Best Places to Visit in Uva Province | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Uva Province Travel Guide
Quick overview of Uva Province with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to the Uva Province, located in the heart of Sri Lanka! This enchanting region is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant local traditions. Nestled amidst lush green tea plantations, Uva Province offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. With its cool climate and picturesque scenery, this region is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. From exploring the ancient ruins of the Dambatenne Tea Factory to embarking on thrilling hikes through the Horton Plains National Park, Uva Province promises an unforgettable journey filled with awe-inspiring experiences. So pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Uva Province, Sri Lanka!
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Best Places To Visit in Uva Province
1. Badulla: Located in the heart of the Uva Province, Badulla is a charming town surrounded by lush green tea plantations and misty mountains. The town is famous for its picturesque landscapes and is a haven for nature lovers. Visitors can explore the Dunhinda Falls, one of Sri Lanka's most beautiful waterfalls, or take a scenic train ride through the tea estates. Badulla also boasts historical sites such as the Muthiyangana Raja Maha Viharaya, a Buddhist temple with a rich history dating back to ancient times.
2. Ella: Nestled amidst the breathtakingly beautiful Ella Gap, this small town is a must-visit destination in the Uva Province. Ella is renowned for its stunning views of rolling hills, tea plantations, and cascading waterfalls. The Ella Rock hike is a popular activity among adventure enthusiasts, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. The town also offers a unique experience with its Nine Arch Bridge, an architectural marvel that attracts both locals and tourists alike.
3. Haputale: Situated at an elevation of 1,431 meters above sea level, Haputale is a tranquil hill town that offers mesmerizing views of the Uva Province. The town is known for its cool climate and is a great place to escape the heat of the lowlands. Visitors can embark on scenic hikes to Lipton's Seat, a viewpoint named after Sir Thomas Lipton, the famous tea magnate. Haputale is also home to the Adisham Bungalow, a picturesque English country house that has been converted into a monastery.
4. Bandarawela: Surrounded by rolling hills and tea estates, Bandarawela is a charming town that offers a glimpse into the colonial past of Sri Lanka. The town is known for its pleasant climate and is a popular base for exploring the nearby attractions. Visitors can visit the Dowa Rock Temple, an ancient cave temple with stunning rock carvings, or take a leisurely stroll through the Lover's Leap viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
5. Passara: Tucked away in the mountains of the Uva Province, Passara is a hidden gem that offers a serene and off-the-beaten-path experience. The town is surrounded by tea plantations and offers breathtaking views of the valleys below. Visitors can explore the Bogoda Bridge, a historic wooden bridge dating back to the 17th century, or visit the Namunukula Mountain Range, a popular spot for hiking and birdwatching.
6. Welimada: Known for its scenic beauty and agricultural landscapes, Welimada is a small town that offers a peaceful retreat in the Uva Province. The town is famous for its tea and vegetable plantations, and visitors can take a tour of the Amba Tea Estate to learn about the tea-making process. Welimada is also home to the Pilkington Point, a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
7. Bibile: Located on the border of the Uva and Eastern Provinces, Bibile is a town known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by lush forests and is a great place for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the Galabedda Ella Falls, a stunning waterfall hidden amidst the dense jungle, or visit the Bibile Archaeological Site, which showcases ancient ruins dating back to the 2nd century BC.
8. Mahiyanganaya: Steeped in history and mythology, Mahiyanganaya is a town of great religious significance in the Uva Province. It is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha's visit to Sri Lanka is commemorated. Visitors can visit the Mahiyangana Stupa, a sacred Buddhist site, or explore the Dambana Village, home to the indigenous Veddah community. The town also offers opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to spot elephants in the nearby Udawalawe National Park.
9. Wellawaya: Situated at the southern edge of the Uva Province, Wellawaya is a town that offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by scenic landscapes and is a gateway to the Yala National Park, famous for its leopard population. Visitors can also explore the Buduruwagala Temple, an ancient rock temple with impressive rock carvings of Lord Buddha.
10. Monaragala: Located in the southeastern part of the Uva Province, Monaragala is a town known for its rich biodiversity and archaeological sites. The town is a great base for exploring the Yala National Park and the Gal Oya National Park, both home to a wide variety of wildlife. Visitors can also visit the Maligawila Buddha Statue, a colossal standing Buddha statue dating back to the 7th century AD.
