Lankagama: The Hidden Paradise of Sinharaja

 

Lankagama:   The Hidden Paradise of Sinharaja

Location and Significance

The Village: This beautiful village is situated on the border of the world-heritage Sinharaja Rain Forest, within the Neluwa DivisionalSecretariat Division of the Galle District in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. 

Boundaries: 

Bordered by the Sinharaja Reserve to the north and the Dellawa Reserve to the south, Lankagama serves as a major gateway to the Sinharaja Forest. 

Biodiversity:

Due to its proximity to the Sinharaja Reserve, the area boasts high biodiversity. Visitors can observe several animal and plant species endemic to Sri Lanka, as well as highly rare species of butterflies, birds, and frogs. 

The Legend Behind the Name:

There is an interesting folklore among the villagers regarding how the village got its name. Even when the entire country fell under British rule, this area—surrounded by the dense jungle of Sinharaja—could not be discovered by the British. As a result, the village was named "Lankagama" (meaning the village of Lanka). 

How to Get There

Route from Colombo: If you are traveling by a private vehicle from Colombo, you can take the Southern Expressway, exit from the Welipenna or Pinnaduwa interchange, and reach Lankagama via Pelawatta and Neluwa. 

Road Conditions: This is the easiest route to reach Lankagama. Although the village was known as a remote and difficult area in the past, the roads have been well-constructed and developed in recent times.

Places to Visit in Lankagama

Lankagama is the ideal destination if you want to experience the coolness of a rainforest and the beauty of a series of waterfalls in the same area. The most attractive feature for visitors is the cluster of five waterfalls located within a very short distance of each other: 

Brahmana Ella:

This is the main and tallest waterfall in Lankagama. It can be seen right by the roadside as you enter the village. 

Duwili Ella:

One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Lankagama. It gets its name because the water sprays out in the form of a dust cloud ("Duwili"). (Note: There is another waterfall named "Kosmulla Duwili Ella" located in the Kosmulla village, about 6km along the road from Neluwa to Lankagama. Many tourists confuse these two distinct waterfalls as being the same ). 

Thattu Ella:

This waterfall is named "Thattu Ella" (Layered/Tiered Falls) because it cascades down in the shape of a flight of stairs. 

Uran Watunu Ella  

Gal Oruwa Ella:

A waterfall that cascades down in the shape of a boat ("Oruwa") between two narrow rock boulders. 

Other Attractions:

Gin Ganga: The Gin Ganga River, which originates from the Sinharaja Reserve, flows gracefully through this beautiful village. 

Sangili Palama (Suspension Bridge):

Also known as the hanging bridge, this is built across the Gin Ganga. It is an excellent spot for taking beautiful photographs. Walking across the bridge as it gently sways from side to side is a highly enjoyable experience for tourists. 

Important Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit:

The ideal period to visit Lankagama is from January to March, when rainfall is relatively low. The dry season is the safest time to bathe in these waterfalls. 

Monsoon Warning:

From May to September, heavy rains brought by the Southwest Monsoon cause the water levels in the rivers and waterfalls to rise significantly. Bathing during this period can be dangerous, and the increased leech population during the rainy season can also disrupt your travel plans. 

Leeches and Environment:

Since Lankagama is a rainforest area, leeches are abundant, so visitors need to be mindful of them. Furthermore, it is important to enjoy the beauty of this environment while ensuring its protection. 

Local Delicacies:

Lankagama is highly famous for authentic Kithul jaggery and Kithul treacle. Visitors have the opportunity to visit a local village home, enjoy a piece of warm, freshly made jaggery, and taste a cup of plain black tea (Kahata). You can also purchase genuine Sinharaja Kithul treacle.

Accommodation in Lankagama

Most of the accommodations here are designed to be eco-friendly. It is highly recommended to book your stay in advance. Notable places include: 

Sinharaja Eco Lodge:

 Located near the Sinharaja Neluwa entrance, this is a beautiful place designed without harming the natural environment, allowing guests to fully enjoy the beauty of the Sinharaja forest and the Gin Ganga. 

