Can you live for less than 1000 USD in Uva Province?

Uva Province, located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, is known for its stunning scenery, tea plantations, and historic sites. But, can you live comfortably in Uva Province for less than 1000 USD? The answer is yes, and in this blog post, we’ll discuss how it is possible.

Housing

Housing is one of the biggest expenses for any individual or family. However, in Uva Province, you can find affordable housing options. If you’re looking to rent a room in a shared house, you can expect to pay around 100-200 USD per month. If you want to rent a whole apartment, a one-bedroom place can be rented for 200-300 USD per month. However, it is important to note that the location, amenities, and size of the apartment will affect the rent.

Food and Drink

Food is another major expense, but in Uva Province, it is possible to eat well on a budget. Street food is a popular and affordable option in Sri Lanka, with dishes such as roti, kottu, and hoppers costing around 1-2 USD each. If you prefer eating in restaurants, a meal at a local eatery can cost between 3-5 USD, while a meal at an upscale restaurant can cost around 10-15 USD.When it comes to drinking, tap water is not safe to drink in Sri Lanka, but bottled water is widely available and affordable. A bottle of water costs around 0.30-0.50 USD. Alcohol is more expensive, with a beer costing around 2 USD and a cocktail costing around 5-7 USD.

Transportation

Transportation costs in Uva Province can vary depending on your mode of transportation. If you’re exploring the city, you can take a tuk-tuk or a bus, which are both affordable options. A tuk-tuk ride can cost around 0.50-2 USD, while a bus ride can cost around 0.30 USD. If you’re planning to travel further, train travel is a popular option. A train ticket from Badulla to Colombo, for example, costs around 4-5 USD.

Utilities

Utilities such as electricity, internet, and water are essential expenses, but they are generally affordable in Uva Province. On average, a monthly electricity bill can be around 10-20 USD, while a monthly internet bill can be around 10 USD. Water bills are usually included in the rent.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is possible to live comfortably in Uva Province for less than 1000 USD per month. Housing, food, transportation, and utilities are all affordable, but it is important to keep in mind that these costs can vary depending on where you live and your individual lifestyle. By budgeting wisely and being conscious of your expenses, you can live within your means and enjoy all that Uva Province has to offer.

Insider’s Guide to Living on Less than $1000 USD in Bandarawela, Uva Province

If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay in Sri Lanka, then look no further than Uva Province’s Bandarawela. This small town offers a peaceful ambiance, stunning mountain views, and a unique cultural experience. With careful planning, it is entirely possible to live here for less than 1000 USD a month.

Local Attractions

Bandarawela is famous for its scenic beauty and jungle-covered hills. Here are some local attractions that are worth visiting:

Bambarakanda Falls: Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall is located 19 km from Bandarawela. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic.

Demodara Nine Arch Bridge: This historical brick bridge was built during the British era in Sri Lanka. It spans over 91 meters and offers a breathtaking view of the countryside.

Lipton’s Seat: The famous tea magnate, Sir Thomas Lipton, used to sit on this summit and admire the panoramic view of his tea plantations. It is located 12 km away from Bandarawela.

Dining Spots

Bandarawela’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the Tamil and Sinhalese cultures. You can find a variety of mouth-watering dishes that are easy on your wallet.

Addara Hotel: Enjoy a variety of Sri Lankan and Western dishes at Addara’s restaurant. The ambiance is lovely, and the prices are affordable.

Kottu Roti Spot: If you’re looking for a quick bite, then head over to the Kottu Roti Spot. They serve delicious Kottu Roti (a Sri Lankan street food dish) at an incredibly low price.

Bandarawela Hotel: The hotel houses a restaurant that serves up some amazing Thosai and Dosa (South Indian dishes). It’s a great spot for vegetarians too.

Cultural Experiences

Bandarawela’s culture is a unique blend of Tamil and Sinhalese cultures. Here are some cultural experiences that you must have during your stay:

Visit a Tea Factory: Sri Lanka is famous for its tea. A visit to a tea factory will enlighten you about the process of making tea, and the history of the tea industry in Sri Lanka.

Experience Kataragama Festival: The Kataragama Festival is the biggest cultural event in the area. It is celebrated in July or August every year, and pilgrims from all over Sri Lanka flock to this region.

Attend a Traditional Wedding: If you’re lucky, you might get invited to a traditional Sri Lankan wedding. The wedding ceremony is a colorful and vibrant affair.

Local History

Bandarawela’s history dates back to the British colonial era. Here are some historical places you can visit to learn more about the town:

Miles of Tea Plantations: Bandarawela’s economy is mainly based on tea. Take a stroll through the town’s tea plantations to get a glimpse of the town’s history.

British Colonial Buildings: The town has several British colonial buildings, including the Bandarawela Hotel. These buildings are a testimony to the town’s colonial past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path suggestions, here are some ideas:

Namunukula Mountain Range: The Namunukula Mountain Range is one of the least explored areas in the region. The mountain range offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory: Located just 5 km from Bandarawela, this tea factory offers an authentic tea-making experience. You will learn about the tea-making process and taste some of the best tea in Sri Lanka.

With this guide in hand, you can explore Bandarawela, Uva Province, on a budget of less than $1000 a month. Not only will it be easy on your wallet, but you’ll also get to experience the town’s unique culture, history, and natural beauty.