Haputale & Koslanda
Set in the misty mountains, a stunning scenic escape; Koslanda and Haputale.
A lush green haven with scenic views and a perfect setting for infinitely beautiful memories.
Set in the southern hills of Sri Lanka, Haputale is a stunning destination for nature lovers. This town was born of tea plantations and has a busy market atmosphere. Koslanda, which is a smaller town in Haputale is a more peaceful and quiet location. The misty mornings here, sometimes remain throughout the day and makes this place ideal for a stroll. Fresh mountain air and the warm sunlight makes this an ideal location for remarkable views. During the day, when the sky is misty the south coast can be seen and at night, flashes of the Hambantota lighthouse are visible.
Getting There
Located in the Southern highlands of Sri Lanka, Haputale can be accessed via Ratnapura or Nuwara Eliya or via the southern coast. Haputale is best reached by train and this journey offers picturesque views which function throughout the week. It can also be accessed by bus or car.
Historical Background
Haputale was created by the plantation industry. In the beginning, coffee thrived on the island and it was only after the arrival of Sir James Taylor and Sir Thomas Lipton that the tea trade flourished. The legendary Dambatenna Tea Factory was built by Lipton in 1890, where it produces the famed Lipton’s Tea.
Shopping
Throughout the journey along the winding roads to Haputale, the way side sellers with fresh produce of fruits, vegetables and flowers are sure to catch your attention. You can stop for a warm blend of local tea at the little huts along the road side and visit tea factories to purchase different flavours of tea. Sri Lankan tea is a desired product and would make an ideal souvenir for those back at home.
Things to do in Haputale & Koslanda
Taking a stroll along the misty streets of Haputale you will want to see more of the area.
- Diyaluma Falls- This is the second highest waterfall in Sri Lanka at a staggering height of 200 m. The waterfall can easily be accessed from the main road and other routes that lead to the foot of the fall. However, if you’re fit to hike to the top of the waterfall, the stunning view of the pools on different levels is worth the climb.
- Lipton’s Seat- A short drive from Haputale, scenic verdant views unfold before you as you sit at Lipton’s Seat; where the Scottish tea baron Sir Thomas Lipton sat to observe his growing tea empire and entertain his guests. Lipton’s Seat offers a panoramic view of the tea plantations and is best when there’s little or no mist at all.
- Dambatenne Tea Factory- Built in 1890 by Sir Thomas Lipton, this tea factory still uses machinery from its colonial days. A tour through the factory, coupled with an enriching tea tasting experience will open your senses to the tale of Lipton’s tea. At the end of the tour you can also purchase unblended and different grades and flavours of tea.
- Adisham Bungalow- A country house run by Benedictine monks, is a 4km drive from Haputale. This monastery is open during public holidays, weekends and during the months of April, August and December. As the monastery borders the Tangamali Bird Sanctuary, you’ll see a colourful array of birds from blue magpies and green barbets to golden orioles and paradise flycatchers.
Best time to visit the Haputale & Koslanda
Average temperatures in Haputale rarely vary. The destination is warmest during the month of May where highs are regularly around 27°C with temperatures infrequently dropping below 18°C at night. May is known to be the best time to visit Haputale as the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. Towards the latter part of the year, monsoon showers frequent the land.