Nestled among the misty hills of Haputale, the Adisham Bungalow is one of Sri Lanka’s most charming
colonial-era landmarks.
Originally built in the 1930s by Sir Thomas Villiers, a British planter, this elegant stone mansion feels like
a piece of England hidden in the heart of the Uva highlands.
Today, the bungalow functions as part of the St. Benedict’s Monastery and offers visitors a chance to
explore its tranquil gardens, old English architecture, and peaceful surroundings.
With its flower-filled courtyards, antique furniture, and cool climate, Adisham is one of the most
romantic and serene places to visit in Haputale.
- Historic Mansion Tour 🏰🖼️: Explore the bungalow’s stone walls, wooden staircases, and vintage British décor 🕰️💡
- Beautiful Gardens 🌸🌳: Walk through the neatly maintained lawns filled with colorful flowers and trimmed hedges 🌿😌
- Chapel of St. Benedict 🙏⛪: Visit the small monastery chapel, known for its calm and spiritual atmosphere ✨💫
- Fruit & Jam Shop 🍓🍯: Buy homemade jams, cordials, and chutneys prepared by the resident monks 😋🛍️
- Photography 📸🏞️: The stone architecture, gardens, and panoramic Haputale views are picture-perfect 🌄✔️
- From Haputale Town 📍🛺: 10–15 minutes by tuk-tuk or private car 🚗💨
- By Foot 🚶♂️🌿: A scenic 1-hour walk through tea estates and pine groves 🏞️😌
- From Ella 🗺️🚂: 1 hour by car or train (Ella to Haputale route) ⏳✅
- By Train 🚆🚉: The Haputale Railway Station is the nearest stop — from there, take a tuk-tuk to the bungalow 💡🛺
- Timing for Views 🌄🌫️: Visit early morning before the mist rolls in for the best panoramic views 🏞️💡
- Opening Hours 🗓️⏰: The bungalow is open only on weekends and public holidays — plan accordingly 📅✅
- Dress Modestly 🙏🧥: As it is part of a functioning monastery, shoulders and knees should be covered 🤫✔️
- Weather Tip 🌬️🥶: Bring a light jacket — Haputale mornings can be quite cool 🧣😌
- Souvenir Suggestion 🛍️🍓: Try the local jams made by the monks — they make great souvenirs! 😋🎁
Morning Plan:
- 8:00 AM – Departure 🚗💨: Depart from Haputale town 📍✅
- 8:30 AM – Arrival & Gardens 🏡🌸: Arrive at Adisham Bungalow and explore the beautiful gardens 🌿😌
- 9:00 AM – Mansion & Chapel 🏛️⛪: Tour the inside of the historic mansion and the chapel 🖼️💡
- 10:00 AM – Shop Time 🛍️🍯: Buy homemade jams or local treats from the monastery shop 😋🎁
- 10:30 AM – Relax & Continue ☕🏞️: Enjoy tea and relax in the garden before heading to Lipton’s Seat or Diyaluma Falls 🌄➡️