Mist of Sinharaja:

A unique cottage-style accommodation built using containers and wood, located on the road leading from Neluwa to Lankagama. 

360 Rainforest:

A luxury accommodation option that is highly popular even among foreign tourists.

Seenigama: The Blessed Abode of Lord Devol

 

Seenigama:   The Blessed Abode of Lord Devol

Seenigama is a place steeped in miracles, located very close to the coastal town of Hikkaduwa in the Galle District of Sri Lanka. What makes this sacred site truly unique is that, apart from the shrine on the mainland, the main temple is situated just offshore on a small island in the middle of the ocean. Devotees must take a boat service to reach it. Dedicated to Lord Devol, this temple holds a profound place of faith among the people of the southern coast, especially the fishing community. 

Seenigama is located about 2 km away from the Hikkaduwa beach enclave in southern Sri Lanka. Right next to the shrine, you can witness a remarkably serene and beautiful stretch of beach. 

What Makes It Special?

If you are traveling along the main Colombo-Galle road, you can easily spot this sacred ground. In fact, anyone journeying down this road rarely forgets to drop a coin into the till box here to invoke blessings for a safe journey. 

The Seenigama temple is famous not just for seeking divine blessings, but as a sanctuary where people seek justice and retribution against unfairness and wrongdoing. Devotees who have faced injustice visit this shrine to pray for divine retribution against those who wronged them. To do this, they take a boat to the island temple and perform traditional rituals, such as grinding chili on a designated ritual stone or smashing coconuts. 

The miraculous power of this site was clearly demonstrated during the devastating 2004 Tsunami. While the entire surrounding area suffered severe damage, the island temple building remained completely untouched by the waves. Notably, the site of the tragic tsunami train disaster is located just 1 km away from this shrine. 

How Seenigama Got Its Name

According to one legend, when Lord Devol stepped ashore from the ocean, the grains of sand on the beach miraculously turned into sugar (Seeni in Sinhala), leading the area to be called Seenigama. 

Another historical perspective suggests that Chinese merchants frequently gathered here in ancient times, earning it the name Chinagama (Chinese village), which eventually evolved into Seenigama. 

How to Get to Seenigama

By Private Vehicle: If you are driving, exit the Southern Expressway at the Baddegama Interchange, head towards Hikkaduwa, and then travel about 2 km from Hikkaduwa back towards Colombo. It takes about 45 minutes to reach Seenigama from the Baddegama exit. 

Via the A2 Highway (Easiest Route): The most straightforward way is to simply take the main Colombo-Galle (A2) road. The entire journey from Colombo takes about 2 hours, and since the shrine is right on the roadside, this is the easiest method. 

By Public Bus: If you choose public transport, a bus ride from Colombo takes nearly 3 hours, and you can get off right in front of the temple grounds. 

By Train: If traveling by rail, disembark at the Hikkaduwa Railway Station. From there, you can easily catch a local bus or take a three-wheeler (tuk-tuk) to the site. 

Nearby Attractions to Explore

Telwatta Totagamuwa Ratpat Rajamaha Viharaya:

This is an ancient, sacred monastery where the revered scholar monk Totagamuwe Sri Rahula Thero once resided. Located just 2 km from the Seenigama temple, this site was known as the Vijayaba Pirivena in antiquity and served as the focal setting for classical Sinhala literature like the Selalihini and Parevi Sandesha poems. 

Peraliya Honganji Viharaya:

Built with aid from the Japanese government, this temple features an impressive replica of the Bamiyan Buddha statue. Anyone traveling on the Colombo-Galle main road can easily see it from the roadside. 

The Tsunami Monument:

Erected in Peraliya along the Colombo-Galle road, this monument stands in solemn memory of the thousands of lives lost to the ocean waves and the tragic train accident during the 2004 Tsunami. 

Tsunami Museums:

You can find several privately maintained tsunami museums in the Peraliya area. These spaces house powerful and tragic photographic records documenting the sheer scale of the disaster. 

Hikkaduwa Beach: Located a mere 2 km away from the Seenigama temple, this is a stunning and vibrant beach stretch that is globally renowned among international tourists.

