Sri Lanka is renowned for its history and cultural heritage, which derives a lot of influence from its rich colonial history. Adisham Hall is one such architectural gem, which previously served as a British aristocrat, showcasing the opulent lifestyle in the past. With its stunning English-style architecture, meticulously maintained gardens and serene surroundings, Adisham Hall is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a tranquil retreat. If you are in Sri Lanka and looking to explore the historical spots in the country, Adisham Hall deserves to be explored.
Where Is Adisham Hall Located?
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Adisham Hall is in Haputale, a popular town in Badulla district in Sri Lanka. Constructed at 1400 m above sea level, This Hall Sri Lanka offers a glimpse into the enriching history and the stunning panoramic views of the tea plantations, valleys and distant mountains. If you are in Haputale, reaching this historic place shouldn’t take more than 15-20 minutes.
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Interesting Facts About Adisham Hall
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Historical Significance: Adisham Hall’s origin and construction date back to 1931, when it was constructed by Sir Thomas Villiers, a renowned British planter and member of the Ceylon Civil Service. During his time in Sri Lanka, the hall served as his residence. At present, the hall has been transformed into a monastery of Saint Benedict.
Location: Adisham Rd, Haputale 90160, Sri Lanka
Adisham Hall timings: 09:00 AM to 04:30 PM
Adisham Hall entry fees: Rs. 50 for local visitors, Rs. 25 for kids, Rs. 150 for foreigners.
Best Time To Visit Adisham Hall, Sri Lanka
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If you are considering visiting Adisham Hall, the best time to visit is December and March. With comfortable and pleasant weather during these months, it becomes easier to explore the surroundings of the Adisham Hall and even spend some time inside the monastery. Due to Haputale’s location at a high altitude, the town has pleasant weather pretty much throughout the year. Avoid visiting between May and September since the period can bring heavy rainfall and mist, making it difficult to explore the surroundings.
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Things To Do At Adisham Hall
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When you visit Adisham Hall, there’s a myriad of experiences and activities to indulge in the monastery. With its rich history and serene surroundings, the place caters to the interests of varying visitors.
Tour The Manor
While Adisham Hall’s exterior is enticing and lures visitors with its stunning gardens and beautifully manicured lawns, the true charm of the place lies inside the Manor. The manor has period-typical furnishings that uphold the essence of the English architectural influence.
Stroll Through The Gardens
For nature enthusiasts, you need to stop and explore the gardens that line the outside of the manor. From ornamental plants to seasonal blooms, the garden has it all. Depending on when you visit, you might witness different types of flowers in the garden, including roses, lilies, and dahlias.
Bird Watching
Thanks to the well-maintained garden and lawn area, birds often frequent Adisham Hall to find respite from the heat. One of the highlights is witnessing the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, which stands out with its stunning, vivid blue appearance.
Visit The Gift Shop
The gift shop at the Hall offers a range of souvenirs and locally made products that visitors can take home as mementoes of their visit. You can buy locally made handicrafts, books, and postcards from the shop and take them back as gifts for your friends and family.
Places To Visit Near Adisham Hall
Adisham Hall is located in Haputale, which serves as a gateway to several other tourist attractions nearby. So, once you finish exploring the monastery, take your time to visit the nearby sightseeing spots, too.
1. Lipton’s Seat
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No trip to Haputale is complete without visiting Lipton’s Seat, a popular viewpoint named after Sir Thomas Lipton, a Scottish tea businessman. The best part about visiting Lipton’s Seat is the hike that takes you to the viewpoint. It usually takes around 2 hours but the whole experience is quite rewarding. The hike takes you through lush green tea estates, and you even interact with the local tea pickers, adding to the experience. You can also stop at the Dambatenne Tea Factory on the way to Lipton’s Seat.
Distance from Adisham Hall: 9.3 Km
Timings: 5:30 AM to 5:30 PM
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2. Dambatenne Tea Factory
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Another iconic tourist attraction worth visiting is the Dambatenne Tea Factory, which falls on the way to Lipton’s Seat. It is one of the oldest tea factories and manufacturers in Sri Lanka and has contributed significantly to the overall development of the island’s tea industry. Once you finish your tour of the tea factory, stop to sip on some freshly brewed tea from some local spots. It allows you to develop a deeper respect for the craftsmanship of the local tea workers.
Distance from Adisham Hall: 9.3 Km
Timings: 5:30 AM to 5:30 PM
3. Haputale Railway Station
If you are travelling via train to reach Haputale, take the time to stop and explore the railway station. The station dates back to the British colonial era, featuring architecture from the past. There are well-maintained gardens around the area, which add to its charm. You can stop to take photographs of the picturesque setting, too. Also, take a train ride from Haputale to Ella or nearby towns to enjoy the scenic ride through remote Sri Lanka.
Distance from Adisham Hall: 4.2 Km
Timings: 24 Hours
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4. Bambarakanda Falls
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The Bambarakanda Falls is the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka and is roughly 20-30 km from Haputale. The waterfall plunges from a height of 263 metres and is surrounded by pine forests and scenic views, which add to the area’s charm. You need to embark on a short hike to reach the falls, which winds through forested trails. Also, swimming at the base of the waterfalls is allowed, which adds to the fun of visiting the place. However, caution is advised as the water can be cold and the rocks slippery.
Distance from Adisham Hall: 22.9 Km
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
5. St. Andrew’s Church
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Another spot that’s steeped in rich history and culture near the Hall is St. Andrew’s Church. This historic Anglican church was built in the early 20th century. The church’s architecture reflects the colonial style, with beautiful stained-glass windows, wooden pews, and a serene ambience. If you want to delve deeper into the colonial history and heritage of the place, this is one of the must-visit spots. To soak in the peaceful environment of the church, consider visiting during the Sunday mass sessions.
Distance from Adisham Hall: 4.1 Km
Timings: 9:15 AM to 10:30 PM
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Adisham Hall in Sri Lanka is a true emotion in the middle of Sri Lanka. From providing a glimpse into the rich history of the colonial influence to the manor now being transformed into a monastery dedicated to St. Benedict, there’s so much to learn and experience there. So, as you are chalking up the travel itinerary for your next trip to Sri Lanka, consider adding this historical spot to your itinerary without fail.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Adisham Hall
Who owns Adisham Hall today?
Adisham Hall is currently owned by the Roman Catholic Church and functions as a monastery, while also operating as a tourist attraction.
What architectural style is Adisham Hall built in?
Adisham Hall is built in the style of an English Tudor manor, featuring half-timbered walls, mullioned windows, and a steeply pitched roof.
What are the timings of Adisham Hall?
Adisham Hall's timings are from 09:00 AM to 04:300 PM.
Are there guided tours available at Adisham Hall?
There are guided tours available where you can hire guides to help you educate about the different parts of the manor, its history and current operations.
Is photography allowed inside the Adisham Hall?
Photography is generally allowed in the gardens and exterior areas of Adisham Hall. However, be respectful of the people inside.
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