What Are The Things To Do In Ella, Sri Lanka? A Narrative Of My Days In Ella

BY  Sibashree Aug 21, 2026

Wadduwa is very close to Colombo, just 35 kilometers south. You reach it in less than an hour’s drive down the Galle Road or the Southern Expressway.  However, it is easy to miss Wadduwa on the way to Bentota or Hikkaduwa.  It is true that Wadduwa does not have a single big attraction. Still, the fishing boats going out at dawn, coconut palms leaning over empty sand, and an unhurried rhythm make it different from built-up beach towns further south.  Wadduwa At A Glance  LocationWestern Province, Kalutara District, southwest coast of Sri LankaDistance from Colombo35 KmDistance from the airport50 km from Bandaranaike International AirportKnown ForQuiet BeachesAyurvedic Wellness ResortsFishing Village CultureBest Time to VisitNovember to April (Dry Season, Calmer Seas)Getting AroundTuk-tukTaxiCoastal Train LineBusIdeal ForCouplesWellness TravelersTravelers Looking for a Low-Key Base Near ColomboNearby TownsKalutara (10–15 Minutes)Bentota (45 Minutes)Panadura (20 Minutes) How To Reach Wadduwa? Wadduwa is well-connected by bus, train, and private transport options. However, since the distance from Colombo is just around 35 km, traveling by a private taxi is the best option. By Taxi Traveling from Colombo City Center to Wadduwa via the Galle Road is a journey of around 40-50 minutes.  The private taxi charged me around LKR 7500.  However, if you are traveling directly from the airport, the travel time will be around 1.5 hours, and the cost will be close to LKR 12000. Here, you need to keep one thing in mind regarding the charges. During negotiations, cross-check whether the toll charges for the Southern Expressway (E01) are included in the fare or not.  By Train If you are a budget traveler and want to enjoy the view of the southern coast, a train ride is a more suitable option.  The distance between the Colombo Fort Railway Station and Wadduwa Railway Station by train is just 32.47 km.  Trains on this route are available from 4:20 AM to 9:36 PM at regular intervals on a daily basis. Also, the travel time is around 50 minutes.  The ticket prices for this train ride are LKR 80, LKR 200, and LKR 350 for 3rd class, 2nd class, and 1st class tickets, respectively (Source: https://www.railway.gov.lk/).  This is the best option if you are traveling solo or do not have much luggage with you.  By Bus You can travel from Colombo to Wadduwa by bus also. You can catch the route number 100/2 bus or any bus going to Galle or Matara from the Central Bus Stop in Colombo Fort.  The travel time is around 50-60 minutes, and the ticket price is just around LKR 150. However, if you want to travel in an AC bus, the ticket price will be approximately LKR 250. What Are The Top Attractions In Wadduwa?  Wadduwa does not have bucket-list destinations. However, all it takes is hiring a tuk-tuk, which will cost around LKR 150 to 400 for short rides.  It will take you to the serene beach, Richmond Castle, and Kalutara Bodhiya. You can even visit the Kaluwamodara Bridge and the beautiful Kalu River. Also, Wadduwa is known for its wellness tourism. You can indulge in the magic of Ayurvedic treatment here.  1. The Beach I started exploring Wadduwa with the beach as the starting point. It is a sheer contrast to Mirissa or Unawatuna if you are expecting high drama.  The sand here is soft and golden, and the water is calm.  Also, the coconut trees line the shore in a way that feels more like a working coastal town than a resort strip. Watching The Fishermen At Dawn At The Beach During my stay in Wadduwa, I used to wake up very early. It was just to observe the fishermen at work at dawn.  They used to push the brightly painted boats into the surf. They also checked and mended their nets.  There were no tourists in sight, proving once again that Wadduwa is a fishing community first and a holiday destination second. Swimming And Conditions The calm waters of Wadduwa make it a safe destination for swimming. However, like the other southern coastal destinations, the waters here also face occasional rip currents.  Wadduwa is also famous for coconut plantations.  These plantations back up right against the shoreline in places. That greenery is part of what makes the beach feel less commercialized than some of its neighbors. 