Where to Stay

Since Seenigama is situated right next to the major tourist hub of Hikkaduwa, finding accommodation that perfectly matches your budget is incredibly easy—ranging from luxury star-class hotels to highly affordable guest houses. 

Luxury & Star-Class Hotels:

·         Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon 

·         Riff Hikkaduwa 

·         Citrus Hikkaduwa 

Mid-Range Hotels:

·         Coral Sands Hotel 

·         Avenra Beach Hikkaduwa 

 

🌿 Narampanawa Travel Guide: Kandy’s Hidden Eco-Paradise at the Foothills of Knuckles

 

🌿 Narampanawa Travel Guide: Kandy’s Hidden Eco-Paradise at the Foothills of Knuckles

If you are yearning to escape the bustling city life and immerse yourself in pristine nature, Narampanawa is the ultimate destination for your next getaway. Tucked away at the scenic foothills of the Knuckles Mountain Range, this breathtaking village in the Kundasale Divisional Secretariat of the Kandy District is a dream come true for nature lovers, campers, and backpackers alike. 

Located just about 20km from Kandy city, Narampanawa borders the UNESCO-declared Knuckles Forest Reserve within the Dumbara Valley. Because of this unique geographical location, the village enjoys a delightfully cool, refreshing climate and remains an uncommercialized green haven for both local and international travelers. 

🚗 How to Get to Narampanawa

By Private Vehicle: The most convenient route is to take the Kandy-Mahiyanganaya Highway from Kandy, pass through Digana, reach Teldeniya town, and then take the turnoff to Narampanawa. 

By Public Transport: Board the Menikhinna bus (Route No. 613) from Kandy. Once you reach Menikhinna, you can easily find a local bus or a tuk-tuk to take you straight into the heart of Narampanawa. 

🗺️ Top Places to Visit and Things to Do in Narampanawa

🌊 1. The Iconic Hulu Ganga (River)

Originating from the high-biodiversity peaks of the Knuckles Range, the pristine Hulu Ganga flows gracefully through Narampanawa and Teldeniya before joining the Mahaweli River near the Polgolla Reservoir. 

The "Sunlight" Advertisement Location: This picturesque river is famous among locals as the filming site for Sri Lanka’s legendary and iconic "Sunlight" television commercial. 

The "Sooriya Arana" Movie Location: If you have watched the blockbuster 2004 Sinhala movie Sooriya Arana (directed by Dr. Somaratne Disanayake and produced by Renuka Balasooriya), you will instantly recognize the landscape. Most of the film's mesmerizing jungle, river, and waterfall scenes were captured right here along the Hulu Ganga in Narampanawa.

🏊 2. Refreshing River Baths (Narampanawa Totupola)

The river features several natural, crystal-clear bathing spots known as Totupola. Diving into these icy, refreshing mountain waters is the perfect way to rejuvenate your body and soul after a long trek. 

⛩️ 3. The Historic Narampanawa Ambalama

Brimming with architectural heritage, this ancient wayside rest-house (Ambalama) is located next to a lush expanse of paddy fields. Built according to the distinct Kandyan Era architectural style, it features an intricately carved structure and a traditional tiled roof, serving as a beautiful window into Sri Lanka's past. 

瀑 4. A Paradise of Waterfalls

Narampanawa and its surrounding routes are home to several stunning waterfalls that you shouldn't miss:

Huluganga Falls:

Standing at an impressive height of 75 meters, this magnificent waterfall is located right by the main road in Huluganga town, making it incredibly easy to view and photograph. 

Jatwatura Falls (Javatura Falls):

Located along the Narampanawa-Panwila road, this hidden beauty cascades gracefully through vibrant green tea plantations. 

Tumbastenna Falls:

Though lesser-known among mainstream tourists, the tranquil environment surrounding this waterfall makes it an idyllic spot for bird watching and capturing serene nature photographs. 

