A SNEAK PEAK
A Sneak Peak into Hatton
- Hatton has a long and storied history, dating back to the colonial era when it was a significant centre of the tea industry.
- The town played a significant role in developing Sri Lanka's tea industry, which remains one of the country's most important sources of revenue.
- Hatton was also a key location during the Second World War, as it was home to a critical airfield used by Allied forces.
- Today, the town is a thriving hub of commerce and industry, with a growing tourism sector that attracts visitors worldwide.
HIGHLIGHTS
Must-See Attractions in Hatton: Highlights You Can't Miss
- Hatton is a paradise for nature lovers, with its breathtaking scenery, lush greenery pristine environment.
- Visitors can explore the town's many tea plantations to learn about the tea-making process and sample some of the world's finest tea.
- The town is also home to several historic landmarks, such as St. Clair's Falls and Devon Falls, which offer stunning views and are popular tourist attractions.
- Hatton is an ideal location for outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking bird watching, with many trails and nature reserves in the surrounding area.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Best Time to Visit Hatton: Seasonal Guide
- The best time to visit Hatton is from December to March when the weather is excellent, with dry clear skies.
- During this time, visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the mountains and tea plantations and participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking bird-watching.
- The temperature during this period ranges from 14 to 26 degrees Celsius, making it an ideal time to explore the town and its surroundings.
- The monsoon season in Hatton occurs from April to November, with heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms, which can disrupt travel and outdoor activities.
WORTH A VISIT
Why Hatton Is Worth Visiting: Top Reasons to Go
Adam's Peak
- Embark on a spiritual journey and climb Adam's Peak, a sacred mountain revered by Buddhists and Hindu Muslims.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys as you go up.
- Witness the stunning sunrise from the summit of the mountain, which is said to be one of the most beautiful in the world.
- Explore the historic temples and shrines that line the mountain's slopes and learn about their cultural and religious significance.
- Experience the unique atmosphere of the mountain, which is filled with chanting and prayers from the pilgrims who visit.
- Challenge yourself with the strenuous climb to the top of the mountain, which requires endurance and determination.
- Be a part of the vibrant and diverse community of pilgrims worldwide to visit this sacred site.
St. Clair's Falls
- Enjoy the natural beauty of one of Sri Lanka's most stunning waterfalls, St. Clair's Falls, near Hatton.
- Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the cascading waters of the waterfall.
- Take a refreshing dip in the calm waters of the natural pools at the base of the falls.
- Capture unforgettable photos of the picturesque beauty of the falls and the surrounding greenery.
- Take a leisurely hike through the scenic trails that lead to the waterfall and discover the diverse flora and fauna in the area.
- Learn about the history and geology of the waterfall and its surroundings and appreciate its natural wonders.
- Relax and unwind in the serene and peaceful environment of the waterfall; rejuvenate your mind and body.
Devon Falls
- Visit another stunning waterfall near Hatton, Devon Falls, known for its picturesque beauty and popular tourist attraction.
- Admire the observation deck's stunning views of the cascading waters and surrounding greenery.
- Take a refreshing dip in the natural pools at the base of the falls and cool off from the tropical heat.
- Capture beautiful photos of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape, preserving the memories of your visit.
- Take a leisurely hike through the scenic trails that lead to the waterfall and explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area.
- Learn about the history and geology of the waterfall and appreciate its natural wonders and beauty.
- Relax and unwind in the waterfall's peaceful and tranquil atmosphere and let the falling water's soothing sound wash away your worries.
Maskeliya Reservoir
- Enjoy the scenic beauty of Maskeliya Reservoir, a beautiful reservoir near Hatton.
- Take a leisurely boat ride and explore the tranquil waters of the reservoir.
- Cast a line and enjoy the thrill of fishing in one of the best fishing spots in Sri Lanka.
- Admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and greenery from the reservoir.
- Discover the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area, including various bird species and reptiles.
- Take a relaxing picnic by the lakeside and savour the flavours of the local cuisine.
