Joanna James
If you are heading to idyllic Bandarawela in Sri Lanka, you can look forward to plenty of adventures against backdrops of stunning mountain ranges. Apart from attractions in Bandarawela itself, you will also find other sites of interest within easy reach, each providing captivating experiences.
Offering some of the best panoramas in the region, this viewpoint is named after Sir Thomas Lipton, a famed tea planter who is synonymous with Ceylon Tea; it is said that he used to come to this very spot to survey the surrounding areas and tea plantations. An ideal place for excursions from Bandarawela, this site can be found in the hills of Poonagala and can be accessed via a hike of approximately 7 km amidst views of charming tea plantations.
When planning your sightseeing itinerary and the various places to visit in Bandarawela, do not forget to include visits to nearby waterfalls including the well-known Rawana Ella or Rawana Falls. Reaching a height of around 25 metres, this idyllic waterfall is particularly breathtaking during the wet season when the water cascades down at full force. Featuring three-tiers which create some lovely rock pools, the falls is named after and linked with tales of King Ravana from the Indian epic, Ramayana.
Locally known as the Dowa Rajamaha Viharaya, this ancient site offers fascinating insights into the country's rich heritage. Located within a 15-minute drive from properties such as Bandarawela Hotel, this temple is believed to be more than 2,000 years old and features intricate sculptures on the rock. At the entrance, one will find a sizable ornamental gateway and within the site, there is a stupa, Bo tree and an Image House inside a cave. Amongst the other highlights here are the 38 foot (incomplete) statue of Lord Buddha and the paintings in the shrine room.
Bandarawela's close proximity to attractions in Ella means that travellers can easily access many of these sites of interest including Little Adam's Peak. If you love hiking this spot is well worth heading to; within easy reach of Ella town, this peak is around 1,141 metres in height and the journey to the top will take approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Part of the experience is to enjoy the surrounding landscapes including charming tea estates where you may sometimes see traditional tea pluckers in action. Of course, your reward awaits at the summit with spellbinding vistas that will take your breath away.
Nature lovers and those who love all things floral can plan an excursion to the Hakgala Botanical Garden which is one of the most beautiful in the island. Another site that is linked with tales of King Ravana, this attraction is amongst the best places to view exquisite orchids and roses as well as other flowers especially from April to August. The enchanting garden landscapes include diverse themed sections such as the Rose Garden, Spice Garden, Orchid House and Rock Garden along with wooded areas with flora from countries such as America, Australia and Japan.
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