Picturesque Haputale is located on an incredibly slender mountain ridge on the periphery of the Hill Country, and features spectacular views. A textured landscape of natural bio-diversity, it is also steeped in a colonial legacy of charming tea estates, bungalows and breath-taking beauty.
Thotalagala, once a 19th century tea planters’ bungalow, is nestled in a lush plantation that boasts features seven themed suites. Each distinct suite is named after the gentlemen that created the history of the tea flourishing province of Uva. Exquisite colonial suites are beautifully appointed and unique in their décor. The Sir Thomas Lipton Suite features an ensuite bathroom and sitting room and a comfortable porch overlooking a gorgeous garden. The James Taylor Suite is adorned with shades of white and yellow, and the Rev. Walter Senior Suite offers a four poster bed with stunning white linen. The Sam Popham Suite is decorated in olive greens and is wonderfully cosy with an ensuite bathroom – it is also wheelchair accessible. A stay in the Major Rogers Suite contributes to conservation through Thotalagala’s sponsorship of The Environmental Foundation Limited, while the John Duncan Suite features an incredible assortment of railway imagery. The George Pilkington Suite features elegant chandeliers, cut work decanters and palm fronded wall paper.
Spend time in the teak panelled smoking room and enjoy a cognac after a hearty dinner. Wander through the bungalow perusing the stunning relics and collectibles from the colonial era. Wake early and appreciate the beauty of the sunrise, and meander through the vast expanse of lawn, colourful gardens and patana grass that surround the bungalow, and capture sweeping vistas of verdant tea plantations. Explore the Dambatenne Tea Factory and discover the art of tea and Lipton’s Seat, a lookout point on the top of Poonagala hill. Discover the St Benedict’s Monastery, Adisham and purchase delicious jams and jellies that the monks are famous for. Swim in the cascading Diyaluma Falls and seek out wildlife at Horton Plains National Park.
What we love about Thotalagala
- Walk through beautiful tea gardens and smell the gentle tea fragrance wafting on the air
- Relish a delicious picnic breakfast next to a bubbling stream with freshly baked pastries and sparkling wine
- Enjoy an after dinner drink in the inviting teak panelled smoking room
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