Planning to visit Sri Lanka? Here are the 5 places to visit in Bandarawela.
Bandarawela is a charming town in the Uva Province of Sri Lanka. It is surrounded by stunning landscapes and thus, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Sri Lanka is not only a diverse country culturally or spiritually, but is has been blessed with a lot of natural beauty as well.
Bandarawela is one of the places where you can spot nature in its truest form in Sri Lanka. This article covers 5 such places that offer the best natural views of this country.
Ellatota Ella Waterfall
Ellatota Ella Waterfall is one of the hidden gems in the Bandarawela area. Situated away in a serene environment, this waterfall offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of town life. The crystal-clear waters cascading over rocky formations are the perfect place to enjoy a nature walk, a picnic, or simply sit back and appreciate the beauty of Sri Lanka’s wilderness.
You can also explore the nearby lush greenery, where you might catch glimpses of the local flora and fauna. The sound of the waterfall combined with the surrounding forest atmosphere creates a tranquil setting, making Ellatota Ella Waterfall a great spot for relaxation and photography.
You will have to hike around the area and some of the trails are a little challenging. So, we suggest you wear comfortable shoes and don’t carry a lot of stuff on the way.
Horton Plains National Park
Located a short drive from Bandarawela, Horton Plains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most biodiverse areas in Sri Lanka. The park features rolling grasslands, cloud forests, and dramatic cliffs.
The major highlight of the park is the famous World’s End, a drop that provides panoramic views of the surrounding plains and distant mountains. Horton Plains is also home to several endemic species of plants and animals, including the Sambar deer and purple-faced langur.
If you enjoy hiking, this park offers trek alongside breathtaking scenery, with Baker’s Falls being another attraction within the park. For the best views and a comfortable hiking experience, it is better to start your hike early in the morning. This way you can avoid mist that covers the landscape by mid-morning. Also, the atmosphere is cool enough to keep you relaxed while you hike.
The visiting hours are from 6 am to 4 pm only. You will have to purchase an entry ticket for this visit. The ticket for World’s End needs to be purchased separately. If you want to book a national park, that will be another cost. Also, the prices for Sri Lankan nationals and other foreigners are different.
Make sure to purchase the tickets online and in advance. This will save you enough time, and will keep you prepared for further plans.
Nine Arches Bridge
If you are in Sri Lanka, there is no chance to miss visiting the Nine Arches Bridge. Though it is technically in Ella, it is close enough to Bandarawela to be included in your itinerary. This architectural marvel is an iconic symbol of Sri Lanka’s colonial-era railway system.
The bridge is constructed entirely out of stone and bricks without the use of steel. It stretches over a lush valley surrounded by tea plantations. You can walk along the tracks and explore the surrounding area.
If possible, pre-plan your visit to witness one of Sri Lanka’s famous blue trains passing over the bridge, offering a perfect opportunity for photos. The surrounding greenery and panoramic views make it a favorite spot for both tourists and locals. You will have several viewpoints nearby where you can enjoy a different perspective of the bridge.
Porawagala Viewpoint
Porawagala Viewpoint offers one of the best vantage points in Bandarawela, providing sweeping views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and tea estates. It is a quiet spot where you can soak in the natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s highlands.
When the sky is clear, you can see for miles, with the mist-covered hills creating a dreamlike landscape. This viewpoint is ideal for photography enthusiasts who want to capture the beauty of Bandarawela’s natural surroundings.
Whether you are visiting during sunrise or sunset, the changing colors of the sky add to the overall allure of this location. Mornings and evenings here are quite chilly, hence, make sure to carry a jacket with you.
Lipton’s Seat
Named after the famous tea baron Sir Thomas Lipton, Lipton’s Seat is a historic viewpoint offering some of the most breathtaking views in the region. It was here that Lipton would sit and admire the vast expanses of his tea plantations, and today, it remains one of the most scenic spots in Sri Lanka.
To reach Lipton’s Seat, you can take a tuk-tuk or opt for a hike through the lush tea plantations. The panoramic views stretch across miles of rolling hills, tea estates, and distant mountains. Along the way, you can stop at the Dambatenne Tea Factory to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea.
Well, there is another hike. And this time, it is going to be a real challenge. You will have to hike a bit more to reach your destination, i.e., Lipton’s Seat. Ensure you have your water bottle, some snacks, and wear comfortable shoes. Again, it is better not to carry unnecessary baggage.
Conclusion
These were the 5 places to visit in Bandarawela. All of these showcase the beauty and diversity of Bandarawela and its surroundings, making it a perfect destination for those looking to experience Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural heritage.
Whether you’re a fan of waterfalls, hiking, or simply enjoying a scenic drive, Bandarawela has something to offer for every traveler. One of the best things about natural places is that people of any age group can visit here. You only have to be careful of the hikes. Apart from that, you are completely sorted for this trip.
Contact Ceylon Empire Travels to visit Bandarawela.
Editorial Staff at Ceylon Empire Travels are Specialist in Sri Lanka Travel.
