Haputale Travel Guide: Sri Lanka's Scenic Mountain Paradise

Perched on the southern edge of Sri Lanka's hill country, Haputale offers breathtaking views and cool mountain air.

Introduction to Haputale

At 1,430 meters above sea level, Haputale is one of Sri Lanka's most dramatically situated hill towns. This quiet retreat is surrounded by endless tea plantations, misty mountains, and colonial-era bungalows, offering a perfect escape from the heat of the lowlands. Known as the gateway to Horton Plains National Park and Bambarakanda Falls (Sri Lanka's tallest waterfall), Haputale combines natural beauty with rich plantation history.

Top Things to Do in Haputale

1. Lipton's Seat

Location: 8 km from Haputale

• Panoramic Views: Where tea magnate Sir Thomas Lipton surveyed his empire
• Sunrise Magic: Arrive by 5:30 AM for unforgettable morning views
• Hike or Ride: 7km walk through tea estates or tuk-tuk to the top

2. Adisham Monastery

Location: 4 km from town

• English Countryside in Sri Lanka: Tudor-style 1930s mansion turned monastery
• Famous for: Homemade jams, tranquil gardens, and vintage charm
• Visiting Hours: 9AM-4:30PM (Closed Mondays)

3. Bambarakanda Falls

Location: 30 km from Haputale

• Sri Lanka's Tallest Waterfall at 263 meters
• Best Season: November-March for full water flow
• Adventure: Swim in natural pools at the base

4. Dambatenne Tea Factory

Location: 10 km from town

• Established by Lipton in 1890
• Tour the factory to see tea processing
• Sample fresh highland tea with mountain views

5. Haputale Train Ride

• Scenic Route: The Colombo-Badulla line offers stunning vistas
• Best Seats: Reserve 2nd class observation carriage for best views

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season: January-April (best for hiking and views)
• Misty Season: May-September (atmospheric but cooler)
• Avoid: Heavy rains in October-November

Getting to Haputale

By Road:

• From Colombo: 6-7 hours via A4/A16
• From Ella: 1.5 hours (40 km)

By Train:

• Colombo-Badulla line (picturesque 8-hour journey)

Where to Stay

• Luxury: Thotalagala (colonial tea planter's bungalow)
• Mid-Range: Haputale Kalthota Inn (mountain views)
• Budget: Haputale Rest House (historic property)

Local Tips

• Dress in Layers - Mornings can be chilly (15°C)
• Cash is King - Limited ATMs in town
• Try Local Food:
  • "Haputale special" vegetable roti
  • Highland strawberries with cream
  • Freshly picked orange pekoe tea
• Hidden Gem: Lesser-known Lover's Leap Falls near town

Nearby Attractions

• Horton Plains: 1.5 hours away (World's End viewpoint)
• Diyaluma Falls: 1 hour drive (spectacular upper pools)
• Ella: Combine with your Haputale visit

Book Your Haputale Adventure

Let Sri Lanka Tour Help plan your perfect mountain getaway with:

• Private guides
• Custom itineraries
• Stress-free transportation

Plan now: https://srilankatourhelp.org