Lankathilaka Image House in Polonnaruwa: A Majestic Tribute to Ancient Sri Lankan Art and Architecture

Lankathilaka Image House in Polonnaruwa

The Lankathilaka Image House in Polonnaruwa, also known as the Lankathilaka Temple, is a striking example of Sri Lanka’s medieval architectural brilliance. Nestled within the historic Polonnaruwa Ancient City, this iconic site is a masterpiece of religious devotion and craftsmanship. If you’re visiting Polonnaruwa, the Lankathilaka Image House is a must-see for its historical, artistic, and cultural significance.

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What is Lankathilaka Image House?

The Lankathilaka Image House was built by King Parakramabahu I in the 12th century during the height of Polonnaruwa’s glory. This towering structure was designed to house a colossal Buddha statue, serving as a place of worship and reflection for devotees.

The structure is 17 meters (55 feet) tall, with massive brick walls and an intricately carved façade that speaks to the advanced architectural and artistic skills of the time. The Buddha statue inside, although partially damaged, still conveys an aura of serenity and spiritual power.

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Why is Lankathilaka Image House So Special?

  1. Impressive Scale: The towering walls and colossal Buddha statue make it one of the grandest image houses in Sri Lanka.
  2. Architectural Detail: The blend of Buddhist and Hindu architectural influences highlights the religious harmony of the Polonnaruwa era.
  3. Cultural Significance: The site represents the dedication of Sri Lanka’s ancient kings to preserving and promoting Buddhism.

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What to See at Lankathilaka Image House?

  1. Towering Buddha Statue: Although partially ruined, the 14-meter (46 feet) tall Buddha statue remains the centerpiece of the temple.
  2. Ornate Entrance: The elaborately decorated entrance features carvings of deities and guardians, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship.
  3. Massive Brick Walls: The 17-meter-high walls, still intact, demonstrate the engineering prowess of ancient Sri Lanka.
  4. Surrounding Ruins: The temple is part of a larger complex with additional stupas, shrines, and stone carvings.

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How to Visit Lankathilaka Image House?

The Lankathilaka Image House is situated within the Polonnaruwa Ancient City, making it easily accessible as part of a tour of the site’s many attractions.

Getting There:

  • From Colombo: The journey to Polonnaruwa takes approximately 5 hours by car.
  • By Public Transport: Trains and buses connect Colombo to Polonnaruwa, where tuk-tuks or bicycles can take you to the ancient city.
  • By Bicycle: Renting a bike is a popular and eco-friendly way to explore Polonnaruwa, including Lankathilaka.

Tips for Visitors:

  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
  • Dress Modestly: As a religious site, wear attire that covers your shoulders and knees.
  • Entry Fee: The site is included in the Polonnaruwa heritage ticket, costing USD 25 for foreigners.
  • Photography: Capture the beauty of the temple, but respect its sanctity by refraining from climbing or inappropriate behavior.

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The Legacy of Lankathilaka Image House

The Lankathilaka Image House in Polonnaruwa stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and religious heritage. Its towering walls, intricate carvings, and serene Buddha statue continue to captivate visitors from around the world.

For history enthusiasts, art lovers, and spiritual travelers alike, this ancient temple offers a unique glimpse into the past and a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s timeless traditions. Be sure to include the Lankathilaka Image House in your Polonnaruwa itinerary—it’s an experience you won’t forget!

Rankoth Vehera in Polonnaruwa: A Towering Monument of Sri Lankan Heritage

The Rankoth Vehera in Polonnaruwa is one of the most impressive stupas in Sri Lanka, showcasing the architectural grandeur of the ancient Sinhalese civilization. Situated in the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa Ancient City, this majestic structure stands as a symbol of devotion, craftsmanship, and historical significance. If you’re exploring the cultural treasures of Sri Lanka, Rankoth Vehera is a must-visit destination.

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What is Rankoth Vehera?

Rankoth Vehera, which translates to “Golden Pinnacle Stupa,” was built during the reign of King Nissanka Malla in the 12th century. This massive stupa is 54 meters (177 feet) tall and has a circumference of 168 meters, making it the largest stupa in Polonnaruwa and one of the tallest in Sri Lanka.

Constructed entirely of brick, the stupa adheres to the traditional “bubble shape” or “dagaba” design seen in ancient Buddhist architecture. Its pinnacle was once gilded, hence the name Rankoth, which means “golden pinnacle.” The stupa served as a focal point for Buddhist rituals and remains an active site of worship today.

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Why is Rankoth Vehera So Special?

  1. Historical Significance: Rankoth Vehera reflects the prosperity and religious devotion of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom under King Nissanka Malla.
  2. Architectural Grandeur: The stupa’s sheer size and precision highlight the advanced engineering skills of the time.
  3. Sacred Atmosphere: The site continues to be a place of pilgrimage, radiating a sense of serenity and spirituality.

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What to See at Rankoth Vehera

  1. Massive Stupa: The towering structure is awe-inspiring, offering a glimpse into the scale and ambition of ancient Sri Lankan architecture.
  2. Surrounding Monastic Complex: The stupa is part of a larger complex that includes remnants of image houses, monks’ quarters, and other religious structures.
  3. Stone Inscriptions: Some stone slabs near the stupa contain inscriptions that provide insights into the history and purpose of the monument.
  4. Sacred Offerings: Observe pilgrims offering flowers and incense, maintaining traditions that date back centuries.

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How to Visit Rankoth Vehera

Rankoth Vehera is located within the Polonnaruwa Ancient City, a short distance from other prominent landmarks like Gal Viharaya and the Parakrama Samudraya reservoir.

Getting There:

  • From Colombo: It’s about a 5-hour drive to Polonnaruwa.
  • By Train or Bus: Public transport options are available to Polonnaruwa town, from where you can hire a tuk-tuk or taxi to the site.
  • By Bicycle: Rent a bike in Polonnaruwa to explore the ancient city, including Rankoth Vehera.

 

Tips for Your Visit:

  • Timing: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
  • Dress Code: Wear modest clothing as the site is a sacred Buddhist location.
  • Entry Fee: The stupa is included in the Polonnaruwa heritage site ticket, priced at USD 25 for foreign visitors.
  • Respectful Behavior: Avoid climbing the stupa and always face the monument when taking photos.

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The Legacy of Rankoth Vehera

The Rankoth Vehera in Polonnaruwa is a remarkable testament to Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage and architectural ingenuity. Its colossal scale, historical importance, and tranquil surroundings make it a highlight of any visit to the ancient city.

Whether you’re a history buff, a spiritual traveler, or simply someone seeking to marvel at Sri Lanka’s cultural wonders, Rankoth Vehera offers a unique and enriching experience. Don’t miss this towering marvel on your journey through Polonnaruwa!

Polonnaruwa Gal Viharaya: A Timeless Marvel of Sri Lankan Heritage

Polonnaruwa Gal Viharaya

The Polonnaruwa Gal Viharaya is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic historical and religious sites. Located in the heart of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, this breathtaking masterpiece stands as a testament to the island’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. If you’re planning to explore Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Gal Viharaya is an absolute must-visit.

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What is Polonnaruwa Gal Viharaya?

The Polonnaruwa Gal Viharaya, also known as the Rock Temple, is a sacred Buddhist shrine renowned for its stunning rock-cut statues. Created during the reign of King Parakramabahu I in the 12th century, these four statues of the Buddha are carved into a single granite rock face. Each statue represents a different posture of the Buddha: seated, standing, and reclining, symbolizing various stages of his spiritual journey.

The most famous is the reclining Buddha, which is over 46 feet long, depicting the Buddha in the final moments before attaining Parinirvana (ultimate liberation). Adjacent to it is the serene standing Buddha, a rare depiction of sorrow and compassion, measuring 23 feet in height.

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Why is Polonnaruwa Gal Viharaya So Special?

  1. Architectural Excellence: The carvings demonstrate exceptional craftsmanship, blending artistic detail with spiritual symbolism.
  2. Historical Significance: It reflects the height of Sinhalese civilization and Buddhism during the Polonnaruwa period.
  3. Spiritual Atmosphere: The site is still an active place of worship, offering a serene environment for meditation and reflection.

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What to See at Polonnaruwa Gal Viharaya

  1. Seated Buddha: A meditative figure seated on a lotus pedestal, exuding tranquility and spiritual depth.
  2. Standing Buddha: The unique standing figure is believed to convey sorrow and empathy, a rare expression in Buddhist art.
  3. Reclining Buddha: The massive reclining statue symbolizes the Buddha’s passing into Nirvana, a breathtaking representation of serenity.
  4. Monastic Background: The remnants of the ancient monastic complex add to the site’s historical allure.

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How to Visit Polonnaruwa Gal Viharaya

Located within the Polonnaruwa Ancient City complex, the Gal Viharaya is easily accessible by car, tuk-tuk, or bicycle. From Colombo, it’s a 5-hour drive, or you can take a train or bus to Polonnaruwa town and hire a tuk-tuk from there.

