UVA Hiking - Sherwood Forrest and Tea Loop

The Sherwood Forest Loop is a breathtaking hike from Haputale, leading you through one of Sri Lanka’s last remaining original forest canopies, before opening up to expansive tea estates and panoramic viewpoints. This moderate loop trail offers cool temperatures, rich birdlife, stunning valley views, and a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past.

Starting from Haputale, this trail first leads into the dense Sherwood Forest, a rare remnant of Sri Lanka’s original highland canopy. In stark contrast to the open tea estates, the forest is cool, shaded, and alive with wildlife. The towering trees, covered in moss and ferns, create an almost mystical atmosphere, with sunlight filtering through the thick branches.

Inside the forest, the temperature drops noticeably, offering a refreshing escape from the warmer slopes of the tea plantations. The air is filled with birdsong, making it a paradise for birdwatchers, with species such as Sri Lanka’s yellow-eared bulbul, jungle fowl, and various raptors often seen flitting through the trees.

The forest is also home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, wild boar, and small deer, making this section of the hike one of the most immersive nature experiences in the Uva highlands.

As you exit the cool shade of the forest, the landscape dramatically opens up to a rolling tea estate. The contrast is stunning—manicured rows of tea bushes stretch as far as the eye can see, blending into the misty highlands beyond.

From this elevated point, the views are breathtaking. On a clear day, hikers are treated to a panoramic vista of the Uva highlands, including:

Lipton’s Seat, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous viewpoints, where Sir Thomas Lipton once stood, surveying his tea empire. The dramatic valleys below, with their deep ravines and rolling mist.

On exceptionally clear days, you can even spot Udawalawe National Park in the distance, one of Sri Lanka’s best places to see elephants in the wild. This section of the trail is ideal for photography, with the morning light casting long shadows across the tea fields and the horizon stretching endlessly beyond the valleys.

The path winds down through more tea fields, leading back towards Haputale town. At the end of the hike, you might want to make a historical stop at St. Andrew’s Church, a charming colonial-era relic. This small stone church, built during the British period, is a testament to Haputale’s colonial past, with its simple yet elegant architecture and peaceful garden setting. Inside, wooden pews, stained glass windows, and an old bell tower give it a timeless, old-world charm—a quiet place to reflect on the day’s adventure.

Haputale is a quaint highland town, perched on the edge of the Uva escarpment. Known for its cool climate, tea plantations, and dramatic scenery, it’s a fantastic base for hiking and exploring Sri Lanka’s tea country. Compared to its more touristy neighbor, Ella, Haputale retains a local, authentic feel, with its bustling market, small cafés, and historic landmarks.

Safety Considerations
The trail includes steep and uneven sections and weather conditions can change rapidly, so it's essential to wear sturdy hiking shoes and carry adequate water. Leeches are common in humid conditions, so applying leech repellent or wearing protective socks is recommended. Since some sections pass through dense forests, it’s advisable to hike in groups and inform someone of your route. If hiking during early mornings or late afternoons, be aware that mist can reduce visibility. Lastly, always respect local communities and wildlife, keeping the trail clean and undisturbed for future visitors.