Take part in thrilling hiking in Sri Lanka while absorbing breathtaking scenery
Because Sri Lanka is mostly renowned as a destination for leisure vacation and has 1300km of pristine beaches, the term “hiking in Sri Lanka” may seem unusual to visitors from other countries. In addition, Sri Lanka offers a wide range of fascinating activities for travelers, such as its historical sites, ancient cities, wildlife sanctuaries, tropical rainforests, and several peaks. Hiking, trekking, and wildlife excursions are just a few of the adventure experiences offered in Sri Lanka by Seerendipity Tours, a local travel agency.
The majority of this blog post is devoted to hiking and trekking adventures in Sri Lanka. This article’s hiking tour takes place over six days and offers an amazing trekking adventure in national parks, jungles, and Sri Lanka’s hill country. Clean, well-kept routes meandering through tea plantations, vegetable gardens, rainforests, streams, and waterfalls may be found on Sri Lanka’s hiking trails. Hiking trips in Sri Lanka are available all year round, but for the best experience, plan your trip between November and April.
Hiking in Sri Lanka becoming popular among adventure lovers because of its well-known hiking and trekking spots
For years, Sri Lanka has been a popular tropical destination for tourists. The island was formerly known as “CEYLON,” but it is now called Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is a varied holiday destination with beaches, historical sites, wildlife sanctuaries, and old forests.
Many tourists mistakenly think that Sri Lanka is a tiny country with nothing to offer outside of its beaches and water-related activities. That being said, you are mistaken because Sri Lanka has a considerable amount of mountains, woods, and even rainforests that date back to the time of Gondwanaland.
Wildlife reserves, like the 6-day Sri Lanka wildlife tours, are ideal for wildlife exploration vacations since they frequently have a sizable animal population. The existence of mountains and woods also provides the perfect setting for partaking in a variety of thrilling sports, including mountain climbing, trekking, and hiking. The best places in Sri Lanka for hiking are covered in the article “Hiking in Sri Lanka”.
Important forests and forested areas in Sri Lanka for a hiking trip
Popular hiking sites in Sri Lanka include the Sinharaja forest, Adam’s Peak, Knuckles Mountain Range, Nuwara Eliya, and Kitulgala, each of which has a number of walking paths. Explore a variety of hiking locations that provide a unique and memorable experience, with lots of surprises around every corner.
The trails’ various features, which include rocky formations, steep slopes, flowing waterfalls, tea gardens, portions of woods, terraced rice fields, lush green meadows, high mountain passes, narrow gorges, and captivating green-capped mountains, enhance their distinctive charm.Trekkers are drawn to Sri Lanka’s high-altitude trekking regions in large numbers. Adventure seekers are guaranteed a satisfying experience at these locations, which provide breathtaking views of the rising or setting sun in addition to lush green surroundings and majestic mountains.
Taking a hiking trip in Sri Lanka to explore its breathtaking natural scenery.
To truly appreciate the beautiful attractiveness of Sri Lanka, travelers need to venture into the country’s interior, far from large cities and popular seaside resorts on the western side. There is noticeably greater peace and quiet in Sri Lanka’s rural areas. As such, the bulk of hiking vacations in Sri Lanka concentrate mostly on the scenic rural areas. In the rural districts, visitors encounter scenic vistas with scattered forests, plantations, rivers, and unspoiled mountains, all situated far from the busy city.
The diversity of Sri Lanka is noteworthy, especially in light of its small size. The vibrant, highly populated metropolitan hubs along Sri Lanka’s coastline offer a stark contrast to the country’s rural parts. Specifically, the mountainous area is mostly covered with large-scale tea plantations, in addition to a variety of other crops and small areas of forest. These fruitful hill settlements have clean mountain air and a landscape reminiscent of the moon. In the areas of the terrain that are habitable, the plantation administrations have constructed simple housing for the plantation laborers.
About hiking trips in Sri Lanka
Hiking expeditions frequently begin and end in Colombo, making it possible for visitors to arrive at the airport and immediately begin their hiking adventure. However, as this is a private excursion, the start time can be changed to suit different schedules.
Throughout their six-day trip to Sri Lanka, the visitors visited a number of historic temples, shrines, and forts. A couple of these monuments are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and several of them are well known. Each temple or shrine has its own unique characteristics, such as gardens, moats, walls, tunnels, Buddha statues, old artwork, and more.
