Adisham Hall, Tudor and Jacobean monastery in Haputale, Sri Lanka
Adisham Hall is a Tudor and Jacobean-style country house situated at 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) elevation in Haputale's mountain landscape, distinguished by stone walls, Burma teak shingles, and expansive gardens. The architecture blends European design elements with the surrounding peaks of Hakgala and Piduruthalagala mountains.
Sir Thomas Villiers, grandson of Lord John Russell, built this estate between 1927 and 1931 while serving as chairman of the George Steuart Company. It later became a Benedictine monastery, serving as a home for the resident monks since 1961.
The resident monks shape daily life here through their prayers, agricultural work, and craftsmanship, creating a living rhythm within the buildings and grounds. Visitors can observe how these monastic routines continue in the spaces and gardens throughout the estate.
Visitors should prepare for a mountain location requiring walking across the grounds, so sturdy footwear and weatherproof clothing are helpful. The site has limited opening hours, so checking ahead and allowing time to explore the gardens and buildings is wise.
The chapel holds a religious relic that reflects the site's spiritual importance to its community. The surrounding estate borders a protected nature reserve, preserving the rural and wild character of the region.
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