E L L A
Ella, situated near the hill station of Bandarawela, is a charming and picturesque town nestled in the mountainous central region of Sri Lanka. Its strategic location makes it an ideal starting point for nature enthusiasts, as it grants convenient access to the finest nature trails, mountain treks, and cycling routes, attracting those who wish to explore the surrounding areas.Ella itself is a delightful village, offering some of the most enchanting views on the island. With a handful of shops, a few cozy hotels and guesthouses, and a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, it provides the perfect setting for a memorable holiday. The vicinity of Ella boasts several noteworthy attractions and opportunities for exploration. Ella Gap, offering panoramic vistas of the southern coast on clear days, captivates visitors. The breathtaking Ravana Falls, cascading down a height of 82 feet, add to the natural splendor of the area. Little Adam’s Peak, a pyramid-shaped rock formation, and the awe-inspiring Bambaragala Peak offer magnificent views of the surrounding mountains, further enhancing the appeal of this region.
N U W A R A E L I Y A
Perched at an elevation of 2000 meters above sea level, surrounded by lush green mountains, Nuwara Eliya is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque destinations in Sri Lanka. This mountainous retreat is renowned for its sprawling tea plantations and the enduring influence of colonialism that still permeates the town.
Nuwara Eliya became the favored base for English planters due to its delightful climate and breathtaking scenery, which perfectly suited the local tea industry. The British transformed the town into a charming English village, and today it continues to exude the quaint charm of an old-fashioned English countryside. With a range of captivating attractions and many colonial-era residences converted into hotels and guesthouses, Nuwara Eliya has become a highly sought-after holiday destination for both locals and foreigners.
Notable attractions in and around Nuwara Eliya include the picturesque Gregory’s Lake, nestled within the town itself, where visitors can enjoy boating and rowing. Just 10 kilometers away lies the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, the only botanical garden in the world situated at such a high altitude of 5000 to 6000 feet. This extraordinary garden showcases a variety of rare plants, including a century-old Monterey Cypress (Macrocarpa), an endemic species from the Californian Central Coast.
For sports and adventure enthusiasts, the city boasts a splendid 18-hole golf course dramatically set amidst the scenic landscape, complete with a classic English-style clubhouse. Those seeking further exploration can venture to the Horton Plains National Park, renowned for its unique flora, fauna, and excellent hiking trails. Additionally, the challenging ascent of Pidurutalagala, the highest peak in the country, offers a rewarding mountaineering experience.
Scenic wonders abound in Nuwara Eliya, with numerous enchanting waterfalls cascading down the hills, each showcasing its own distinctive beauty. Exploring the scenic tea plantations is a must, and there are various idyllic picnic spots available for relaxation and enjoyment.
Nuwara Eliya became the favored base for English planters due to its delightful climate and breathtaking scenery, which perfectly suited the local tea industry. The British transformed the town into a charming English village, and today it continues to exude the quaint charm of an old-fashioned English countryside. With a range of captivating attractions and many colonial-era residences converted into hotels and guesthouses, Nuwara Eliya has become a highly sought-after holiday destination for both locals and foreigners.
Notable attractions in and around Nuwara Eliya include the picturesque Gregory’s Lake, nestled within the town itself, where visitors can enjoy boating and rowing. Just 10 kilometers away lies the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, the only botanical garden in the world situated at such a high altitude of 5000 to 6000 feet. This extraordinary garden showcases a variety of rare plants, including a century-old Monterey Cypress (Macrocarpa), an endemic species from the Californian Central Coast.
For sports and adventure enthusiasts, the city boasts a splendid 18-hole golf course dramatically set amidst the scenic landscape, complete with a classic English-style clubhouse. Those seeking further exploration can venture to the Horton Plains National Park, renowned for its unique flora, fauna, and excellent hiking trails. Additionally, the challenging ascent of Pidurutalagala, the highest peak in the country, offers a rewarding mountaineering experience.
