Bandarawela
Your complete travel guide to Bandarawela, Sri Lanka — discover the best things to do, where to stay, and how to get there.
About Bandarawela
Bandarawela is a charming hill station famous for having one of the best climates in the world - consistently cool and pleasant year-round. This bustling market town in Uva Province offers an authentic slice of Sri Lankan hill country life without the tourist crowds of nearby Ella.
The town sits at 1,230 meters elevation, surrounded by rolling tea estates and vegetable gardens. While it lacks the dramatic viewpoints of its neighbors, Bandarawela rewards visitors with genuine interactions, excellent local food, and a glimpse into everyday life in the highlands.
Bandarawela makes an excellent base for exploring the region. It's more affordable than Ella, has better facilities than Haputale, and is well-connected by both train and road. The famous Bandarawela Hotel, one of Sri Lanka's oldest, still welcomes guests with colonial-era charm.
Best Time to Visit
Year-round — Bandarawela has pleasant weather throughout the year. Slightly drier January to March. The famous climate averages 20-25°C year-round.
Quick Facts
Best Time
Year-round
Min. Days
1-2 days
From Colombo
6 hours
Known For
Perfect climate, local markets, tea country
Things to Do in Bandarawela
Bandarawela Market
Bustling local market selling fresh vegetables, fruits, spices, and household goods. Best experienced on market days (Wednesdays and Sundays).
Tip: Go early morning for the freshest produce and most activity.
Dowa Rock Temple
Ancient temple with a 4-meter Buddha statue carved into a rock face. Dating back to the 1st century BC.
Bandarawela Hotel
Historic hotel built in 1893, retaining its colonial charm. Worth visiting for afternoon tea on the lawn even if not staying.
Tea Estate Walks
Walking paths through surrounding tea plantations offer beautiful scenery and encounters with tea pluckers.
Dhowa Temple
A small but significant Buddhist temple built around a massive rock, featuring ancient inscriptions and peaceful surroundings.
Kinchigune Falls
A lesser-known waterfall near Bandarawela, requiring a short hike through tea estates.
Getting to Bandarawela
By Train
Scenic train from Colombo via Kandy. Station is central in town.
By Bus
Buses from Colombo, Kandy, and south coast.
By Taxi/Car
Easy to combine with other hill country destinations.
Getting Around Bandarawela
The town center is walkable. Tuk-tuks for surrounding attractions and tea estates. Bus connections to Ella and Haputale.
Where to Stay in Bandarawela
Hostels & Budget
- Rose Garden Home Stay$
Mid-Range Hotels
- Orient Hotel$$
- Zion View$
Boutique Hotels
- Bandarawela Hotel$$$
- Hill Safari Eco Lodge$$
Where to Eat in Bandarawela
- Bandarawela Hotel Restaurant(International/Sri Lankan)$$
- Local rice and curry shops(Sri Lankan)$
- Chinese Globe Restaurant(Chinese)$
Bandarawela FAQs
Why is Bandarawela famous for its climate?
Bandarawela consistently ranks among the world's best climates. The temperature stays between 20-25°C year-round, with low humidity and fresh mountain air.
Is Bandarawela worth visiting if I'm going to Ella?
If you want a less touristy experience, yes. It's great for experiencing authentic Sri Lankan hill country life. The Bandarawela Hotel alone is worth a visit.
What is there to do in Bandarawela?
It's more about atmosphere than attractions. Explore the market, walk through tea estates, visit the historic hotel, and use it as a base for Ella and Haputale.
Is Bandarawela cheaper than Ella?
Yes, accommodation and food are generally more affordable in Bandarawela as it's less touristy. It's a good budget-friendly alternative.
External Resources
Learn more about Bandarawela from these authoritative sources: