Badulla’s 10 Top Tours (With Prices)

Badulla is a treasure trove for travelers looking to explore Sri Lanka’s hill country from a local’s perspective. Its lush tea plantations, misty mountains, and historic sites make it a perfect base for a variety of tours. Whether you’re after a relaxing scenic experience, an adrenaline-fueled adventure, or a cultural deep dive, Badulla offers something for every kind of traveler. We especially love the Lipton’s Seat and Tea Factory Tour for its panoramic views and authentic tea experience, and the Udu Diyaluma Waterfalls Adventure for an exciting day immersed in nature.

What sets Badulla apart is its mix of accessible countryside and rich history, all easily explored through well-organized tours. Plus, the region’s friendly guides and stunning landscapes mean you’ll get plenty of memorable moments to take home. If you’re planning your trip, this guide will help you choose the right tour for your interests and schedule.

1. Ella : Lipton’s Seat, Tea Factory & Adisham Bungalow Tour

At number one on our list, the Ella : Lipton’s Seat, Tea Factory & Adisham Bungalow Tour presents a classic Sri Lankan hill country experience. This 6-hour guided adventure from Ella, Bandarawela, or Haputale takes you through some of the most iconic sights in the area. You’ll start with a visit to Lipton’s Seat, one of the highest and most famous viewpoints, where panoramic vistas of tea plantations and misty hills are the highlight. The tour then continues to the Dambatenne Tea Factory, where you’ll learn about the entire tea-making process during a guided tour, and enjoy a tasting session of authentic Ceylon tea—an absolute must for tea lovers.

Afterward, you’ll explore Adisham Bungalow, a charming colonial-era mansion that offers a glimpse into the British colonial history of Sri Lanka. The tour’s combination of scenic views, historical architecture, and tea culture makes it a well-rounded experience. Though the reviews are modest (3.8/5 from four reviews), the tour offers good value for travelers eager to see the key highlights in a compact timeframe.

Bottom Line: If you want a taste of Sri Lanka’s world-famous tea and stunning hilltop views in half a day, this tour hits the spot.

2. Adventure Tour: Udu Diyaluma – Waterfalls and Natural Pools

For those craving a full-throttle day in nature, the Udu Diyaluma Waterfalls and Natural Pools tour offers a 7-hour adventure packed with hiking, swimming, and sightseeing. Known as Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall at 220 meters, Udu Diyaluma is a spectacle of cascading water and natural pools. The tour begins with pickup from key locations like Bandarawela, Ella, or Haputale, followed by a scenic drive to the site.

Once there, you’ll undertake a guided 2-hour hike through lush forests and rocky terrain, which rewards you with views of the waterfall’s roaring cascade and the chance to take a dip in the natural pools at the top—perfect for a cool escape. The experience is suitable for active travelers who enjoy outdoor pursuits, and the guide will fill you in on the ecology and history of the area. Post-hike, enjoy a relaxed lunch with refreshments, making this a satisfying mix of adventure and leisure.

Guests have described it as “a paradise for nature lovers”—and it’s easy to see why. The tour’s combination of scenic beauty and physical activity makes it a memorable outing.

Bottom Line: If you love waterfalls, swimming in natural pools, and hiking, this is a day you won’t forget.

3. Ella: 3-Day Private Tour with Hotel and Breakfast

For those wanting a comprehensive, customized experience, the Ella: 3-Day Private Tour with Hotel and Breakfast provides an in-depth look at Sri Lanka’s hill country. This private package includes transportation, comfortable accommodation, and guided visits for three days, making it ideal for travelers seeking flexibility and personalized service.

Highlights include hikes to Little Adam’s Peak, visits to waterfalls like Diyaluma and Ravana Falls, and tours of Dambatenne Tea Factory. The itinerary offers a relaxed pace with plenty of time for exploring, picture-taking, and soaking in the scenery. The guide will share stories and insights, making the experience both informative and engaging.

