Hatton
Hatton is emerald green. The landscape is a green blanket of tea plantations, clumps of thick green forests, waterfalls, and manicured lawns of colonial tea planter bungalows. There is no end to the beautiful places in Hatton. From the mystic Adam’s Peak to Castlereigh Reservoir, this highland countryside resembles idyllic sceneries from a fairytale. The landscape veils itself in a mist in the mornings, clearing away for the crisp air, ideal for walks, hikes, and cycling. Its tea estates are its crowning glory, and it is the home of the most famous plantations, such as Maskeliya, Talawakelle, Bogawantalawa, and Dickoya. The road from Hatton to Nuwara Eliya has the most panoramic views mesmerising to see passing by.
Hidden Gems
- Devon Falls is known as the ‘Veil of the Valley’ and cascades down from 318ft in height.
- Rothschild Tea Estate is one of the oldest in Sri Lanka and is synonymous with superior blends.
- Sri Bhakta Hanuman Temple has an 18ft tall Statue of Lord Hanuman, the tallest in Sri Lanka.
- The 1845 Holy Trinity Church that sits atop a hillock was visited by Queen Elizabeth II.
- Norwood Tea Estate has been growing and manufacturing tea for over a century.
Best Times to Visit
It is a year-round destination. January to April is relatively dry and warmer.
Weather
Top Attractions
Adam’s Peak
This UNESCO World Heritage Site of extraordinary natural beauty attracts Buddhist, Muslim, and Hindu pilgrims, mainly to worship the footprint at the top.
Castlereagh Reservoir
Created by the dam across Kehelgamu Oya, its waters power a hydroelectricity plant. There are many picnic spots and canoeing and catamaran opportunities.
Warleigh Church
This 1878 British-style stone church is a colonial legacy. It contains a 140year old Bible, an ancient pipe organ, stained glass windows, and a wooden pulpit.
St.Clare’s Falls
Also called Little Niagara, it is one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka. After a three-level cascade, the water flows through St. Clare’s Tea Estate.
Horton Plains
This undulating plateau over 2000m high has a diverse landscape of grasslands, cloud forests, rocky outcrops, waterfalls, lakes, and endemic wildlife.
Mlesna Tea Castle
This boutique tea shop and restaurant opposite Devon Falls is by a leading tea exporter. It serves aromatic blends of the highest quality tea.
Where to Shop in Hatton
You can buy the best tea in Sri Lanka in Hatton, but other shopping whims will have to wait till you get to a more cosmopolitan town.
Where to Eat in Hatton
Tea Hills, Railway Lodge, The Kiwis, Hill Cool, Zesta Tea Cup, Edinburgh Tea Train, Lake View Pub, Hotel Olevia, The Sizzle, and Adam’s Peak Inn are the top ten restaurants in Hatton to dine from the best menus.
Top Accommodations
Explore where you enjoy a comfortable stay during your explorations.