Bogoda Wooden Bridge
Discover Sri Lanka's oldest wooden bridge, a 16th-century marvel built without nails, nestled beside an ancient temple.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer visitors
Bogoda Wooden Bridge
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer visitors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Sri Lanka's oldest wooden bridge, a 16th-century marvel built without nails, nestled beside an ancient temple.
"A timeless symbol of heritage and history, surrounded by peaceful greenery."
👟 Remove Shoes Before Entry
Visitors must remove their shoes before walking on the historic wooden bridge. :athletic_shoe:
💰 No Entrance Fee
Enjoy this historical gem without any admission cost. :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bogoda Wooden Bridge
Bogoda Temple Premises
Sri Lanka's oldest surviving wooden bridge, a 16th-century marvel built entirely of wood without metal nails.
Bogoda Raja Maha Viharaya
Adjacent to the bridge
An ancient temple with a monk's residence and a legendary cave tunnel, steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Scenic Surroundings
Around the bridge and temple
Peaceful greenery and the gentle flow of the Badulu Oya river create a serene backdrop for this historical site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Remove Shoes Before Entry
Visitors must remove their shoes before walking on the historic wooden bridge. :athletic_shoe:
💰 No Entrance Fee
Enjoy this historical gem without any admission cost. :moneywithwings:
🚗 Easy Access by Car
The road is good, even for cars with low ground clearance. Parking is available. :car:
🙏 Dress Modestly
Be respectful of the adjacent temple; dress appropriately. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Remove Shoes Before Entry
Visitors must remove their shoes before walking on the historic wooden bridge. :athletic_shoe:
💰 No Entrance Fee
Enjoy this historical gem without any admission cost. :moneywithwings:
🚗 Easy Access by Car
The road is good, even for cars with low ground clearance. Parking is available. :car:
🙏 Dress Modestly
Be respectful of the adjacent temple; dress appropriately. :pray:
📸 Capture the History
The unique wooden construction and surrounding nature offer great photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Bogoda Wooden Bridge as a remarkably preserved historical site, often highlighting its status as Sri Lanka's oldest wooden bridge and its unique construction without metal nails. The adjacent ancient temple and the serene natural surroundings, including a waterfall, are also frequently mentioned as positive aspects. Some note its relative lack of tourist crowds, contributing to a peaceful experience.
"The Bogoda Wooden Bridge in Badulla, dating back to the 16th century, is considered the oldest surviving wooden bridge in Sri Lanka, built entirely without metal nails. Its beautiful Kandyan-style carvings and tiled roof reflect the island’s rich craftsmanship. Beside it stands the ancient Bogoda Raja Maha Viharaya, believed to date back to the era of King Valagamba, who once used the temple as a refuge. The bridge was part of an old route linking Badulla to Kandy, serving both traders and pilgrims. Surrounded by peaceful greenery, it remains a timeless symbol of heritage and history.
The old monk’s residence at Bogoda Raja Maha Viharaya is believed to be several centuries old, dating back to the Kandyan period. Built mainly from timber with a traditional tiled roof, it showcases the simplicity and practicality of monastic living. The wooden pillars and beams, crafted with skill, have stood the test of time, while the layout reflects the peaceful, meditative lifestyle of the monks who lived there. Set beside the temple and surrounded by lush greenery, this historic monk’s house remains a rare example of traditional Sri Lankan architecture, carrying the stories and spiritual legacy of generations of resident monks
The Bogoda Raja Maha Viharaya also holds a fascinating cave with a historic tunnel that is believed to have once connected to the Dowa Temple. According to legend, King Valagamba used this secret passage as a safe route during times of unrest. The tunnel, now mostly closed, reflects the ingenuity and strategic planning of ancient times, offering both protection and a hidden link between two important religious sites. This feature adds a layer of mystery and intrigue to the temple complex, blending history, legend, and architecture into one remarkable heritage site."
Bhagya Edirisinghe
"Built for monks in the first century AD. Several caves built by King Walagamba are located near the temple and legend has it that there is a secret tunnel system. The special feature here is the bridge inside the temple, which is completely made of wood. It is a very unique design and a very beautiful waterfall flows right next to it. Located slightly inland from the main road. Unfortunately this place with very little tourist attraction. Parking is provided."
Dilum Prasad
"The oldest known wooden bridge in Sri Lanka. It is located quite further from the main road and therefore there is less tourist attraction.
There is no entrance ticket and visitors should remove their shoes before walking on the bridge."
Dukesheeka Jenorge
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bogoda Wooden Bridge is located inland from the main road, a bit further from Ella. You can hire a tuk-tuk or a car from Ella. The drive takes approximately 30-45 minutes. The road is generally good and accessible for most vehicles.
Yes, parking is available near the Bogoda temple premises. You can park near the bo tree and use stairs, or park directly at the temple.
While public transport might be challenging for direct access, you can take a bus towards Badulla and then arrange a local tuk-tuk for the final stretch to the bridge. It's advisable to check local bus schedules beforehand.
From Badulla, you can hire a tuk-tuk or a taxi. The journey is relatively short, and the road is well-maintained, making it a convenient option.
The bridge is situated within the Bogoda temple premises. Look for signs indicating the temple and the wooden bridge as you get closer to the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance ticket required to visit the Bogoda Wooden Bridge. It's a free historical site for all visitors.
The bridge is generally accessible during daylight hours. As it's an outdoor historical site, there are no strict opening or closing times, but it's best to visit when it's light.
No advance booking is necessary as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
The main restriction is to remove your shoes before walking on the bridge to preserve its wooden structure. Also, be respectful of the adjacent temple.
Yes, the bridge is accessible for all ages. However, the wooden planks might be uneven, so caution is advised for very young children or those with mobility issues.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It is considered the oldest surviving wooden bridge in Sri Lanka, dating back to the 16th century. It's a remarkable example of traditional craftsmanship, built entirely without metal nails.
The temple complex includes an ancient monk's residence, believed to be from the Kandyan period, and a legendary cave with a tunnel that supposedly connected to Dowa Temple.
Yes, a beautiful waterfall flows right next to the bridge, adding to the scenic beauty of the location.
You can explore the bridge and the temple complex in about 30-60 minutes, depending on your interest in the history and surroundings.
Take your time to walk across the bridge, admire the intricate wooden construction, and explore the adjacent temple. Enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the bridge from different angles, including its unique wooden structure and the tiled roof. The surrounding greenery and the waterfall also make for great shots. 
Photography is generally allowed at the bridge and the temple grounds. However, be respectful and avoid taking photos inside the inner sanctums of the temple if they are not permitted.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The golden hour can enhance the beauty of the wooden structure.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in protected historical and religious sites before flying.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful to capture the entire bridge and its surroundings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great spot for a brief, educational stop that won't tire out younger travelers. The lack of an entrance fee makes it a budget-friendly addition to your itinerary. Pack some snacks and water, as amenities are limited, and enjoy a quiet moment of discovery away from the more crowded tourist spots.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring other nearby attractions in the Badulla or Ella region to maximize your travel budget. It's a perfect stop for those looking to soak in local history and natural beauty without spending a lot of money.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of the Bogoda Wooden Bridge
This architectural wonder was part of an old trade and pilgrimage route connecting Badulla to Kandy. Its survival through centuries is a remarkable feat, making it a significant historical monument. Visitors often marvel at the intricate joinery and the sheer durability of the wooden planks, which have withstood the test of time and weather. The bridge is not just a crossing but a piece of living history, offering a tangible connection to Sri Lanka's past.
When visiting, remember to remove your shoes before stepping onto the bridge to help preserve its delicate structure. The experience of walking across this ancient wooden pathway, surrounded by lush greenery, is both serene and historically enriching. It’s a quiet spot that offers a glimpse into a bygone era of skilled artistry and practical design.
Bogoda Raja Maha Viharaya: A Spiritual and Historical Haven
A particularly intriguing aspect of the temple is the legendary cave with a historic tunnel. According to local lore, this secret passage was used by King Valagamba as a refuge during times of conflict, supposedly connecting to the Dowa Temple. While the tunnel is now largely inaccessible, its existence adds a layer of mystery and historical intrigue to the site. This feature underscores the strategic importance and hidden networks that existed in ancient Sri Lanka.
The entire temple complex, nestled amidst peaceful greenery, provides a serene environment for reflection. It's a place where history, spirituality, and natural beauty converge, offering visitors a unique cultural experience. The presence of the ancient bridge and the temple together creates a cohesive historical narrative, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in Sri Lanka's rich heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit