Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country lies Hatton, rising tall at 4,170 feet above sea level. With lush green landscapes and cool mountain air, Hatton is synonymous with rolling tea plantations, mist-covered mountain ranges and winding roads that give you the feeling you are heading into the clouds. 

As you make your way, you’ll encounter charming little villages nestled between mountains, creating picture-postcard perfect backdrops that look like they are straight out of a dream. 

It’s the kind of scenic beauty that will stop you and leave you rooted in your tracks, captivated, craving for more and pondering upon the beauty of nature (and the meaning of life)! 

It’s like something shifts the moment you set foot in Hatton. It’s as if the weight of life is lifted away from your shoulders as the quiet beauty of Hatton works its unassuming magic, pulling you into a world where time slows down and worries fade away. 

What’s the Best Time to Visit Hatton? 

Nicknamed “Little England” along with Nuwara Eliya and its surroundings, Hatton is well-known for its cool and misty climes. 

When it comes to the best time to visit Hatton, January to April is typically considered to be the best as it’s relatively dry, with temperatures hovering at 28°C (82°F) during the day. It’s the perfect weather for exploring everything Hatton has to offer – from endless tea fields to scenic hiking trails, waterfalls and breathtaking mountain views. 

That being said, we highly recommend packing an umbrella or rain gear because you can expect the odd shower here and there all year round.  

While January to April is considered the best time to visit, that doesn’t mean you can’t visit Hatton outside these months. The best time to visit ultimately depends on how you want to spend your days here. So, if you are unsure, we can help you find the best time based on your preferences. 

How to Get to Hatton? 

While there are a few options available, we highly recommend taking the train to Colombo. Why? Because the train ride to Hatton is an experience in itself. 

Easily accessible by train from major tourist hotspots like Colombo and Kandy, the beauty of the journey begins to unfold as the train leaves Kandy. Rolling hills give way to small villages and waterfalls that tumble into deep valleys, all working together to paint a scenery so stunning that you’ll feel like you stepped into a painting. 

Things To Do in Hatton 

Whether you are in Hatton for a day or spending a couple of days in the vicinity, Hatton has many experiences to offer its visitors. 

Climb Adam’s Peak 

About an hour south from Hatton lies Adam’s Peak, or Sri Pada, as we Sri Lankans call it – one of the most sacred places in Sri Lanka. This iconic peak towering above misty landscapes is a sacred pilgrimage site for all four major religions in our island, each claiming its own spiritual significance to this peak and the footprint atop it. 

Buddhists believe the footprint is that of the Lord Buddha, Hindus link it with Lord Shiva or Hanuman, while Christians and Muslims have a shared belief that the footprint belongs to Adam. 

Beyond its spiritual significance, Sri Pada is also a breathtaking natural wonder that leaves many visitors in awe (especially if you are lucky enough to catch an amazing sunrise on your climb up). 

About the climb to the top – the trail consists about 5,000 to 7,000 steps – making it a test of endurance. Nevertheless, this physical challenge is bound to be an amazing experience – from the camaraderie among fellow climbers to the history, views and spiritual significance. 

Tip: Start your climb early in the morning around midnight to 2:00 AM to get the best chance of witnessing the amazing sunrise from the summit. Also, be prepared for crowds, especially during January to April, the pilgrimage season.

Castlereagh Reservoir 

Often referred to as one of the best-kept secrets of Sri Lanka’s hill country, the Castlereagh Reservoir is a must-visit for anyone visiting Hatton and the vicinity. Nestled in a serene valley, surrounded by lush green hills, alpine forests and tea plantations, the crystal-clear waters and misty climate blends to create a landscape that looks like something straight out of a dream. 

While the reservoir is a dream in itself, it also serves a bigger purpose by powering the Castlereagh Hydroelectric Plant, which provides electricity to the surrounding regions. 

In addition to simply basking in the beauty of the reservoir (which, let us tell you, is an amazing experience), you can also engage in other activities like: 

• Canoeing & Boating: Soak up the calm energy and breathtaking views while taking a journey through the reservoir in a canoe or catamaran. 

• Cycling through Tea Estates: Pedal your way through perfectly manicured tea estates, discovering hidden trails and stunning views along the way. 

• Fishing: Engage in some quiet reflection while fishing in a secluded spot by the lake. 

• Picnic by the Water: Enjoy a relaxing day out with your partner, friends or family with a picturesque picnic along the reservoir’s banks.

Tip: Get there as early as possible, as the reservoir gets blanketed with mist and the golden sunrise trying to peak and the soft hum of nature definitely makes for an enchanting experience. 

Devon Falls 

Cascading down from 97 meters through lush green landscapes, Devon Falls is one of Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking waterfalls. Located along the Hatton-Nuwara Eliya Road, this waterfall nicknamed the “Veil of the Valley” is a must-visit for travellers visiting the hill country of Sri Lanka. 

If you are planning a trip to Devon Falls, here are some of the best places to get amazing views of Devon Falls. 

• Dimbula Viewpoint for unobstructed views of the waterfall. 

• Mlesna Tea Centre where you can relax and soak in the scenery while sipping on a freshly brewed cup of Ceylon tea. 

• Watagoda Railway Station (a hidden spot) that provides a unique angle of the falls. 

• Twin Waterfall View which offers stunning views of both Devon Falls and St. Clair’s Falls. 

Surrounded by dense forests, tea plantations and vibrant wildlife, Devon Falls is truly a paradise for nature lovers. Unfortunately, however, Devon Falls has seen so many changes over time because of the Upper Kotmale Hydropower Project, which has reduced the once powerful cascade of the waterfall.  

St. Clair’s Falls 

Known as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka,” St. Clair’s Falls is one of the widest and most picturesque waterfalls in the island. Standing at over 80m in height and 50m in width, St. Clair's, like Devon Falls, is surrounded by rolling green hills, misty valleys and lush green tea estates. During monsoon season, St. Clair’s serves up awe-inspiring sights as it flows in full force. 

Here are some locations from which you can get amazing views of the falls: 

• The roadside viewpoint which offers a majestic view of the waterfall. 

• St. Clair Tea Estate (one of Sri Lanka’s oldest plantations) which offers closer views of the waterfall. 

If you are seeking to unwind and connect with nature, the serene atmosphere of St. Clair’s Falls with the gentle mist, sound of rushing water and the lush green surroundings makes it a unique destination unlike any other. 

Like Devon Falls, St. Clair’s Falls has also been impacted by the Upper Kotmale Hydropower Project, which has reduced its water flow significantly. 

Warleigh Church 

Sitting on the edge of a clifftop, encircled by tall trees, tea estates and the Castlereagh Reservoir, Warleigh Church is an Anglican Church built in the 19th century by the British colonisers. 

Built in typical old British architecture, Warleigh Church exudes a sense of nostalgia of a bygone time. Constructed in classic British Gothic style, the church stands as a testament to colonial architecture, with its granite stone walls, wooden interiors and arched stained-glass windows. 

Inside, you can find ancient wooden pews, the original pipe organ and the church’s most prized possession – a 140 year old Bible, the very first which was brought into Sri Lanka – creating an atmosphere of reverence and history.

Safe to say, Warleigh Church is not just a place of worship, rather a time capsule that offers a serene and quiet escape for all kinds of travellers.  

Want to learn more about the top things to do in Hatton? Speak to our friendly team at Fernando Travels today.