🍯 Spices, Kithul Treacle, and Warm Kandyan Hospitality

As you explore the village, you will be greeted by sprawling plantations of local spices like cloves, nutmeg, and black pepper. Narampanawa is also highly famous for its traditional, generations-old Kithul industry. 

Beyond the jaw-dropping landscapes and 550-meter-high emerald hills, the true highlight of this journey is the warm hospitality of the villagers. Don't miss the chance to sit down with a local family to enjoy a steaming cup of hot black tea (Kahata) accompanied by a piece of authentic, sweet Kithul jaggery (Hauru). 

⚠️ Crucial Safety Tips for Travelers

While Narampanawa is incredibly beautiful, safety should always be your top priority:

The Hidden Danger:

Even if it is perfectly sunny and dry in Narampanawa, heavy rainfall up in the Knuckles mountain peaks can cause the Hulu Ganga's water levels to rise violently and unexpectedly within minutes. Therefore, the dry, non-rainy season is the safest time to visit. Always keep a close eye on the water; if the river's color changes or if you notice sudden debris and leaves floating down, evacuate the river immediately! 

Lastly, as responsible travelers, please practice sustainable tourism. Avoid littering and make sure to bring back any plastic or polythene items you carry with you to preserve this pristine ecosystem for generations to come. 

🏨 Best Places to Stay in Narampanawa

Huluganga Ridge:

A beautiful, peaceful property situated right by the Hulu Ganga, offering tranquil views and total relaxation. 

Tea Cottage Resort & Spa:

Located slightly away from Narampanawa, this boutique resort is nestled in the middle of a lush tea estate, offering a premium luxury experience with a modern spa.

 

🌿 Koslanda: A Serene Green Paradise Near Ella

 

🌿 Koslanda:    A Serene Green Paradise Near Ella

A Complete Travel Guide to Upper Diyaluma and Living Heritage Koslanda

If you love the natural beauty of Sri Lanka's hill country but want to escape the crowded, bustling atmosphere of popular tourist hubs like Ella, Koslanda is the ultimate hidden gem for you. Situated in the Badulla District, this exceptionally peaceful and scenic region offers an untouched sanctuary where travelers can deeply connect with nature in absolute tranquility. It is highly favored by international tourists seeking quietude away from the mainstream commercial tracks. 

💦 The Ultimate Adventure: Trekking to Upper Diyaluma

The crown jewel of Koslanda is Diyaluma Waterfall, celebrated as the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. While most travelers merely stop on the roadside bridge to admire it from below, the true magic of Diyaluma lies at its summit, known as Upper Diyaluma. 

How to Reach Upper Diyaluma (The Easy Route):

The Starting Point: From Koslanda Junction, travel approximately 5 kilometers up the scenic Weliya Road until you reach the Makaldeniya area. This drive takes about 15 minutes by vehicle. 

Vehicle Preference: Due to the narrow and uneven terrain heading up Weliya Road, traveling by motorbike or three-wheel (tuk-tuk) is highly recommended and far more convenient than a standard car. 

The Hike: Standard vehicles cannot proceed beyond Makaldeniya. From this point, you will embark on a relatively easy 1.5-kilometer walk. The trek takes roughly 20 minutes and winds through beautifully rolling grasslands and lush green tea estates. Because it features minimal steep climbing, it is comfortable for travelers of almost any fitness level. 

⚠️ Avoid the Difficult Trail: Do not attempt to climb straight up to the summit from the main roadside bridge near the bottom of the waterfall. That route is an extremely exhausting, hazardous, and multi-hour vertical scramble. The Welioya-Makaldeniya route from Koslanda remains the safest and most visually rewarding path.

An Unforgettable Experience

Once you reach the top of Upper Diyaluma, you are rewarded with an incredible network of natural, crystal-clear rock pools. Swimming at the literal edge of a massive cliff with panoramic mountain vistas stretching before you is a breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, always exercise extreme caution and stay mindful of safety guidelines while bathing near the edges of the falls.

📅 Best Time to Visit

To enjoy optimal trekking conditions and beautiful clear weather, plan your journey during the dry season, which spans from May to September. During these months, rain is minimal, making the trail dry and the natural pools safer for swimming. 

