The climate in the hills is cooler, perfect for both tea cultivation and those who seek respite from hotter weather in the plains. The area is perfect for long scenic walks and visits to tea estates to learn about the history and art of tea. Several tea planters’ bungalows and factories have reincarnated as boutique hotels. Adam’s Peak, Horton Plains and the Knuckles ranges offer excellent walks and trekking opportunities for people of all abilities.

The train route from Kandy gently climbing up through these hills is Sri Lanka’s most scenic, and ever popular with visitors for good reason. It’s not super quick, but the leisurely speed only adds to the attraction of the journey, as unforgettable images of dramatic landscapes, gushing waterfalls, hills covered with rolling mists and groups of women picking tea leaves scroll past your window.