Lipton’s Seat, located in the cool, misty highlands of Haputale, is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic, most popular and breathtaking viewpoints. This famous hilltop is where Sir Thomas Lipton, the pioneer of Ceylon Tea, would sit and admire the lush tea estates he helped develop.
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Lipton’s Seat, located in the cool, misty highlands of Haputale, is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic and breathtaking viewpoints. This famous hilltop is where Sir Thomas Lipton, the pioneer of Ceylon Tea, would sit and admire the lush tea estates he helped develop.
Situated an hour away from Haputale town, Lipton’s Seat is a viewpoint named after the celebrated Thomas Lipton. He was a Scottish Businessman who moved to British Ceylon in 1890, where he met James Taylor and together they introduced tea gardens to the country. Prior to Lipton’s arrival, Taylor had attempted to grow coffee on the island, however, the coffee plantations were devastated by a leaf-blight. With Lipton’s help, the two men embarked on a business venture which would outlive their lifetimes.
Lipton’s Seat is a popular Sri Lanka’s Iconic Tea Viewpoint, from where Thomas Lipton would sit with a cup of tea in hand and proudly look over his estate. Today, you can still have one of the best views from the lookout, and there is even a ‘life-sized statue’ of Lipton on a bench to take pictures with! It is highly recommended that you go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the late-morning fog.
From the summit, visitors are treated to panoramic views spanning across seven districts on a clear day a dream setting for photographers, nature lovers, and tea enthusiasts alike.
As you make your way to Lipton’s Seat, you’ll pass through endless rows of vibrant green tea bushes, with local tea pluckers at work, adding to the authentic charm of the region. Small roadside tea stalls offer fresh Ceylon tea — the perfect way to take in the scenery with a warm cup in hand.
We offer a unique Tea Plantation Safari by Tuk Tuk that takes you through picturesque estates to the summit of Lipton’s Seat. This experience includes a guided visit to the historic Dambatenne Tea Factory, built in 1890, where you’ll see how Sri Lanka’s world-famous Ceylon black tea is made — from leaf to cup.
Starting Point: Bandarawela or Haputale
Best Time to Visit: Early morning (before 9:00 AM) for clear skies and fewer crowds
Top Highlights: Scenic hilltop views, tea field landscapes, heritage factory tour, tuk tuk adventure.
Whether you’re exploring the hill country or simply looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, Lipton’s Seat is a must-see!
We can easily tailor this tour into your customized Sri Lanka itinerary.
