25 October 2024 | 12 min
25 October 2024 | 12 min
Although Budalla is not popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka, it is a hidden gem. There are different places to explore in the region during your vacation in Sri Lanka ranging from historical sites, natural attractions to the natural beuty in the region. Below are places to visit in Badulla for a perfect vacation in southeastern Sri Lanka.
This is among the top places to explore in Badualla. During your visit, you will get to learn about the temple and believe by Buddhists 3 times Buddha visited this place. The Buddha was invited by Indaka’s leadership local leader to his place in Budulla.
By his recollection, Indaka had desired something to worship at the conclusion of the sermon. Buddha then gave him some of his sweat and hair, which eventually transformed into pearls. They are currently housed in a stupa, or Buddhist shrine. Since the Buddha's visit, this place is highly revered. It contains a young tree that is a descendant of the hallowed Bodhi tree in Anuradhapura.
If you are on trip to Sri Lanka and want to shop for some souvenirs, the best places to buy them is at the popular Old Welekade Market in Badulla. This market is housed in a building which was built in 1889 by the British.
It is a historical building and exudes a remarkable charm. The shoppers are taken back to a bygone era as they shop for different local handcrafted items. The building has been well preserved and it is a perfect example of the magnificent British architecture. It is recognized as Archaeologically Protected Monument.
Among the attractions in the building are the Market's pavements, which are housed within this architectural marvel. The locals voting this market often and also spend time a lot of time there. The name "Welekade," which means "the shop of the paddy fields," appropriately describes its location on the escarpment next to the paddy fields.
Constructed in 1630 by King Vimaladharmasuriya I, destroyed in 17th century by Portuguese army after seizing Badulla and was constricted again later by King Rajasinghe II, Badulla Kataragama Temple is a sacred place for Hindus and Buddhists.
The devotion of the temple is to the six-faced and twelve-armed god. The dedication of the temple is to to Skanda, Murugan, or Subrahmanya and is scared temple worshiped by Hindus.
The unique feature which makes this temple stand out is the yantra monument. It is believed the monument is symbolic representation of deity energy and power. Every day from 4.30 am, 10.30 am, and 6.30 pm they conduct daily pooja at temple.
Located 5 kilometers from Budulla, this is among the tourists spots. Tourists love to visit this waterfall to see the spectacular view and thrilling formation. The best time to visit this waterfall is during the monsoon season. It becomes more active and as you get near you will hear as the water makes rigorous sounds.
There is a history and legends about this water fall dating back to the reigning of king Rajasinhe. If you take a guided tour the guide will share the legends. Dunhida falls is 63 meters high and the rivers which nourishes are ma Oya, Hal Oya and a series of smaller rivers in the areas. As the water cascade down the falls, you get to catch enchanting scene and can watch for hours as the water flow.
Sometimes you may be tempted to get closer to the falls; you should be very careful and keep safer distance. You should also avoid swimming because the pool is very deep and the rocks are slippery.
Constructed during the 16C period, Bogoda Wooden Bridge was built to connect people in the central province to the hill area. It is the bridge used to get to the Bogoda Buddhist temple and crossing the GallandaOya.
Built entirely using wood, down to the nails, this bridge holds architectural, internal, and historic significance. The bridge's roof is extremely important since it was shaped by intriguing mysteries from Kandy's interior.
Constructed in 832 AD, St.Mark’s church is among the churches in Sri Lanka which have been operation for centuries. The church was destroyed in 978AD in a tragic fire but was later re-built.
Today, the tourists visit the church to admire the architecture skills which were put in place during its construction which entails blending of colonial charm with local architectural influences. The church is elegantly designed featuring intricate woodwork reflecting its historical importance.
The church location against the backdrop of Budulla’s lush hills offers also visitors chance to enjoy spectacular views of the scenic landscapes. The environment and peaceful atmosphere in the church offers a chance for a spiritual reflection.
Located 22 kilometers away from Badulla town and takes around 40 minutes’ drive to get there, Dowa Rock Temple is another religious, historical and cultural attraction you can visit in Badulla. The formation of the temple was by late king Walagamba in the first BC century.
Among the features which make this temple captivating is the massive 3D granite Buddha statue. If you want to get away from the city bustling life, this is an ideal place to visit for peaceful time.
If you love enjoying the natural beauty, you should visit fox hill in Budalla. You will get to spend time relaxing surrounded by nature. You can take pictures and also get to enjoy the stunning views of the landscape.
You should visit the hill either at the morning to catch the sunrise view to evening for the golden view of sunset. If you love outdoor activities you can go hiking. You need to get permission to enter this are because it military training area.
Located 16 kilometers from Budulla town, Demodara Railway Station also called Demodara loop is another historical and remarkable tourist attraction in Budulla.
The railway statatioon was built during the colonial era and features impressive colonial interior and exterior which adorn the building. The geographical formation is also amazing. The British government developed the railway station with target of facilitating the production of tea which was the main economic crop.
The railway station is used now days as the passing point for the passengers. You should visit the station and will get to enjoy the stunning views.
If you want to go camping or hiking in Budulla, there is no ideal spot compared to Narangala hill. Located at the highest elevation in Sri Lanka, the peak of this hill is majestic with golden meadows.
In the morning the hill is covered with mist, after the mist clear you will get to see the surrounding beauty. If you are on vavacatio and nwant top try camping experience should consider try the experience at Narangala hill.
The tea planation’s, cultural and historical sites, stunning natural beauty and located amidst of lush hills is what makes Badulla famous.
You can board a buses or train from Colombo to get to Badulla. The other means is book a tour, arrange for private transfers or rent a car.
The dry season between December and April is the best time to visit Badulla. There is minimal rainfall and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities offering humble time to explore the beauty of the region.