Trekking to the Sigiriya rock fortress, which is situated in Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, is the first leg of the trekking journey. The trip from Colombo to this location is around 177 kilometers distant, and it should take about 4 hours. Sigiriya, a popular tourist attraction, welcomes hundreds of visitors each day.
The first 300-kilometer pedestrian path in Sri Lanka is called the Serendipity Trail.
The European Union, USAID, and the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority have collaborated to effectively create a new experience for tourists visiting Sri Lanka. The increased demand for active holidays throughout the world has made this adoption something that should have started years ago.
The island is ideal for trekking, hiking, and strolling because of its diverse topography and enthralling, lush nature.
The first section of the long hiking path in Sri Lanka, called the “Serendipity Trails,” opened for business in 2022. The first part of the walking path is 25 kilometers long. After they are finished, the Serendipity paths will be 300 kilometers long. The project involves building a system of connected walkways throughout the island of Sri Lanka’s mountainous terrain. Both domestic and foreign visitors may enjoy the varied terrain, history, culture, food, and local community on foot thanks to the walking path, which is made to accommodate both types of visitors. Either sticking to a short section of the trail or taking many days to cover the entire circle are the options available to travelers.
Travelers should prepare for difficulties finding their path in addition to the dangers posed by steep slopes and mountain weather. Prepare yourself for challenging trail conditions, dogs, venomous worms, heavy rain, occasional thunderstorms, and plenty of tropical sunlight. It is not always easy to get emergency medical attention and rescue services right away.
We provide trekking trips and hiking excursions in Sri Lanka.
This hiking trip in Sri Lanka takes you via several well-known hiking trails, such as Adam’s Peak and Sinharaja. The trip lasts six days and five nights, with each night spent at a different site for participants to spend the night. Your guide is an extremely informed naturalist who has a wealth of information about the island’s wildlife, plants, and other ecological attractions.
The climb is suitable for experienced hikers; some trails, such as Adam’s Peak, demand strong physical and mental stamina. The main attraction of this trip is hiking, which you will do for around 20 hours while on your hiking holiday in Sri Lanka. Numerous hiking trails in the region lead to well-known tourist attractions, including as Sigiriya Rock and the Dambulla cave shrine. Put another way, throughout your hiking trip, you will have the chance to see important historical and ecological locations.
Please contact us at admin@seerendipitytours.com to schedule the trip and receive further details.
Which path is best for hiking in Sri Lanka?
Day 1: We’re going to climb to the Dambulla temple through sigiriya.
Day 2: We will be trekking at the Udawattakele sanctuary while we are in Kandy.
Day-3: We will travel from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya on the third day of the vacation, where we will ascend Horton Plains.
Day 4: Make your way to Ella from Nuwara Eliya and hike Adam’s Peak as well
Day 5: Travel to Sinharaja for a hike through the jungle after leaving Adams Peak.
Day 6: Journey from Sinharaja to Colombo
Which are Sri Lanka’s eight most popular places for one day hiking in Sri Lanka?
The best 8 hiking routes in Sri Lanka that may be finished in a single day, commencing in Colombo, are listed below.
- Going on an Adam’s Peak hike
- Ella is a great place to go hiking for two days.
- Hiking in Nuwara Eliya (a two-day hike is advised)
- Wandering along Kandy’s trails
- Trekking in the Sinharaja jungle
- The Kitulgala Trek
- Trekking in Sigiriya
- Climb the granite temple of Dambulla.
Adam’s Peak is one of Sri Lanka’s top trekking sites.
Not only is the trip to Adams Peak one of the longest in the country, it’s also highly recommended as one of the best hiking experiences in Sri Lanka.
There was a lot of hiking in Sri Lanka that required patience in addition to physical effort. For example, climbing Adam’s Peak and Sri Pada, as well as visiting the Sigiriya rock fortress, are noteworthy hiking experiences in Sri Lanka.
Adams’s Peak is a popular hiking location in Sri Lanka, and its peak offers a captivating view.
It’s possible that the account of the sunrise observed from Adam’s Peak is overstated. This well-liked hiking sport in Sri Lanka has a strong religious connection. The walk itself is hard; it goes all night in the bitter cold.
In order to witness the sunrise from Adam’s Peak in Sri Lanka, visitors must make the 5,000-stair ascent over the course of a moonlight moonlit voyage. Anyone who lacks bravery or desire should not attempt this difficult task.
Historical records indicate that the people of Sri Lanka have been using Adam’s Peak as a place of pilgrimage for over 1700 years. It was considered a sacred spot by Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, and Catholics.
