Things To Do
in Bandarawela
Bandarawela is a charming hill country town located in the Uva Province of Sri Lanka. It is known for its cool climate, lush green landscapes, and tea plantations. Visitors can explore the picturesque Horton Plains National Park nearby or take a scenic train ride through the stunning countryside.
Bandarawela is a peaceful retreat for those looking to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Sri Lanka's hill country.
- "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 visit to the famous Ella Rock for a refreshing hike. Enjoy the stunning views and take some photos of the picturesque landscapes.
Explore the nearby Nine Arches Bridge, known for its impressive architecture. You can also enjoy a local lunch at a nearby café.
Stroll through the charming town of Bandarawela and visit local shops. End your day with a traditional Sri Lankan dinner.
Visit the nearby Dambatenne Tea Factory to learn about the tea-making process. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea while taking in the lush surroundings.
Take a leisurely walk through the surrounding tea plantations. The serene atmosphere is perfect for capturing memorable photos.
Return to Bandarawela and unwind at a local café. Enjoy the sunset views while sipping on a hot drink.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with lush landscapes and scenic views.
- Cool and pleasant climate, making it a great escape from tropical heat.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and local crafts.
- Abundance of tea plantations, offering tours and tastings.
- Proximity to popular attractions such as Ella and Diyaluma Falls.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities for tourists.
- Public transport options may be less frequent or convenient.
- Some areas may experience power outages or unreliable utilities.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options for visitors.
- Accessibility can be challenging due to narrow and winding roads.
Best Activities in Bandarawela
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic hike to Ella Rock for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail offers a moderate challenge and rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas.
Take a trip to Lipton's Seat, a viewpoint named after Sir Thomas Lipton, which offers panoramic views of the lush tea estates and rolling hills of Bandarawela.
Embark on an adventure to Diyaluma Falls, the second highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, where you can swim in the natural pool and take in the impressive cascade.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bandarawela with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bandarawela
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and tea estates
Ancient temple with beautiful rock carvings, surrounded by scenic nature
Food in Bandarawela
Bandarawela Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These bowl-shaped pancakes are a breakfast staple, best enjoyed with coconut sambol and a runny egg. Look for them at local eateries or street food vendors.
Must-Try!
A popular street food dish made from chopped roti, vegetables, egg, and a choice of meat or seafood. You can find this savory delight at street food stalls.
A Dutch Burgher influenced meal featuring rice boiled in stock, accompanied by a selection of meat, sambol, and frikkadels. Seek out family-run restaurants for an authentic taste.
This sweet and sour eggplant pickle makes for a tangy accompaniment to rice and curry. It's a must-try, often found in local homes or at small eateries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bandarawela better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub where you can shop for fresh produce, local spices, and even enjoy some street food delights such as samosas, vadai, and fresh fruit juices.
Take a stroll along the street food stalls in Ella to savor an array of treats including roti, kebabs, kottu, and tropical fruit delicacies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bandarawela, it is important to show respect for elders by using their titles and addressing them with politeness.
When visiting religious sites or participating in cultural events, it is customary to wear modest and respectful attire, covering shoulders and knees.
Greeting others with a smile and a slight nod is common in Bandarawela, and it is polite to remove shoes when entering someone's home or a place of worship.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bandarawela with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bandarawela
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bandarawela, it is customary to tip around 10% of the bill at restaurants and cafes. Tipping hotel staff and tour guides is also appreciated.
Cash is the most widely accepted form of payment in Bandarawela. Some establishments may also accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry sufficient cash for smaller transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bandarawela.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Bandarawela with pleasant weather, clear skies, and ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing.
Expect heavy rainfall and cooler temperatures, but the surrounding lush green landscapes are breathtaking for nature enthusiasts.
Transitional period with occasional rainfall, but still suitable for travel with fewer crowds and lower rates on accommodations.
Bandarawela at Night
Hiking in Bandarawela
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trek is moderately challenging and takes about 2-3 hours to reach the summit.
An easy hike suitable for all levels. The trail leads to a peak that provides panoramic views of Ella and the surrounding countryside. The hike generally takes about 1-2 hours.
A UNESCO World Heritage site that features a range of trails through beautiful landscapes, including the famous World's End viewpoint. The hikes here vary in length and difficulty.
Trekking to the highest waterfall in Sri Lanka involves a scenic hike that can lead you through lush forests and tea plantations, providing an exhilarating experience.
Home to diverse flora and fauna, this area offers a range of hiking trails from easy treks to challenging routes, ideal for adventurers looking for exploration and stunning vistas.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bandarawela through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Bandarawela by plane.
Located approximately 220 km from Bandarawela, this is the main international airport in Sri Lanka, serving all major global destinations.
Located about 150 km from Bandarawela, this is the second international airport in Sri Lanka, primarily serving the southern region.
Located approximately 220 km from Bandarawela, it is another name used to refer to Bandaranaike International Airport which is situated near Colombo.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Sri Lanka, predominantly Buddhist, and mainly residing in the central and southern regions including Bandarawela.
The second-largest ethnic group in Sri Lanka, primarily Hindu, with a significant presence in the Northern and Eastern regions, and a smaller population in Bandarawela.
A minority ethnic group in Sri Lanka, primarily practicing Islam, with communities present throughout the island including Bandarawela.
A small community of mixed European descent, mainly of Dutch and Portuguese ancestry, historically present in various parts of Sri Lanka including Bandarawela.
Includes various other smaller communities such as Malays, Indigenous Veddah people, and others, contributing to the cultural diversity in Bandarawela.
The Soul of Bandarawela
Discover the essence of Bandarawela through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Bandarawela, with numerous local teams and matches being held regularly.
Rugby has a strong following in Bandarawela, with schools and clubs promoting the sport among youth.
Football is widely played in Bandarawela, with many local leagues and informal games taking place in neighborhoods.
Athletics, including track and field events, is popular in schools and among athletic clubs in the area.
Badminton is a favored sport for indoor recreation in Bandarawela, enjoyed by both young and old.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bandarawela.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Sri Lankan cuisine traditionally includes a variety of vegetarian dishes, it's important to specify that you don't eat meat or dairy. Many restaurants and cafes, especially in tourist areas, are familiar with catering to vegetarian and vegan diets.
Locally, rice-based dishes can often serve as gluten-free options. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly and inquire about the ingredients when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bandarawela with these cultural adventures.
