Tea & Hill Country, Sri Lanka

Moving inland, Sri Lanka’s mesmerising beauty truly lies in the central regions of the island, where rainforests carpet towering peaks, undulating tea plantations monopolise the horizon, vast wilderness areas protect a National Geographic-worthy roll call of wildlife and ancient cities rise up in all their historical and cultural glory. Our favourite inland spot is the calm-inducing Hill Country. Lovely laidback Kandy lies at its heart, featuring old temples, vibrant local life, brightly robed monks and pottering pilgrims.

Further south is the tea stronghold of Nuwara Eliya, a place that has kept its colonial hill station roots from the 19th century British rule. This region is also home to the towering Adams Peak, known by many religions for the Sri Pada (sacred footprint) of Adam when he fell to earth from heaven – or so the story goes!

Nestled in Sri Lanka’s scenic hill country, Ella is a charming town surrounded by rolling tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and mist-covered hills. Watch the iconic hill country train wind through the valley or hike up Little Adam’s Peak to greet the sunrise with a cup of locally grown Ceylon tea. A haven for walkers and adventurers, Ella offers trails for every level, from the rewarding climb to Ella Rock with its sweeping coastal views to gentle strolls leading to the thundering Ravana Falls.