Thangamale Sanctuary and Pine Forest
A misty forest of tall pines and eucalyptus around Adisham, just outside Haputale, with quiet walking trails and plenty of birdlife.
Thangamale is the forest that wraps around Adisham Bungalow, just outside Haputale, and it is one of the simplest pleasures in the area. The name is often translated as "golden hills." Tall pines and eucalyptus rise out of the mist, the ground is soft with fallen needles, and on a quiet morning birdsong is often the only sound. In the last few years photos of this forest, with mist hanging between the trunks, have spread widely on Sri Lankan social media, and in real life it is even moodier.
Part of the area is protected as a sanctuary, and it is a good place for birdwatching. Look out for hill country species in the canopy and along the forest edges, especially in the early morning when birds are most active.
The walking is easy to moderate. You can wander the paths around Adisham for half an hour, or turn it into a longer walk. Stage 12 of the Pekoe Trail, the long distance hiking route through Sri Lanka's tea country, ends in Haputale and passes Thangamale, the pine forest and Adisham along the way, so it is well signposted for hikers.
Go in the morning for the best mist and the best chance of birds, and wear shoes with grip, since the needles and roots can be slippery after rain. Combine the walk with Adisham, which usually opens on weekends and public holidays, and take your rubbish with you, since there are no bins in the forest.
At a glance
- Entry fee: Free
- Opening hours: Daylight hours
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
- Best time: Early morning, when the mist hangs between the trees
How to get there
Around Adisham Bungalow, about 3km from Haputale town. Take a tuk tuk to Adisham and walk from there.