Photo of Hatton

About Hatton

Set 4,170 ft above sea level, the little Hill Country town of Hatton is famously lush and cool. Known for producing much of Sri Lanka’s higher-altitude tea, this small slice of the island has long attracted outdoorsy travellers and culture enthusiasts. Excellent accommodation options range from simple guesthouses to beautiful boutique hotels, fit for a host of tastes and budgets. All the best places to stay in Hatton, however, overlook the glittering waters of Castlereigh Reservoir — a hugely picturesque local landmark.

For many, Hatton is a springboard to the sacred summit of Adam’s Peak. Known also as ‘Sri Pada’ or ‘Shiva Padam’, this craggy mountain is believed to be stamped with the footprint of Lord Buddha, Lord Shiva or Adam — depending on one’s religion. Stone steps have been carved into the side of the mountain, and pilgrims of all ages clamber up in the early hours of the morning, aiming to reach the peak for sunrise. Join the crowds, or visit some of the other Hindu and Buddhist sites of worship dotted around nearby villages.

Hatton’s natural wonders also include the impressive Devon Falls and Laxapana Falls, which promise breathtaking views. Head to Sinharaja Forest Reserve to spot birds and wildlife, or walk part of the recently created Pekoe Trail, threading your way through lush tea plantations and leafy forests. Kayaking and boat trips on Castlereigh Reservoir are another highlight, as are scenic train trips between the brightly painted stations which connect the hill villages. Come late afternoon, kick back and sip sundowners — or share a pot of tea — on your terrace at one of the best places to stay in Hatton.

The Best Places to Stay in Hatton

For Luxury

  • Camellia Hills, a beautiful getaway on the banks of Castlereigh Lake, has just five spacious guest rooms, each with contemporary-classic furnishings and lots of light. An idyllic rural escape for honeymooners, the house can also be booked in its entirety by a larger group. A boutique gem.
  • Ceylon Tea Trails is a wonderful former tea estate converted into a 20-bedroom luxury hotel, set across five colonial-tea bungalows with gorgeous views. Think big four-poster beds, free-standing tubs, cosy nooks & sensational cuisine. Brilliant for couples, but also a top spot for groups of friends and families, who can pile into a house together.

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, 5-6 hours from Hatton 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 7 hours from Colombo to Hatton 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?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Hatton

Best Hotels in Hatton

  • The Farm Resorts Hatton (Sri Lanka) 12 rooms from CA$425

    Families  -  A popular escape for families, who will adore the large chalets with extra beds, plus the abundance of activities
    Active Holiday  -  A brilliant base for a holiday of hiking, mountain biking & kayaking, or simply soaking up reservoir views
    Great walks  -  Hikes in the surrounding hills come highly recommended — as does walking a portion of the acclaimed Pekoe Trail
    Restaurant  -  Savour fresh, seasonal cuisine at the restaurant, which serves both Western and Sri Lankan dishes
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A collection of contemporary chalets & bungalows overlooking spectacular Castlereigh Reservoir. Pared-back modern spaces have floor-to-ceiling windows, sunlit balconies & whitewashed interiors. Landscaped gardens include an organic veggie patch. Bicycles, kayaks & tea-lined trails await. Lovely. See More

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  • Ceylon Tea Trails Hatton (Sri Lanka) 20 rooms from CA$846

    Groups  -  Book one of five bungalows for fabulous escapes with friends & family, with fantastic food & stacks of activities
    Romantic Break  -  A luxurious romantic escape, with big four-posters, candlelit dinners, private terraces & dazzling views
    Learning  -  Guided tea plantation tours offer a fascinating insight into the growth & prodcution of Ceylon tea
    Cooking classes  -  Delve into the magic of Sri Lankan cuisine with a fantastic cooking class led by the hotel's chefs
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Relais & Chateaux

    Nestled in the verdant Hill Country, Tea Trails' five green-roofed bungalows boast 20 gorgeous guest rooms & suites. Think big four-posters, free-standing tubs, cosy nooks & views of landscaped gardens & Castlereigh Reservoir. An elegant, historic escape with exceptional service & gourmet cuisine. See More

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  • Camellia Hills Hatton (Sri Lanka) 5 rooms from CA$1329

    Cooking classes  -  Join friendly chefs in the kitchen for a fantastic Sri Lankan cooking class, using fres, fragrant ingredients from the area
    Country Escape  -  Surrounded by tea plantations and overlooking a lake - this is an utterly idyllic rural escape
    Groups  -  With just five rooms, this is a fabulous option for groups to book on an exclusive basis
    Great walks  -  Wind your way between the tea fields & clamber up to a waterfall for a refreshing dip
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape

    A gorgeous getaway set amidst tea plantations & overlooking Castlereigh Reservoir. Airy, romantic rooms have a timeless feel with heavy four-posters & beamed ceilings, while floor-to-ceiling windows & terraces are frame epic views. Home-cooked meals are a treat. An intimate hill country escape. See More

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