Weekend in Badulla

An ancient Buddhist temple complex believed to date back to the time of Lord Buddha. Features a large white stupa, prayer halls, and murals. A calm spot in the middle of town.

Tip: Remove shoes before entering the temple area. You can offer flowers or incense at the main shrine for 20–50 LKR. Expect monks to be chanting around 5pm.

A functioning British-era railway station at the terminus of the main line from Colombo. The platform and yard are open to the public. Watch the Kandy-bound train depart, or just a

Tip: Arrive around 10am to see the morning express depart. The ticket counter sells platform tickets for 10 LKR if you want to walk the full length. There's a small tea stall on platform 1.

A small Hindu kovil dedicated to Murugan (Skanda), tucked away on a side street. Brightly painted gopuram and regular puja ceremonies. Less touristed than the main temple in Kataragama town.

Tip: Visit during evening aarti (around 6pm) for the full ritual with bells and lamps. No photography inside the inner sanctum. Women should cover shoulders and knees.

A colonial-era clock tower in the centre of town. Built in 1922, it stands in a small roundabout and marks the junction of the main roads. Worth five minutes to look at and snap a photo.

Tip: Visit late afternoon when the light hits the white stone. The surrounding street food stalls start setting up then.

A broad waterfall plunging about 64 metres into a rocky pool. The trail from the car park is 1.5 km through jungle, with steps and a metal bridge. The spray can soak you if the wind picks up.

Tip: Go early morning (before 9am) to avoid crowds and get the best light. Wear non-slip shoes; the steps get slippery. No entry fee, but parking costs 50 LKR.