Scenic wonders abound in Nuwara Eliya, with numerous enchanting waterfalls cascading down the hills, each showcasing its own distinctive beauty. Exploring the scenic tea plantations is a must, and there are various idyllic picnic spots available for relaxation and enjoyment.
M A T A L E
Nestled in the central province of Sri Lanka, Matale is situated in a captivating valley renowned for its agricultural activities. This ancient village town holds a fascinating history and serves as a central hub for several significant historical landmarks in the region.
Surrounded by the foothills of the renowned Knuckles Mountain Range, the area is predominantly known for its cultivation of tea, rubber, and spices. Among the notable attractions in and around Matale are the Aluvihara Buddhist Temple, which dates back to the 2nd century BC and is located just north of the main town. Additionally, the Rangiri Dambulu Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Kawatayamuni Temple, Embili Viharaya, and Watagoda Temple are prominent landmarks in the area.
Matale also holds historical significance due to the 1848 rebellion, which was initiated in this town by national heroes Weera Puran Appu and Gongalegoda Banda. Furthermore, it is the hometown of Monarawila Keppetipola, a key figure in the Wellasa rebellion against British forces.
Surrounded by the foothills of the renowned Knuckles Mountain Range, the area is predominantly known for its cultivation of tea, rubber, and spices. Among the notable attractions in and around Matale are the Aluvihara Buddhist Temple, which dates back to the 2nd century BC and is located just north of the main town. Additionally, the Rangiri Dambulu Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Kawatayamuni Temple, Embili Viharaya, and Watagoda Temple are prominent landmarks in the area.
Matale also holds historical significance due to the 1848 rebellion, which was initiated in this town by national heroes Weera Puran Appu and Gongalegoda Banda. Furthermore, it is the hometown of Monarawila Keppetipola, a key figure in the Wellasa rebellion against British forces.
A D A M S P E A K
Adam’s Peak, also known as Siri Pada, holds multiple names due to the uncertainties surrounding its historical origins. Regardless of the name used, Adam’s Peak is a sacred site revered by various religions, welcoming followers of all faiths.
Situated in the central highlands of Ratnapura, many embark on their ascent of the mountain from the town of Hatton and descend via Ratnapura. While there are six known trails leading to the summit, some are no longer in use. The best time to climb is between December and May, as the rainy season and strong winds prevail afterward. Typically, the climb takes place during the night, following illuminated pathways and steps, allowing climbers to witness the awe-inspiring sunrise from the summit. It is an enchanting experience that leaves one breathless.
The imprint found at the peak is believed to be that of Lord Buddha according to some religions, while Muslims and Christians associate it with Adam. The surrounding forest serves as a wildlife reserve and provides a natural habitat for elephants and leopards. Mentioned in ancient chronicles, this mountain has held significant importance since ancient times. The journey can be quite cold, necessitating warm clothing, along with a positive mindset for the ascent. Upon completion, a sense of accomplishment and well-being engulfs climbers as they retrace the steps of ancient people, including, as certain lore suggests, even those of Alexander the Great.
Situated in the central highlands of Ratnapura, many embark on their ascent of the mountain from the town of Hatton and descend via Ratnapura. While there are six known trails leading to the summit, some are no longer in use. The best time to climb is between December and May, as the rainy season and strong winds prevail afterward. Typically, the climb takes place during the night, following illuminated pathways and steps, allowing climbers to witness the awe-inspiring sunrise from the summit. It is an enchanting experience that leaves one breathless.
The imprint found at the peak is believed to be that of Lord Buddha according to some religions, while Muslims and Christians associate it with Adam. The surrounding forest serves as a wildlife reserve and provides a natural habitat for elephants and leopards. Mentioned in ancient chronicles, this mountain has held significant importance since ancient times. The journey can be quite cold, necessitating warm clothing, along with a positive mindset for the ascent. Upon completion, a sense of accomplishment and well-being engulfs climbers as they retrace the steps of ancient people, including, as certain lore suggests, even those of Alexander the Great.
