Bandarawela Sri Lanka – A Peaceful Hill Country Escape | Best Travel Guide
Discover the charm of Bandarawela Sri Lanka — a tranquil hill country town surrounded by tea plantations, waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain views. Perfect guide for your next Sri Lanka adventure.
Bandarawela Sri Lanka – A Peaceful Hill Country Escape
Nestled in the misty hills of Sri Lanka’s Uva Province, Bandarawela Sri Lanka is a charming little town that perfectly blends natural beauty, cool climate, and colonial charm. Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor Ella, Bandarawela offers a quieter, more authentic hill-country experience for travelers seeking peace and breathtaking scenery.
This picturesque town sits about 1,230 meters above sea level, making it one of the coolest places to visit in Sri Lanka. The gentle mountain air, green tea estates, and warm hospitality make Bandarawela a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Sri Lanka’s hill country.
A Town Steeped in Colonial History
Bandarawela has a rich colonial past dating back to the British era. The British, attracted by the pleasant climate, developed it as a hill station. Many colonial bungalows and churches still stand today, adding a nostalgic charm to the town. The Bandarawela Hotel, built during the British period, remains one of the most iconic landmarks — offering guests a glimpse into old-world elegance and history.
Walking around the town, you’ll notice red-roofed buildings, flower gardens, and tea planters’ estates that speak of a bygone era. The relaxed pace of life and scenic surroundings make it an ideal stop for anyone traveling through Sri Lanka’s hill country.
Top Attractions in Bandarawela Sri Lanka
Despite its small size, Bandarawela offers a variety of natural and cultural attractions that delight every traveler. Here are some must-visit spots:
1. Dowa Rock Temple (Dowa Raja Maha Viharaya)
Located just 6 km from Bandarawela town, the Dowa Rock Temple is one of the area’s most important Buddhist sites. This ancient temple, believed to be over 2,000 years old, features a magnificent 38-foot rock-cut Buddha statue and intricate murals. The temple is said to have been built during the reign of King Valagamba, who used the area as a refuge.
The serene setting and spiritual ambiance make Dowa Rock Temple a memorable stop for cultural travelers.
2. Lipton’s Seat
Just a short drive from Bandarawela lies Lipton’s Seat, one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Sri Lanka. Named after Sir Thomas Lipton, the Scottish tea magnate, this viewpoint offers panoramic views of tea-covered hills, valleys, and distant mountain ranges. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the southern coast of Sri Lanka!
The journey to Lipton’s Seat takes you through the lush Dambatenne Tea Estate, where you can also visit the tea factory to learn about the tea-making process and sample freshly brewed Ceylon tea.
3. Diyaluma Falls
Just 25 km from Bandarawela is Diyaluma Falls, Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall at 220 meters. The waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff into natural infinity pools, creating a mesmerizing sight. The top of the falls is a popular spot for swimming and photography, especially at sunset when the light hits the mist beautifully.
It’s an ideal place for adventure lovers and nature photographers exploring the Bandarawela region.
4. Adisham Bungalow
A short drive from Bandarawela, near Haputale, lies Adisham Bungalow — a stunning English-style mansion surrounded by pine forests and flower gardens. Built in the 1930s by a British planter, it now serves as a Benedictine monastery. Visitors can explore the house, admire its architecture, and enjoy homemade jams and fruit preserves made by the monks.
5. St. Anthony’s Church
For those interested in colonial architecture, St. Anthony’s Church in Bandarawela is a must-see. The church, built during the British era, stands as a peaceful landmark that reflects the town’s multicultural heritage and religious harmony.
Things to Do in Bandarawela
Beyond sightseeing, Bandarawela offers plenty of activities that immerse you in local culture and nature:
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Tea Estate Tours: Visit nearby tea estates like Dambatenne or Uva Highlands to learn how world-famous Ceylon tea is grown and processed.
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Hiking and Nature Walks: Enjoy scenic hikes through tea gardens and forest trails. The walk from Bandarawela to Ella through railway tunnels and mountain paths is particularly popular among travelers.
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Photography: With misty hills, waterfalls, and colonial buildings, Bandarawela is a paradise for photographers.
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Local Markets: Visit the Bandarawela town market to experience local life, buy fresh produce, and try Sri Lankan street food.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
The climate in Bandarawela Sri Lanka is mild and pleasant throughout the year. Temperatures range between 15°C and 25°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and hiking.
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Best time to visit: December to April (dry and sunny weather)
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Rainy season: May to September (occasional showers add freshness to the landscape)
How to Reach Bandarawela Sri Lanka
By Train:
The train journey from Kandy, Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya), or Ella to Bandarawela is one of the most scenic train rides in the world. The route passes through lush green tea estates, misty forests, and mountain tunnels, offering breathtaking views.
By Car or Taxi:
You can easily reach Bandarawela by road from Colombo (about 6 hours) or from Ella (15 minutes). Hiring a private car or taxi allows you to explore nearby attractions at your own pace.
By Bus:
Regular buses connect Bandarawela with other major towns such as Badulla, Haputale, and Nuwara Eliya.
Accommodation in Bandarawela
Bandarawela offers a variety of accommodation options for every traveler:
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Luxury Hotels: Bandarawela Hotel, Orient Hotel
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Boutique Guesthouses: Leisure Mount View Holiday Inn, Mount Field Cottages
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Budget Stays: Small homestays and eco-lodges for budget travelers
Many of these accommodations provide beautiful mountain views and traditional Sri Lankan meals prepared with local ingredients.
Why Visit Bandarawela Sri Lanka?
If you’re looking for a peaceful and authentic hill country experience, Bandarawela Sri Lanka is the perfect destination. Unlike the busier towns, Bandarawela lets you slow down, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and connect with nature and culture at your own pace.
Whether you’re hiking to waterfalls, sipping tea on a hillside, or exploring ancient temples, Bandarawela offers unforgettable memories and timeless beauty.
Bandarawela Sri Lanka is not just a stop between Ella and Haputale — it’s a destination of its own. With its cool climate, scenic beauty, colonial charm, and friendly locals, it deserves a spot on every traveler’s Sri Lankan itinerary.
Experience the soul of Sri Lanka’s hill country — calm, refreshing, and endlessly beautiful — in Bandarawela.