2. Ayurveda And Slowing Down Ayurvedic wellness tourism is the biggest attraction in Wadduwa. It has a number of resorts that have reputations specifically around traditional Sri Lankan healing practices. You can opt for the following wellness practices in Wadduwa.  Herbal Oil Massage Steam Treatments Detox Programs I am not usually one for spa itineraries. However, I gave in for an afternoon and came away understanding the appeal. The cost of steam treatments and herbal oil massage came to around LKR 6000.  It is a genuinely different kind of beach holiday, oriented around rest rather than activity, and Wadduwa has quietly become one of the country's go-to spots for it. 3. Richmond Castle And Kalutara Bodhiya After an Ayurvedic massage and complete rejuvenation, I took a short trip to neighboring Kalutara.  It was just a 20-minute drive along the coast. I visited Richmond Castle and Kalutara Bodhiya there.  Richmond Castle Richmond Castle is an early-1900s mansion built for a local Mudaliyar (a headman title from the colonial era). It is an impressive 42-acre property blending colonial architecture with signature Sri Lankan styles.  The entry fee to the castle is LKR 100 for local adults, and as a foreigner, I had to pay LKR 500.  The entry fee may seem higher, considering it does not match the grandeur of a European castle.  However, given that all the proceeds go toward funding local schoolboys' education, you will not mind paying the same.  The entry fee for the local schoolchildren to the castle is also very low, and it is just LKR 10.  Guides are available on-site and can walk you through the history in about forty minutes to an hour, and the grounds are open daily from 8 AM to 4 PM. Kalutara Bodhiya Kalutara Bodhiya, a major Buddhist temple and stupa, sits on the top of the river mouth.  Along with its religious significance, Kalutara Bodhiya stands out with its striking structure.  The hollow dagoba lets you walk inside and look up at painted panels depicting scenes from Buddhist scripture. This is something you see at every temple in Sri Lanka. I have shared the details of visiting the Kalutara Bodhiya in my guide on the historic coastal town of Kalutara.  4. Bridges, Rivers, And A Slower Kind Of Sightseeing The Kalu River is the lifeline of Wadduwa and Kalutara. Furthermore, the Kaluwamodara Bridge connects the northern and southern parts of Kalutara across the Kalu River. The bridge has an impressive arch design, and you can notice it while taking a tuk-tuk ride.  However, I opted for a scenic boat ride of 90 minutes for LKR 3500.  The short boat ride along the Kalutara River one afternoon wove through mangrove patches.  I also got a look at local fishing life from the water rather than the shore.  It is a quieter, more low-key version of the river safaris you will find further south in Bentota, and I actually preferred it for that reason. Fewer boats, more birdlife, no rush! Day Trips From Wadduwa Thanks to its central location on the western coast, Wadduwa is the ideal base for exploring the nearby coastal towns.  You can plan the following day trips from Wadduwa.  Bentota About 45 minutes south, Bentota offers river safaris, water sports, and garden estates. Brief Garden The landscaped estate created by Sri Lankan artist Bevis Bawa is a worthwhile detour if you have any interest in tropical garden design or local art history. Dehiwala Zoo One of the older zoos in Asia, around 26 kilometers north, Dehiwala Zoo is an easy option if you are traveling with kids. Pahiyangala For something further afield, this prehistoric archaeological site near Yatagampitiya is about 40 kilometers from Kalutara. It appeals if you are curious about Sri Lanka's deeper human history rather than its colonial-era one. Pahiyangala, or the Fa-Hiden Caves, has been home to prehistoric human beings around 37000 years ago, as backed by archaeological evidence.  Such a fascinating site, the caves offer free entry, and they remain open for visitors from 6 AM to 6 PM.  However, you need to climb a staircase for around 20 minutes to reach the caves.  Food And Water Sports Beyond the beach and the temples, Wadduwa gave me some of my simplest, best meals of the trip, and enough on-water options to fill an afternoon if lounging isn't quite your speed. Eating in Wadduwa Eating in Wadduwa leans heavily, unsurprisingly, toward seafood. The fresh catch sold right off the boats in the morning turns into curries and grilled fish by evening at the small local restaurants scattered along the coast road.  