The train journey from Colombo takes about 9 hours, and runs along the Mahaweli River Valley among green mountains, offering
splendid wiews on the highlands, tea crops and countless waterfalls.
Buduruwagala Rock Carvings Five kilometres south of Wellawaya, on the road to Tissa there are seven statues carved out of a rock. The tallest one, depicting the Buddha, is 50 feet tall. Buduruwagala means "stone images of the Buddha"
The Maligawila Buddha statue carved out of stone, stands in a blessing posture. It is 37 feet and 10 inches tall. The spot is close to Buttala village.
The Uda Walawe National Park was established in 1972 to protect the Walawe reservoir. Wildlife includes elephants, crocodiles, jackals, buffalo etc.
The Maduru Oya National Park 300 km away from Colombo in the dry zone. The fascinating Veddas tribes, members of any of the aboriginal people of Sri Lanka, are still living in the Park.
Ella Dream Cafe (1000m), Wellawaya Road (Village centre), ☎ 0572228950. All Day. Really good place with well cooked western dishes,fresh fish and veggie as well as Hill Country specials. Very attentive service. Best fish&chips in Lanka!4 to 7$. edit
High Cliffe 15, Station Road - Tel. 057-68096 Rooms:6
White Monkey - Dias Rest, Hillside Thotulagala, Dambatenne Road km post 3, Cottage: 1 - Family Rooms: 2, Tel.: +94-(0)57-5681027, [1].
Bawa Guest House, Haputale, 32. Thammbipillai Ave.down under Welimada Temple Road. Phone +94(0)57 226 82 60Friendly place with big clean rooms, hot water and delicious home cooking. Hosts can provide a lot of information about the area.Free pickup service call Fazmi +94(0)72 915 76 16. Email: bawaguest@yahoo.com