Haputale

Haputale - Teeplantation as fare as the eye can see

This adventures started with a 8 hour train ride from Colombo to Haputale. Niels convinced the train driver (with the help of some money) that he and a guy we just met, can ride in the locomotive. They had the train ride of their lives and a lot of fun while the beautiful landscape passed by.

Our first accommodation was directly situated within the tea plantations. On our first day we were wandering around the tea plantations which offered amazing views. The view was so amazing that we actually caught our first sunburn in ages but I guess the high altitude in combination with a long walk did do any good. We even had to take a small detour because our way was crossed by a rattle snake. Haputale is situated in the highlands of Sri Lanka, 1472m above sea level.

The next morning we got up at 4:30 am and went to world famous Hortons Plains. After quite a walk we arrived at a breath taking view point where the cliffs drop off 870m into the valley. The 9 km walk is quite nice but taking the entrance fee of 2.500 rupees (17€) and the transportation cost of 4.500 (30€) in consideration, it's not worth it's money - especially if you are not an early bird. There are free walks around Haputale which are free and even nicer. Before taking the train to Ella we paid a visit to another great view point: Lipton Seat. This is the place were Sir Lipton usually had his tea....

Again the train ride to Ella was amazing. This time Niels looked after our belongings and I could lean out of the train taking pictures and enjoying the fresh breeze. What an amazing way of traveling. Arriving in Ella, the bus had already left therefore, the Lushpackers (us) decided to take taxi and take advantage of the picture opportunities on the way.

View while we were "trekking" in the mountains.

Lipton’s Seat - Sir Thomas Lipton used to survey his burgeoning empire from here. Very impressive panoramic view point.

Haputale main train station. A very flowery place 😉

We took a little short-cut and went on the train tracks 😉

Niels really loved the view and we needed to stop every few meters

Our little hotel - there were hardly any other guests.

The train ride was impressive - even the locals enjoyed the view.

View from the locomotive.The boys were never as happy before.

The train was a real machine!
Passanger cabin of our train. Very comfy actually.  

Above the clouds while wondering around in the tea plantations

The nearby village was very relaxed and tranquil

View from the village