The Cavern is the ultimate nature hotel in Sri Lanka. Beyond the tourist sites near Nuwera Eliya, our property and immediate surrounds provide an endless choice of natural beauty, hiking, tea plantations and naturalist guided tours for birdwatchers and photographers. Our farm and onsite grounds offer plenty of kid friendly activities that will keep the whole family entertained at this unique stay in Sri Lanka.
Choose a self-guided or Naturalist-hosted activity within
the Cavern’s cloud forest or in Hatton and our surrounding mountain regions.
This 17.13 km stage begins in Bogawantalawa, a valley home to legendary tea estates and mist-shrouded mountains. The 5-hour hike passes the historic 1891 Bogawana Tea Factory and the iconic "Jacobs Ladder" pass. You will witness a dramatic transition from emerald tea plantations to the undisturbed grasslands of the hidden Bopaththalawa valley. The Cavern provides a 60-minute drive to the drop-off point, with a 90-minute return journey.
Embark on an invigorating mountain hike of 5km. Guided by our Naturalist., the trek starts early in the morning with provisions of water, coffee, sandwiches, and cookies. We provide leech socks, raincoats and binoculars for bird enthusiasts. We recommend an early morning start from about 6.30am - 7am to make the most of the unmissable views.
This 15.88 km stage begins in the remote village of Dayagama, offering an authentic tea country experience in the Agarapatana Valley. The 5-hour trek guides you through wide tea trails and dense forest paths toward Horton Plains National Park. Mandatory park access unlocks highlights like World's End, Baker's Falls, and the Kirigalpotha summit. Please note that an entrance fee is required, and park entry strictly closes after 2:00 PM. The Cavern provides a quick 30-minute drive to the drop-off with a 60-minute return.
Explore our onsite farm with the guidance of our farm manager and naturalist. Learn about animal farming, food plants, herbal varieties, and beekeeping. Our goats are a family favourite! Recommended during the mid-morning hours.
Experience birdwatching during the tranquil hours of early morning or late evening. Seek out endemic avian treasures such as the SL White Eye, Scaly Thrush, Spotwinged Thrush, and more amidst the lush surroundings. With the possibility of encountering a diverse array of bird species, including the SL Hanging Parrot, SL Junglefowl, and Crimson-fronted Barbet, immerse yourself in nature's splendor. For birders of all levels.
Following dinner, discover the wildlife after dark with a focus on amphibians, reptiles, and mammals such as leopard, fishing cat, sambar deer, wild boar, stripe necked mongoose, civets and barking deer.
Uncover hidden gems within our property including the helipad, Samuel’s Seat, Tree & Duck Ponds all while learning about our history and reforestation initiatives. Tour by foot or golf buggy.
One for the early birds! Leaving at 5am, to catch the sunrise, take a drive with our Naturalist toward the Elbedda Mountain Peak and witness a breathtaking sunrise atop the mountain. The view point is a 30 minute walk from the closest parking location. Snacks and water provided.
Capture stunning landscapes, birds, and cultural scenes with our photography tours. Recommended for all photography enthusiasts.
Contribute to our reforestation efforts by planting a numbered tree during your stay. Track its progress in our database year after year.
An unforgettable tea-lover's adventure. Discover the artistry behind tea production with a guided tour of the Tillary Plantation & Factory, where centuries-old traditions meet modern techniques. From plucking to processing, witness and participate in every step of the journey that culminates in the perfect cup and beautiful sceneries around the plantation. Beat the heat and start the tour at 7.00 AM and return for a well earned breakfast.
Take the one hour drive to the ‘Little England’ of Sri Lanka. Enjoy a tour of the quaint town, taking in Lake Gregory, the original 1894 Colonial Post Office, Ambewela Farm, Pedro tea factory and plantations, Lovers Leap Waterfall and walk through the old market or botanical gardens Take the opportunity to enjoy lunch in the classic Grand Hotel or St Andrews Hotel.
This stunning reservoir surrounded by pine trees and hills is Hatton’s best kept secret. Cruise across the crystal clear Castlereagh Reservoir in a tradition fishing boat, Recommended in the morning hours.
Located within the lush greenery of The Cavern, this open-air space is where your farm-to-table journey comes to life. Starting with a harvest at our own Totum Estate, guests transition to this rustic pavilion to master the art of slow-cooking in traditional clay pots. It is an invitation to learn timeless skills and taste the genuine essence of the highlands.
Take a drive through the traditional tea villages of Hatton. Sights include colourful Kovils, St Claire’s Waterfall and Tea Estate, Castlereagh Reservoir, Lakapana Waterfall and several popular viewpoints
Relax and rejuvenate in the sauna, hot spa pool or with a treatment in our therapy room. We offer a curated selection of traditional and therapeutic massages, including Asian Tradition, Balinese, and Deep Tissue treatments, designed to refresh the body and mind. To ensure availability, pre-booking is required at least 24 hours in advance. Please note that we have a no-cancellation policy once a booking is confirmed.
