory, established by Sir Thomas Lipton in 1890, offers a fascinating glimpse into the entire tea production process, from leaf plucking to final packaging. Witness the intricate machinery, over a century old, and learn about the legacy of Ceylon Tea, a term believed to have originated from this region.

Diyaluma Waterfall

Diyaluma Falls, Sri Lanka's second-highest waterfall, is just an hour from Haputhale. The name "rapid flow of water" or "liquid light" hints at the power and beauty that await you.

Prepare for a rewarding challenge. The trek to the top takes approximately 30-45 minutes, but the effort dissipates as you reach the summit. A series of infinity pools awaits, offering stunning views and a refreshing cool-down dip. With impeccable timing, you might even have these paradises all to yourselves!

Take the chance to experience the falls from various perspectives. While the trek offers unrivalled panoramas, a 10-minute hike from the bottom to a secluded viewpoint and the pool pathway up the falls provide plenty of excellent views from a different angle.

Plan to dedicate at least half a day to this adventure and get ready to create unforgettable memories with your loved one amidst the majestic Diyaluma Falls.

Adisham Monastery

4 km outside Haputale lies a unique gem - Adisham Bungalow. This Gothic mansion, built in 1931, was a colonial entrepreneur's residence before transforming into a Franciscan monastery known as the Adisham Novitiate. The serene setting, enveloped in the tranquillity of the forest, makes it an ideal place for aspiring priests to train.

Although the monastery is open to the public only on weekends and holidays, visitors can admire its architectural beauty from the outside. Adisham provides a glimpse into a bygone era, featuring two public rooms that showcase a fascinating collection of old books and colonial memorabilia. The on-site kiosk selling homemade jams at the monastery adds a delightful touch, making it a perfect spot for a weekend visit. Be sure to plan your trip accordingly to explore the interior of this intriguing historical landmark.

Thangamale Bird Sanctuary

Enhance your visit to the historic Adisham Bungalow with a refreshing walk through the Thangamale Bird Sanctuary. This 131-hectare sanctuary, nestled near Adisham Hall, provides a serene escape into Sri Lanka's verdant wilderness.

This sanctuary invites a romantic stroll along the leisurely 4.3km ridge trail, offering breathtaking views of lush hills and expansive tea estates. Keep your eyes peeled for diverse birdlife, including vibrant yellow-eared bulbuls, the Sri Lanka White-eye, and even the majestic Sri Lankan junglefowl. This sanctuary is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with the chance of spotting shy deer, playful monkeys, and the occasional porcupine.

Tip: The best time to visit Thangamale Bird Sanctuary is from June to September when wildlife spotting is more frequent.

Idalgashinna Railway Station

The charming Idalgashinna Railway Station, built in 1893 and 30 minutes from Haputale, is a colonial-era gem. It boasts breathtaking scenery and is a hidden treasure for adventurous couples.

Dwarfed by a majestic pine-covered hill and lush vistas, the railway station begins a scenic 8km walking trail to Ohiya Station. This journey, taking roughly three hours, winds alongside the railway tracks, offering breathtaking cliffside views of the verdant hills. Venture into deep valleys and navigate all 14 tunnels, adding a touch of intrigue to your romantic getaway. So lace up your shoes, pack a picnic, and create lasting memories while exploring this hidden gem of Haputale together.

Conclusion

Haputale offers a wealth of experiences to weave into your love story. This hidden gem in Sri Lanka’s Hill Country promises an escape from the ordinary. It is just under an hour from Ella, making it the perfect day trip. It will surely leave you with romantic memories and a renewed appreciation for the beauty you discover together.

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Haputhale

Tea Plantations, Waterfalls and Wonder

Location and Best Times to Visit

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