On The Water For anyone wanting more than sunbathing, the calm-but-active waters here support jet skiing, windsurfing, and light surfing. All of these felt more accessible and less crowded than the equivalent setups in Bentota or Hikkaduwa.  Here is a breakdown of the estimated costs for taking part in different watersports in Wadduwa. WatersportsEstimated Cost (LKR)Jet Skiing8000-12000Banana Boat Ride5000-7000Tube Ride6000-8000Windsurfing / Wakeboarding10000-15000 I am mentioning all the charges here based on what the local organizers quoted me. The prices can change for your next trip.  Wadduwa is not a surf town in the way those places are, but if you just want to get out on the water without booking weeks in advance, Wadduwa makes it easy. What Is The Best Time To Visit Wadduwa? Like most of the western coast, Wadduwa is best visited between November and April, when the weather is dry and the seas are calmer. This is also when the Ayurvedic resorts tend to be fullest. So, it is worth booking ahead if that's part of your plan.  The town holds a warm, tropical climate year-round, but the shoulder and monsoon months bring rougher water and less predictable weather. A Simple 2-Day Wadduwa Itinerary DaysActivitiesDay 1, Beach and WellnessMorningArriveSettle inEarly walk on Wadduwa Beach to catch the fishermen heading out. MiddayRelax by the beach or pool.Light seafood lunch at a local restaurantAfternoonAyurvedic spa treatment at your resortEveningSunset on the beach, dinner of fresh grilled fish.Day 2, Kalutara and the RiverMorningDrive to Kalutara (~20 min) to visit Richmond Castle.Midday:Kalutara Bodhiya TempleLunch nearbyAfternoon: Kalutara River boat tour through the mangrovesEveningReturn to Wadduwa, water sports session (jet ski or windsurfing) if conditions allow. If you have a third day, use it for a half-day trip to Bentota for river safaris and garden estates, or Brief Garden if you would rather stay closer. Slowing Down At Wadduwa  Wadduwa is one of the best-kept secrets of Sri Lanka in the truest sense. Just 35 km away from Colombo, it is a place to slow down and be a part of a livelihood based on fishing.  Also, it is an important base for Kalutara and Bentota day trips due to its accessible location.  Still, Wadduwa is quieter and on its own. So, the mornings on the beach never felt like they belonged to anyone but the fishermen and me.

BY  Sibashree Jul 9, 2026

It’s great that Badulla has slowly and steadily bounced back after the rampage of Cyclone Ditwah in December 2025. With proactive measures, the Badulla–Haputale railway line was restored in just 18 days, and it’s great that in 2026, with its iconic landmarks such as the Demodara Railway Loop remaining a serene hill-country town.  Moreover, this serene stop on the iconic Kandy-to-Ella railway route has ancient temples, cascading waterfalls, and misty tea plantations.  So, if you want to enjoy a place with a cooler highland climate such as Nuwara Eliya, Badulla will be the go-to place.  In this article, I will discuss why Badulla, the capital of Sri Lanka's Uva Province, is famous. The places to visit and more.  However, let’s begin with its location.  Where Is Badulla, Sri Lanka? Badulla is in the southeastern part of the central hill country of Sri Lanka. Furthermore, it is at an elevation of 680 meters.  So, it enjoys a misty, cool climate. In addition, the surrounding tea gardens and the Badulu Oya River make it a sought-after hill station.  In addition, the Namunukula mountain range overlooks this hill country town as the supervising guardian.  Moreover, it is located at a distance of around 230 km east of Colombo. Why Is Badulla Famous? Badulla, in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, is cherished for its unique colonial engineering.  At the same time, it is a place where nature and history meet. However, the most significant aspect of this highland is its spiritual heritage.  As a result, Badulla is an iconic ecotourism destination, and it is also ideal for someone who is fascinated by architecture and history.  Scenic Wonders And Ecotourism Cascading waterfalls and a dramatic mountain terrain dominate the landscape of Badulla.  The Dunhinda Falls, with its height of 64 meters, is the iconic landmark that draws visitors from across the globe.  Again, the majestic Namunukula mountain range surrounds the central highland.  