For all Sri Lankans, seeing the dawn from the top of a mountain is a dream come true. Many people congregate around the temple at sunset to see the important occasion.
Adam’s Mountain stands at an elevation of 2243 meters (7360 feet), making it the third highest mountain in Sri Lanka. There are 5000 steps that must be climbed on a steep, narrow slope in order to reach the peak. It is a place to go for those seeking exciting experiences, individuals on a religious journey, and nature lovers.
What is the purpose of the climb up Adam’s Peak?
The people of Sri Lanka hold great respect for the peak known as “Samanala Kanda,” also called “Peak of the Butterfly,” Sri Pada, or Adam’s Peak. It is the most well-known peak in the nation and a popular climbing site as well. There is a Buddhist shrine with a stone slab that has the impression of Buddha’s foot at the top of the mountain. This mountain is usually referred to as Sri Pada, which means “the foot of Buddha..”. Nonetheless, Muslims regard it as the footprint of Prophet Adam, while Hindus believe it to be the impression of the god Shiva. Adam’s Peak, which is derived from this concept, reflects this belief.
Christians think that the Apostle St. Thomas’s footprint is engraved on the stone slab at the top of the mountain. All of the major religions on the island have made frequent pilgrimages to this temple, to which the footprint belongs. Every religious organization coexists and carries out its own activities. This temple in heaven is a haven that preserves religious harmony.
It is evident that Buddhism is widely practiced at this site since there are several Buddhist flags of all sizes lining the steep, narrow stairs from the first step to the summit. However, each morning,a sizable stream of foreign visitors frequently passes through the area as they make their way to the mountain’s peak to see the sunrise and take in the breathtaking vistas that await them. Adam’s Peak Mountain is a magnificent wildlife refuge that is part of the Peak Wilderness. This wooded region features a beautiful evergreen rainforest with a wealth of biodiversity and is home to a wide variety of wild animals.
The plateau of the mountain is small, yet it can hold about 100 people at a time. Visitors find themselves above the circle, in a small, rectangular shrine made to fit the footprint-shaped stone slab. Behind the shrine room is the tower with the hanging bell. It is customary for those who visit the shrine to ring the bell; the number of strikes indicates the total number of visits made thus far.
When’s the best time to hike up Adam’s Peak?
When I first went there, I went to the top with a bunch of foreign visitors, and it was really packed since we went during the busiest time of year for pilgrimages. However, mostly because to safety concerns, the best time to do the trip is during the pilgrimage season, which runs from November to April. The hiking route is untended all year round, has no lighting, is muddy with every downpour, is choked with thick undergrowth and is home to wild animals. In the off-season, there are very few tourists that you come across on the hike.
The path needs to be given extra time because of the flow of visitors and pilgrims during the busiest pilgrimage season, which may make both the ascent and descent take up to 8 hours. The large number of local devotees that visit the location may create delays in the movement, especially on public holidays.
All of them want to be at the top as soon as the light comes up. Those who have already ascended to the summit of Adam’s peak are watching the eastern sky with great anticipation, expecting to see the first rays of dawn. By chance, I managed to put myself in a position where I can see the sunrise. To see the unobstructed dawn from Adam’s Peak, a few conditions must be met, the most important of which is a cloud-free sky. At sunrise, the mountain casts a conical shadow that gradually shrinks over the course of a few minutes, covering the summit wilderness.
The viewpoint from Adams Peak Mountain’s top
The view from the top of the mountain is breathtaking, and there’s a strong scent coming from the area around the summit from people burning incense sticks. Even after the difficult and drawn-out hike, there’s nowhere to rest at the top. The restrooms are primarily unusable due to poor maintenance. It is highly recommended to restrict bathroom use when climbing Adam’s Peak in order to reduce the possibility of having to use the facilities close to the peak. There are plenty of lodging options and dining establishments near the climb’s beginning. This makes it convenient for visitors to rest up before starting their climb.
When you spot the red-faced monkey on your stroll up Adams Peak in Sri Lanka, be cautious.
Macaques are a kind of red-faced monkey that are frequently seen in the area with the devotees. The red-faced monkeys are gathering around to look for food, and they do sometimes get food from people. However, given that macaque monkeys may be aggressive and may attack someone, getting too near to these creatures could be dangerous.
When is the best time to start hiking trips to Adams Peak?
