Badulla District, located in Sri Lanka’s Uva Province, is known for its scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and eco-tourism opportunities. Here are the most important travel and tourism facts about Badulla District:
1. Major Tourist Attractions
- Dunhinda Falls – One of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful waterfalls, located near Badulla town.
- Rawana Falls – A scenic waterfall associated with the legend of King Ravana, near Ella.
- Ella – A popular hill country town with attractions like Nine Arches Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak, and Ella Rock.
- Bogoda Wooden Bridge – A 16th-century bridge made entirely of wood, with no nails used in its construction.
- Muthiyangana Raja Maha Viharaya – An ancient Buddhist temple in Badulla, believed to have been visited by Lord Buddha.
- Dowa Rock Temple – A historic cave temple with a large Buddha statue carved into a rock.
2. Adventure and Eco-Tourism
- Hiking & Trekking – Ella Rock, Little Adam’s Peak, and Namunukula Mountain are famous for trekking.
- Train Journey – The scenic train ride from Kandy to Badulla is considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.
- Tea Plantations – The region is home to lush tea estates, offering tea factory visits and tastings.
3. Climate and Best Time to Visit
- Cool Climate – Due to its high elevation, Badulla has a mild and pleasant climate.
- Best Time to Visit – December to March offers the best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
4. Cultural and Historical Significance
- Kandyan Influence – Many historical sites are linked to the Kandyan Kingdom.
- Colonial Heritage – The district has British-era railway stations, bridges, and tea estates.
5. Transportation & Accessibility
- By Train – The famous upcountry train journey passes through Badulla.
- By Road – Accessible from Colombo via Kandy or through Bandarawela and Ella.