Situated deep within southern Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka’s central highlands, Hatton is a perfect laidback getaway and brings tourists by its lush tea estates and its picturesque sceneries. Let’s take a look at why Hatton is a must visit destination for those looking at a less trodden path. We’ll take you on a tour around its attractions, activities, and local culture with a guide that is comprehensive and complies with Google AdSense policies; it is engaging, informative and SEO friendly.
Historical Background
A British colonial era town, Hatton has its grounds set in history of tea plantation. In the 19th century, the British planters discovered the area has a potential for growing tea and the town grew around tea industry. There are still the well preserved colonial bungalows and tea factories left over from this era.
Scenic Beauty
Surrounded by the majestic peaks of Adam’s Peak and the lush greenery of Horton Plains the town has become. Breathtaking landscapes boast world renowned panoramic views that are a feast for the eyes, and a haven for photographers. Also in Hatton, the Castlereagh Reservoir provides peaceful boat rides, is a picturesque beauty, with quiet water and Hal Katha.
Attractions and Activities
Tea Plantation Visits
No visit to Hatton is without visiting its tea estates. But visitors can explore factories where the world famous Ceylon tea is processed, the tea plucking, drying and fermenting. Tours of many estates are guided and finish with a cup of fresh brewed tea to refresh you.
Hiking and Trekking
Hatton has many hiking trails for those willing to take the plunge. The most famous is Adam’s Peak, again, where people go on a pilgrimage to trek up hill at night so they reach the summit by dawn. Watching the sun rise is a spiritual, surreal experience to see the holy footprint, apparently of Buddha, from the top – it’s believed to be his own footprint.
Waterfalls
Several stunning waterfalls grace Hatton’s terrain. Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall is Laxapana Falls which is a good site for relaxation and picnics and another waterfall Devon Falls, more commonly known as ‘Veil of the Valley’ is also a great relaxation and picnic spot.
Local Culture and Cuisine
There is a vivid culture in Hatton which intercedes traditions and feasts. It all goes back to the agricultural bounty in the region and the local cuisine reflects that bounty with dishes being very spices and flavourful. Local favorites roti, curry and fresh fruits are available to visitors
Accommodations
Hatton boasts of a number of hotels which range from luxury bungalows to low budget guest houses. Many of these are housed in colonial era residences with modern amenities.
Sustainable Tourism
To preserve its natural and cultural heritage, Hatton is ever more concerned with sustainable tourism practices. All visitors are encouraged to use the environment with respect in also supporting local business and ecological actions.
Festivals and Events
But all year round the calendar is peppered with cultural festivities such as the famous Sri Pada season when thousands of pilgrims climb Adam’s Peak. To experience local music, dance and traditional ceremonies, the festival season is a good time.
Getting There and Around
Colombo, other major cities and Hatton are road and rail accessible, but time spent on vehicles is required. Scenic train routes are cut though Sri Lanka’s heart of tea country in routes that are part of the journey itself.
Top Attractions in Hatton
A charming town in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, Hatton is the perfect place to get away from it all … or to sign up for a bit of adventure. Hatton is famous for its lush tea plantations and natural beauty and has several sights and activities various interests might enjoy. In the following, we take a look at the best places to visit in Hatton: each of which gives its characteristic look into the history and the scenic wonders of the area.
1. Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada)
One of Sri Lanka’s most sacred sites is Adam’s Peak (also known as Sri Pada), a place that must be seen by all but the most immovable spiritual pilgrims and wishing pilgrims. Buddhists say it’s the imprint of Buddha; Hindus of Shiva; Christians and Muslims of Adam. In late December to the May, it is a popular activity to climb this mountain, with thousands cross the well trodden paths at night to see majestic sunrise from the summit.
2. Castlereagh Reservoir
Situated amidst rolling green tea plantations, the Castlereagh Reservoir provides sweeping, peaceful and photogenic views. The placid water is available for visitors to enjoy there are boat rides or picnic on the shores. In addition, guided tours are available of the surrounding tea estates, and provide information about the production of Ceylon tea.
3. Ceylon Tea Trails
If tea is your thing, you just can’t pass up a stay in the Ceylon Tea Trails, which provides an unparalleled glimpse into how the rich live. Converted from colonial bungalow accommodations into this collection of luxurious accommodations, what you can do here is live like a tea planter. Not only do guests have the plush comforts to enjoy, but also guided tea plantation tours, tea tasting sessions and trekking to find.
4. Laxapana Falls
Laxapana Falls is probably on the top of the list of Sri Lanka’s many waterfalls. At 126 meters high, it is one of the highest in the country and it really is a picturesque spot, especially for nature lovers and photographers. The trip of down to the waterfall is really the journey in itself, with lovely paths and the chance to spot local wildlife.
5. Devon Falls
Curled up in the Hatton region is Devon Falls, named after a pioneer English coffee planter. From the main road it is visible to cascade over 97 meters. A viewpoint which lets the tourists enjoy the panoramic view of the waterfall and its valley provides the best view for those who wish to take the pictures of Sri Lanka’s beautiful highland waterscapes.
6. Horton Plains National Park
Situated in the highland protected area, a short drive from Hatton, Horton Plains National Park offers some of the country’s most awe inspiring landscapes. And it is where we find the famous ‘World’s End,’ an escarpment from which there are dramatic views of the forests and mountains nearby. The park is also a good bird watching site with endemic species, along the trails.
7. St. Clair’s Falls
St. Clair’s Falls is one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka and it is known as the ‘Little Niagara of Sri Lanka,’ and is certainly stunning to behold. The Kotmale River’s falls are beautiful full of surrounding lush vegetation and tea plantations and a scenic location for nature walks and picnics.
Conclusion
From experiencing the culture, history and natural beauty through the heart of the country, to marvelling over the tranquility surrounding the bustle of city life, Hatton in Sri Lanka has something more to offer! For the avid hiker, the tea lover or anyone who wants to escape into local culture, Hatton is the place to be.
The point of this article is to shine some light on Hatton through a stronger understanding, so we all can appreciate this charming town suburb of KL. Whether you’re reading this because you are about to take a trip or because you’re just dreaming of far away places Hatton greets you with open arms, and a cup of tea.
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