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Food & Drinks To Try In Uva Province
1. Hoppers: Hoppers are a popular Sri Lankan dish made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and are typically eaten for breakfast or dinner. Hoppers can be enjoyed plain or with various toppings such as egg, cheese, or sambal (a spicy chili paste).
2. Kottu Roti: Kottu Roti is a unique Sri Lankan street food dish that consists of chopped roti bread stir-fried with vegetables, meat (such as chicken or beef), and spices. The dish is often accompanied by a spicy curry sauce and is known for its delicious flavors and satisfying texture.
3. Lamprais: Lamprais is a traditional Sri Lankan dish that originated from the Dutch Burgher community. It consists of a mixture of rice, meat (usually chicken or beef), and various spices, all wrapped in a banana leaf and baked. The flavors of the meat and spices infuse into the rice, creating a fragrant and flavorful dish.
4. String Hoppers: String Hoppers are a popular breakfast dish in Sri Lanka. They are made from rice flour dough that is pressed into thin noodles and steamed. String Hoppers are typically served with a variety of curries, such as dhal curry or chicken curry, and are enjoyed for their soft texture and ability to soak up the flavors of the accompanying dishes.
5. Ceylon Tea: Sri Lanka is famous for its tea production, and a visit to the Uva Province wouldn't be complete without trying some Ceylon tea. The region is known for producing high-quality black teas with a rich and robust flavor. Whether enjoyed hot or iced, Ceylon tea is a must-try beverage in Sri Lanka.
6. King Coconut: The Uva Province is known for its abundance of king coconut trees, and drinking fresh king coconut water is a refreshing and hydrating experience. The water inside the king coconut is sweet and slightly nutty in flavor, making it a popular choice for quenching thirst on a hot day.
7. Woodapple Juice: Woodapple, also known as bel fruit, is a tropical fruit native to Sri Lanka. Its juice is a popular beverage in the country, known for its tangy and slightly sweet flavor. Woodapple juice is often served chilled and is a great option for those looking to try something unique and refreshing.
8. Arrack: Arrack is a traditional Sri Lankan alcoholic beverage made from the sap of coconut flowers. It has a distinct flavor and is often enjoyed straight or mixed with soda or fruit juices. Arrack is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike and is worth trying for those interested in experiencing Sri Lankan spirits.
9. Watalappan: Watalappan is a traditional Sri Lankan dessert made from coconut milk, jaggery (a type of sugar), and various spices such as cardamom and nutmeg. It has a creamy and custard-like texture and is often served chilled. Watalappan is a delicious way to end a meal and indulge in the sweet flavors of Sri Lanka.
10. Kithul Treacle: Kithul treacle is a sweet syrup made from the sap of the kithul palm tree. It is commonly used as a topping or sweetener in Sri Lankan desserts and is known for its rich and caramel-like flavor. Kithul treacle can be drizzled over pancakes, ice cream, or used as a dip for fruits, providing a unique and delicious taste experience.
Best Time To Visit Uva Province
The best time to visit the Uva Province in Sri Lanka is from March to September. During this period, the weather is generally dry and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the region's natural beauty. The temperatures during these months range from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius, providing a comfortable climate for sightseeing and enjoying the various attractions in the province. It is important to note that the Uva Province experiences a monsoon season from October to February, which brings heavy rainfall and can disrupt travel plans. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid visiting during this period to ensure a more enjoyable and hassle-free trip.
Flight Calendar For Uva Province
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Transportation To Uva Province
There are several transportation options to Uva Province, Sri Lanka.
1. By Air: The nearest international airport to Uva Province is Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, which is located in Hambantota, near Uva Province. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach your destination in Uva Province.
2. By Train: Sri Lanka Railways operates train services to Uva Province. The main railway station in the province is Badulla Railway Station. You can take a train from Colombo or other major cities to reach Badulla. The train journey offers scenic views of the countryside.
3. By Bus: Sri Lanka has an extensive bus network that connects different parts of the country. You can take a bus from Colombo or other major cities to reach Uva Province. The journey may take several hours, depending on the distance.
4. By Car: If you prefer a more flexible mode of transportation, you can rent a car and drive to Uva Province. The journey from Colombo to Uva Province takes around 6-7 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
Once you reach Uva Province, you can use local transportation options such as buses, taxis, or tuk-tuks to travel within the province and explore its attractions.