Things To Do
in Badulla
Badulla, Sri Lanka is a cool highland town in Uva Province known for tea country scenery and colonial heritage. It serves as a gateway to dramatic waterfalls, ancient temples, and scenic rail routes through misty valleys. The town preserves a mix of Dutch-era fort ruins, bustling markets, and gentle hillside walks that showcase Sri Lanka's hospitality.
Visitors can wander tea estates, explore waterfalls, and savor traditional Sri Lankan flavors in a relaxed, scenic setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike to Ella Rock, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding tea plantations and valleys. The trail takes you through lush greenery and offers a chance to spot local wildlife. Don't forget to take plenty of photos along the way!
In the afternoon, visit the famous Nine Arches Bridge, an engineering marvel surrounded by stunning landscapes. You can walk across the bridge or find a vantage point nearby to capture its beauty. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the cozy cafes in Ella, sampling traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.
As the sun sets, take a short trip to Little Adam's Peak for a gentle evening hike. The summit offers a perfect spot to watch the sunset over the mountains, providing a peaceful end to your day. Relax at your accommodation, reminiscing about the day's adventures.
Begin your visit to Badulla with a tour of the ancient Badulla Temple, a striking site that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the area. Spend some time exploring the ornate carvings and sacred relics housed within. You might also want to engage with local monks to learn about their practices and history.
Stroll through the town’s bustling markets where you can experience local life and pick up unique handicrafts. Stop by a local restaurant to sample traditional Sri Lankan dishes like hoppers or kottu. After lunch, visit the nearby Wewalwatta Waterfall, where you can enjoy the natural beauty and serene atmosphere.
As evening approaches, explore the quaint streets of Badulla, taking in the colonial architecture that tells the story of the town's past. Find a cozy spot for dinner at a local eatery, savoring authentic Sri Lankan flavors. Cap off your evening with a walk around the serene lake, reflecting on your experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍛Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🛏One night in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚎Local transportation (short ride) | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning highland scenery and tea country
- Warm, welcoming locals and a relaxed pace of travel
- Limited nightlife and nightlife venues
- Some attractions require longer travel times or are best reached by road from Bandarawela or Haputale
- "Ayubowan" - Hello / May you live long
- "Istuti" - Thank you
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Badulla
Visit one of these nice places.
A powerful waterfall surrounded by forest, best captured in the early morning light.
Ancient temple with ornate architecture and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for temple photography.
Dutch-era fort ruins with views over the town and tea estates nearby.
Iconic arched bridge visible from the railway line; ideal for train-spotting photography.
Rolling green tea hills and winding roads perfect for landscape shots.
Food in Badulla
Badulla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A platter of steamed rice served with multiple curries (vegetable, lentil, fish or chicken) and sambol.
Must-Try!
Chopped roti mixed with vegetables, eggs, and your choice of meat, a popular street staple.
Steamed coconut-flaked grains served with curries and coconut sambol.
Lentil curry that accompanies most meals.
Sweet milk rice served with spicy onion relish; a beloved traditional dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant local market where you can sample fresh fruits, street snacks, and traditional curries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly; remove shoes and hats before entering temples; shoulders and knees should be covered.
A respectful nod or a traditional 'Ayubowan' greeting; use polite language when asking for help.
Avoid loud conversations in sacred places; do not point at people with feet; show respect to elders and monks.
Safety
Tipping in Badulla
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service; 5-10% in restaurants if service charge is not included; small tips for drivers and porters.
Cash (Sri Lankan rupees) is widely used; many shops accept cards in towns, but smaller eateries may be cash-only; ATMs are common in Badulla.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool nights; temperatures typically comfortable in the hills (around mid-20s °C). Occasional showers; early mornings can be misty.
Greater rainfall, especially in the uplands; higher humidity and possible road dampness. Excellent for lush greenery but plan for slower travel.
Generally clearer skies and good visibility; ideal for outdoor hikes and photography, though evenings can be cool.
Badulla at Night
Hiking in Badulla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking destination with expansive views over tea country; a moderate uphill hike from Haputale.
A scenic waterfall hike that can be a challenging day hike involving rock steps and river crossings.
Cultural and forest trails around the Bogoda Bridge and nearby reservoirs.
Airports
How to reach Badulla by plane.
Sri Lanka’s main international gateway; located near Colombo; drive/bus/train transfer to Badulla takes several hours.
South coast airport serving some international flights; longer road transfer to Badulla.
Domestic and regional flights hub near Colombo; less common for international travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Sinhala, with Tamil and Moor communities; Buddhism is the major religion with Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity also present.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is a popular sport nationwide, with local grounds and informal play across towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Badulla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most curry dishes can be made vegetarian by asking for no meat or fish; opt for dal, vegetable curries, and beetroot or potato curries; request no ghee to keep it vegan where needed.