ELLA
Located close to the hill station of Bandarawela, Ella is a quaint little town in the mountainous central region of Sri Lanka. It`s ideal location provides easy access to some of the best nature trails, mountains treks and cycling routes, making it the preferred base for those exploring the surrounding areas.
Ella on its own is a beautiful little village which features some of the loveliest views in the Island. A handful of shops, a few small hotels and guesthouses, and a laid-back easy-going character, perfect this holiday destination. Some of the attractions and explorations located close by are the Ella Gap, which on a clear day provides views of the southern coast of the Island, the gorgeously cascading 82 feet high Ravana Falls, the pyramid-shaped rock of Little Adam`s Peak and the Bambaragala Peak which offer spectacular views over the mountains.
MATALE
Located in the central province of Sri Lanka, Matale is located in an enchanting valley which is popular for farming. This old village town boasts an interesting history and serves as a hub to some of the most important historic monuments in the area.
The town is surrounded by the foothills of the famous Knuckles Mountain Range and the area is popular for the cultivation of tea, rubber and spices. The attractions in and around the area includes the 2nd century BC Aluvihara Buddhist Temple, which is located just north of the main town, and the Rangiri Dambulu Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the Kawatayamuni Temple, the Embili Viharaya, the Watagoda temple. Matale is also famous for the 1848 rebellion which was initiated in this town by national heroes Weera Puran Appu and Gongalegoda Banda. Incidentally the city is also the hometown of Monarawila Keppetipola who led the Wellasa rebellion against the British troops
BANDARAWELA
Located 200 km from Sri Lanka`s capital Colombo, Bandarawela is a bustling little town in the Badulla district. Its altitude of 1300m, the colonial past, the surrounding tea plantations and its scenic setting make Bandarawela the ideal setting for a holiday destination.
The area can be reached by both rail and road. The popularity of this destination lies mainly in the belief that this picturesque area possesses one of the most favorable climates for one`s health. Actually, the town, set amongst the mountains, is neither too warm nor too cold. This ideal setting is what attracted the colonial rulers to the area and also the reason for visitors from all over the world choosing it as a holiday destination. The history and the heritage of the city can be traced as far back as the Island`s Anuradhapura Kingdom and as evidence the town boasts the ancient Dhowa Buddhist Rock Temple. It is believed that this Rock Temple which features a 38-foot image of the Lord Buddha carved in rock and murals from the Kandyan Era, was initiated in the 1st century BC.
NUWARA EILYA
At an altitude of 2000 metres above sea level and with velvety green mountains surrounding it Nuwara Eliya is one of the most picturesque destinations in Sri Lanka. This mountain station is popular for the tea plantations around the area as well as the influence of colonialism in the town.
Located in the heart of the local tea industry the English planter sought this destination as their base mainly because of its salubrious climate and scenic setting. Made into a little English village by the Britishers the city today still portrays the typical setting of an old English countryside. With various interesting attractions in the area and most of the colonial lodgings being converted to hotels and guesthouses Nuwara Eliya is a much sought after holiday destination by locals as well as foreigners. Attractions in and around Nuwara Eliya include the picturesque Gregory`s Lake which is located in the town itself, and which offers boating and rowing options and the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, located about 10km from the town it`s elevation of 5000 – 6000 feet makes it the only Botanical Garden in the world boasting such a high altitude. Among some of the rare plants the Garden boasts is a 100-year-old Monterey Cypress (Macrocarpa) which is a species of cypress endemic to the Californian Central Coast. For the sport and adventure lover the city itself features a dramatically set 18-hole golf course with an old English style club house, and for those willing to venture out further the ideal explorations are the Horton Plains National Park which boasts rare flora and fauna as well as excellent hiking and walking trails and the tough climb of the Pidurutalagala which is the highest mountain peak in the Island. For scenic explorations there are a range of attractive waterfalls each featuring its own unique cascade, scenic tea plantations to explore and various picnic spots for relaxation
Adam's Peak
Adam`s Peak in Sri Lanka or Siri Pada as it is popularly known, is in fact recognized by many names owing to the ambiguity of its historic origins. Whichever name is used Adam`s Peak is a haven for all faiths, a place which different religions revere.
Located in the Ratnapura central highlands, many start the ascent of the mountain from the town of Hatton and descent via Ratnapura. There are six known trails leading to the summit; however some are not in use today. The best time for climbing is from December to May as there after the rainy season and strong winds set in. The climb is usually done during the night, along lit pathways and steps, so that you are in time to witness the sunrise from the summit. It truly is a breathtaking experience. The footprint at the top is believed by the different religions to be that of Lord Buddha or that of Adam by Muslims and Christians. The surrounding forest is a wildlife reserve and is the natural habit for elephants and leopards. This mountain is mentioned in ancient chronicles which asserts its place of significance from ancient times. It is a chilly journey, and warm clothes are a must, as is a positive mind regarding the climb. Once done you feel a sense of accomplishment and wellbeing as you re-trace the steps of ancient people, including, according to certain lore, that of Alexander the Great.