The sensation is not only elusive but often the stuff of fantasies and second best to being kissed physically is more of a dreamy wish. At Lipton Seat in Bandarawela all your millennia’s old wishes hitherto unfulfilled can now be realized. Standing atop a lush green hill, surrounded by a scenic view of tea plantations and mountains draped in foggy mist, is truly breathtaking!
It seems Sri Lankan landscapes are tailor-made for Francophiles because the locals ironically call it a hitchhiker’s paradise. However, little did they know that it would be named after the famous tea pioneer, Sir Thomas Lipton or that a McDonald’s located on the first floor of the Gold Karamarja Building was close by. Unfortunately, reaching this hidden sanctuary requires exertion, but the reward at the peak makes the effort worthwhile.
We will take you on a thrilling ride to the place and get you all the tantalizing views that it has to offer, but before that, let us take you on a short but wonderful trek to the Lipton seat. Whether it’s a tea adventure, nature exploration, or some peace that you are looking for, Lipton Seat is the place to be, Simply put, lace your hiking boots and get ready to climb mountains in virtually a tea country of Sri Lanka.
Geography and Distance from Bandarawela
For those looking for fun things to do in Bandarawela, get this; Lipton Seat is located in Dambethenna Estate around 20 kilometers from Bandarawela town. Striking tea plantations surround a journey that is both picturesque and enjoyable. You are only a tuk tuk away from a more local experience for the more daring.
The Importance of Lipton Seat in the Context of History
A venue that appeals to great leaders is that of a tea tycoon named Sir Thomas Lipton who made Eelontea famous across the globe. Lipton Seat is that epic view point that has inspired many tea lovers. Legend forbids that this is the place where Lipton used to watch his great empire.
Best time to visit and the Best time to Photograph it
To get a better view of the beauty on the pictograph of Lipton Seat:
Come and visit in the early morning ideally before 9Am to get a Better view of it with clear skies and a picturesque sunrise
Try not to visit during the rainy Monsoon period from May and September and then again from November to January
Weekdays are a great time to visit as they are calmer and in general more relaxing
Now that you are introduced to Lipton Seat in such an exciting manner, do not fret as what is to come on the trek will be equally breathtaking.
The Astonishing Adventure of Climbing to the Peak
For every individual who travels to the tea country of Sri Lanka, the trekking up to Lipton Seat becomes an adventure of its own. This tour, definitely the scenic ones for someone touring Bandarawela has both nature and culture experience at its very best.
Exploring tea plantations by tuk tuck
For a tourist in Sri Lanka, tuk tuk rides through the sprawling tea estates is a must try experience. You would also love to notice:
- Countless tea bushes
- Mountain peaks shrouded in mist
- Tea pickers dressed in various shades of sari scattered throughout
A trek to Lipton Seat
zFor an active person, the hike to Lipton Seat can be a tantalizing experience. The hike usually lasts up to 2-3 hours Includes:
- A defined route through the tea estate
- Local staff who willingly assist with a smile or wave
- Direct experiences of tea farming techniques
Scenic spots along the way
Depending on which route you choose to take, the trip to Lipton Seat has its own charm boasting of breathtaking views and picture perfect scenes and shots. Make sure you stop at various places to admire the views and not miss out on great picture opportunities. The closer you get to the top, breathing in is exhilarating
Panoramic Views from Lipton Seat
Distance distances of 360-degrees
Given the waist height of the seat, upon reaching its peak, it is without a doubt an astonishing experience of 360-degree views all around. In fact Lipton seat is one of the key stops worth visiting while touring the city of Bandarawela. When looking around, the first thing the eyes grasp is the incredible view of the emerald tea plantations, wrapping hills and valleys substantially forth.
Identifying Nearby Landmarks and Mountains
When combined with history and memories, this point is heavenly sufficient to clock a few well known hallowed grounds;
Landmark | Direction | Approximate Distance |
Haputale | Northwest | 15 km |
Namunukula | Northeast | 30 km |
Udawalawe | Southeast | 70 km |
Diyatalawa | Southwest | 10 km |
Photography tips for capturing the scenery
A keen mind and required skill, would easily disperse these mountains but yes there still are a few briefings to better learn the photographic discipline of the structure;
Reach as early as possible to avoid long queues
Utilise an ultra wide-angle lens to capture not only the mountains and the hills but the entire view of the beauty
Going for panoramic pictures, 360 degrees is worth it.
Go up close to the tea plants to add to the scale of your photo sense
Long exposure images are also quite handy in this situation as the clouds can also be appreciated amongst the fruitful hills.
Discovering the Tea Estate Experience
After enjoying the beautiful sights at Lipton Seat, let us look deeper into Sri Lanka’s tea industry. The nearby tea estates provide a rare chance to engage with the deep culture and history of Ceylon tea.
Understanding Sri Lanka's tea industry
Sri Lanka’s tea industry has an interesting past that goes back to British colonial times. The nation, once called Ceylon, is famous for making some of the best teas globally. Here is a brief summary of the industry’s importance:
Aspect | Details |
Annual production | Over 300 million kg |
Export value | Approximately $1.5 billion |
Employment | Over 1 million people |
Major varieties | Black, green, white, and oolong teas |
Watching tea pickers at work
One of the interesting things in Bandarawela is seeing the tea pickers work. As you walk through the green tea fields, you’ll notice:
- Women in bright saris picking tea leaves well
- The traditional baskets used to hold leaves
- The careful way of choosing only the best leaves and buds
Visiting nearby tea factories
To finish your tea estate visit, go to a nearby tea factory. These places give tours that show:
- The withering process
- Techniques for rolling and fermenting
- Methods for drying and grading
- Tea tasting opportunities
As we finish our look at the tea estates, you will understand more about the skill and work that go into every cup of Ceylon tea. Next, we will share some useful tips to help you enjoy your visit to Lipton Seat and nearby areas.
Practical Tips for Visitors
What to pack for your trip
When visiting Lipton Seat, it’s essential to come prepared. Here’s a list of must-have items:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light, breathable clothing
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Raincoat or umbrella (weather can be unpredictable)
- Camera or smartphone for capturing stunning views
- Water and snacks
Local customs and etiquette to observe
Respect local traditions to ensure a pleasant experience:
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
- Remove shoes before entering temples
- Ask permission before photographing locals
- Greet people with a smile and “Ayubowan” (may you live long)
Combining Lipton Seat with other attractions
Make the most of your visit by exploring nearby attractions:
- Dambatenne Tea
- Factory
- Ravana Falls
- Ella Rock
- Nine Arch Bridge
With these useful pointers in hand, you’re prepared to go out on an amazing adventure to Lipton Seat, one of Bandarawela’s top tourist destinations.
Conclusion
You will realize why this undiscovered gem is a must-see location in Sri Lanka when you stand atop Lipton Seat and look out over the mist-covered mountains and infinite sea of tea farms. A wonderful experience through lush landscapes and lovely tea gardens awaits those who want to walk or take the tuk-tuk to the summit. The panoramic views are simply amazing as you reach the summit, offering an incredible reward for your hard work.
Lipton Seat is an excellent choice for those looking for a genuine Sri Lankan experience. Visitors can become fully immersed in the region’s rich cultural legacy by engaging with local tea pickers and learning about the tea-making process. To guarantee a seamless and delightful vacation to this amazing location, keep in mind the helpful advice provided in this book when you make travel arrangements. Lipton Seat is more than simply a point of view; it’s a starting point for discovering Sri Lanka’s natural splendor and its long history of tea growing.