While the reviews are currently unavailable, the value of having a tailored itinerary, comfortable lodging, and the ability to explore at your own pace makes this tour appealing. It’s perfect for travelers who want to focus on quality over quantity, and those willing to invest in a more intimate experience.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want an immersive, flexible, multi-day experience of Ella’s natural and cultural highlights.

4. Colombo: Belihuloya Hill Safaris & Kayaking 2-Day Tour

Travelers looking for a longer, multi-sensory adventure should consider the Colombo: Belihuloya Hill Safaris & Kayaking tour. Over two days, this trip combines thrilling off-road safaris, kayaking in Samanala Wewa, and exploring scenic trails like Baker’s Bend and the Devil’s Staircase. The tour starts with pickup from Colombo or Negombo, heading into Sri Lanka’s hill country.

The first day features off-road driving along scenic routes, with opportunities to stop at waterfalls and tea plantations. The second day is dedicated to kayaking on tranquil waters surrounded by mountains, and visits to iconic viewpoints like the Devil’s Staircase. This tour is well-suited for adventure enthusiasts who enjoy a mix of wildlife, scenic drives, and water sports.

The itinerary’s blend of off-road exploration and water-based activities offers a dynamic experience. The tour’s reviews are currently unavailable, but the comprehensive nature makes it a good option for active travelers wanting to cover a lot in two days.

Bottom Line: For travelers who enjoy both safaris and kayaking, this tour delivers a full, action-packed two-day escape.

5. Ella: Ella Rock Hiking Tour with Tuk-Tuk

Hiking to Ella Rock is a classic activity, and this tour makes it accessible with a guided trek lasting about 3 hours. The trip begins with a tuk-tuk ride to the trailhead, where you’ll set off with a local guide who knows the quiet, scenic paths leading up to the famous viewpoint.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a relaxed tuk-tuk ride, the peaceful walk through tea plantations and forests, and the opportunity to enjoy a stunning sunrise or sunset. The guide’s support ensures you stay safe and on track, even if you’re not a seasoned hiker. Along the way, you’ll encounter plenty of photo opportunities and quiet moments away from crowds.

The review mentions the “breathtaking valley views” and the “scenic tuk-tuk ride,” which add a special flavor to this hike. The tour typically lasts around 5 hours and is perfect for travelers who want an active morning or afternoon with a local touch.

Bottom Line: If a scenic hike with easy logistics appeals to you, this tour offers great value and memorable views.

6. Ella: Ella Rock Sunrise Hike and Waterfalls Tour

For early risers, the Ella Rock Sunrise Hike and Waterfalls Tour is a full-day adventure that combines a dawn hike with visits to Upper Diyaluma and Ravana Falls. Starting before dawn, you’ll climb Ella Rock to catch the sunrise over the Ella Gap—an unforgettable experience that’s worth waking up early for.

After the hike, the tour continues with visits to two spectacular waterfalls, both of which are worth the effort. The full-day itinerary means you’ll spend about 8 hours immersed in the sights and sounds of Sri Lanka’s highlands, with plenty of opportunities for photography and quiet reflection.

The review notes the combination of “early morning excitement” and the “breathtaking waterfalls,” making this a great choice for energetic travelers who love both hiking and scenic sightseeing.

Bottom Line: An excellent pick for early risers wanting a mix of sunrise views and waterfall visits.

7. Haputale Day Tour by Tuk Tuk – Nature & Culture

This Haputale: Day Tour by Tuk Tuk offers an all-round look at Sri Lanka’s scenic mountain village. Over approximately 7 hours, you’ll visit Lipton’s Seat at sunrise, explore Adisham Bungalow, and witness Diyaluma Waterfall along with Bambarakanda Falls.

The tour’s appeal lies in its flexibility and local flavor. Traveling by tuk-tuk provides an intimate, slow-paced exploration of the area, allowing you to stop for photos and short walks at key sights. The inclusion of Lipton’s Seat is a highlight, giving you sweeping views of the tea country.

Reviews are not available, but the itinerary’s focus on both natural beauty and colonial architecture makes it a well-rounded day trip perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet active exploration of Haputale.

Bottom Line: Suited for travelers who want a mix of scenic viewpoints, colonial history, and waterfalls without rushing.

