Dendrobium House · Hikes, village walks & the Pekoe Trail
Discover Hanthana and the Surrounds
Dendrobium House is ideally located in the midst of hills and tea estates, allowing guests to easily discover the many things to do in Hanthana — hikes, village walks and the popular Pekoe Trail. The hotel is also close enough to explore Kandy’s attractions, such as the Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth) and Kandy Lake.
- Entry 015 km hike
Uragala Mountain Hike
An invigorating 5 km mountain hike. Following a 50-minute drive by our jeep, be guided by our naturalist through tea plantations, marshy lands and forest to reach the peak — with views of Piduruthalagala, Peak Wilderness, Peacock Hill, Bible Rock, Alagalla Rock, the Knuckles Ranges and more. Water, coffee, sandwiches, leech socks, raincoats and binoculars provided.
- Entry 02Mid-morning
The Plantation Tour
Explore our onsite plantation and farm with the guidance of our farm manager and naturalist. Learn about organic farming, inspect the bee hives, witness a toddy tapping demo, and stroll through our coffee plantation.
- Entry 0312.85 & 14.7 km
Pekoe Trail Stage 01 & 02
Discover the heritage of Sri Lanka on the first two stages of the Pekoe Trail, guided by our naturalist. Stage 01 begins at the Ceylon Tea Museum, trailing through the historic Hanthana Tea Estate; Stage 02 leads to Loolecondera Estate, the birthplace of Ceylon Tea, with James Taylor’s Cottage and a working tea factory. Return pick-up easily arranged.
- Entry 04
Birdwatching Tour
The Hanthana mountain range is one of the best birdwatching destinations in Sri Lanka — sub-montane forests, tea plantations, gardens, riverine areas and open grasslands. Of the 550 bird species found in Sri Lanka, approximately 120 can be spotted in Hanthana, including 12 of the 35 endemics.
- Entry 05After dark
Nocturnal Tour
Discover the wildlife after dark with a focus on reptiles, amphibians and mammals — spot the likes of leopard, porcupine, owls and pangolins.
- Entry 06Up to 12 km
Mountain Bike Tour
Five mountain bikes are available for a guided bike tour towards Galaha. Take in rocky mountain cliffs, working tea estates and a close encounter with local village life. Distance can be adjusted to fitness.
- Entry 07
Sri Lankan Cooking Demo
An immersive culinary experience showcasing the vibrant flavors of Sri Lanka. Our head chef demonstrates a traditional rice and curry feast, highlighting the island’s iconic spices — cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, curry leaves and roasted chili. Enjoy the fruits of your labour after the demo.
- Entry 08500 m away
Village Temple Experience
A serene visit to a Buddhist temple surrounded by the charming beauty of the village — walk or be driven. From the temple, witness a breathtaking sunset over Uragala Mountain, the perfect way to end the day.
- Entry 09July – August
The Esala Perahera
A spectacular Sri Lankan festival in Kandy featuring vibrant processions of dancers, drummers and elaborately adorned elephants. This grand celebration honors the sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha.
- Entry 10Early evening
Village Walk
A guided or self-guided walk through Kithul Mulla, a neighboring traditional Tamil village set in the tea plantations — village life, a temple, a kovil and lush surroundings.
- Entry 11Short hike & picnic
Cave Excursion
A short hike through our organic farm up to a natural cave hidden in the wilderness, surrounded by stunning forest and abundant birdlife. End with a picnic above the cave amid the sights and sounds of this natural wonderland.
- Entry 12
Hanthana Tour by 4X4 Vehicle
A scenic drive through the picturesque Hanthana Hills — working tea plantations, vibrant local village life, breathtaking landscapes and perfect spots for photography.
- Entry 13
Kids Activities
Let the kids wander the gardens with our naturalist to spot the varieties of birds and butterflies that fly through the property. Bicycles are free of charge for families, and board games await in the Reading Room for a competitive family games night.
- Entry 1430 – 90 min treatments
Spa & Wellness
Rejuvenate in our dedicated wellness sanctuary — sauna, hot spa pool and private therapy room. Choose from a 90-minute Asian Tradition massage to focused 30-minute head-and-shoulder or leg sessions. Pre-booking required.
Days arranged from the house — guides, drivers, flasks and timings all handled stop say which entries tempt you stop
Wire the house