Bandarawela Travel Guide: Colonial Charm & Scenic Mountain Escapes

Nestled in Sri Lanka’s misty highlands, Bandarawela offers a blend of history, nature, and tranquility.

Introduction

Perched at 1,200 meters above sea level, Bandarawela is a charming hill station known for its cool climate, colonial architecture, and breathtaking mountain views. Less crowded than Nuwara Eliya but equally picturesque, this town is perfect for travelers seeking serene hikes, ancient temples, and a glimpse of old-world Ceylon.

Top Attractions in Bandarawela

1. Dowa Rock Temple

6 km from Bandarawela (on Badulla Road)

• Ancient Marvel: Features 1st-century BC murals depicting Buddha’s life.
• Unfinished Buddha Statue: A striking 8-meter-tall rock-carved figure, left incomplete due to an ancient invasion.
• Hidden Tunnel: Local legend says it leads to Ella (partially explored).

2. Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa)

On a hill overlooking Bandarawela

• Japanese Influence: Built by Buddhist monks for world peace, offering panoramic town views.
• Unique Feature: Houses an elderly Japanese rock sculpture and vibrant prayer flags.

3. Bandarawela’s Colonial Legacy

• St. Anthony’s Church: A 19th-century Gothic-style church with stained glass.
• Old Post Office: A well-preserved British-era building.
• Tea Plantations: Visit Newburgh Estate for fresh Ceylon tea.

4. Adventure & Nature

• Pineapple Hill Hike: Moderate trail with 360-degree views of tea fields.
• Lipton’s Seat: Drive to this iconic viewpoint where tea baron Sir Thomas Lipton surveyed his empire.

Best Time to Visit

• Year-Round Destination: Cool temperatures (15–25°C).
• Dry Season (Jan–Apr, Sept–Dec): Ideal for hiking.
• Misty Season (May–Aug): Atmospheric for photography.

How to Get There

• By Train: Scenic Colombo-Badulla line (stop at Bandarawela Station).
• By Road:
  • From Colombo: 6–7 hours via A4/A16.
  • From Ella: 1-hour drive (25 km).

Local Experiences

• Market Visit: Try fresh hill-country veggies, spices, and homemade buffalo yogurt.
• Tea Tasting: Sample orange pekoe tea at local factories.
• Homestays: Stay in a colonial bungalow for an authentic experience.

Travel Tips

• Pack a Jacket: Evenings get chilly.
• Cash Needed: Many places don’t accept cards.
• Tuk-Tuk Tours: Hire one for a half-day sightseeing trip (~Rs. 2,500).

Nearby Gems

• Ella (25 km): Nine Arches Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak.
• Haputale (30 km): Adisham Monastery, Lipton’s Seat.
• Diyaluma Falls (40 km): Sri Lanka’s 2nd-tallest waterfall.

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