🏡 Luxury Eco-Stay: Living Heritage Koslanda

For travelers seeking a pristine place to stay while exploring Upper Diyaluma, Living Heritage Koslanda offers an unparalleled luxury experience. Accessible within a 5-hour drive from Colombo via the A4 highway (passing Beragala toward Wellawaya), it is a world-renowned, eco-friendly luxury boutique hotel nestled deep inside the forest. 

Architectural Grandeur & Unique Concept:

The Visionaries: This stunning eco-retreat was born from the creative concept of the late, legendary Sri Lankan filmmaker Manik Sandrasagra. It was brought to life in collaboration with the celebrated architect Channa Daswatta. 

The Heritage Design: Every room is masterfully built adhering to traditional Sri Lankan architecture. The property beautifully integrates the ancient concept of the "Ambalama" (traditional resting pavilions designed for ancient travelers to rest and recuperate). 

Wild Wilderness: Spanning over 80 acres of preserved forest land, the resort offers an intimate connection with wildlife. During the dry months of June and August, guests can often witness the awe-inspiring sight of wild elephants roaming gracefully through the forest borders. 

Living Heritage Koslanda is a mandatory experience for anyone looking to shed the stresses of urban life and immerse themselves in sustainable, high-end comfort surrounded by nature. 

Sri Lanka’s Most Beautiful Railway Station: "Idalgashinna"

Sri Lanka’s Most Beautiful Railway Station: "Idalgashinna"

Situated along the Colombo - Badulla main railway line, nestled between the Haputale and Ohiya railway stations, lies Idalgashinna—one of the most breathtaking railway stations in Sri Lanka, sitting at an elevation of approximately 5,200 feet above sea level. This stunning region is characterized by a perennially cool climate and is frequently shrouded in a thick blanket of mist. It serves as an idyllic vantage point for capturing mesmerizing photographs of trains gracefully cutting through the veils of fog. 

A truly unique phenomenon you can witness at this station is how it can be pouring rain on one side of the platform while the other side remains perfectly bright and sunny. This is an incredible spectacle that awaits anyone visiting Idalgashinna. Furthermore, because the railway platform is flanked by steep mountain slopes on both sides, the surroundings are almost constantly enveloped in a dense, mystical fog. Perched atop a mountain ridge, the station offers visitors a panoramic view of the lower valleys beautifully carpeted by low-hanging clouds. 

The stretch of railway tracks from Idalgashinna to Ohiya is widely considered one of the most picturesque rail routes in Sri Lanka, making it immensely popular for railway hiking. Along this specific path, travelers can encounter about 14 distinct railway tunnels. As you hike along the tracks, you will also be treated to magnificent vistas of towering pine trees kissing the clouds, lush green tea estates, and rolling mountain ranges. It is no surprise that Idalgashinna has become a highly celebrated travel destination among domestic and international tourists alike. 

🚂 How to Get to Idalgashinna

By Train: If you are traveling from Colombo, you can reach Idalgashinna via any train operating from Colombo to Badulla. You can board the Night Mail train, the Udarata Menike, or the Podi Menike from the Colombo Fort Railway Station. 

By Bus or Private Vehicle: If you prefer traveling by bus or a private vehicle, you can reach Idalgashinna by navigating from either Welimada or the town of Haputale. 

🗺️ Places to Visit Around Idalgashinna

☕ Lipton’s Seat

Located about 24 km away from Idalgashinna, within the Dambatenne Tea Estate in Haputale, you will find this famously beautiful vantage point. It is an exceptionally popular attraction that offers stunning, sweeping views of the landscape. Named after Sir Thomas Lipton, this is the exact spot where he used to relax while inspecting his vast tea plantations. The site is open for visitors daily from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. 

Due to its high altitude, visitors can catch glimpses of several surrounding districts on a clear day. International tourists especially love visiting in the early morning to catch the spectacular sunrise. There is also a small cafe on-site, allowing you to sip a warm, delicious cup of Ceylon tea while immersing yourself in the scenic beauty. 

