From Bentota to Upcountry Sri Lanka via Wellawaya: A Scenic Off-the-Beaten-Path Journey

Sri Lanka’s upcountry region is a breathtaking escape from the coastal heat, offering misty mountains, lush tea estates, and stunning waterfalls. While most travelers take the usual route via Kandy or Nuwara Eliya, the road from Bentota to upcountry via Wellawaya presents a less-traveled, equally mesmerizing alternative.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best routes, an ideal itinerary, and must-visit attractions along this scenic journey—perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers!

Why Take the Bentota → Wellawaya → Upcountry Route?

Wellawaya, a small town in Sri Lanka’s southern interior, serves as a gateway to the hill country. This route is ideal for those who want to:

Avoid heavy tourist traffic.
Experience rural Sri Lankan landscapes.
Discover hidden waterfalls and hiking trails.
Extend their journey to Ella, Bandarawela, or Badulla.

Best Route from Bentota to Upcountry via Wellawaya

Bentota → Galle → Matara → Wellawaya → Ella/Bandarawela

Total Distance: ~200 km
Travel Time: ~5-6 hours (with stops)
Transport Options: Private car (recommended) or bus

1. Bentota to Wellawaya (4-5 hours via A2 and A4 main roads)

Start early and take the A2 coastal road towards Galle and Matara
From Matara, head inland via the A4 main road through beautiful countryside
Optional stop at Katharagama (for pilgrimage sites)
Continue to Wellawaya, surrounded by paddy fields and mountain views

2. Wellawaya to Ella/Bandarawela (1-1.5 hours via A16/A5 main roads)

Take the A16 road towards Ella (scenic mountain route)
En route, visit Ravana Falls and Little Adam’s Peak
Alternatively, head to Bandarawela via A5 for cooler weather and colonial charm

Recommended 4-5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Bentota → Wellawaya (Overnight in Wellawaya or Ella)

Morning: Drive via A2, stop at Weligama for a beach break
Afternoon: Explore Wellawaya’s rural landscapes and nearby Diyaluma Falls
Evening: Head to Ella for dinner with mountain views

Day 2: Ella Exploration

Sunrise: Hike Little Adam’s Peak
Mid-morning: Visit Nine Arch Bridge and a tea factory
Afternoon: Relax at a café or explore Ravana Cave

Day 3: Ella → Bandarawela → Haputale

Morning: Drive to Bandarawela via A5, visit Dowa Rock Temple
Afternoon: Continue to Haputale for Lipton’s Seat (panoramic tea estate views)

Day 4: Return to Bentota or Extend Stay

Option 1: Return via same scenic routes

Option 2: Extend to Nuwara Eliya or Horton Plains

Top Attractions Along the Way

✅ Diyaluma Falls – Sri Lanka’s 2nd tallest waterfall (near Wellawaya)

✅ Ravana Falls & Cave – Linked to the Ramayana epic

✅ Little Adam’s Peak & Nine Arch Bridge – Ella’s iconic landmarks

✅ Lipton’s Seat (Haputale) – Breathtaking sunrise over tea plantations

✅ Bandarawela’s Colonial Charm – Cool climate & old-world atmosphere

Important Travel Tips

✔ Best Time to Travel: December to April (dry season)

✔ Road Conditions: Well-paved A-grade main roads but winding in hill areas

✔ Accommodation: Ella & Bandarawela have great stays; Wellawaya has basic options

✔ Packing Essentials: Light jacket for cool evenings, comfortable hiking shoes

✔ Fuel Stations: Available along main roads but fill up in major towns

Why This Route is Special

Unlike expressway journeys, this route through Sri Lanka’s main roads lets you:
Experience authentic local life in rural villages
Stop spontaneously at roadside fruit stalls and small eateries
Enjoy more scenic views than on expressways
Discover hidden gems most tourists miss

Final Thoughts

The Bentota to upcountry Sri Lanka route via Wellawaya offers a unique, less-crowded experience through the island’s beautiful main roads. Filled with waterfalls, hikes, and serene countryside views, this journey promises unforgettable memories whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family.

Have you traveled this route before? Share your experiences in the comments!