Tips for Your Visit:

  • Timing: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh sunlight.
  • Dress Code: Modest attire is required as this is a sacred Buddhist site.
  • Entry Fees: The Gal Viharaya is part of the Polonnaruwa heritage site ticket, priced at approximately USD 25 for foreign visitors.
  • Photography: While photography is allowed, avoid turning your back to the Buddha statues as a sign of respect.

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The Legacy of Polonnaruwa Gal Viharaya

The Polonnaruwa Gal Viharaya is more than just a historical site; it’s a spiritual experience that offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich past. Its artistic brilliance and sacred atmosphere make it one of the most cherished landmarks in the country.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a spiritual seeker, this ancient shrine promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage.

Kaludiya Pokuna Forest & Archaeological Site in Dambulla

The Kaludiya Pokuna Forest & Archaeological Site in Dambulla is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka, blending natural beauty and historical significance. If you’re a nature enthusiast or history lover, this serene location offers a unique escape from bustling tourist spots while immersing you in the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.

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What is Kaludiya Pokuna?

Kaludiya Pokuna, meaning “pond of black water,” is an ancient Buddhist monastic complex surrounded by lush greenery and rocky landscapes. The site gets its name from the dark reflection of trees on the pond’s surface. It served as a meditation retreat for Buddhist monks centuries ago, and its archaeological ruins provide fascinating insights into Sri Lanka’s history.

The tranquil forest is dotted with remnants of ancient stupas, stone carvings, inscriptions, and meditation caves. Walking through the forest feels like stepping back in time, where you can almost sense the spirituality and discipline of the monks who once lived here.

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Why Should You Visit Kaludiya Pokuna?

  1. Peaceful Environment: Unlike crowded tourist destinations, Kaludiya Pokuna offers serenity, making it ideal for reflection and relaxation.
  2. Archaeological Significance: The ruins tell the story of Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage.
  3. Rich Biodiversity: The forest is home to a variety of flora and fauna, offering an excellent opportunity for birdwatching and nature photography.
  4. Easy Accessibility: Located near Dambulla, it’s convenient to visit while exploring nearby attractions like the Dambulla Cave Temple and Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

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How to Get to Kaludiya Pokuna

From Dambulla, Kaludiya Pokuna is just a 30-minute drive. You can hire a tuk-tuk or drive yourself, following the road toward Ibbankatuwa. There’s a short trek through the forest to reach the site, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

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Tips for Your Visit

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography.
  • Respect the Site: As a sacred and historical location, maintain its tranquility and avoid littering.
  • Bring Essentials: Carry water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

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The Kaludiya Pokuna Forest & Archaeological Site in Dambulla is a must-visit for its unique blend of natural beauty and historical depth. Whether you’re seeking peace, history, or adventure, this spot promises an enriching experience.

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(Cover Image Credit: Seevali D from Tripadvisor)

Kandy Procession in Sri Lanka

Kandy Procession

Kandy Procession is one of the best-celebrated events in Sri Lanka. The event takes place in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Kandy, by default, is one of the most beautiful cities in Sri Lanka and also one of the top-notch spots for tourists. Most of the tourists who visit Sri Lanka make sure Kandy is on their itinerary. There is so much natural beauty in Kandy, and this procession adds more beauty and value. This tiny island is always full of celebrations and festivities. We love a good break from our monotonous work life. Therefore, come and see this majestic event in Kandy!

full of color and entertainment.

The entire event is full of lights, decorations, music, and dancing. The Kandy Procession, being a cultural and religious event, gets a lot of importance from its devotees and countrymen. This procession comprises a lot of dancing and whip cracking and is a sight to see as one set of dancers is followed by the next. They are full of color, entertainment, and cheer. Traditional dances are a must in the procession because Sri Lankans generally have a set of traditional dancers and traditional drummers for every auspicious occasion. The Kandy Procession lasts for more than two weeks as it has many sub-processions that take place.

The order of the pageant in the Kandy procession

The entire event of the Kandy procession goes on for weeks, starting from planting a jackfruit tree, wishing blessings upon the country, to a ‘water cutting’ ceremony in the longest river in Sri Lanka, Mahaweli. The whole process is full of dancing, music, drumming, whipping, swaying of flags, and carrying of the sacred casket by the anointed tusker, who is decorated in beautiful attire. The reason behind it is to pay respect to the relic of Buddha and is one of the most devotional celebrations of the culture. The whole two weeks are crowded with devotees, spectators, and tourists. 

Come, it is a wonderful sight to behold!

