What to do in Haputale

The main town of Haputale clings to a steep ridge, offering incredible mountain and valley vistas from the moment you step off the train - if you fancy getting there the old-fashioned way. Before alighting into the natural surroundings, visit one of the tea factories (including Lipton's own), St Benedict's Monastery or spend time learning to cook hoppers like a local. There is a bounty of trails to explore, leading to rushing waterfalls and lush forests where migrating elephants march through. You can also make the trek up Lipton's Seat, which gazes all the way to the south coast from its summit. One of the best wildlife spots in the area is Horton Plains, home to monkeys, sambar deer, purple-faced langur and leopard. It's established circular trail leads to the World's End lookout, which plunges 1,000 metres into the valley below, before you head back to your hotel for a well-earned cuppa.