Hatton

Hatton is located in the Central Province and is world-renowned for its Ceylon tea. The town is surrounded by endless emerald tea carpets rolling over the gentle hills. Many of the country's most exclusive tea retreats are found in this region, often housed in restored colonial bungalows of former plantation masters. A highlight is the Castlereagh Reservoir, where blue waters contrast beautifully with the bustling green tea estates. For many travelers, Hatton serves as a vital railway hub to reach Adam's Peak (Sri Pada). The pilgrimage to the summit usually starts from nearby Dalhousie, but Hatton gives the best infrastructure in the vicinity. Besides tea tourism, the area is home to several waterfalls, including Devon Falls and St. Clair's Falls, the latter often called the 'Little Niagara of Sri Lanka'. The climate is cool and frequently misty, providing a refreshing escape from the coastal heat. The peak season to visit is between December and May, coinciding with the pilgrimage season. Arriving by train is highly recommended, as the track through Hatton is considered one of the most scenic rail journeys on Earth.

Nearby cities

Kandy

Kandy, nestled in the lush hills of central Sri Lanka, is famous for the Temple of the Tooth and its Buddhist traditions.

Matale

Matale is an agricultural town nestled in a valley in the center of the island, surrounded by spice gardens.

Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, often called 'Little England', is a highland city with a cool climate, known for tea production and colonial architecture.

Haputale

Haputale is spectacularly perched on a mountain ridge, offering breathtaking views of tea plantations and cloud forests.

Maskeliya

A charming town situated by the Maussakelle Reservoir, surrounded by endless tea estates and the gateway to Adam's Peak.

Sembuwatta Lake

A paradisiacal man-made lake nestled within tea plantations, famous for its deep blue waters and misty mountain backdrop.

Knuckles Range

A UNESCO World Heritage site with misty peaks resembling a clenched fist, perfect for trekking.

Bandarawela

Bandarawela is a quiet highland resort town known for its mild climate, colonial architecture, and tea production.

More places

Bogawantalawa Valley

A picturesque highland valley often called the 'Golden Valley of Tea' for its exceptional tea production.

Canyon Dam Power Station

A hydroelectric power station, part of the Laxapana complex, utilizing the hydropower of the Kelani River.

Laxapana Hydroelectric Power Station

One of Sri Lanka's earliest and most iconic hydroelectric power stations, harnessing the energy of the Laxapana falls.

Dambulla Dedicated Economic Centre

The largest wholesale market for vegetables and fruits in Sri Lanka, distributing produce from across the country.

Moon Plains

An agricultural plateau near Nuwara Eliya offering a vast 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains.

Kirigalpotta

The second highest mountain in Sri Lanka and the highest one accessible to the general public.

Knuckles Mountain Range

A massive mountain range in central Sri Lanka whose folds resemble the knuckles of a clenched fist.

Horton Plains

A high-altitude plateau in central Sri Lanka, characterized by montane forest and grassland.