This mountain range, further, is a sanctuary for avid hikers, campers, and nature enthusiasts seeking panoramic vistas of the Uva Province. Moreover, thanks to the geographical features, Badulla has a microclimate ideal for growing some of the world's finest high-grown Ceylon teas.  So, Badulla has endless green estates terracing the valley walls.  Historic Architecture And Heritage Sites Badulla is not just an ecotourism hotspot. It is way beyond a living museum depicting the diverse history of Sri Lanka.  The Muthiyangana Raja Maha Vihara is at the heart of Badulla. It is an ancient temple complex, and it is sanctified by a visit from Gautama Buddha.  So, it is a significant pilgrimage site for the Buddhists.  Another significant architectural marvel on the site is the Bogoda Wooden Bridge. This 13th-century bridge has no metal nails.  Again, the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge is a classic example of colonial architecture.  This iconic stone railway viaduct stands as a testament to early 20th-century British engineering and remains a globally recognized symbol of Sri Lankan travel. What Are The Places To Visit In Badulla? Badulla is versatile, as I have already mentioned.  So, I have divided the places to visit in Badulla into three main sections: the natural attractions, the spiritual and religious places, and the architectural attractions.  Natural Attractions To Explore In Badulla  It goes without saying that Badulla, as an iconic ecotourism hotspot, will have many natural attractions.  1. Dunhinda Falls The Bride’s Veil Falls, or the Dunhinda Falls, is very close to Badulla Town. I could hear the roaring sound of the waterfall from a distance.  As I followed the roar and reached the waterfall, the journey culminated in an amazing view of plunging water.  2. Diyaluma Falls The second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, the Diyaluma Falls, stands at the end of an adventurous hike from Badulla.  It is around 60 km away from Badulla, and the travel time is around 2 hours.  Furthermore, the Diyaluma Falls are so beautiful that after reaching the base, I opted for an adventurous hike to the top.  The views were incredible, and I even took a dip in the refreshing pool formed below.  However, always listen to the local guides and check the weather updates before visiting the Diyaluma Falls.  3. Tea Plantations And Viewpoints  Badulla looks like a carpet of green with the tea plantations on the hillsides. These tea gardens do not just offer lush greenery.  These are also great locations for learning how tea is processed and how the transformation from leaves to cup happens.  Religious And Spiritual Places To Visit The Muthiyangana Raja Maha Vihara and Dowa Rock Temple are two important religious landmarks in Badulla.  Muthiyangana Raja Maha Vihara You can find the mention of the Muthiyangana Raja Maha Vihara in the Mahavamsa chronicle itself.  King Indaka, a chieftain of the Deva tribe, built this Vihara in the 5th century. However, King Devanampiyatissa transformed this structure into a formal temple complex.  This temple is so significant as Lord Buddha visited it.  Furthermore, the Muthiyangana Raja Maha Vihara has impressive architecture.  The stupas and the stone structures here are the quintessence of important Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka, such as the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and the Gal Vihara in Polonnaruwa.  Dowa Rock Temple The power of unfinished art and what it signifies! Everything is for you to interpret, and there are thousands of possibilities about why the art could not be completed.  This is what I felt after seeing the Dowa Rock Temple.  Carved into a giant rock face, this temple has an unfinished and giant statue of Lord Buddha.  The scale and the intricate carvings of the temple were amazing, and they showed the mastery of the Sri Lankan artisans in the ancient age.  You will even get a glimpse of the religious and artistic heritage of the island country.  Architectural Marvels In Badulla  Walking on the Bogoda Wooden Bridge is like connecting to ancient times. The air there felt very different, and it immediately transported me 400 years back.  Furthermore, the tiled roof of the bridge is a telltale of the Sri Lankan engineering excellence in ancient times.  Moreover, when you are in Badulla, don’t miss the spicy vegetable and meat curries and rice.

