Bandarawela is a big town, situated in Badulla District, Uva Province, Sri Lanka, which is 28
km away from Badulla Town. Due to higher altitude, Bandarawela has a mild weather
condition throughout the year hence; it is popular among the citizens to spend the
vacations with their family members.
Bandarawela is 200 km away from Colombo and about 150 kms away from Kandy,
Colombo and Kandy being two capital cities in Sri Lanka. Both roads and railway
transportation facilities are available to reach the area within a few hours. Bandarawela
town, tinted with a colonial past resting among lush forestation has found its niche among
its visitors as a base for eco-tourism.
History of the Bandarawela area is coming from the time of great Sinhalese King
“Valagamba” who fell back and regrouped in the Dhowa region to fight against Chola
(Indian) invaders.
During the period of British colonial era, the town occurred rapid development of the
infrastructures and human resources due to tea plantations and migration of the British
and local people to the area. A lot of past evidence belongs to that period. Buildings
remaining built in the British colonial period with British architectural influences such as
the Bandarawela Hotel, the Cargill’s building, the Tennis club and etc.
During World War II, many families moved to Bandarawela as leading schools in Colombo
such as Royal College, St. Thomas’ College and Visakha Vidyalaya, completely shifted to
Bandarawela due to the fear caused by the Japanese bombs. This caused an improvement
in the education of the people in Bandarawela.

•  Adisham Bungalow, Bandarawela

Adisham Bungalow is a historic house that is located near Haputale town and is 16
kilometers away from Bandarawela. With Adisham monastery of Saint Benedict and
museum-like structure, this house makes for an interesting place to visit. It is spread over
10 acres and dates back to 1931. All the house furniture is preserved in such a way that you
will get a glimpse of the past lifestyle here. Though it takes half an hour to reach Adisham
Hall from Bandarawela, it is worth a visit.

•  Porawagala, Bandarawela

Porawagala is a lovely scenic area that is located hardly 3 kilometers away from
Bandarawela town. One of the most significant tourist attractions in Bandarawela, this
place will take you away from all the hustle and bustle of city life and will place you in the
heart of nature. It has a combination of grasslands, woodlands, waterfalls, and mountains
making it a paradise for nature lovers. It is also a great point for catching a sunrise or
sunset. Do include this spot in your list of things to do in Bandarawela to make the best of
your time

• Pilkington Point, Bandarawela

with panoramic views of magnificent mountains and majestic valleys, Pilking Point is the
perfect place to see nature at its best. Located at a prime spot on a mountain, this place
offers lovely vistas that are a treat to the eyes. If visited during monsoon, you will see
clouds drifting over the mountains that make for a spectacular sight to behold. Being
located at a height, the wind is quite strong and there is chill in the air. Visit this place
during rainy season to view nature at its finest self.

• Church Of The Ascension, Bandarawela

Church of the Ascension is a place of worship that holds a religious as well as historical
importance. Built in 1908, this stone building offers a peaceful platform for more than a
hundred years. The structure we see today was extended a couple of times and the tower
was also added later. But, it has still maintained its old charm. The service in the English
language is also conducted here. Consider offering your prayers here if you are visiting
Bandarawela

• Ellatota Ella Waterfall

Located a little away from the city of Bandarawela, Ellatota Ella Waterfall is an attraction
not known to many. The best time to visit this fall is in the monsoons as the water usually
dries up during summer. As it is not fully developed as a tourist attraction, you may not find
any facilities around. But, it is a nice place to stop by if you are around. The scenery and
peacefulness are an added bonus when you are at Ellatota Ella Waterfall.

• Dhowa Rock Temple, Bandarawela

Dhowa Rock Temple is a fascinating place of worship with a history of more than 2,000
years. This is the protected heritage site in Sri Lanka and is known for having a huge
unfinished Buddha image. The face is carved into a 12-foot rock. The inside of the temple is
adorned with different paintings that depict ancient and mythological stories. Though
small, it is a must-visit temple when you are visiting Bandarawela.

• Japan – Sri Lanka Peace Pagoda, Bandarawela

Japan – Sri Lanka Peace Pagoda is one of the most important landmarks in Bandarawela. It
is one of the 4 stupas in Sri Lanka that represent peace and harmony. This Buddhist temple
welcomes locals and tourists alike. It is located along Pallewela Road and is hardly 8
kilometers away from the center of Bandarawela. If you are looking for a peaceful site to
spend some quality time, this is the place to be! You will also get to meet monks around
here.