🏰 Adisham Bungalow

This beautiful landmark is located roughly 7.5 km from Idalgashinna and is just 2 km away from the main town of Haputale. Built in 1931 by Sir Thomas William Arnold, this historic country house is currently known as the St. Benedict’s Monastery. It was named after the village of Adisham in Kent, England, where Sir Arnold originally hailed from. 

Designed with distinct English architectural styles, the property features a gorgeous garden bursting with flowers and is surrounded by serene tea fields. A portion of the bungalow is open to the public, showcasing antique English-style furniture and a well-preserved library. 

⚠️ Note for Visitors: As this is an active monastery, visitors are expected to maintain absolute silence and respect the rules of the premises. Photography is strictly restricted in certain indoor areas. Before you leave, you can also purchase fresh, home-made fruit cordials and jams produced right inside the monastery.

⛰️ Haputale Main Viewpoint

This scenic lookout point is located approximately 8 km away from Idalgashinna, positioned very close to the main town of Haputale. 

🍃 Dambatenne Tea Factory

Situated about 15 km away from Idalgashinna in the Bandarawela area, this factory offers visitors a wonderful opportunity to gain hands-on, practical insight into the traditional tea production process. 

🏨 Places to Stay (Accommodation)

While accommodation options directly next to the Idalgashinna station are quite limited, you can find several beautiful hotels and resorts in the nearby Haputale and Beragala areas: 

Green Valley Holiday Resort:

 A charming holiday getaway conveniently located on the Beragala Main Road, close to both Idalgashinna and Haputale.

Melheim Resort & Spa:

A highly popular boutique resort among tourists, featuring an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, and an in-house restaurant. 

Mount Hunt Resort:

A top-rated resort situated in Beragala, offering stunning hillside views and highly recommended lodging.  

Bellwood Sri Lanka

 

Discover Bellwood: Sri Lanka’s Enchanting "Little New Zealand"

When you think of rolling green pastures, misty mornings, and a refreshing chill in the air, New Zealand might be the first country that springs to mind. But did you know that hidden right in the heart of Sri Lanka lies a destination so remarkably similar that travelers call it "Little New Zealand"? 

Welcome to Bellwood—a pristine paradise tucked away amidst lush tea estates between Theldeniya and Galaha in the Kandy District. If you are looking to escape the tropical heat and lose yourself in a sea of endless green and thick blankets of fog, this hidden gem is your perfect getaway. 

The Magical Bellwood Hills

The crown jewel of this area is Bellwood Mountain, a breathtaking peak enveloped by whispering pine trees and vibrant green grasslands. 

When to Visit: The absolute best times to explore are early morning or late afternoon. During these hours, the mist rolls heavily across the landscape, creating an ethereal, dreamy atmosphere that is a photographer's dream. 

Crucial Travel Update: Regrettably, due to the careless actions of irresponsible campers, authorities have placed restrictions on local tourists entering certain areas. It serves as a stark reminder of how fragile our beautiful destinations are. 

Top Attractions to Explore Around Bellwood

1. Bellwood Aesthetics Resort (Bellwood Soundarya Nikethanaya)

This is the very institution that put Bellwood on the map. Managed by the National Youth Services Council, this residential institute fosters young creative talent in music and dance. It is the proud birthplace of some of Sri Lanka’s most legendary musicians, including Chandralekha Perera and Somasiri Medagedara. 

2. Muthukeliyawa Viewpoint

If you want to feel like you are standing on top of the world, this is the place. It offers a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of the entire region. From here, you can gaze at the sprawling Victoria Reservoir and several magnificent mountain ranges stretching into the horizon. 

3. Kirimetiya Estate Lake (Kirimetiya Watta Wewa)

A stunning, picture-perfect lake bordered by soft grasslands and towering pine trees. While it is an idyllic spot to relax and take photos, swimming is highly discouraged as the waters are deceptively deep and dangerous. 

4. Quartz Grinding Factory (Thiriwana Gal Ambarana Sthana)

For the avid hikers trekking through the mountain paths, this unique factory offers an interesting industrial contrast to the natural beauty. Keep in mind that you will need prior permission if you want to visit the facility. 