The six-month-long pilgrimage season begins in December, which is when the North-East monsoon arrives. It is not advisable to climb Adam’s Peak in the off-season due to the possibility of wildlife attacks and bad weather. Few tourists from Sri Lanka or other countries do this trip in the off-season.
December is a comparatively cool month, especially in mountainous areas, with slightly lower temperatures. Because there is an abundance of moonlight on full moon days, this is the ideal time to climb Adam’s Peak. Even with the electric lights installed on Adams Peak steps, there is insufficient illumination. For better visibility of the stairs and the surrounding area, it is recommended to wear a headlight. While you’re watching the action and waiting for dawn, keep in mind that the mountain’s cooler temperatures may cause you to feel rather chilly.
The hiker comes across a number of businesses and booths that provide tea, coffee, Rotty, and other necessities for the populace. A few of these establishments even feature spotless, well-kept lavatories. These are designated rest areas that are spaced erratically apart.
Religious motives behind the Adam’s peak hike
The local people climb Adam’s Peak mostly for religious purposes, but a few of foreign visitors also make the difficult journey to the world’s highest elevated temple, which is located 2243 meters above sea level. Travelers benefit from the five-hour march in many ways. First, it offers an excellent opportunity to engage with locals who are from all over the country. International visitors will also get the chance to view the region’s wealth of natural resources thanks to this tour.
Which ten locations in Sri Lanka are the best for trekking and hiking trips?
- The Golden Cave Temple of Dambulla
- The rock fortress of Sigiriya.
- Little Adam’s Peak, commonly referred to as Adam’s Peak
- Ella Rock
- The Mountain of Nasdanda
- Nuwara Eliya
- Point Pilkington
- The Lipton Chair
- The Cliff House
- The Mountain of Kabaragala
- The mountain of Wangedigala
- The Knuckles Mountains
- Horton Plains National Park.
- Pilkinton point .
- The natural reserve of Tangamale and the Adisham bungalow
1. A trekking trip in Sri Lanka that includes a stop to the cave shrine at Dambulla.
Offering a unique chance to see Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage, the central province of the country is frequently called the Golden Cave temple because to its beautifully decorated granite caves tucked away behind a forest of rocks. The hundreds of square meters of painted ceiling of the cave temple showcase an impressive array of creative creations, including many figures. Visitors from all over the island congregate here to see one of the oldest temples in the world, dating back to the first century BC and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
An integral part of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle is the Dambulla Golden Cave Temple, which sits in the middle of the triangle made up of Kandy, Polonnaruwa, and Anuradhapura. The archeological department is currently in charge of the Dambulla cave temple. The temple is located near the town of Dambulla, which is around 181 kilometers away from Tripoli. One of Sri Lanka’s best hiking paths leads to the temple, which is perched on a mountain. It could take around 30 minutes to travel the distance between the cave temple and the mountain’s base. A carefully built series of stone steps leads up to the temple.
2. Take a guided hiking tour at Sri Lanka’s magnificent Sigiriya Rock.
If you want to discover anything, both in your thoughts and in the real world, you may want to consider traveling to the Sigiriya rock fortress. Sigiriya Rock Castle is a well-known granite monolithic rock situated in a tranquil little village in Sri Lanka’s desert area. It was the capital of Sri Lanka under the rebel King Kashyapa’s reign. Many domestic and foreign visitors are drawn to the castle these days to take in the breathtaking artistic and architectural achievements of Sri Lanka’s ancient culture. Sigiriya is a well-known UNESCO world heritage site that is open all year round. Part of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle is the Sigiriya rock fortress.
The topography and natural elements of the Sigiriya Rock Walk define it.
The parking lots next to the western entrance of the Sigiriya rock fortress are where the Sigiriya walk starts. Travelers may easily obtain tickets because the ticket office is located next to the western gate. Because of the flat landscape, many visitors believe that trekking to Sigiriya will be easy. However, it’s hard to determine how tough the climb will be based just on distance. The western entrance is around one kilometer from the mountain’s base; the actual height of the granite is hidden until one gets quite near. Before arriving at the spot, there is a paved road and a route through the woods to follow.
Comprehensive details on trekking Sri Lanka’s Sigiriya Rock
From this point, you have to begin the very easy walk eastward along the level, compacted gravel track. The distant rock serves as a clear marker, indicating the direction to go. And a good percentage of the young people there help out by offering direction to anyone who might be lost. These youngsters assist visitors in navigating and exploring the complex of the rock fortification by acting as site guides. At the same time, you’ll find intriguing signage that tells you a little bit about
The place directs you in the right direction.
The ticket counters are located on the right, and the cloakrooms are located on the left as you head east towards your automobile. This is your last opportunity to use the restroom before you enter the building. You won’t get another chance to empty your bottle until you return to the main gate after you begin the march there. Depending on your level of fitness, the hike might take two to three hours to complete.
Your tickets will be inspected and officially stamped at the main entrance that is next to it, allowing you entry to the site. The ticket must be kept in your possession until you get back to the parking lots since the archeological department authorities could check it again once you enter the site.
As you approach the location, you’ll notice a large area with a number of brick buildings that are remnants of earlier construction. You’ll pass by a number of exquisite gardens, swimming pools, fountains, and other buildings.
There are about 200 meters to go before you get to the old steps etched into the rock. From then on, the climb gets steeper and more difficult. Roughly half of the Sigiriya path is on flat ground, while the remaining part is a strenuous climb up steep stairs. According to Sarath, a young worker at Sigiriya, there are 1200 steps at the location. About half of these stairs are built from burnt terracotta bricks, while the other half are cut out of the surrounding rock.
For the most part, the walk follows the same path; the only diversion occurs at the fresco enclave, where access to the paintings requires climbing a spiral staircase. In the center of the track is where you’ll find the fresco nook.
The large outdoor area known as the lion terrace comes after the mirror wall and fresco paintings. Here is much less of a climb from the lion terrace than you have faced so far, since part of the stairs have been recently remodeled with iron and are now protected by iron railings. The journey ends with the last stretch, which usually takes 20 minutes or more to reach the rock’s peak. For most travelers, this area is a place to relax before continuing on to the last part of the journey. You may take in a stunning view of the nearby forests, isolated rice fields, rural communities, bodies of water, and reservoirs from this vantage point.
Take quick pauses along the way, then resume your ascent, utilizing the metal stairs, until you easily reach the summit. The ultimate reward for your steadfast perseverance will be a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding countryside, which will be shown to you from that point on. It is truly amazing. There are several ruins on top of the rock, such as the pieces of the king’s palace, throne, and swimming pool.
Unless you need to go to the coach park, which is at the southern gate, the descent takes the same route. The designated place where large tourist groups park their coaches is referred to as a “coach park”. If you are traveling with a large group, you will probably need to meet up at the coach park after the hike. There are a number of interesting sites to visit during your descent, such as circular ponds, granite tunnels, meditation caves, audience halls, and arch boulders. It is much easier to descend than to ascend, and it usually takes about half an hour to get from the peak to the parking lot.
Travels by foot in Kandy, Sri Lanka
In Sri Lanka, Kandy is a very popular travel destination. The elevation of Kandy above sea level is 500 meters. It is located in a valley and has several mountains surrounding it. Adventure seekers in Sri Lanka have a lot of potential with the mountains surrounding Kandy. Trekking and hiking are quite enjoyable in Sri Lanka’s highlands. Here are a few well-known locations in Kandy, Sri Lanka, that are popular for hiking outings.
Trekking in the Kandy tea estates in Sri Lanka.
The hiking trail that connects Hantana to Glaha is 12.1 kilometers long and starts in Hantana. This trail is not particularly difficult to hike, and most hikers find it to be relatively easy. The hike takes three to four hours to complete. Hiking, walking, and running are all quite welcome on this trail.
One popular hiking trail in Kandy is the Hantana-Galaha hiking track. The Kandy Tea Museum is where the trekking trail starts. There is a continuous stream of visitors to Kandy’s Tea Museum, which is one of the most popular tourist destinations. Important machinery from the early days of Sri Lanka’s tea industry is on display in the museum. A historic tea factory dating from the British Colonial era has been turned into a museum. Those who want to start their walk in Hantana can just leave their cars parked at the museum.
The first part of the journey, which starts at the tea museum, climbs up toward the pass after leaving the lowlands. A mountain range encircles Kandy, which is located in a valley. A pass connects the valley containing the city of Kandy to the valley beyond, which is home to the Hantana tea plantation. Hantana is well known for being a well-liked location for trekking, hiking, and environmental trips. The site provides breathtaking sweeping views of the surroundings, especially the neighboring hill country mountain ranges. To learn more about the Hantana-Galaha hiking trail, please see the material below.
