In the quiet heart of Badulla Town, St. Mark’s Church stands as one of Sri Lanka’s best-preserved
colonial-era churches.
Built in 1857 by British planters and railway officers, this charming Gothic-style Anglican church blends
simple stone architecture with a deep sense of history.
Set against misty hills and tea estates, its arched windows, stained glass, and old gravestones tell stories
of the people who once shaped Sri Lanka’s hill country.
Peaceful and atmospheric, St. Mark’s is a beautiful stop for travelers interested in history, architecture,
or quiet reflection.
- Historic Architecture ⛪🖼️: Admire its stone walls, pointed arches, and slate roof inspired by British Gothic design 🏰💡
- Stained Glass Windows ✨🌈: View the beautifully colored windows depicting biblical scenes 🎨🙏
- Old Cemetery 🪦📜: Explore the graves of colonial-era planters and missionaries dating back over 150 years 🕰️✅
- Peaceful Garden 🌳😌: Sit under the ancient trees and enjoy the cool, calm atmosphere 🌿✔️
- Photography 📸☀️: Perfect for architecture and heritage photography — especially in the early morning light 🖼️💡
- From Badulla Bus Stand 📍🚶♀️: 5 minutes on foot or by tuk-tuk 🛺💨
- From Ella 🗺️🚂: 1 hour by car or train (Ella–Badulla rail route) ⏳✅
- From Haputale 🗺️🛣️: 1.5 hours by train or road via Bandarawela 🛤️✔️
- Nearest Train Station 🚉💡: Badulla Station — the last stop on the famous Kandy–Ella rail line 🚆🔚
- Timing for Photos ☀️📸: Visit in the morning — the light through the stained glass is beautiful 🌈💡
- Silence Inside 🙏🤫: Maintain silence inside the church — it’s a place of worship ⛪😌
- Guided Tour 🗣️❓: Ask the caretaker politely for a short guided tour if available 🤝✔️
- Donations 💰✨: Donations help preserve the church — leave a small offering if you can 🤲✅
- Combine Stops 🗺️➡️: Combine this stop with nearby Muthiyangana Temple for a blend of religious heritage 🏯✝️
Morning Plan:
- 7:30 AM – Morning Visit ⛪🙏: Attend the morning service or quiet visit 😌✅
- 8:00 AM – Garden & Cemetery 🌳🪦: Walk around the church gardens and cemetery 🌿💡
- 8:30 AM – Photos & History 📸📜: Take photos and learn about its colonial past from the caretaker 🕰️✔️
- 9:00 AM – Breakfast Time ☕🍳: Enjoy a coffee or breakfast at a café near Badulla Railway Station 😋🚉
- 10:00 AM – Next Destination 🏞️🌉: Continue to Dunhinda Falls or Bogoda Bridge 🗺️➡️
