Nestled in the serene village of Soragune near Haputale, I found myself stepping into a place where history, devotion, and architecture intertwine beautifully. Visiting Soragune Devalaya was more than just a stop on my journey—it was an experience that transported me through time, connecting me to Sri Lanka’s deep-rooted spiritual and cultural heritage. A Sacred Shrine Steeped in History As I approached the Soragune Kuda Kataragama Devalaya, the temple’s age-old wooden pillars, intricate carvings, and timeless Kandyan architecture immediately caught my eye. This was not just any shrine—it was a place that had withstood centuries of change, from its legendary…

Tucked away in the heart of Sri Lanka’s highlands, Prabhawa Mountain Day View Point National Park is a place I had often heard about but never truly understood until I set foot on its rugged trail. As someone who seeks both adventure and tranquillity, this hike promises to be the perfect escape—a blend of untamed nature, panoramic landscapes, and cultural richness. The Ascent: A Path Through Nature’s Canvas The journey began on a rocky, uneven trail, winding its way up the slopes of Haputale Mountain. Every step was an invitation to embrace the untamed beauty of Sri Lanka’s highlands. The crunch of…

Sri Lanka is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes, but nothing quite compares to the Devil’s Staircase—a legendary hiking trail known for its steep ascents, sharp zigzags, and raw natural beauty. As someone who thrives on adventure, this hike has been on my bucket list for years, and finally, I decided to take on the challenge. The Decision: Which Route to Take? The Devil’s Staircase runs between Kalupahana and Ohiya, offering two possible starting points. Choosing between an uphill climb from Kalupahana or a downhill trek from Ohiya was tough. While the descent might be easier on stamina,…

Tucked away amidst the misty hills of Haputale, St. Andrew’s Church stands as a beautiful reminder of Sri Lanka’s colonial past and spiritual heritage. My visit to this historic church, consecrated for worship in 1869, was peaceful and enlightening, offering a glimpse into a bygone era when British influence shaped the region’s cultural and religious landscape. A Historic Sanctuary Walking up to St. Andrew’s Church, I was immediately captivated by its charming colonial architecture. The church’s simple yet elegant design reflects its historical roots, dating back to when it served as a place of worship for British planters and their…

Nestled in the cool, mist-covered hills of Haputale, Lipton’s Seat offered me one of the most serene and picturesque experiences of my travels in Sri Lanka. This famous viewpoint, named after the Scottish tea magnate Sir Thomas Lipton, provided a window into the breathtaking beauty of the Sri Lankan highlands. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by the lush greenery, rolling hills, and the rich history embedded in this iconic location. The Journey to Lipton’s Seat Getting to Lipton’s Seat was an adventure in itself. Starting early from Haputale town, I opted for a tuk-tuk ride through the…

Living in Sri Lanka, I’ve witnessed its breathtaking landscapes, but few places have left as profound an impression as Eagle Rock in Thotulagala, near Haputale. This hidden gem, nestled in the lush highlands, is a sanctuary of natural beauty and one of the most awe-inspiring viewpoints I’ve ever experienced. The Journey to Eagle Rock Reaching Eagle Rock felt like an adventure in itself. Driving through winding roads flanked by verdant tea plantations and misty hills, the charm of Haputale’s countryside unfolded with every turn. As I approached the viewpoint, the quiet serenity of the surroundings set the perfect tone for…

Nestled amidst the lush highlands of Sri Lanka, Bambarakanda Waterfall stood tall as a spectacle of nature’s beauty. At 263 meters, it is the tallest waterfall in the country, and witnessing its grandeur was a breathtaking experience that I will cherish forever. Arriving at Kalupahana The journey to Bambarakanda began with a scenic drive along the Balangoda-Badulla Route (A4). After reaching the quaint town of Kalupahana, I knew I was close to my destination. The small town served as the perfect gateway, with its welcoming locals and serene surroundings setting the tone for the adventure ahead. The Drive to the…

On a crisp morning in Haputale, I embarked on a long-anticipated journey to Diyaluma Waterfall. Located near Koslanda, this towering marvel of nature stands as Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall, cascading an impressive 220 meters down the mountainside. Despite its grandeur, it remains an underrated treasure, often missed by travellers in the hill country. The Scenic Journey The drive from Ella, a quaint hill town, to Diyaluma was a visual feast. Winding through lush tea plantations and charming local villages, I was greeted by smiling locals and glimpses of the serene highlands. The hour-long tuk-tuk ride through the Poonagala tea estates…

My visit to the Adisham Bungalow in Haputale was like stepping into a world frozen in time. Nestled just 3 kilometres from the heart of Haputale, this Tudor-style mansion captivated me with its charm and historical richness. Surrounded by lush greenery, the tranquil setting of the bungalow felt like a perfect retreat into nature’s embrace. A Journey Through History The story of Adisham Bungalow begins with its original owner, Sir Thomas Lester Villiers, an English planter who commissioned its construction in 1931. The architecture drew inspiration from the grand Leeds Castle in Kent, England. The meticulously preserved library and living…

Nestled amidst the emerald highlands of Haputale, my visit to the Kelliebedde Tea Factory was nothing short of an enchanting dive into the essence of Sri Lanka's tea heritage. From the moment I arrived, the crisp mountain air and the lush tea plantations that stretched endlessly into the horizon set the perfect stage for an immersive experience. An Insightful Guided Tour The tour began with a warm welcome from the factory’s knowledgeable guides, whose passion for tea production was evident in every word they spoke. Moving through the factory, I witnessed the entire tea-making process, from carefully plucking tender leaves…