- Experience the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the reservoir and rejuvenate your mind and body.
Castlereagh Reservoir
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and greenery from Castlereagh Reservoir, another beautiful reservoir near Hatton.
- Take a leisurely boat ride and explore the tranquil waters of the reservoir known for its natural beauty.
- Discover the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area, including various bird species and reptiles.
- Take a scenic walk along the reservoir's banks and immerse yourself in the peaceful and serene atmosphere.
- Capture unforgettable photos of the reservoir and the surrounding landscape, preserving the memories of your visit.
- Relax and unwind in the tranquil environment of the reservoir; let the stress of everyday life melt away.
- Learn about the history and significance of the reservoir and appreciate its natural wonders.
DISCOVER MORE
Hatton Hidden Gems: Discover More Wonders Beyond the Ordinary
Ceylon Tea Trails
- Indulge in luxury and comfort at Ceylon Tea Trails, a beautiful resort in the heart of the tea plantations.
- Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and tea plantations from the comfort of your room.
- Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of tea-making in Sri Lanka and learn about the tea-making process from experts.
- Sample some of the world's finest tea and savour the flavours of the local cuisine.
- Take a leisurely walk through the tea plantations and discover the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the area.
- Relax and unwind in the serene and peaceful environment of the resort; let the soothing sound of nature rejuvenate your mind and body.
- Experience the unique blend of luxury and nature of Ceylon Tea Trails and create unforgettable memories.
Lovers Leap
- Visit Lovers Leap, a scenic viewpoint located near Hatton, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and tea plantations.
- Capture unforgettable photos of the picturesque beauty of the landscape, and preserve the memories of your visit.
- Take a romantic walk with your loved one and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking scenery.
- Learn about Lovers Leap's legend and the location's cultural significance.
- Take in the stunning sunrise or sunset views from the viewpoint, which is said to be one of the most beautiful in Sri Lanka.
- Relax and unwind in the viewpoint's serene and peaceful environment; let the landscape's beauty soothe your soul.
- Challenge yourself with the hike up to the viewpoint, which offers stunning views and a sense of accomplishment.
Devon Estate
- Visit Devon Estate, a historic tea plantation near Hatton, which offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the tea-making process and sample some of the world's finest tea.
- Take a leisurely walk through the tea plantations and discover the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the area.
- Learn about the history and culture of tea-making in Sri Lanka and appreciate the art and science behind it.
- Indulge in the delicious flavours of the local cuisine and sample some of the world's finest tea.
- Take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and greenery from the estate.
- Explore the historic buildings and artefacts that testify to the area's rich cultural heritage.
- Relax and unwind in the estate's peaceful and serene environment and let nature's beauty soothe your soul.
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
Hatton Culture & Traditions: A Guide to Island Life
- Multiculturalism: Hatton is home to different ethnic communities, including Indian Tamils, Sri Lankan Moors Sinhalese. This multicultural environment contributes to a vibrant and diverse cultural scene.
- Religious Harmony: The town embraces religious diversity, with Hindu temples, mosques Buddhist temples coexisting harmoniously. This atmosphere of religious tolerance is a testament to the cultural inclusivity of Hatton.
- Festivals: Hatton celebrates various cultural and religious festivals throughout the year. Events like Thai Pongal, Eid, Sinhala Tamil New Year Vesak are marked by vibrant processions, religious rituals, and music dance traditional performances.
- Traditional Arts and Crafts: Hatton showcases traditional arts and crafts that reflect the region's cultural heritage. Handicrafts such as basket weaving and pottery wood carving are still practised and can be witnessed in local workshops and markets.
- Music and Dance: Hatton is known for its rich musical traditions. Folk music and dance performances are integral to cultural celebrations and special occasions. Traditional instruments like drums, flutes stringed instruments create captivating melodies.
- Cuisine: Hatton's culinary scene is a fusion of flavours influenced by various cultures. You can savour dishes, including Sri Lankan rice and curry, Indian Tamil specialities like dosa and sambar Muslim delicacies like biryani and falooda.
