Places to Visit In and Around Bandarawela – Stunning Sights for the Discerning Visitor

If you love nature you should undoubtedly take the opportunity to visit the picturesque Ravana Ella Falls. Sri Lanka's beautiful hill country is renowned for its striking waterfalls and Ravana Ella may be identified as one of the outstanding ones. Also having the distinction of being one of the broadest falls in the nation, Ravana Ella measures about 25 m in height and cascades from a distinctively shaped rocky outcrop. In the wet season, this waterfall comes into its full glory, resembling an areca flower in full bloom. These falls have been named in reference to Ravana, the demon king of the Hindu epic Ramayana.

Your sightseeing tour of the area would not be complete without planning an excursion from your Bandarawela hotel to the Adisham Bungalow. This attraction is a lavish country mansion that was constructed in the year 1931 by a planter and aristocrat from England, Sir Thomas Villiers. Presently this building is used as a monastery but may be visited by sightseers. You will find that Adisham Bungalow has been beautifully preserved with its furniture and fittings, making an appealing sight that will remain in the memory of the viewer. This mansion is situated amongst picturesque surroundings with mountain ranges to be seen in the background.

This well-known attraction is a lofty observation site that is located amidst scenic hills. This stunning viewpoint is situated surmounting Poonagala Hill amidst attractive surroundings. This viewpoint earns its name due to the fact that Sir Thomas Lipton, the well-known tea planter and Scottish baron, used to survey his vast possessions from this location. From the renowned Lipton's Seat, you will have the opportunity to enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the picturesque surroundings stretching into the distance. Those who desire an even more amazing view and avid photographers may choose to visit the spot in the early morning hours before the break of dawn and observe the changes in colour with the rising of the sun.

If you enjoy visiting religious attractions you should undoubtedly take the opportunity to visit the intriguing Dowa Raja Maha Viharaya. This cultural site is believed to have been constructed by order of the well-known monarch Walagamba in the ancient past of Sri Lanka. This temple is probably best known for the impressive but incomplete Buddha image that has been carved into the rock. The massive boulder that contains the statue also features a little stupa that will catch the eye of the visitor. At this site, you will also find a cave that contains images of the Buddha and vibrantly coloured murals. A choice of accommodation to consider from which this attraction would be within easy reach would be Bandarawela Hotel, amongst other pleasingly located properties in the area.

The famous Nine Arch Bridge is another engrossing attraction that you will find amongst the rocky hills of Sri Lanka's central highlands. This bridge which dates to 1921 is thought to have been constructed entirely from rock, brick and cement so that not a single segment of steel was used in its construction. Historical records suggest that this bridge was built in this manner by the local residents after World War I caused a shortage of steel. Many interesting folktales are also recounted with regard to this well-known bridge which attracts numerous sightseers even today.