Happy TravellerWelcome to Badulla, the capital city of Uva Province in Sri Lanka. Situated in the lower central hills of the country, Badulla is a city surrounded by tea plantations and the Badulu Oya River. The city is located about 680 meters above sea level and is overshadowed by the Namunukula range of mountains, with the highest peak reaching 2,016 meters above sea level. Badulla has a rich history, having been a base of a pre-colonial Sinhalese local prince who ruled the area under the main King in Kandy before it became part of the British Empire. Later, it became one of the provincial administrative hubs of the British rulers. Today, Badulla is a bustling city with a population of over 47,000 people.
One of the best ways to reach Badulla is by road. There are multiple routes to Badulla from Colombo, Kandy, and Galle. From Colombo, one can travel via Ratnapura, Balangoda, Haputale, Bandarawela, and Hali Ela along A4 and A16 to Badulla, which may take 5-6 hours. From Kandy, there are two routes: either via Victoria-Randenigala Raja Mawatha or via Nuwara Eliya (route A5). From Galle, the best route is via Matara, Hambantota, Wellawaya, Ella, Demodara, and Hali Ela (route A2). All routes are scenic and one can see splendid views of the geography, which changes while traveling.
Badulla is a multi-national city with the ancient Muthiyangana Temple situated in its heart. It is regarded as one of the Solosmasthana, the sixteen sacred places in Sri Lanka, believed by Buddhists to have been visited by Gautama Buddha. The Catholic Church has a diocese headquartered here. Badulla Kataragama Devalaya is an ancient devalaya, situated in Badulla town. It is one of shrines dedicated to Sinhalese deity Kataragama deviyo. Old Welekade Market is a historic colonial building, situated in the middle of the Badulla town. It was built in 1889 by the British. Dunhinda Falls, a 64 meters high waterfall, is located 5 kilometers north of Badulla. This is one of the most popular waterfalls of Sri Lanka, mentioned in several famous songs and works of literature. It draws many local and foreign tourists to the region. Bogoda ancient wooden bridge is one of the oldest surviving wooden bridges in the country (being over 400 years old) and is located 13 kilometers south of Badulla, close to the town of Hali-ela. Demodara railway station is between Ella and Udoowara railway stations. Demodara railway station is famous because the railway turns from the platform, and then goes under the railway station in the tunnel. St Marks Church, built-in memory of Major Thomas William Rogers, Assistant Government Agent of Uva Province, who died on 7 June 1845 after being struck by lightning at the Sherwood Estate in Haputale. It was the first church to be consecrated (25 April 1857) by the first Bishop of Colombo Rev. James Chapman.
Badulla district is one of the leading tea-producing districts, second only behind the Nuwara-Eliya District. The town has grown steadily since the country’s independence from approximately 13,000 in 1946, to 38,000 in 1977 and 47,587 in 2011. Badulla and its surroundings are highly recommended for eco-tourists as Horton Plains National Park and the Knuckles mountains are a few hours away.
In conclusion, Badulla is a city with a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a vibrant culture. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, Badulla has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this hidden gem in the heart of Sri Lanka!