8. Haputale: Hindu and Buddhist Temple Tour with Pickup

Culture and spirituality come alive on the Haputale: Hindu and Buddhist Temple Tour. This full-day experience visits several temples, including the Hindu Temple in Haputale, Bandarawela Temple, and Dowa Temple, finishing at the tranquil Kubalwela Mahameunawa Asapuwa.

The tour provides insight into Sri Lanka’s religious diversity, with guides explaining local rituals and traditions. The visits are complemented by scenic drives and short walks, making it an accessible way to experience spiritual sites during your stay. Hotel pickup and drop-off make it convenient, especially if you’re based in Haputale or nearby.

While reviews are not provided, the tour’s focus on spiritual sites offers a meaningful cultural experience for those interested in Sri Lanka’s religious landscape.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers interested in exploring Sri Lanka’s spiritual diversity and traditional temples.

9. Kandy: Sorabora Lake Sunrise, Village, and Waterfalls Tour

This full-day tour from Kandy takes you into the rural heartland, starting with a sunrise boat cruise on Sorabora Lake. Afterwards, visit a local village to try traditional fishing and enjoy a home-cooked lunch. The trip continues to Kaluwa Wetuna and Ratna Ella waterfalls, where you can swim and relax in the natural pools.

The tour offers an authentic slice of rural Sri Lanka, blending scenic lake views, cultural interactions, and waterfall visits. It’s a long day of about 14 hours, perfect for those eager to see the countryside beyond Kandy’s city limits. The experience is highly customizable, and guides share insights into local life along the way.

Reviews are not available, but the combination of boating, village life, and waterfalls makes this a uniquely immersive day, especially if you’re interested in rural culture and nature.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those looking to escape the city and experience traditional Sri Lanka in a relaxed setting.

10. Lipton Seat Legacy: Tuk-Tuk & Train Tea Trails Tour

Our final highlight is the Lipton Seat Legacy: Tuk-Tuk & Train Tea Trails Tour, which offers a scenic, multi-modal experience. Starting with a tuk-tuk ride through tea plantations, the tour then takes you on a train journey to Lipton’s Seat, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the tea country.

The tour also includes a visit to the Uva Halpe Tea Factory, providing insights into the production process and history of Ceylon tea. This tour’s charm lies in its combination of land and rail travel, giving you a richer perspective on how tea is cultivated and processed. The entire experience lasts about 8 hours and is perfect for travelers who want a mix of adventure, culture, and scenic views.

While reviews are not listed, the multi-sensory approach to exploring Sri Lanka’s tea country makes this tour stand out.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those who enjoy train rides and scenic explorations of tea gardens and factory visits.

How to Choose the Perfect Tour in Badulla

When selecting your ideal experience, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you prefer a quick overview with a focus on tea and views, the Lipton’s Seat, Tea Factory & Adisham Bungalow Tour offers great value. For active travelers who love hiking, the Ella Rock Sunrise Hike or Udu Diyaluma Waterfalls Adventure will satisfy your craving for outdoor fun.

If culture appeals more, the Haputale Temple Tour provides insight into local traditions, while the Sorabora Lake trip from Kandy offers a rural experience. Longer trips like the Ella 3-day private tour are perfect if you want a personalized, in-depth exploration.

Booking early is advisable, especially for popular activities like the sunrise hikes or the multi-day tours, so plan ahead to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

Badulla and its surrounding towns offer a wide range of tours that cater to different interests and schedules. From scenic tea estate visits and waterfall adventures to cultural and spiritual explorations, you’ll find something that matches your travel style. We recommend pairing a half-day tour like the Lipton’s Seat and Tea Factory for a quick, scenic overview, or opting for a full-day adventure like the Udu Diyaluma Waterfalls if you love outdoor activities.

Travelers with more time should consider the Ella 3-day private tour for a personalized, relaxed experience of Sri Lanka’s highlands. Whatever you choose, booking early will help you avoid missing out on these memorable experiences. Prepare for stunning views, rich flavors, and stories that will stay with you long after your trip ends.