About Belihuloya, Sri Lanka: A Guide to Things to Do & Hotels
About Belihuloya, Sri Lanka: A Guide to Things to Do & Hotels
Belihuloya: Your Ultimate Escape for Nature, Adventure, and Romance
Belihuloya, Sri Lanka, is a picturesque and romantic hamlet situated 160 km from Colombo in the historical Sabaragamuwa Province. Located in the intermediate zone, it serves as a climatically transitional area linking the dry and wet zones.
Belihuloya lies at an altitude of less than 1,500 meters, nestled to the north and northeast of the wet zone. The intermediate zone is divided into two sub-zones: Intermediate Lowlands (A) and Intermediate Uplands (B). Belihuloya is situated in the Intermediate Uplands (sub-zone B), ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 meters.
The area features diverse vegetation, including moist semi-evergreen forests, tropical savanna forests, dry patana grasslands, and montane temperate forests. The soil, primarily modal red yellow podzol, is loose and moist with a fair amount of organic matter. The average temperature is around 28.3°C, with annual rainfall between 1,875 and 2,500mm, making it an exciting destination for both serious and casual nature lovers.
How to Get to Belihuloya
From Kandy
The journey by car takes about 3.5 hours via the A26 and A4 routes. Buses from Kandy to Balangoda are available, with onward connections to Belihuloya. Trains to Haputale or Idalgashinna are also an option, followed by local transport. We can pick you up from Idalgashinna Railway Station or Haputale Railway Station.
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From Nuwara Eliya
By car, it takes around 2.5 hours via the B512 and A4 routes. Buses from Nuwara Eliya to Belihuloya are available, although connections may require a transfer in Haputale or Bandarawela.Trains to Haputale or Idalgashinna are also an option, followed by local transport. We can pick you up from Idalgashinna Railway Station or Haputale Railway Station.
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From Colombo
By car, it takes approximately 4 hours via the A4 route. Buses are available from the Colombo Bus Station to Balangoda, from where you can take a local bus or taxi to Belihuloya. Trains are available to Haputale, followed by a taxi or local transport to Belihuloya. Alternatively, you can take the frequent Badulla Bus (Route Number 99) and get off in Belihuloya, right in front of the
River Garden Resort.
From Ella
The journey by car takes approximately 2 hours via the A4 route. Buses are available from Ella to Belihuloya, often with a transfer at Bandarawela or Haputale. Trains to Haputale or Idalgashinna are also an option, followed by local transport. We can pick you up from Idalgashinna Railway Station or Haputale Railway Station.
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Historical Significance
Belihuloya holds the earliest evidence of steelmaking in the ancient world, dating back to 300 BC. Crude iron particles, or pig iron, extracted from iron ore found in this area were used to manufacture weapons like swords, spears, and knives for King Dutugemenu’s army. This region's steel was exported worldwide, even used to manufacture the renowned Damascus sword. The 'Manna knife,' listed among world tools, also originated here. Check our tours comprising these significant locations.
Prehistoric Settlements
Recent excavations have uncovered evidence of prehistoric settlements in Belihuloya, dating back 29,000 to 35,000 years. Skeletal remains, microliths, bone implements, cherts, and food remnants were found in numerous caves, indicating early human habitation (Homosapien balangodensis). Evidence of prehistoric animals such as Hippopotamus, Rhinoceros, Lion, and three species of Elephants has also been discovered here.
Legendary Rawana Kingdom
Belihuloya is rich with legendary and archaeological sites related to the Rama-Seetha legend. Caves like Sthripura Cave and Rawana Cave are believed to be hiding places of Seetha after her abduction. Sites linked to the Rama-Rawana war, such as Rawana Kapolla and Ramasara Kapolla, and landmarks like Seetha-Eliya, are steeped in myth and history.
Belihuloya River
Originating from Horton Plains at 7,000 feet above sea level, the famous Belihuloya River embarks on its journey. Once the main tributary of the Walawa Ganga, it now feeds the Samanalawewa Reservoir after a 20km course. Along this short but eventful journey, the river traverses multiple ecosystems—Pygmy forest, Wet Patana grassland, Montane Temperate forest, Moist Semi-Evergreen forest, Tropical Savanna forest, and Dry Patana grassland. It creates several stunning waterfalls, including Slab Rock Fall, Baker’s Fall, Galagama Fall, Pahanthuda Fall, and Demodara Fall.
Biodiversity
Belihuloya boasts an impressive biodiversity, thriving in its diverse ecosystems that include the Belihuloya River and surrounding riverine forests.The area supports approximately 15 species of fishes, including endemic species vital to the river’s ecosystem.
It is also home to around 50 species of Reptiles, ranging from the colorful Green Garden Lizard to the elusive Green Pit Viper. Bird enthusiasts can spot approximately 150 species of Birds, such as the endemic Sri Lanka Spurfowl and the vibrant Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot.
The region hosts about 30 species of Amphibians, including the iconic Golden Tree Frog, which symbolizes the area’s lush habitats. Belihuloya’s biodiversity extends to approximately 80 species of Butterflies, adding a flutter of color to its landscapes. The area supports diverse mammalian life, with around 40 species including the elusive Fishing Cat and the agile Purple-faced Langur.
Additionally, the region is teeming with approximately 60 species of Land and Water Snails, underscoring its rich terrestrial and aquatic environments. Finally, Belihuloya embraces approximately 150 species of Flora, encompassing a variety of endemic plants that contribute to the region’s ecological richness and natural beauty.
Check our nature tours covering the rich biodiversity in the region.
Belihuloya Accommodation and places to visit
Belihuloya, Sri Lanka, with its stunning natural beauty, historical significance, and rich biodiversity, offers a unique experience for travelers. From exploring Belihuloya hotels to discovering places to visit in Belihuloya, and engaging in various things to do in Belihuloya, this destination promises an unforgettable journey. Contact us for a package suitable to you.