The 8 Best Things to do in Haputale, Sri Lanka – Savour an array of delightful experiences!

Diyaluma (meaning liquid light) is the second-tallest waterfall on the island, dropping from a height of 220 m. This picturesque waterfall is one of the best things to see in Haputale, resembling a cascade of quicksilver light. Although a few access routes are available, the Upper Diyaluma Trail is quite popular, as it features a less steep ascent and offers a walk across captivating vistas of lush fields. Reaching the top rewards one with panoramic views and even provides a chance to enjoy a dip in rocky pools.

Situated just 4 km from Haputale, in a tranquil and secluded area, is Adisham, a beautiful Franciscan Monastery which is well worth a visit. As visitors are permitted only during weekends and public holidays, plan your visit accordingly, enabling you to see some parts of the interior. Explore the beautiful gardens, a haven for nature lovers, and even purchase some of the preserves and cordials made on-site. With several exciting things to do in Haputale, opt for a centrally located accommodation. Among the many options available, the likes of Mandara Ridge Haputale stand out as a preferred choice, offering scenic surroundings and eco-friendly living experiences.

Lipton’s Seat, a popular viewpoint just an hour's drive from Haputale, has been named after Thomas Lipton, a Scottish businessman who moved to Ceylon (as Sri Lanka was known earlier) during British colonization. He was instrumental in setting up tea gardens in Ceylon with James Taylor. This seat was Thomas Lipton’s favourite haunt with a cup of tea as he gazed at the tea gardens stretching below. You can now capture an image with a life-sized statue of Lipton here. If you plan to visit at daybreak, you are treated to the wonder of a magnificent sunrise.

Take time to admire some of the lush tea plantations around Lipton’s Seat as you walk back and visit a tea factory. One of the best ones to explore is Dambatenne Tea Factory, built in 1890 by Thomas Lipton and where Lipton Tea, which is world-renowned, was produced. Experience the tea factory tour that happens every half hour to gain insights into the production of tea and even taste a nice cup of tea at the end of the tour.

Capture the beauty of the countryside around Haputale by opting to travel by train from Kandy to Haputale. Although the train service terminates well beyond Haputale, which is your destination, the train passes through picturesque stretches with unending fields of tea, mountains, charming villages and across cooler climes passing through Peradeniya, Hatton, Nanu Oya to arrive in Haputale. You can also do Haputale to Ella as a day trip by train to witness even more spectacular scenery of Sri Lanka.

Situated not far from Adisham Monastery, Thangamale is a forested Bird Sanctuary encompassing lush emerald hills and rolling tea estates. It is home to not only a variety of birds, but also to butterflies and other fauna. Birds here comprise common birds, and those endemic to Sri Lanka, while other fauna are porcupines, monkeys and deer. Enjoy a stroll here to appreciate the beauty of the wilderness in Sri Lanka.

Lying 2100 m above sea level, Horton Plains is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This massive park is full of different species of fauna and flora and dotted by waterfalls and forests, making it a paradise for nature lovers. The average temperature here ranges around 13 degrees Celsius, hence carry adequate layers to keep yourselves warm.

The short drive from Beragala to Haputale offers some spectacular views in Sri Lanka. And it is worth savouring these stunning vistas while you are touring Haputale. To enjoy them to the fullest, look out for little cafes and restaurants on the cliffside. Order your favourite drink and a snack and spend time taking a fill of the beautiful vistas.