A little town on the southern side of Sri Lanka’s verdant Hill Country, Haputale will delight keen ramblers, wildlife enthusiasts and seekers of seclusion. Characterised by leafy, tea-clad hills, lush forests, rushing waterfalls and brightly-painted villages, this is a fascinating part of the island. Tranquil accommodation options range from simple guesthouses to restored colonial-era bungalows on vast tea estates, with the best places to stay in Haputale offering spectacular views, fabulous fresh cuisine and warm hospitality.

Haputale itself is a small town on a ridge, promising stunning views towards the distant coast on clear days, and a wonderfully atmospheric mist on days when the clouds drift below the uppermost treetops. Dazzling vistas are undoubtedly one of the region’s highlights, and the hike to Lipton’s Seat is particularly impressive. Horton Plains National Park, home to herds of deer and fluttering flocks of birds, also has a walking trail with a breathtaking look-out point. Recently created, the multi-part Pekoe Trail winds its way through the tea plantations and forests which have long characterised this region — expect, on some days, to meet only bemused villagers as you follow newly-mapped out routes. For eager bird watchers, the Thangamale Bird Sanctuary is not to be missed!

Sri Lanka’s Hill Country has a long and intriguing history. The descendants of indentured labourers brought across from India during the British colonial era to pluck tea, the area’s Tamil community continue to be one of the most marginalised in the country. Delve into recent writing, poetry and art to better understand their unique sense of identity, and take an expert-led tea tour to discover the industry which has so profoundly shaped the region. The Dambatenne Tea Factory offers good tours and tastings — as does the exceptional AMBA Estate, nearer to Ella. Cool off with a dip in the natural pools at Diyaluma Waterfalls, the second-tallest in the island, or tuck in to tea on the terrace at one of the best places to stay in Haputale.

The Best Places to Stay in Haputale

For a Tea Estate Escape

• Thotalagala, a former tea planters' bungalow dating back to the 1870s, now boasts seven indulgent suites. Pick this place for its sense of history, its opulent interiors — think crackling fireplaces and antique furnishings — and its gorgeous landscaped gardens. Very romantic.
• Haldummulla Estate Bungalow is a charming green-roofed retreat on Sri Lanka's oldest organic tea estate. The main cottage boasts two en-suite bedrooms, whilst the nearby library suite has two adjoining bedrooms and a big bathroom with tub. Expect vintage finds, patterned textiles, cosy fireplaces and a laid-back vibe. Host Priya's cooking is fantastic. A simple tea country escape for friends and families.

For Eco-Friendly Luxury

• Living Heritage Koslanda, made up of stone-built suites and tented pavilions, is set on a former rubber plantation. Showcasing traditional building techniques, the property takes pride in its connection to land and heritage, with ongoing rewilding efforts, garden-grown produce and a real sense of seclusion. The infinity pool is amongst the country's most spectacular.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering stay, we'd suggest visiting our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Bandaranaike International Airport, around five hours from Haputale by road. The island's one expressway is swift and smooth, but the roads into the hills are winding and progress can be slow. Expect to take around seven hours from Colombo to Haputale by train — the views are dazzling!
• We'd recommend driving only if you have previous experience navigating bustling Asian roads. If you would like to hire a car, visit our online partner Rentalcars.
• Temperatures in the hill country are warm and humid for much of the year, hovering around 25°C. The heat reaches its peak in March and April, and the rains are expected in October and November. Travel between June and September or December to early March for cooler, drier weather.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to include the best places to stay in Hatton.
• Alternatively, check out our pick of all the best places to stay in Sri Lanka.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.