Scenic Sri Lanka: A 3-Day Cultural and Nature Escape from Kottawa to Badulla

Day Day 1: Nature and Culture

Mahiyanganaya, Sri Lanka on July 2, 2025

4:00AM

Depart from Kottawa/Malabe

Start your journey early to maximize the day. The drive towards Mahiyanganaya passes through scenic spots including Randenigala.
NIL, 3h0m

7:00AM

Quick breakfast break at Digana / Kandy

Stop at a local eatery in Digana or Kandy for a quick and energizing breakfast, options like hoppers, string hoppers, or fresh tropical fruits are great choices.
LKR 500-800, 0h30m

8:30AM

Explore Victoria-Randenigala-Rantembe Sanctuary and dam viewpoints

Enjoy spectacular views of the dams and the sanctuary, ideal for bird watching and nature photography. Opens early morning for cooler and clearer conditions.
FREE, 1h30m

10:00AM

Drive toward Mahiyanganaya

Continue your journey to the cultural hub of Mahiyanganaya, enjoying beautiful rural landscapes along the way.
NIL, 1h0m

11:00AM

Visit Mahiyangana Raja Maha Viharaya

Explore one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka, revered for its historical and spiritual significance.
FREE, 1h0m

12:00PM

Lunch in Mahiyanganaya town

Enjoy authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in the town center with specialties like rice and curry or fresh local vegetable dishes.
LKR 1000-1500, 1h0m

1:00PM

Visit Sorabora Wewa

Discover this ancient man-made reservoir which is an engineering marvel and a peaceful spot for some relaxation and photography.
FREE, 1h0m

2:00PM

Optional: Visit Dambana Vedda Village

Meet the Vedda tribe, indigenous people of Sri Lanka, and learn about their unique culture and lifestyle; open typically till late afternoon.
FREE or small donation appreciated, 1h30m

4:00PM

Check-in & relax at hotel, G.M.T. Sorabora Village Hotel

Unwind by the lake and enjoy serene surroundings tailored for relaxation after a day of travel and exploration.
Prepaid, 2h0m

6:00PM

Dinner and lakeside enjoyment at hotel

Savor traditional Sri Lankan dinner at the hotel restaurant overlooking the beautiful lake, with fresh seafood and local specialties.
LKR 1500-2000, 1h30m
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Day Day 2: Waterfalls & Temples

Badulla, Sri Lanka on July 3, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel, including tropical fruits, fresh juices, and traditional Sri Lankan breakfast items.
Included with hotel, 1h0m

8:00AM

Drive to Badulla via Meegahakiula

Travel through scenic routes towards Badulla while enjoying the crisp mountain air and views of the tea country.
NIL, 2h0m

10:30AM

Visit Muthiyangana Raja Maha Viharaya

Explore the sacred temple known for its traditional architecture and significance in the Buddhist heritage of Badulla.
FREE, 1h0m

12:00PM

Hike to and enjoy Dunhinda Falls

A moderately easy hike leads to Dunhinda Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka, perfect for refreshing your senses.
FREE, 2h0m

2:00PM

Lunch in Badulla town

Stop for lunch in town and try delicious local dishes such as kottu or freshly caught river fish specialties.
LKR 1000-1500, 1h0m

3:30PM

Optional: Visit Bogoda Wooden Bridge

Visit the ancient Bogoda Bridge, a wooden architectural marvel built over 600 years ago, located on Badulla outskirts; open till early evening.
FREE, 1h30m

5:30PM

Check-in, dinner & relax at River Side Hotel Inn

Enjoy a comfortable stay and dine at the hotel with views of the river, featuring both local and international cuisine options.
Prepaid, 3h0m
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Day Day 3: Waterfalls & Gardens

Badulla to Kottawa, Sri Lanka on July 4, 2025

6:30AM

Early breakfast & checkout

Start the day early with breakfast at the hotel to prepare for a full day of scenic drives and exploration.
Included with hotel, 0h30m

7:00AM

Drive to Rathna Ella Waterfall

Travel to the Hasalaka area to visit Rathna Ella, a hidden gem waterfall perfect for a morning hike and nature immersion.
FREE, 2h0m

9:00AM

Hike and relax at Rathna Ella

Enjoy a peaceful hike along the waterfall trail with opportunities for swimming and photography.
FREE, 2h0m

11:00AM

Drive to and visit Victoria Dam & reservoir viewpoint

Stop at this iconic dam and reservoir viewpoint near Teldeniya to appreciate the scale of Sri Lanka's hydro engineering and breathtaking views.
FREE, 2h0m

1:00PM

Lunch break at Teldeniya / Digana

Dine at a local restaurant offering Sri Lankan rice and curry or set menus, ideal for refueling during the journey.
LKR 1000-1500, 1h0m

2:00PM

Visit Peradeniya Botanical Garden

Explore Sri Lanka’s largest botanical garden in Peradeniya, featuring vast collections of plants, orchids, and tropical flowers; open until 6PM.
LKR 1500, 3h30m

5:30PM

Drive back to Kottawa

Relax and enjoy the scenic evening drive via Kandy and Avissawella Road to return safely to Kottawa.
NIL, 4h0m
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