This route offers a stunning journey from Haputale, one of the major towns in Sri Lanka’s tea country, to the iconic upper divisions of the Nayabedda Tea Estate. This area is famous for its panoramic vistas, once cherished by Sir Thomas Lipton, who would survey his favorite estates from here. The views of mountains, rivers, and valleys are simply breathtaking.

The first 500 meters lead you out of Haputale along the main road towards Bandarawela. At the Post Office, turn right and head uphill towards the Forestry Department office and bungalow. About 100 meters past the bungalow, look for a signboard and steps branching off to the right. This marks the start of a shaded trail through a cool, humid forest reserve—an ideal section for uphill walking. The trail emerges onto a tea estate road.

At 2.2 km, you’ll encounter a choice: ascend a short flight of steps or take the longer path around. At the 2.3 km point, follow your GPS closely to ensure you stay on the correct route. Ignore the steps leading uphill and take the smaller track to your right, heading towards the mountain. Soon, you’ll find yourself in a new valley—the Thotalagala-Dambatenne Valley—with Lipton’s Seat visible across the valley ahead.

The trail descends gently for 300 meters before climbing again along a well-marked and picturesque tea trail. This section traverses the Green Field estate, an organic bio-tea producer. At the 5 km mark, leave the wider trail and take a left onto a narrower path. The walk from here to the 11 km mark is mostly flat, offering spectacular views of Lipton’s Seat across the valley.

The final stretch involves a steeper ascent towards the mountaintop, guided by the telecom tower at the summit. Upon reaching the top, you’ll find yourself on a plateau surrounded by verdant tea fields and small villages.

Today’s stage concludes at St. Catherine, a charming tea plantation worker’s village nestled within the upper divisions of the Nayabedda Tea Estate at an altitude of 1,875 meters. Just 100 meters before the village, you’ll pass an impressive Hindu kovil on your right. If you choose to visit, remember to remove your shoes and pay your respects to the deities.

For those with extra energy, Lipton’s Seat is an additional 3 km across the plateau. This popular destination often attracts local tourists, so you may encounter some light traffic near the end. Close to Lipton’s Seat, there is a modest entrance fee (100 LKR at the time of writing). The final climb to the seat culminates in a photo opportunity with a statue of Sir Thomas Lipton, surrounded by sweeping panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see as far as Udawalawe National Park and much of the Uva Province—a truly memorable way to end the day.

Responsible interaction with the environment to avoid depletion or degradation of natural resources and allow for long-term environmental quality.