This pageant is a world-famous event that takes place once a year, and people from all around the world come to see its beauty. A lot of preparation and dedication go towards the procession. For those of you who love seeing different cultures and experiencing diversity, the Kandy Procession will give you a thrill and surpass your expectations.

There are many kinds of tourists: those who love nature; those who love adventure; those who love food; those who love the ocean; and those that enjoy culture. Sri Lanka is a place for every kind of tourist because we have them all! A lot of travelers who come in the months of July and August make sure to participate in the event because it is such a wondrous occasion. If you visit Sri Lanka during these months, make sure to head to Kandy to see the most celebrated event in the city. The Kandy procession is a must-see when you come to Sri Lanka. You will see them in their best costumes, dancing to their best tunes, and whipping their way through, cheerfully yet devotedly. You will be given an experience to cherish all your life.

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Read more;

Temple of the Tooth Relic

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(Kandy Esala Perahera Image Source: PRABHATH WIMALASIRI from Twitter)

Safari Tour at Yala National Park

Yala Safari Tour Highlight in Sri Lanka

Yala Safari Tour will take you on a thrilling wildlife adventure in Sri Lanka!

Are you an adventurous person who loves to travel? or are you a person who admires nature? Yala Safari Tour will fulfill all of these requirements.

This Yala Safari Tour is particularly designed to provide the best safari experience to our clients. You will be accompanied by our well-knowledgeable guides who are proficient in English. If you require language-specific guides, that can be arranged upon request. You will get an unforgettable experience in the wilderness while breathing in the freshest air from the forest around.

 

About Yala National Park

Yala National Park is an enormous area of lush forests, green pastures, and scattered pools bordering the Ocean. Out of all the national parks in Sri Lanka, Yala is one of the biggest and most condensed ones. It is full of everything Sri Lanka’s nature has to offer.

Geographical location and history of Yala National Park

Yala National Park is situated in the Southeast part of Sri Lanka, neighboring an ancient Buddhist Monastery and old rock painting. This is an added advantage for its value and it adds depth to its history. It is surrounded by pilgrimages and brings a lot of devotees to the site, apart from the tourists. The endless flora and fauna on the premises are astounding and it is very pleasant to the eye to see the coordination between animals and trees. Nature is wonderful!

One of the biggest wildlife sanctuaries

Yala is a huge area of forest and wildlife on one soil. It is considered one of the world-renowned national parks because of its diversity. The area is filled with numerous species of animals and trees. The park also has lakes, streams, and lagoons. It is home to most of the species on the entire island. Yala has been admired and loved by locals and foreigners from the beginning of time. The greatest attraction of the premises is the animals in their natural element.

If you are up to challenging, adventurous, yet satisfying visitations, Yala is a must-go. It will allow you a lifetime to embrace everything the island offers in one tour. Come and marvel at the elephants bathing in the lakes and streams with their babies, breathe the lung-refreshing air, be amazed at the leopards, listen to the endless singing of the birds, and many more. It is indeed a treat of a lifetime.

 

Come and experience this unforgettable Safari Tour to Yala National Park

For your entire globetrotter who loves adventures, this Yala Safari Tour will give you one of the best memories to cherish. It is nothing but pure tranquility and peace from nature. If you are someone who inhales nature and admires its miraculous wonders, Yala has it all! Make sure to come with your cameras because you won’t want to miss out on peacocks dancing, herds of elephants wandering, leopards hiding behind bushes, sloth bear waiting for prey, and the pure breeze of nature. Click as many pictures and selfies as you want because Yala Safari Tour will be the most highlighted destination of your entire itinerary. You will not be disappointed. All you ever wanted to see in the wilderness will be displayed in their best element.

Grab your smartphones, cameras, and water bottles, and get ready for this amazing tour with us to one of the most beloved national parks on the island!

 

Yala Safari Tour by Mahaweli Tours & Holidays

Possible Starting / Pick-up Locations :
Yala, Thissamaharama, Galle, Matara, Tangalle, Dikwella, Mirissa, Unawatuna, Udawalawa, Ella, Badulla, Bandarawela, Haputhale, Arugambay

Duration: Our Yala safari tour will take around 3 ½ on average.

Tour Type: A private tour. Vehicle and the Guide / Chauffer guide are dedicated to you / your group. The Yala safari tour will be done by an off-road vehicle and traveling to the starting point and back will be done by a Comfortable Car / Van / Mini coach.

