Joanna James
The chilly climes of Bandarawela and its surroundings are home to a number of waterfalls; these cascade from the verdant mountain tops to flow across lush tea estates in misty white sprays.
Many visitors travel to Bandarawela for the chilly weather and beautiful scenery. The city centre is a riot of colour and hustle and bustle while the winding roads are framed by beautiful mountainsides and sheer drops that display lush valleys at the base. Bandarawela hotels are a reflection of this serene beauty boasting beautiful gardens and lovely confines. On the rare occasion, you do tend to tear yourself away from the comforts of these abodes such as the Bandarawela hotel, consider a trip to beautiful Dunhinda Falls. The falls are in the Badulla Districts and just over 30kms from the Bandarawela city centre. The gorgeous falls fan out from the summit of the mountains to emulate a lacy white bridal veil. It is found about 1 km inland from the Badulla – Mahiyangana main road which is a spot just 5kms from Badulla town. The falls are an impressive 210 feet high and start around the Bandarawela and Welimada region; originating from Hal Oya and Uma Oya – rivers located there.
This is the country's second highest waterfall. This too is located in the Badulla district quite close to the Bandarawela city centre and any Bandarawela resort you may be staying at. Tours to these attractions will probably be organised by your accommodation provider, so do make inquiries. The Diyaluma falls are accessible about 6 km from the town of Koslanda which is located along the Beragala – Wellawaya Road or the route from Bandarawela along the Poonagala Road. The latter comes highly recommended for all lovers of nature as it passes across verdant environs, including beautiful tea estates and colourful mountain tops.
Steeped in ancient mythology this impressive and iconic waterfall is a real crowd puller. Visiting just after the rainy season will reward you with sights of the silvery falls cascading fiercely along the boulder strewn path. This too belongs to the Badulla district and is founded along the Bandarawela – Wellawaya Road. It's located 11kms from Bandarwela and is also called Ravana Ella. The falls which are 82 feet in height spill over a rocky outcrop atop a mountain. The source of the falls is the Bandarawela Hill Oya; the falls belong to the Ravana Ella Wildlife Sanctuary and eventually flow to the Kirinda Oya.
The Ravana Caves are located behind the falls and when water levels are low the cave entrance is thought to be accessible. According to ancient legend, Sri Lankan King Ravana hid the beautiful Princess Sitha in these caves; after he abducted her from her home in India. The cave at that time is believed to have been shrouded in a thick forest cover; there is a pool at its base which is said to have been the bathing spot for Princess Sitha.
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