How to Get to Bellwood

Located just 12 km away from Kandy, Bellwood boasts a cool, Nuwara Eliya-like climate. You can reach it via two primary scenic routes: 

Route 1 (The Fastest Way - 18 km): Drive from Kandy to Ampitiya, head towards Thalathuoya, and proceed via Moragolla directly to Bellwood. 

Route 2 (The Most Scenic Way - 26 km): Take the Galaha Road near the University of Peradeniya, pass through Deltota, and connect via the Galaha-Moragolla Road. This route treats you to absolutely gorgeous natural vistas. 

By Public Transport: Catch a bus heading to Galaha or Thalathuoya from near the Bogambara Prison in Kandy. Once you reach Thalathuoya, you can easily hire a three-wheeler to take you up to Bellwood. 

Where to Stay: Accommodation Guide

Whether you are looking for ultimate indulgence or a cozy eco-lodge, the area offers great options:

Luxury Resorts & Villas

Bellwood Hills Resort and Spa: 

A star-class luxury escape located right in the heart of Bellwood, offering top-tier amenities alongside panoramic nature views. 

Villa Nugaliyadda: 

Boasting exceptionally high guest ratings, this gorgeous villa provides a private, upscale home-away-from-home experience. 

Mid-Range & Eco Lodges

Kandy Victoria Eco Resort:

A beautiful nature retreat situated within eyesight of the peaceful Victoria Reservoir. 

Forest Face Lodge:

Highly rated by travelers, this lodge offers cozy comfort surrounded by nature. 

Sooriya Resort Kandy:

The ideal spot if you are looking for budget-friendly, comfortable accommodation in a serene setting. 

🎒 Essential Tips for Your Journey

Leech & Cold Protection: The heavy mist and crisp air bring cool temperatures—and lots of leeches! Be sure to pack warm clothing and leech protection (like salt water or spray).

Camping: Camping is an unforgettable experience here. However, you must contact local service providers beforehand to secure and reserve your campsite. 

Responsible Tourism: Let’s protect this slice of heaven. If you visit, practice "Leave No Trace". Bring back all your plastic, polythene, and trash to keep Bellwood beautiful for generations to come. 

The Ultimate Ella Travel Guide: Sri Lanka's Most Popular Hill Country Paradise

 

The Ultimate Ella Travel Guide: Sri Lanka's Most Popular Hill Country Paradise

Ella stands out as the number one tourist destination in Sri Lanka, capturing the hearts of both local and international travelers. Located in the Badulla District of the Uva Province, this breathtaking mountain town is blessed with cascading waterfalls, lush green tea plantations, and a cool, refreshing climate. As night falls, Ella town transforms into a vibrant hub filled with foreigners, offering a lively and unforgettable night vibe that every traveler must experience. 

How to Get to Ella

There are several convenient ways to travel to Ella. You can choose the best transport method based on your budget and preference. 

1. By Train (The Most Recommended Way)

Taking the train is undoubtedly the most scenic and popular way to reach Ella, offering a truly magical journey. 

From Colombo:

You can board the daily morning trains, "Podi Menike" or "Udarata Menike," or the overnight "Night Mail" train from Colombo Fort directly to the Ella railway station. The journey takes approximately 8 to 9 hours. To fully enjoy the stunning views of the hill country, taking a morning train is highly recommended. 

From Kandy:

 If you are starting your journey from Kandy, you can take the iconic Kandy-to-Ella train ride, which is world-famous for its beauty. 

2. By Bus

Standard Routes:

You can take any bus from Colombo traveling along the A4 highway towards Bandarawela, Badulla, or Passara, and easily drop off at Ella. 

Highway Routes:

For a more comfortable journey, you can take a luxury bus from Colombo via the Southern Expressway that goes towards Badulla through Embilipitiya and Wellawaya. Get off at the Wellawaya junction and take a short connecting ride along the A23 route to Ella. This is the fastest way to travel by bus. 

