Haputale
Your complete travel guide to Haputale, Sri Lanka — discover the best things to do, where to stay, and how to get there.
About Haputale
Haputale is a small hill station perched on a narrow ridge in Sri Lanka's tea country, offering some of the most spectacular views in the country. On clear days, you can see both coasts of the island from this misty mountain town.
Less touristy than Ella or Nuwara Eliya, Haputale provides an authentic glimpse into life in Sri Lanka's tea-growing highlands. The town is famous for Lipton's Seat, a viewpoint where tea magnate Sir Thomas Lipton used to survey his vast tea empire spread across the hills below.
The train journey to Haputale is every bit as scenic as the famous Ella route, winding through tea plantations, past waterfalls, and through tunnels carved in the mountainside. The cool climate, genuine hospitality, and stunning landscapes make Haputale a hidden gem for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Best Time to Visit
January to April — Dry season with clearer views. Early morning is essential for Lipton's Seat before clouds roll in. Can be misty year-round.
Quick Facts
Best Time
January - April
Min. Days
1-2 days
From Colombo
6-7 hours
Known For
Lipton's Seat, tea estates, mountain views
Things to Do in Haputale
Lipton's Seat
A spectacular viewpoint at 1,970m where Sir Thomas Lipton surveyed his tea empire. On clear days, see both coasts of Sri Lanka.
Tip: Go at sunrise (5:30-6 AM departure) before clouds obscure the view. Take a tuk-tuk or hike through tea estates.
Dambatenne Tea Factory
Working tea factory built by Sir Thomas Lipton in 1890. Tours explain the tea-making process from leaf to cup.
Tip: Visit on the way to or from Lipton's Seat. Buy fresh tea directly.
Adisham Bungalow
A beautiful 1930s country house built in English style, now a Benedictine monastery. Peaceful gardens and home-made jams for sale.
Thangamale Bird Sanctuary
Small sanctuary near town with endemic birds including the Sri Lanka White-eye and various sunbirds.
Temple of the Mist (Cloud Temple)
A small Buddhist temple at the edge of town with stunning views into the valley below. Often shrouded in mist.
Tea Estate Walks
Walk through the manicured tea bushes, meet Tamil tea pluckers, and learn about life on a working tea estate.
Tip: Ask locals for directions to scenic walking paths.
Getting to Haputale
By Train
Scenic train from Colombo or Kandy. One of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.
By Bus
Buses from Colombo via Nuwara Eliya or from Ella.
By Taxi/Car
Can combine with Ella or Nuwara Eliya.
Getting Around Haputale
Tuk-tuks for Lipton's Seat and tea factories. Walking possible for nearby viewpoints. The town itself is very compact.
Where to Stay in Haputale
Hostels & Budget
- Amarasinghe Guest House$
Mid-Range Hotels
- Kelburne Mountain View$$
- Olympus Plaza Hotel$
- Leisure Mount View Holiday Inn$$
Boutique Hotels
- Thotalagala Estate Bungalow$$$
Where to Eat in Haputale
- Sri Lak View Holiday Inn(Sri Lankan)$
- Dambatenne Tea Factory Cafe(Snacks/Tea)$
- Guest house meals(Home cooking)$
Haputale FAQs
What time should I go to Lipton's Seat?
Arrive at sunrise (around 6 AM) for the best chance of clear views. Clouds typically roll in by 9-10 AM. Tuk-tuk drivers know to leave early.
Is Haputale worth visiting if I'm going to Ella?
Yes! Haputale offers a more authentic, less touristy experience. Lipton's Seat is arguably a better viewpoint than anything in Ella.
How cold does it get in Haputale?
It can drop to 10-15°C (50-59°F) at night and early morning. Bring warm layers, especially for the Lipton's Seat sunrise trip.
Is the train journey to Haputale scenic?
Absolutely! The train from Kandy or Colombo via Nanu Oya is one of the world's most beautiful train journeys, with tea plantations and mountain views.
External Resources
Learn more about Haputale from these authoritative sources: