Discovering the Charm of Hill Country on a Sri Lanka Holiday
If you are dreaming about a peaceful and quiet time on your holidays in Sri Lanka, the hill country would be the perfect place. It is covered with green hills, tea gardens, and beautiful forests. This part of the island is calm, cool, and beautiful. It is completely different from the busy cities and the beaches. The postcard views will offer you a slow and quiet life.
You can experience beautiful villages, taste the best of Ceylon tea, and enjoy the mountain breeze during your stay here. It will bring you a softer, quieter side of holidays in Sri Lanka.
What Makes Hill Country Holidays in Sri Lanka So Special?
The hill country is a very unique place in Sri Lanka. There is fresh air, green land, and a calm atmosphere. This is a region that is set higher above the sea level. The temperature, therefore, is cool even on sunny days. If you need to skip the heat of the beaches for a bit and slow down, this is the ideal place.
One of the major reasons for travellers to visit the island’s hillside is the stunning views. You can see the hills covered with tea plantations stretched into the distance. There are also beautiful waterfalls, lakes, wildlife, that give you excitement. It feels peaceful and magical here, where even the sound of the wind feels soothing.
The hill country is culturally rich and unique. There are Sinhalese, Tamil, and Muslim communities living peacefully. Most of the places here, like Nuwara Eliya, have an old British touch. They carry years of history in style.
For those who are planning meaningful and calm holidays in Sri Lanka, the hill country offers something really special. It is a place where nature, culture and relaxation blend wonderfully.
Best Destinations to Visit in Hill Country, Sri Lanka
The central highlands of Sri Lanka are filled with wonderful places to explore and visit. Whether it is a peaceful gateway or an adventure, there are perfect destinations here that are excellent for your hill country Lanka holiday. Each place has something unique to offer, making them unique stops on well-planned holidays in Sri Lanka.
Kandy: The cultural door of the highlands
Kandy is often known as the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. It is the closest hill country city to the airport, which makes it the best place to start your hill country journey. The city is nestled among the green hills and is home to the popular Temple of the Tooth Relic.
You will get an opportunity to take a long walk around the Bogambara Lake, explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, and enjoy the luxury cuisine from the best restaurants in the city. With the combination of nature and history, Kandy sets the perfect beginning for a soulful Lanka holiday in the hills.
Nuwara Eliya: The Little England in Sri Lanka
Known for its cool climate and colonial elegance, Nuwara Eliya is often called Little England. You will find beautiful botanical gardens here, like Hakgala, filled with giant trees and beautiful flowers throughout the year. You can also take a boat ride on Gregory Lake or Kande Ela. There are many tea estates and waterfalls around which you can visit and experience.
The local strawberry farms will be open during the season. You can pick strawberries or enjoy the dishes made from fresh strawberries in the cafeterias. Ambewela is another place close to Nuwara Eliya that you can visit if you love to see an animal farm. Nuwara Eliya has cosy colonial bungalows where you can spend the night. It is a city that is on the favourite list of many travellers who love enjoying relaxed and scenic holidays in Sri Lanka.
Ella: A hidden town with big offerings
Ella is best known for its gorgeous views and relaxed vibe. If you are looking for a hiking spot here, Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak are the best locations with amazing views. You can explore other nearby locations like the world-famous Nine Arches Bridge, Ravana Falls, Demodara Loop, and Dunhinda Falls. For an adrenaline rush, try the Flying Ravana, the first-ever mega zipline in Sri Lanka.
Ella city is mainly famous for small and cosy cafes and restaurants with the best food. There are many eco-resorts around where you can stay. This is an ideal place for those seeking peace and beauty during their Lanka holiday.
Haputale: A quiet escape in the hills
This town is less crowded but just as beautiful as Ella and Nuwara Eliya. Haputale is the home to the famous Lipton’s Seat, where you can explore the viewpoint after a hike. The city offers many hotels and homestays for reasonable prices. There are also a few tea estates where you can witness the tea-making process and taste different teas.
You can experience the simple, day-to-day life of the locals here. For an authentic hill country experience, this is a perfect location that can be included in your holidays in Sri Lanka.
Hatton: Tea country at its best
Hatton is a place filled with iconic historical tea estates and beautiful reservoirs. The region offers a more exclusive, luxurious, and private experience. Therefore, it is ideal for luxury travellers, honeymooners, and people who look forward to more relaxation during their Lanka holiday.
You can stay in one of the villas that belong to Ceylon Tea Trails near the Castlereagh Reservoir, the world’s first tea bungalow resort. For spiritual travellers or hikers, Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada) is a sacred mountain located near Hatton. It is visited by many pilgrims. Climbing the summit often begins at dawn to experience the magnificent view of the sunrise.
With just a short drive from Hatton, you can visit the Horton Plains National Park. It is one of the most stunning natural reserves on the island. It is home to many animals and plants. The famous World’s End viewpoint is also located here.
Another gem that you shouldn’t miss in Hatton is the Mlesna Tea Castle in Labookellie. It is a very unique location that can offer you many experiences, like the tea-making process, tea tasting, buying high-quality tea, and enjoying the beautiful panoramic views of the tea plantations.
For anyone who wants to enjoy the luxurious side of a Lanka holiday, Hatton is highly recommended. This part of the highlands brings together the beauty, comfort, and culture.
Experiencing the Best Scenic Train Journey in Sri Lanka
One of the best things about a Sri Lanka holiday in the hill country is the famous train ride from Kandy to Ella. This is on top of the beautiful train journeys in the world.
The train travels across the hills, over the bridges, and past many tea plantations. All you get to see are green valleys, waterfalls, and fields. This journey will take around 6-7 hours, but you won’t feel how time flies.
You have to be aware of the ticket booking. This ride usually sells out every day. So, make sure you book it online in advance. Try booking a seat in the observation compartment or the first class for a more comfortable and enjoyable ride. But the second class will also give you great views and a chance to connect with the locals.
You can also make short trips despite this long ride, like getting off at Haputale and exploring it before reaching Ella on a different day by train.
If you are planning holidays in Sri Lanka, do not miss this beautiful train ride. It might be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Hiking and Nature Exploration in Highlands
For those who love walking and exploring, the hill country holidays in Sri Lanka have many beautiful locations with a peaceful atmosphere and trails. There is no need to be trained to go on these hikes, but make sure you are physically fit. If you feel like you cannot figure out the paths, it is highly recommended to get the help of a professional travel guide.
Here are some of the best hikes in the highlands,
Horton Plains and World’s End
As mentioned before, Horton Plains is a national park surrounded by open grasslands and cloud forests. The World’s End viewpoint offers a breathtaking view of the surroundings. You might also get the opportunity to spot wildlife like deer and birds on this journey.
Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak
These famous trails are located in Ella. They will take you to amazing viewpoints. It is recommended to start the hike in the morning for a cool climate and clear skies. You don’t have to worry about getting lost, as there are guides who will lead you through the 98 Acres Resort and Spa. This view is worth a climb during your Lanka holidays.
Lipton’s Seat
This is a gentler hike that will take you through the tea fields to a viewpoint where Sir Thomas Lipton once admired his plantations from. The hike will take you about an hour from the ticketing point. This view stretches across five different provinces, and you can view Adam’s Peak on a clear morning.
The Tea Culture of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s hill country is the heart of the island’s world-famous tea culture. Visiting a tea estate will be a unique experience for travellers on a Lanka holiday. It gives an opportunity to see how the Ceylon tea is processed and why this tea is of the richest taste and highest quality.
Tea was first planted in Sri Lanka during the British colonial period in the 1800s. It has become an important part of the country’s products and economy. Today, Sri Lanka is recognised as one of the pioneer tea-producing countries in the world. The hill country’s misty surroundings and the cool climate have made it a perfect spot for growing tea. All you will see are tea plantations covering the hills. This is a stunning view that you can enjoy for hours.
Many estates have now opened their gates to local and international tourists who want to learn more about the tea-making process. During the holidays in Sri Lanka, don’t miss this chance to make it to a tea factory tour. These tours will give you a clear explanation of how skilled workers pluck the best tea leaves, and how they are dried, rolled, fermented, and finally packed carefully to export throughout the world for people to enjoy. It’s an amazing process combined with tradition, science, and a lot of love.
Another best thing about visiting a tea estate is the tea tasting experience. You will get the opportunity to taste many different tea types. Most of the estates now have small cafes or viewing decks with a variety of teas and snacks that you can buy and enjoy while looking at the view.
Some estates even offer luxurious stays in their old colonial bungalows. These were once the homes of British planters. They offer home-cooked meals, walks through the charming plantations, and even fireplaces on cold nights. Spending a day at one of these places is a great way to enjoy the slow country life.
Whether you are a tea lover or just curious about how it is made, exploring the tea culture of the island is a highlight of many holidays in Sri Lanka.
Life and Cuisine of Hill Country
The hill country of Sri Lanka is a peaceful and lovely part of the island where life moves very slowly. During the Lanka holiday, spending some time in these places lets you experience a simple and traditional way of living. Many locals live close to nature here. They grow things and run small shops in the market and the town.
People in the highlands are kind and welcoming. You’ll often be greeted with a warm smile. This hospitality is one of the main reasons why many people visit here. They say that the time in the hill country is the most memorable part of the holidays in Sri Lanka.
The food is full of flavour and variations. The cold weather and fresh air make every meal more delicious and satisfying. Meals are usually made with fresh local ingredients. Vegetables come from their own garden, and spices from the local markets. Many families still use the wood fire that gives a rich taste to the food.
The cuisine in the highlands reflects a mix of cultures in Sri Lanka. You will find dishes that belong to all three cultures. They are full of flavour and often vegetarian. The food from a roadside clean shop is a healthy choice after hiking or exploring.
Choosing a homestay with a local family is another way to explore the highlands’ life. You will be warmly welcomed to their space, letting you experience their culinary tricks, daily life, and hospitality.
Experiencing the ways of living and flavours of the hill country adds meaning to your holidays in Sri Lanka. It offers a truly heartfelt connection to the people and traditions of this beautiful island.
Travel Tips for Your Hill Country Holiday
Planning your trip to the hill country of Sri Lanka is a great way to enjoy its beauty and peacefulness. Here are some helpful travel tips to help you make the best of your Lanka holiday.
Best time to visit
The Hill Country looks beautiful throughout the year. But the best times to visit are from December to April. During these months, the weather is mostly dry, sunny, and pleasant. This weather is ideal for many outdoor activities like hiking, sightseeing, and exploring the tea estates. But the hills and the lush green landscapes create a magical surrounding during the rainy season as well. Many travellers also enjoy this weather during their holidays in Sri Lanka.
How to get there
There are a few ways to reach the hillside. You can use the train, bus, or a private vehicle hired with a driver. The train journey is best recommended if you are travelling from Colombo or Kandy. It is the best scenic train ride in the country.
If you feel like a train ride is slow and it is not your thing, you can use other travel methods. But we highly recommend that you experience it, as it can be a unique experience during your holidays in Sri Lanka.
What to pack
The weather in the highlands is cooler compared to the rest of Sri Lanka. So, it is better to pack jackets, sweaters, and a hoodie. Also, a pair of comfy shoes is recommended. This comes in handy if you are planning to go on a hike. And don’t forget to bring devices to capture this beauty!
Where to stay
There is a wide range of accommodation options in the hill country. The options vary from luxury tea bungalows to simple rooms in guesthouses. You can also plan a homestay when you book your holidays in Sri Lanka. Choose a place that will suit your comfort, likes, and budget. For a couple, family, or honeymooners, staying in a tea bungalow would be perfect.
Respect the culture and nature
People in the hill country are warm, cultural, and respectful. When visiting the sacred places like temples, make sure you dress modestly and enter without shoes. Take your own litter and dump it somewhere it is allowed. Always be polite, as they will always greet you with a smile, even if they don’t understand your language. Respecting the local customs will make your Lanka holiday more meaningful and comfortable.
Plan Your Hill Country Sri Lanka Holiday From Australia with Sesatha Travel
If you are living in Australia and dreaming of a peaceful holiday in the misty hills in Sri Lanka, Sesatha Travel is here to help you plan the perfect Lanka holiday. With the expert knowledge and experience of Sri Lanka’s hill country life, our team can easily turn your dream trip into a reality. You don’t have to stress planning it yourself.
From the moment you land on the island, Team Sesatha Travel will take care of you in every aspect. We are here to organise your transport from Colombo to the highland destination, pre-book beautiful places to stay, and build a unique itinerary based on what you love. Whether you want to go on hikes and make it adventurous, or simply relax in the cosy weather, Sesatha Travel is here to make it happen.
For Australians, we offer pre-arrival support, local guidance, and contacts in Sri Lanka for an emergency. You can plan the entire journey with peace of mind. We understand what Australian travellers are looking for and do our best to provide them with everything to make the journey an unforgettable experience.
Sesatha Travel works with licensed and experienced local guides, luxurious hotels, and welcoming homeowners. Whether you travel solo, as a couple, or as a family, we assure you that we will create the best travel plans that will fit you.
Start planning your Sri Lanka holiday in the hill country with us at Sesatha Travel. Visit our website or give us a call, and one of our friendly staff members will guide you. Let’s bring the Highlands dream alive.