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Read More about our other wildlife tours;

Wilpattu Safari Tour

Wasgamuwa National Park Safari Tour

 

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(Yala Safari Caver Image Credit: Pip Jones from Twitter)

Madulsima Mini Worlds End

Madulsima Mini Worlds End Sri Lanka

The Madulsima Mini Worlds End is a fabulous place to visit in the Badulla District. It is situated in the Madulsima area at an elevation of 1357m. The place has recently become popular among many local travelers. But it is an unknown place for most. You can observe a large portion of the eastern province from here. The view is absolutely mind-blowing, and it is fantastic for a photographer.

Location

Madulsima Mini Worlds End is situated in the village of Pitamaruwa. It is a small village which is situated 60km away from Badulla City. The distance to the place from Passara is 42km and from Madulsima, a small town, is 18km. Anyhow, the location is 290km away from the capital, Colombo.

Public transport is available to the Madulsima from Passara or Badulla. But it is perfect if you can use a private vehicle. Road conditions are poor in some parts. Therefore, it’s better if you can also use a 4-wheel vehicle or a bike. The surroundings of the route are very scenic with the greenish tea plantations. That will add additional beauty to your trip. The last part of the trip should be done by foot.

More facts about Madulsima Mini Worlds End

The mini worlds end is situated on the edge of the Roeberry Tea Estate. However, it is managed by the tourist board of the Uva Province. You are allowed to go camping in the area. But you should also consider the heavy wind. The panoramic view will definitely amaze anyone. Such a fantastic place to fly a drone and observe it from a bird’s-eye view.

The fog will cover the place on most occasions. The average temperature is around 18 °C and the annual rainfall is around 2000 mm. You should consider the weather before you go here. This is another place rich in leaches. So, please bring leech protection.

What can you observe from the Madulsima Mini Worlds End ?

The morning picture is wonderful with the sunrise. You can see clouds under you in most of the early mornings. The view is clear if the mist doesn’t affect it.

Mahiyangana, Sorabora Wewa, Senanayaka Tank, Ampara, Bibile, Kokagala, Mahaoya, Monaragala, etc. are some of the clearly visible places.

Final Words

Madulsima Mini Worlds End is a nice place to visit in Badulla. You can observe a beautiful picture from there. Aradunu Ella is a scenic waterfall you can go in the Pitamaruwa Village. DS Rock is another attractive mountain which you can observe during the trip.

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(Featured Image Credit: A w e s o m e from Facebook)

Bomburu Ella Waterfall in Welimada

Bomburu Ella Waterfall in Welimada

Bomburu Ella Waterfall is a superb destination to visit in Nuwara Eliya. It is a beautiful and cascading waterfall that is situated inside a forest canopy. The place is very popular among local travelers. But it is also a great site to visit as a tourist. Bomburu Ella is 50m in height and 20m in width. It is considered that it is one of the widest waterfalls in the country.

 

Location

Bomburu Ella is situated in the Uva Paranagama Divisional Secretariat area of the Badulla district. The location is also considered the boundary of both Badulla and Nuwara Eliya districts. The distance to the place from Welimada city is around 21km and from Nuwara Eliya city is around 19km.

If you are starting from Colombo, then you can come to Welimada Town via Bandarawela. Then the public transport buses are available from there. Perawella is the closest village to the Bomburu Ella Waterfall.

There are no good facilities to park your public vehicles. You can park them near the entrance. From there, you need to walk around 2km towards the inside of the forest. But it is a nice trek or walk for anyone. You will definitely feel relaxed after you reach the waterfall.

 

More facts about Bomburu Ella Waterfall

It is a waterfall with four cascades. Anyone can go to the top of the waterfall with a hard effort. Furthermore, it belongs to the Kotakithul Kanda Mountain (1842m). Bomburu Ella Waterfall is situated inside the Seetha Eliya-Kandapola Forest Reserve. Therefore, you are not allowed to camp there.

The spraying water drops always generate a scenic view. It is a fantastic place for photographers. Most people never forget to take photos near the front grass area. Anyhow, you can reach the bottom of the waterfall. The place is always cool and wet.

 

Final Word

Bomburu Ella Waterfall is a nice place to visit in the Nuwara Eliya region. This is not a good place for bathing or camping. It is better if you can go there on the weekdays. You aren’t allowed to disturb wildlife and harm the plants of the forest reserve. Entrance is free and please bring leech protection for the trek. It is a cool, calm, and clean place. So, don’t pollute the place and please bring back everything that you are carrying.

There are also so many nice places to visit around Bomburu Ella Waterfall. Hakgala Botanical Garden is one of those places that you should not miss in that region.

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Image Gallery

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(Cover Image Source: Thilan Wijegunaratne from Twitter)