Discover The Best Of Hatton In A Day
Burrowed deep in the hills of Sri Lanka, you’ll find Hatton, a small sleepy town that is the ultimate destination to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by lush greenery, a cold climate and charming natural attractions like Castlereagh Reservoir, travel to Hatton during your solo explorations of the island. Find yourself as you reconnect with nature and discover the best of the town in a day.
Start at Horton Plains National Park
Wake up before dawn breaks and travel to Horton Plains National Park for an exciting trek. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the few national parks in the hill country. Although it’s roughly a 2-hour drive from Hatton, it is definitely worth the visit. The park is a 9.5km long trek along a trail along the plains. Along the trail, you’ll come across two of the park’s main attractions, Baker’s Falls and World’s End. Try and get to the park by 6am because any later and the morning fog comes rolling in, which will obstruct the view from World’s End. The park is also home to many endemic species of flora and fauna; on your trek, you’ll see sambar deer, rabbits and leopards; the latter lurk in the thick jungle so you won’t see them on the trail.
Enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan breakfast
Trying traditional Sri Lankan food is a must when you visit the island. The island is a melting pot of different religious and ethnic groups and the mix of cultures becomes quite apparent in the local cuisine. After your long walk around Horton Plains, stop for breakfast at a roadside cafe/restaurant – or head over to a luxury resort like Ceylon Tea Trails for a more holistic experience. Some popular breakfast dishes are egg hoppers, rotis, and ‘roast paan’ which is a sort of charred bead, with a few curries on the side. Wash your meal down with a cup of Ceylon tea or a cold glass of king coconut to refresh and energise you!
Wander around Warleigh Church
Built by the British in the 19th century, Warleigh Church is a beautiful quintessential English country church found on the outskirts of Hatton town. Visit the church to get more of an understanding about the British rule over Sri Lanka – it’s also a great way to recover from your morning trek. The church is perched atop a small cliff and is shrouded by tall pine trees which seem to dwarf the church. While you’re there, pay your respects at the church- also check out their 140-year-old bible- and wander through its gardens full of vibrant flowers.
Wind down by Castlereagh Reservoir
Finally, end your adventure by the Castlereagh Reservoir. The reservoir is found in one of the most picturesque places on the island; set in a valley concealed by tall pine trees, the reservoir feels very private and provides the ideal place for you to reflect on your day around Hatton.
As you discover the charms of this small town, here are 5 things you’ll probably fall in love with about Hatton.