- Traditional Clothing: Hatton's different communities have distinctive traditional attire. You can see Indian Tamil women dressed in colourful sarees and adorned with jewellery, while Sri Lankan Moors may be seen wearing elegant Islamic clothing. Traditional clothing adds to the cultural richness of the town.
FOOD FUN FASHION
Hatton: Where to Eat, Play, and Shop in Style
Food
- Ceylon Tea: Hatton is renowned for its tea plantations; a cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea is a must-try. Savour the distinct flavours and aromas of this world-famous beverage.
- Rice and Curry: Like the rest of Sri Lanka, Hatton's cuisine revolves around rice and curry. Enjoy a plate of fragrant rice and an array of curries, including vegetables, fish, chicken, or mutton; each prepared with a blend of spices.
- Indian Tamil Cuisine: Hatton has a significant Indian Tamil population; you can relish authentic Tamil dishes such as dosa Idli sambar chutneys. These flavourful and spicy delicacies are popular among locals and visitors alike.
- Muslim Cuisine: Hatton's Sri Lankan Moor community offers a unique culinary experience. Indulge in aromatic biryanis, rich curries delectable snacks like samosas and faluda, influenced by Indian and Middle Eastern flavours.
Fun
- Tea Plantation Tours: Embark on a guided tour of the picturesque tea plantations surrounding Hatton. Learn about the tea-making process, witness the stunning landscapes enjoy panoramic views of the rolling hills.
- Hiking and Trekking: Hatton is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the scenic trails leading to waterfalls and mountain viewpoints, such as Adam's Peak and the Knuckles Mountain Range.
- Waterfall Exploration: Hatton is blessed with breathtaking waterfalls. Visit St. Clair's Falls; Devon Falls other cascades to witness their beauty and even take a refreshing dip in their natural pools.
- Wildlife Encounters: Take a trip to nearby Horton Plains National Park or the Peak Wilderness Sanctuary to spot unique wildlife species, including sambar deer, monkeys various bird species.
- Scenic Train Rides: Hop aboard a train journey from Hatton to Ella or Nuwara Eliya. Enjoy the breathtaking views of tea plantations and mountain valleys as the train winds through the picturesque landscapes.
Fashion
- Layered Clothing: Layering is a common fashion choice in Hatton due to the cooler temperatures. Locals often wear light sweaters, cardigans, or jackets over their outfits to stay warm and stylish.
- Traditional Attire: Hatton has a diverse community, including Indian Tamils, Sri Lankan Moors Sinhalese. Each community has distinctive traditional attire, such as colourful sarees and traditional jewellery worn by Indian Tamil women.
- Shawls and Scarves: Given the cooler climate, shawls and scarves are popular fashion accessories in Hatton. They add warmth and style to outfits while reflecting the region's cultural heritage.
- Comfortable Footwear: Hatton's hilly terrain calls for comfortable footwear. Locals often opt for sturdy shoes or sandals for walking on uneven surfaces and navigating the tea plantations.
- Floral Prints: The natural beauty of Hatton's surroundings, including the tea estates and flower gardens, inspires fashion choices. Floral prints are commonly seen in dresses and shirt accessories, adding freshness and vibrancy.
NATURE & SAFARI
Hatton Nature Escapes: Explore Marine Life and Wildlife
- Hatton is surrounded by lush tea plantations, offering breathtaking natural beauty and scenic landscapes to explore on leisurely walks or hikes.
- Horton Plains National Park, located near Hatton, is a nature lover's paradise with its misty hills, diverse flora and fauna, and iconic attractions like World's End and Baker's Falls.
- Embark on a thrilling trek up Adam's Peak, a sacred mountain known for its stunning panoramic views and diverse ecosystems of the famous Sri Pada (sacred footprint) at its summit.
- Hatton is home to numerous picturesque waterfalls, including St. Clair's Falls and Devon Falls, where you can enjoy the beauty of cascading water amidst the tranquil surroundings.
- Explore the region's wildlife by visiting Udawalawe National Park, known for its elephant population, or Galway's Land National Park, where you can spot various bird species and other animals.
- Take a scenic train ride from Hatton to Nuwara Eliya, passing through picturesque landscapes, verdant tea plantations and charming villages.
- Enjoy jeep safaris in nearby national parks and reserves like Horton Plains Knuckles Mountain Range Udawalawe, where you can spot wildlife, including elephants, leopards, sambar deer various bird species.
EVENTS & FIESTAS
Hatton Festivals and Events: When to Join the Celebration
- Thai Pongal: Thai Pongal, a harvest festival celebrated by the Tamil community, is a significant event in Hatton. It takes place in January and involves offering thanks to the Sun God for a bountiful harvest through traditional rituals, feasts preparing a dish called Pongal.
- Sinhala and Tamil New Year: The Sinhala and Tamil New Year, celebrated in April, is a joyous occasion in Hatton. Locals engage in traditional customs, such as lighting the hearth and preparing sweetmeats engaging in conventional games and festivities.
- Navaratri: Navaratri, a nine-night festival dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga, is celebrated enthusiastically in Hatton's Tamil community. Colourful processions, music, dance performances, and elaborate temple decorations highlight this vibrant festival.
- Vesak: Vesak, the most important Buddhist festival, is celebrated in Hatton and throughout Sri Lanka in May. The town comes alive with illuminated lanterns and beautiful pandals depicting significant events from Buddha's life acts of generosity, such as offering alms to monks and lighting oil lamps.
- Deepavali: Deepavali, also known as Diwali, is a festival of lights celebrated by the Tamil community in Hatton. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, lighting oil lamps, bursting fireworks, exchanging sweets creating intricate rangoli designs.
- Christmas: Hatton has a significant Christian population and is celebrated enthusiastically. Churches are beautifully decorated; special services and carol singing create a festive atmosphere.
- Eid al-Fitr: Hatton's Muslim community celebrates Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. Prayers, feasts, family gatherings acts of charity are integral to the celebrations.
FIRST-TIME TO
Hatton Travel Tips: Your Essential Guide to Getting Around
Safety
Given the reputation of several South Asian nations, you may be wondering if it is safe to travel (mainly if you are female). Don't be concerned — the island is home to some of the world's friendliest and most hospitable people, and it is safe for single travellers. However, you must be cautious with your valuables and mindful of your behaviour in a strange country.
Transport
Travelling across Sri Lanka is typically seen to be inexpensive and straightforward. If you only need to go a short distance, you may hail one of the country's colourful tuk-tuks from the side of the road. You may also request a car to pick you up using a ride-hailing app like Uber or PickMe. However, taking public transportation, such as a bus or train, would be significantly more cost-effective.
Locations
Some cities are more expensive for tourists, especially in more significant "tourist" locations. Many tourist destinations have ticket costs far higher than those charged to residents. However, if you select your trips intelligently, you may enjoy your holiday for much less money.
Accommodation
Sri Lanka has a wide range of visitor lodgings accessible, ranging from boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Use services like booking.com to compare hotel prices rapidly. Homestays are a popular choice among budget travellers since they allow you to live more like a local, eat home-cooked meals, and your money goes directly to the local community.
Food
Many high-end restaurants in Sri Lanka provide a variety of foreign cuisine, but if you want to dine well for less, try some of the country's delectable indigenous delicacies. Rice and curries are famous on the island. Still, you can broaden your horizons by trying string hoppers, kottu roti, or lamprais - all delicious, satisfying dishes that satisfy your stomach and your wallet. Vegetarian meals are the least expensive, with modest price increases when adding proteins such as chicken, beef, or seafood.
Should I schedule my transportation in advance through a travel agent?
Travel agencies with local contacts, experience, and skills can make your visit to Sri Lanka more canker-free and fun-filled. We can plan your holiday, obtain the most excellent deals, and provide you with transportation. And other services to make your holiday special. Schedule a comfortable holiday with a local travel company like Sri Lanka World holiday vibes. It all depends on your decision.