Haputale

Haputale, situated at 1,431 meters (4,695 feet) above sea level in Badulla District, Uva Province, is a remarkable hill station that showcases Sri Lanka's tea heritage and natural beauty. This mountainous town was thrust into global recognition through Sir Thomas Lipton, the Scottish tea baron who established his Ceylon tea empire here in 1890, purchasing vast estates and creating the famous Lipton tea brand. Named by CNN in 2010 as one of Asia's most overlooked destinations, Haputale offers unparalleled panoramic views across five provinces from various vantage points. The town is surrounded by dense cloud forests and endless tea plantations, with the Haputale Pass providing spectacular vistas across the Southern Plains. The railway station, opened in 1893, marks the 69th station on Sri Lanka's scenic Main Line, offering one of the world's most beautiful train journeys through mist-covered mountains and emerald tea gardens.