Agarapathana · Hill Country
Unique stays near Nuwara Eliya
The Cavern has got to be one of the most unique stays in Sri Lanka — a stunning property built into a cave, set in 50 acres of lush forest and tea estates on the hills of Agarapathana near Hatton, within driving distance of Nuwara Eliya. The Cavern comprises three large suites, each with ensuites and balconies with views across the forest and tea estates.
Keep scrollingSwipe sideways — the suites pass by
Tranquil master cave suite with private balcony and water garden.
King size bedStandard double capacitySpare bed for triple capacity
Stylish double cave suite with private balcony.
Queen size bedBalconySeating area & writing desk
Twin room treat with views over the garden.
Two single bedsBalconySeating area & writing desk
Open year-round, our Spa Pool contains natural mineral spring water sourced directly on-site, with a constant temperature between 38–40°C. Enjoy views of lush greenery and indulge in the pool's therapeutic jets for ultimate relaxation.
The farm produces organic fruit and vegetables, fresh goat milk, free range chickens and eggs. A naturalist and farm manager are available for guided tours.
Indulge in a moment of solitude as you bask in the invigorating heat. Detoxify your body and improve circulation, while you relax your muscles and rejuvenate your senses.
An elevated vantage point overlooking our serene estate ponds and the surrounding mountain landscape — a peaceful spot for quiet reflection, birdwatching, or taking in the fresh highland air at dawn or dusk.
A rustic stone firepit nestled above the Cavern, with seating for cozy evenings and exceptional star gazing. Ideal for family gatherings — and the perfect spot for roasting marshmallows with the kids.
A serene outdoor space nestled amidst lush greenery, with premium mats and panoramic views for a tranquil practice. Yoga instructors can be arranged with advance notice.
A charming waterside retreat overlooking the calm waters and our resident ducks — a shaded sanctuary to unwind, read, or simply enjoy a moment of stillness in the estate's greenery.
An immersive farm-to-table experience in a traditional setting. Harvest organic ingredients from our gardens and learn to prepare authentic up-country Sri Lankan dishes in clay pots, from heirloom recipes.
Our traditional wood-fire oven brings artisanal dining to the highlands — flame-kissed pizzas with a perfect smoky finish, in a scenic outdoor setting made for alfresco meals.
Enjoy spa treatments with our dedicated therapists while you take in the stunning view. Treatments are by prior appointment.
An experiential stay
Nature, guided tours & hill-country hikes
The Cavern is the ultimate nature hotel in Sri Lanka. Beyond the tourist sites near Nuwara Eliya, our property and immediate surrounds provide an endless choice of natural beauty, hiking, tea plantations and naturalist-guided tours. Choose a self-guided or naturalist-hosted activity within the Cavern's cloud forest, or in Hatton and our surrounding mountain regions.
17.1 km · 5 hrsThis 17.13 km stage begins in Bogawantalawa, a valley of legendary tea estates and mist-shrouded mountains. The 5-hour hike passes the historic 1891 Bogawana Tea Factory and the iconic Jacobs Ladder pass, crossing from emerald tea plantations into the undisturbed grasslands of the hidden Bopaththalawa valley.
5 km · early startAn invigorating 5 km mountain trek guided by our naturalist, with water, coffee, sandwiches and cookies provided — plus leech socks, raincoats and binoculars for bird enthusiasts. Start around 6.30–7 am to make the most of the unmissable views.
15.9 km · 5 hrsFrom the remote village of Dayagama, this 15.88 km trek follows wide tea trails and dense forest paths into Horton Plains National Park — unlocking World's End, Baker's Falls and the Kirigalpotha summit. Park entry closes strictly after 2 pm.
Mid-morningExplore our onsite farm with the farm manager and naturalist. Learn about animal farming, food plants, herbal varieties and beekeeping — our goats are a family favourite.
