The Central Highlands of Sri Lanka is a mountainous region located in the central part of the country. The area is characterized by its rolling hills, verdant tea plantations, and cool climate, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers.
The Central Highlands region is home to several important nature reserves and national parks, including the Horton Plains National Park, which is famous for its stunning landscapes, including the World’s End cliff and Baker’s Falls. The Peak Wilderness Sanctuary is another popular destination for nature lovers, home to Sri Lanka’s second-highest peak, Adam’s Peak, and the surrounding forest reserve.
Ella Village
Ella is a small village located in the Badulla District of Sri Lanka’s Uva Province. Ella is surrounded by lush green hills, tea plantations, and cascading waterfalls, making it a popular spot for hiking and trekking. One of the most popular hiking trails in Ella is the trek to the top of Ella Rock, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
The village itself has a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere, with small shops, restaurants, and guesthouses lining the streets. One of the most popular attractions in Ella is the Nine Arch Bridge, a beautiful railway bridge constructed during the British colonial period. Visitors can watch trains pass over the bridge, or take a scenic train journey through the hills.
Other popular attractions in Ella include Ravana Falls, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush green forest, and Little Adam’s Peak, a small hill with panoramic views of the surrounding area. Ella is also known for its tea plantations, and visitors can take a tour of a tea factory to learn about the tea-making process and sample some of Sri Lanka’s famous Ceylon tea.
Scenic Train Journey
The train journey from Ella to Badulla is considered one of the most scenic train rides in Sri Lanka. The train passes through lush green hills, tea plantations, and cascading waterfalls, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The train journey takes about 5 hours, and the best time to take the train is early in the morning, when the mist is still rising from the hills and the sun is just beginning to rise.
The train ride is an excellent way to experience Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and to see the daily life of the people who live in the hill country. Along the way, visitors can watch locals working in the tea plantations, children walking to school, and farmers tending to their crops. The train ride also passes by several waterfalls, including the stunning Dunhinda Falls, which is visible from the train as it passes over a nearby bridge. Visitors can also see the famous Nine Arch Bridge from the train, which is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Nine Arch Bride
The Nine Arch Bridge is a famous railway bridge located in the town of Ella in Sri Lanka. The bridge is a popular tourist attraction due to its stunning beauty and unique architecture.
The bridge was constructed during the British colonial period. The bridge spans a distance of 300 feet and is 80 feet high. The bridge is made of bricks, stones, and cement, and its arches are constructed using a simple but effective technique that was commonly used during that time.
The Nine Arch Bridge is surrounded by lush green tea plantations and dense forests, which provide a picturesque backdrop for photos. Visitors can also witness the local train passing over the bridge, which is an iconic scene and a favorite among photographers. The best time to visit the Nine Arch Bridge is in the morning when the mist is still rising from the hills, and the sun is just starting to rise. This creates a magical atmosphere and offers the perfect lighting for photography.
Haputale – Central Highland of Sri Lanka
Haputale is a small town located in the Badulla District of Sri Lanka’s central highlands. The town is surrounded by picturesque tea plantations, misty mountains, and stunning waterfalls, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers.
One of the main attractions in Haputale is the Lipton’s Seat viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and tea estates. Another popular attraction in Haputale is the Dambetenna Tea Factory, which was established by Sir Thomas Lipton in the late 19th century. Visitors can take a guided tour of the factory to learn about the tea-making process and sample some of the finest Ceylon tea.
Haputale is also home to several scenic waterfalls, including the Diyaluma Falls, which is the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. Visitors can hike to the top of the falls or swim in the natural pool at the bottom.For those interested in culture and history, the Adisham Bungalow is a must-visit destination. It was built by Sir Thomas Villiers, a wealthy British planter, in the early 20th century.
Hatton
Hatton is a town located in the Nuwara Eliya District of Sri Lanka’s central highlands. One of the main attractions in Hatton is the Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada) mountain, which is considered a sacred site by Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and Christians. It is a popular destination for pilgrims who climb the mountain to reach the Sri Pada or “sacred footprint” at the summit. The climb is most popular during the pilgrimage season from December to May. Hatton is also known for its tea plantations, which produce some of the world’s finest Ceylon tea. Visitors can take a tour of a tea factory to learn about the tea-making process and sample some of the local blends. The St. Clair’s Falls and Devon Falls, which are located near Hatton, are also popular tourist attractions. The town of Hatton itself has a colonial charm and is home to several historic buildings and churches. The Hatton National Bank building, which was built in 1927, is an excellent example of colonial architecture. The St. Anne’s Church, which was built in the late 19th century, is another landmark of the town.
Knuckles Mountain Range
The Knuckles Mountain Range is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the central part of Sri Lanka. The range is located in the districts of Kandy and Matale and covers an area of approximately 155 square kilometers. The Knuckles Mountain Range is known for its rugged terrain, deep valleys, and biodiversity. It is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including rare and endemic ones. Visitors can explore the range by hiking along its trails, which offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes. There are several peaks in the range that are popular among hikers, including the Knuckles Peak , Kirigalpoththa , and Pitawala Pathana. The trails vary in difficulty, and some require experienced hikers and guides. The Knuckles Mountain Range is also home to several villages that offer a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and culture of the local people. Visitors can explore these villages and learn about their customs, handicrafts, and cuisine. Overall, the Knuckles Mountain Range is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts visiting Sri Lanka. Its scenic beauty, diverse flora and fauna, and unique cultural heritage make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Horton Plains Nuwara Eliya
Horton Plains National Park is a protected area located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. The park covers an area of 3,160 hectares and is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species, including many endemic and rare species.
The main attraction of Horton Plains is the World’s End, a sheer cliff with a drop of about 1,200 meters, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Visitors can also hike along the park’s trails to see the Baker’s Falls, a scenic waterfall cascading down the hillside. Horton Plains is known for its unique ecosystem, which is characterized by montane grasslands and cloud forests. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sambar deer, barking deer, wild boar, and several species of primates, such as the purple-faced langur and toque macaque. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 100 species of birds, including many endemics. The park is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm. Visitors are required to obtain a permit before entering the park and are advised to wear appropriate clothing and footwear for hiking.
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