BY  Sibashree Mar 16, 2026

The National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka, or Dehiwala Zoo, is one of the first zoos in Asia.  So, if you have enjoyed the Kaudulla National Park safari, you will also love a visit to the Dehiwala Zoo.  This zoo has an area of 26 acres, and it is home to more than 2000 animals. Furthermore, you will find fountains, orchids, and peaceful lakes here. Moreover, it offers a unique Night Safari experience. On this night safari, you can spot the mysterious nocturnal animals.  In addition, you can join the educational workshops here to learn about wildlife conservation.  So, come and have a thrilling wildlife experience at Dehiwala Zoo. However, before I talk about its location, how to travel, things to do, and the best time to travel, here is a quick look at the essential details.  Dehiwala Zoo In Colombo: Quick Info  Address120 Galvihara Road, Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, Sri LankaTimings8:30 AM to 6 PMTicket- LKR 100 for Local Adults- LKR 2,500 for ForeignersFacilities- Souvenir Shops- Restaurants- Boat Rides- Icecream Stalls- Zoo Aquarium- Butterfly Garden Pony Rides- Elephant Rides- Flowers- Fountains How To Reach Dehiwala Zoo?  Dehiwala Zoo is well accessible by air, train, bus, taxi, and ride-hailing apps. While the easiest option is to take a taxi or private car, traveling by bus is the cheapest way.  1. By Air Dehiwala Zoo is just 40 km away from the Bandaranaike International Airport.  Furthermore, you will easily get a ride-hailing service or a taxi to reach the Dehiwala Zoo within 45 minutes.  2. By Train The Dehiwala Railway Station is the closest to the zoo. So, if you are traveling from the north, you have to take a train from Colombo Fort Station to Dehiwala Railway Station.  Also, if you are traveling from the south, you can stop at Mount Lavinia Railway Station. The beautiful Mount Lavinia Beach is just 1.4 km away from the railway station.  Tuk-tuks are available from both these railway stations, and the train ticket price will be between 40 and 100 LKR.  3. By Taxis Or Ride-Hailing Apps The easiest way to reach Dehiwala Zoo is to take a ride-hailing service or a taxi. Uber and PickMe are the main ride-hailing services here.  You can book vans, tuk-tuks, or cabs using these apps.  Furthermore, the travel cost in this way is between 1700 and 2400 LKR.  4. By Bus  You will get buses to Dehiwala Zoo throughout the day. You can take bus 176, 100, and 101.  Furthermore, the ticket prices are between 30 and 50 LKR.  What Are The Best Things To Do At Dehiwala Zoo?  From watching the elephant performance to taking a ride in the zoo train, the activities in the zoo are diverse and ideal for tourists of all age groups.  However, for me, the most delightful part was watching the elephants in action. Here is more about the things to do at Dehiwala Zoo.  1. Watching The Animal Shows  Located on the Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, Dehiwala Zoo has monkeys, animals, fish, birds, reptiles, and other animals.  The zoo further hosts animal shows.  So, you will love seeing an elephant dancing or a seal playing with a ball.  2. A Walk Through The Zoo The zoological garden has a reptile house, aviary, aquarium, and butterfly garden. So, you can take a walk through the garden.  The zoological garden area also has a dedicated botanical garden.  However, if you don’t want to walk much, you can take a ride on the zoo train.  3. Learn About The Flora And Fauna Present Here  If you want to know about the animals and plants here, you have to take a guided tour. Furthermore, you can learn about the flora and fauna and the rich history of the zoo from the Educational Center.  Moreover, the zoological garden has an animal hospital. You will find veterinary doctors and caregivers at work there.  4. Take A Part In The Night Safari  The zoo has a dedicated Leopard Trail for night safaris. You can watch the nocturnal animals in action during the safari.  Furthermore, you can arrange a picnic or explore the local Dehiwala Market. Furthermore, if you want a spiritual experience, visit the Bellanwila Rajamaha Viharaya.  If you want to explore more Buddhist places of importance in Sri Lanka, you can visit the Ritigala Forest Monastery and Sigiriya Rock.  What is the Best Time to Visit Dehiwala Zoo In Sri Lanka? December to April is the best time to visit Dehiwala Zoo. This is the dry season and hence is ideal for outdoor exploration and wildlife spotting.  However, it is also the peak season. So, plan a visit early in the day and avoid weekends.  Furthermore, May to November is the wet season in the garden, and the zoo looks lush and green. However, the animals can be less active in these months.  Things To Keep In Mind For Visiting The Dehiwala Zoo In Sri Lanka Irrespective of the season of your visit, you have to keep the following things in mind.  You have to wear comfortable footwear with a good grip as you have to walk a lot through the zoo.  Furthermore, you have to be respectful to the animals and follow the rules of the zoo. Is A Trip To Dehiwala Zoo Worth The Experience?  Yes, Dehiwala Zoo is a place worth visiting because you don’t just spot animals here, but learn about their livelihood and nature.  Furthermore, this is one of the oldest zoos in Asia and was built in 1936.  However, the zoo authority must be more focused on the preservation of the zoo, as the last time I visited, certain things drew my attention.  Seeing the animals here, the night safari, and the performances by animals have become more like a curriculum, and they show a lack of infrastructure.  So, you may feel sometimes disappointed if you are planning to visit the zoo to see a performance of the animals.  Still, many people visit this zoo because of its heritage.