When I think of Uva province, the very first thing that comes to my mind is the Uva-Wellassa Uprising (Uva Wellassa Maha Kerella), the fearless, extremely valorous freedom fighters of the motherland from the recent past.
Then the mythological mighty King Raawana who was equipped with incredible power, intelligence, and technology who once was the best student of Lord Shiva. This great king fascinates us with a colourful story of love, war, courage, and bravery. The abduction of beautiful princess Sitha (done in vengeance for the insult meted out to his sister Supernika) undoubtedly made him an evil villain in the eyes of Indians and they still continue burning effigies of King Raawana. (some claim his existence through archaeological facts).
Even in mythology or reality, historically the province of Uva has been synonymous with strength, bravery, patriotism, and heroism. But now, sadly, it is one of the least developed provinces with low literacy rates compared to other parts of the country.
If you peruse the Sri Lankan rebellion history a bit, you will realise that besides drowning them in blood, the English government’s devastating acts like brutal repressions, state coercion (specifically to Uva, declaring them as traitors, laying off ancestral properties), forced to go back to jungles and mountains etc…paved highly destructive consequences in socio, economic and cultural systems of Uva. So, no wonder that this region is still a laggard in many development indicators.
Hence, though it is blessed with many attractions and less tourist traffic. However, even with the most disastrous suppression in history that they went through, the beauty of Uva is not limited to natural scenery and historical connotations, but also to rich biodiversity. In this article, I invite you to discover the amazing diversity of Uva – Sri Lanka.
Whether you are a nature enthusiast, trekker, hiker or history lover in search of tranquility, spirituality, picturesque views, and heights, the multifaceted Uva is full of treasures to discover. Each destination has its own unique offering. I am sure you will find whatever you are looking for in this fascinating region. I am listing down here a few recently visited most alluring destinations from beautiful Uva for people bitten by the travel bug.
Lipton Seat
Lipton Seat is located in the Haputale mountain range of Badulla in the Uva Province. It sits at an altitude of 1,970 metres overlooking the lush Dambetanne Tea Estate. With one of the most impressive birds-eye viewpoints, it is named so after Sir Thomas Lipton, the renowned Scottish aristocrat and tea planter.
Adisham Bungalow (St.Benedict’s Monastery)
It is a stately stone mansion built in 1931 by Sir Thomas Lister Villiers, an English planter who named it ‘Adisham’ after the Kentish village where he was born. One of the most picturesque corners in Haputhale. It changed hands in 1960 when the Roman Catholic Church bought it for the St. Benedict’s Monastery, which it is presently. The tranquil atmosphere of Adisham, a vista of the misty and undulating mountain terrain of Haputhale, and the legacy of a colonial planter will leave you spell-bound.
Kithal Ella
As the saying goes, “On earth there is no heaven, but there are pieces of it”, waterfalls are indeed magical creatures of Mother Nature. Kithal Ella is another stunning destination on the must-see list of the Uva Province. Amid the lush green flora, cool climate, and jungle, this is yet another perfect getaway, especially for trekkers and nature lovers. The railway Station, the old rail bridge – Black Bridge, picturesque environs, and the hidden gem – waterfall offer you a magnificent sight that makes you speechless. Gushing from a height of 23 metres, surrounded by shades of green, and shallow waters of Kithal Ella form a serene pool and one can take a perfect, safe, and refreshing swim there.
Raawana Ella
Sri Lanka is famed for its breathtaking waterfalls and the Raawana Ella is no exception for its splendid beauty, cascading water, splashing spray and mist of droplets. (named after a legendary King Raawana) This 82 feet wide magnificent water is another unique source of Uva’s magical vistas. Addition to its historic connotations, this marvel dates back as old as 25,000 years. This thick green belt is very rich in flora and fauna.
Ella
Ella is a small hill country town in Sri Lanka, at an elevation of 1,041 metres, full of nature and offers you a completely different set of vibes with plenty of amazing things to do. Ella’s treasured surroundings like magnificent waterfalls, waterfronts, iconic colonial era Nine Arches Railway Bridge, picturesque train ride, hiking, walking trails, breathtakingly beautiful lush green environs, tea plantations and so much more gift you with a peaceful getaway while exploring beautiful Uva hillside.
Porawagala Viewpoint – Bandarawela
Located just 3 kilometres away from town with motorable access, the viewpoint is located around 3,700 feet above sea level. The ideal time to visit is at dawn, sunset, or twilight. It offers you with a breathtaking panoramic bird’s eye view, gazing over the valley sprawling below, the serenity of surrounding hills, and a glimpse of Bandarawela town. This enchanting height promises you to embrace the beautiful landscape, awe-inspiring views, and the tranquility of the surroundings.
So let’s pack your bags, come, visit Sri Lanka!
By Nissansala Nawarathne – Sri Lanka
