Things To Do
in Badulla
Badulla is a picturesque town located in the Uva Province of Sri Lanka. It is surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful mountains, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers. The town is known for its cool climate and vibrant local markets offering fresh produce and traditional handicrafts.
Visitors can also explore historical sites such as the Muthiyangana Raja Maha Viharaya, a Buddhist temple dating back to ancient times.
- "Ayubowan" - Hello
- "Suba dawasak" - Good day
- "Aparada" - Sorry
- "Hondai" - Good
- "Bohoma istuti" - Thank you very much
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike at Ella Rock, soaking in the stunning views of the lush tea plantations. Be sure to pack water and snacks for the trail.
Visit the Nine Arches Bridge, an iconic railway bridge surrounded by greenery. Capture some memorable photos and enjoy a picnic in the nearby area.
Head to the local market for an authentic Sri Lankan dinner. Taste traditional dishes like rice and curry while mingling with the locals.
Begin with a visit to the famous Dowa Rock Temple, known for its beautiful Buddha carvings. Spend time exploring the ancient cave temples.
Explore the ancient city of Badulla and visit the historic Uva-Wellassa Museum. Learn about the region's rich history and culture.
Enjoy the sunset views from the Badulla clock tower. Afterward, find a cozy café to sip on local tea and relax.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and tea plantations
- Pleasant climate, cool and refreshing compared to other regions
- Rich cultural heritage with various temples and historical sites
- Friendly local community and vibrant traditional markets
- Opportunities for hiking and exploring nature, such as Horton Plains National Park
- Limited infrastructure and public transport options
- Economic challenges and lower employment opportunities compared to urban areas
- Occasional heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans
- Less access to modern amenities and services
- Possible language barrier for non-Sinhala speakers
Best Activities in Badulla
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Embark on a scenic and challenging hike through the Namunukula mountain range, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Explore the impressive Dunhinda Falls and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings, making it a perfect place for outdoor excursions.
Enjoy a trek to the picturesque Ravana Ella Falls, combining adventure with natural beauty for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Take a leisurely walk in the charming Badulla town, discovering local markets, historical sites, and cultural insights of the region.
Tours
Uncover the best of Badulla with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Badulla
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and tea estates.
Features a 38-foot Buddha statue and scenic hillside views.
Popular for its picturesque location amidst tea estates and misty mountains.
A stunning waterfall with a great vantage point for photos.
Provides a bird's eye view of the lush greenery and rolling hills of Badulla.
Food in Badulla
Badulla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These bowl-shaped pancakes made from rice flour and coconut milk are a must-try. They are typically served with a range of savory accompaniments such as dhal, coconut sambol, and spicy chutneys. Visit Ada Labanagama in Badulla town for authentic hoppers.
Must-Try!
A popular street food dish made from chopped roti (flatbread), vegetables, egg, and a choice of meat or seafood, all stir-fried with a blend of spices. Look for street vendors or small eateries for delicious kottu roti.
Pittu is a cylindrical-shaped steamed rice flour dish often served with coconut milk and a side of spicy curries. Head to Bibile for some of the best pittu.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Badulla better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Badulla Municipal Market to discover an array of fresh produce, exotic spices, and local snacks. You'll find numerous street food stalls offering treats like samosas, vadai, and fresh fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Badulla, it is important to show respect to elders and authority figures. This can be demonstrated through using formal language and gestures of deference.
It is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees.
When entering someone's home, temple, or certain other buildings, it is customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Badulla with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Badulla
Ensure a smooth experience
In Badulla, Sri Lanka, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. It is customary to tip around 5-10% of the bill in restaurants, and rounding up the fare for taxi drivers is also common.
Cash is the predominant form of payment in Badulla, Sri Lanka. Credit cards may be accepted in some hotels, larger restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for most transactions. ATMs are available in the town center for withdrawing cash.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Badulla.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with pleasant weather, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures
Rainy season with higher chance of precipitation and lusher vegetation
Badulla at Night
Hiking in Badulla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination near Ella, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The hike is moderately challenging and takes about 2-3 hours to complete.
A relatively easy hike in Ella, suitable for beginners. It provides stunning panoramic views and is known for its beautiful landscapes.
Located a bit further from Badulla, this national park features the famous World's End cliff. The hike is about 9 km round trip, with unique flora and fauna along the path.
A shorter hike that leads to a picturesque waterfall. The trail offers scenic views and is a great spot for photography.
A hiking trail that leads to a waterfall, which is associated with the legend of Sita from the Ramayana. The area is serene and beautiful.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Badulla through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Badulla by plane.
Main international airport in Sri Lanka, located in Katunayake, about 250 kilometers from Badulla.
International airport located in Mattala, approximately 200 kilometers from Badulla.
Another name for Bandaranaike International Airport, serving international flights and located in Colombo.
Small international airport located in Koggala, around 190 kilometers away from Badulla.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Badulla, prevalent in various socio-economic activities.
A significant ethnic minority in the region, primarily involved in trade and agriculture.
A smaller but important ethnic group, engaged in commerce and various services.
A small community of mixed European ancestry, historically involved in trade and administration.
This includes ethnic groups such as the indigenous Veddas and others who reside in the area.
The Soul of Badulla
Discover the essence of Badulla through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Badulla, enjoyed by people of all ages. Local clubs often participate in tournaments, and it plays a significant role in community activities.
Football has a growing following in Badulla, with various local teams competing. The sport attracts many young players and spectators, especially during local tournaments.
Volleyball is extensively played in schools and communities across Badulla. The sport is popular for its simplicity and is often played on the beach or in open areas.
Basketball is emerging as a favored sport among the youth in Badulla, with several schools and local parks providing facilities for practice and games.
Athletics is promoted through schools and local competitions in Badulla. Running events, including marathons and relays, are popular and foster community participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Badulla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Sri Lankan cuisine features a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, it's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly when dining at local eateries. Many restaurants and cafes in Badulla offer specific vegetarian and vegan choices, including lentil curries, coconut sambol, and vegetable roti.
Individuals seeking gluten-free options can enjoy dishes like string hoppers (idiyappam), fish curry, and fresh fruit in Badulla. However, it's recommended to inquire about food preparation methods and potential cross-contamination when ordering gluten-free meals.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Badulla with these cultural adventures.