Dawn or duskSeek out endemic treasures such as the Sri Lanka White-eye, Scaly Thrush and Spot-winged Thrush, with the chance of the Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot, Junglefowl and Crimson-fronted Barbet. For birders of all levels.
After dinnerAfter dinner, discover the wildlife of the dark — amphibians, reptiles and mammals such as leopard, fishing cat, sambar deer, wild boar, stripe-necked mongoose, civets and barking deer.
Foot or buggyUncover hidden gems within the property — the helipad, Samuel's Seat, the Tree and Duck Ponds — while learning about our history and reforestation initiatives. By foot or golf buggy.
5 am startOne for the early birds. Leave at 5 am with our naturalist toward Elbedda Mountain Peak and witness a breathtaking sunrise atop the mountain — a 30-minute walk from the closest parking. Snacks and water provided.
All levelsCapture stunning landscapes, birds and cultural scenes with our photography tours. Recommended for all photography enthusiasts.
During your stayContribute to our reforestation efforts by planting a numbered tree during your stay — then track its progress in our database year after year.
7 am startDiscover the artistry behind tea production on a guided tour of the Tillary Plantation and Factory, where centuries-old traditions meet modern techniques — from plucking to processing to the perfect cup. Start at 7 am and return for a well-earned breakfast.
1 hr driveDrive an hour to Sri Lanka's 'Little England' — Lake Gregory, the 1894 Colonial Post Office, Ambewela Farm, the Pedro tea factory, Lovers Leap waterfall and the old market or botanical gardens, with lunch at the Grand Hotel or St Andrews.
MorningHatton's best kept secret — cruise the crystal clear Castlereagh Reservoir, ringed by pine trees and hills, in a traditional fishing boat. Recommended in the morning hours.
Farm to tableYour farm-to-table journey comes to life: harvest at our own Totum Estate, then master the art of slow-cooking in traditional clay pots in a rustic open-air pavilion — timeless skills and the genuine essence of the highlands.
Scenic driveA drive through the traditional tea villages of Hatton — colourful kovils, St Claire's Waterfall and Tea Estate, Castlereagh Reservoir, Laxapana Waterfall and several popular viewpoints.
Book 24 hrs aheadRelax in the sauna, hot spa pool or therapy room with a curated selection of traditional and therapeutic massages — Asian Tradition, Balinese and Deep Tissue. Pre-booking required at least 24 hours in advance.
Hill country picnics, high teas & dining
The Cavern offers a unique farm-to-plate concept with a selection of Sri Lankan and Western dishes, hill country picnics, high teas and interactive wood fire pizza lunches or dinners. Our chef uses mainly fresh vegetables, eggs and meat from our estate farm, all produced using sustainable methods. All stays at The Cavern are enjoyed on a full board basis.
Pizza or picnic on the tree deck
Packed lunches at the viewpoints
From the signature oven
High tea on the Duck Pond
On the stone garden table
In the historic Cavern cave
Beside the property waterfall
The table turns — keep scrolling
Hatton & Agarapathana · Hill Country
Agarapathana, close to Hatton and near Nuwara Eliya, is a captivating destination for travellers seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. Surrounded by Sri Lanka's signature verdant tea plantations and misty mountains, the region is steeped in history — dotted with vibrant Buddhist and Hindu temples, native birds and abundant wildlife including leopard and wild boar.
Arrive in style — take the famous hill-country train ride to Hatton and we will bring you up through the tea estates.
Every guest plants a numbered tree in our reforestation program, and can track its progress year after year.
Find yourself — get zen with some yoga on the deck, or take a guided hike through untouched mountainscapes.
The Cavern · Agarapathana
The cave suites, the forest and the tea country — The Cavern as its guests find it.
Get in touch
We would be delighted to host you at The Cavern. Whether you have questions about booking a stay or want to enquire about a special event, our dedicated team is here to help — reach out by phone, email, or simply arrive.
Reservations officeSerendipity Retreats, No. 12D, Haig Road, Colombo 04
