Henri
Tipped to be one of Sri Lanka's best kept secrets, the cool hilly terrains of Bandarawela serve as a pristine holiday hub for vacationers. Here are some of the top things to do when in Bandarawela.
Often described as one of the most memorable experiences visitors can enjoy a vacation in Bandarawela a tour of the iconic Halpewatte Tea Factory is a must for all first-time visitors to the area. Having been a fixture in the town's tea manufacturing industry since it was set up in 1940 the Halpewatte Tea Factory has served as a well-known tea hub well after the end of colonial rule in the city. Located at an altitude of 1230m the factory is open to visitors who wish to understand the finer points of tea making. A tour of the factory not only offers visitors an in-depth look at the process manufacturing high-quality Ceylon tea but also the various stages of tea cultivation and the conditions necessary for producing a steaming cuppa. Those who take part in the tour can not only sample a cup of freshly made tea after the tour but also pick up tea boxes as gifts or keepsakes.
Dating back over 2000 years the Dowa Temple is a one of a kind religious institution and a historic site all rolled into one. Believed to have been constructed prior to the birth of Christ the Dowa Temple was first known as the Kumbaltissa Ariyagala Vehera and is reputed to have served as the shelter of King Valagamba's troops during the battle to regain the throne. The rock temple also contains a tunnel hewn inside the rock's base and this is the area which is known to have provided refuge for the army. Contained within massive rock the chief attraction within the temple is of course its 38 foot tall Buddha sculpture while exquisite murals believed to have been painted in the 1st century BC also adorns the surrounding walls of the alter.
Also known as the Adisham Monastery of St. Benedict this iconic establishment is a must visit highlight for those based in Bandarawela. Built as early as 1931 a tour of this stunning property which served as the home of Sir Thomas Villiers, a colonial tea planter and aristocrat provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the structure's history and inherent beauty. Sprawled across 10 acres the Jacobean and Tudor architectural style bungalow features not only its own monastery but also a religious relic belonging to St. Sylvester within its homely chapel. Surrounded by a lush garden abloom with vibrant flowers visitors can also purchase marmalade, jams and jellies produced on the property using fresh ingredients from the area. Those staying at the Bandarawela Hotel will have easy access to the bungalow.
Hiking enthusiasts should not miss the chance to hike up Ella Rock to enjoy the panoramic views available from the summit. Beginning in Bandarawela the hike takes nearly four hours to complete. Visitors can hire the services of a trekking guide or hike up the rock with the aid of other climbers. Passing by verdant forest landscapes visitors will come across lush greenery and other sights during their ascent. Don't forget to take refreshments as the climb takes a minimum of four hours.
Shutterbugs and trekkers should also visit Bandarawela's other hiking hotspot, dubbed Little Adams Peak. Considered the small scale version of Sri Pada or Adam's Peak which contains Lord Buddha's footprint the views from the top of this scenic mountain is no less impressive. An impressive 1141m tall the mountain offers a hiking trail that cuts across picturesque waterfalls, tea plantations as well as rice cultivation fields. Visitors based in Bandarawela hotels and resorts close to Little Adams Peak can book a hiking excursion through the hotel.