3. By Private Vehicle

If you are driving your own vehicle, travel along the Southern Expressway and take the Mattala or Andarawewa exit. From there, drive straight through Thanamalwila and Wellawaya to reach Ella town within 4 to 5 hours. 

Top Tourist Attractions to Visit in Ella

1. Nine Arch Bridge

Built during the British colonial era, this world-famous railway bridge is a masterpiece of engineering and a paradise for photography lovers. The most remarkable feature of this bridge is that it was constructed entirely out of bricks and cement, without using a single piece of iron or concrete. Travelers gather with great enthusiasm to capture photos whenever a train passes over the nine majestic arches. 

The Legend Behind the Bridge:

According to local folklore, during World War I, the British were unable to import the steel needed to build the bridge. A local Sri Lankan mason named "P.K. Appuhami" stepped forward and claimed he could build the bridge using only stones and cement. The British engineers were highly skeptical. To prove the strength of his creation, Appuhami famously lay down under the bridge as the very first train drove over it on its maiden journey. 

2. Little Adam's Peak

This is a stunning mountain peak that can be climbed easily within a short 30-minute hike. It is perfect for beginners and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountain ranges. 

3. Ella Rock

For those seeking a more challenging adventure, Ella Rock is the perfect choice. It is a tougher hike compared to Little Adam's Peak, taking about 3 to 4 hours to complete the round trip through rugged terrain. 

4. Ravana Falls and Ravana Cave

Located right by the Wellawaya-Ella main road, the beautiful Ravana Falls is a must-stop spot for travelers. Close by, you can also explore the historic Ravana Cave, a site deeply rooted in the legend of King Ravana, who is said to have hidden Princess Sita inside its depths. 

5. Nil Diya Pokuna (Blue Water Pond)

This is a mystical, crystal-clear underground blue pond hidden deep within a cave system. Due to safety risks, exploring this cave alone is strictly prohibited; you must hire an experienced local tour guide to accompany you. 

6. Diyaluma Falls

A one-hour drive from Ella town will bring you to Diyaluma Falls, the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. Adventurous travelers can hike to the very top of the falls to swim safely in the incredible natural rock pools. 

7. Ravana Pool Club

Situated at the base of Little Adam's Peak, this is Sri Lanka’s very first international-standard luxury pool club. It offers an elite, relaxing experience that beautifully mirrors the famous beach clubs of Bali. 

(Additionally, travelers staying in Ella can easily take short day trips to explore the serene Pine Forests of Diyatalawa or the scenic tea estates of Bandarawela.) 

Best Things to Do in Ella

Flying Ravana & Adventure Sports:

Located near Little Adam's Peak, this features Sri Lanka's first and longest mega zipline. Adventure enthusiasts can zipline through the mountain valleys at thrilling speeds of up to 80 km/h. 

Experience Ella's Nightlife:

 Ella boasts a vibrant, lively evening atmosphere that is unmatched by any other hill country town in Sri Lanka. Street-side restaurants, live music, bustling crowds, and a wide array of delicious food create a unique vibe that foreigners absolutely love. 

Enjoy the World's Most Beautiful Train Ride:

The train journey from Kandy to Ella is internationally recognized and celebrated as one of the most scenic and visually stunning rail journeys in the world. 

Join a Traditional Cooking Class:

 Learning how to cook an authentic Sri Lankan Rice and Curry is a favorite activity among foreign tourists. Many popular culinary schools in Ella town offer hands-on experiences where guests can scrape fresh coconut, mix local spices, and cook a traditional meal from scratch. 

Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Ella

98 Acres Resort & Spa:

A world-renowned, eco-friendly luxury boutique hotel beautifully nestled in the middle of a scenic tea estate. 

Hide Ella Hotel:

A trendy, modern hotel uniquely designed to offer magnificent, unobstructed views of the Ella rock and mountain gap. 

Mountain Heavens:

A premium hotel offering excellent amenities, conveniently located very close to the Ella railway station. 

Ella Flower Garden Resort:

A beautiful, peaceful resort surrounded by colorful, blooming gardens, located on the way to Little Adam's Peak.