Hiking excursions in Sri Lanka’s Ella
Ella is best described as a rural area with a lot of flora, dense forest, and a rugged landscape. Ella is one of the island’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing a sizable number of foreign guests. Loud music, a bustling nightlife, big buildings, a bustling market, amazing shopping, and big hotels don’t fit with Ella’s distinctive atmosphere. Ella is a quiet town with a pleasant atmosphere that makes it the perfect place to unwind and find serenity.
Ella is a highland refuge tucked up between several peaks. It also has a number of hiking trails, which provide an exciting and heart-pounding experience. We will concentrate on a few popular hiking routes in Ella throughout this conversation. I so urge you to explore the rich flora of the highlands by following these pathways.
3. Traveling on foot in Sri Lanka: the diminutive Adam’s Peak
The important details of hiking Adam’s Peak
- This hike will cover a distance of 3 kilometers (2.8 miles).
- The hike is scheduled to last between one and two hours.
- Advantages of breathtaking view from the peak
Small Adams Peak is without a doubt Ella’s best hiking trek. The well-planned route draws a sizable number of visitors each day who ascend the mountain to take in the breathtaking views of the lowland region below. This is not an especially strenuous journey, so it is suitable for both experienced and inexperienced hikers. This hike is perfect for someone who loves the outdoors and wants to spend some time in the calm, beautiful surroundings of verdant foliage. It provides a relaxed and rather easy trekking experience.
Little Adams Peak’s greatography and small size make it a good choice for hiking expeditions in Sri Lanka. Little Adams Peak is a moderate walk suitable for hikers of all ages. Hiking expertise is not a must for participating in this activity. Despite the relatively short hike up Mini Adams Peak, the payoff is far beyond any expectations you may have. Unquestionably, the view from the summit is breathtaking; it provides an enthralling overview over the nearby plain. Take a stroll in the morning or evening, since these are the best times to avoid direct sunlight.
You have to stray a little from the main path to get to the EllFlowereGarden Resort. From Ella town, take the Ella-Passara road and turn right to get to the resort. Subsequently, the route becomes apparent and there are several signs pointing to the peak. There’s a colorful tea garden on flat ground where the adventure starts. The remaining 20 minutes of the journey would be a somewhat challenging climb, taking around 45 minutes to reach the objective.
4. Ella Rock was the main destination of Sri Lankan trekking trips.
The important details of trekking Ella Rock
- The hike covers 10 kilometers, or 6.2 miles.
- The hike is scheduled to last between 3 to 4 hours.
Rewards: In addition to breathtaking natural scenery, hiking in Esperance provides a unique blend of fun, physical challenge, and deep fulfillment.
Ella is home to a number of top hiking destinations in Sri Lanka, Ella being one of them. The island’s most notable geographical feature, the Ella Gap, is well known for being the biggest of its kind. It is an important landmark for the entire island, spanning several thousand meters in some places. I remember learning about the EllGatat in my school geography classes. Ella is an excellent example of a gap, a type of geological phenomenon. Most people think of the Ella gap when they talk about Ella.
In this mountain resort, The Gap is a very popular hiking trail that is renowned for its fairly difficult terrain and unforgettable views. About two hours should be sufficient for the climb, with the remainder of the day being used for recovery. It is best to start your hike in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid being directly exposed to the sun, which can get very hot in the middle of the day. To make sure you always stay on track, it is recommended to have a local guide.
Most hikers concur that early in the morning is the best time to climb Little Adams Peak because visitors can see the breathtaking dawn. This popular hiking trail in Sri Lanka frequently draws a lot of foreign visitors, which might lead to congestion. On this trip, the visitors encounter three peaks. Most hikers choose to wrap up their trip after reaching the first peak. As a result, there is constant congestion at the first summit. There is no traffic at all during the second or third peaks. If you intend to climb the summit before daylight, keep in mind that it will be quite dark and that you will need to bring a flashlight or headlamp. This circuit has a very gorgeous backdrop, especially in the early morning hours.
Trekking across Sri Lanka’s Nine Arch Bridge.
Climbing the nine arch bridge is something I strongly advise doing if you are staying at the Ella Mountain Resort. To call it a trip would be inaccurate because the route is really a smooth concrete walkway that the passengers walk along. Still, the explorers discover a charming area with luscious foliage and striking mountain peaks in the distance. The entire course is 1.3 kilometers long. The hike takes around thirty minutes on average.
Take a thorough 3-day tour of Sri Lanka, stopping at famous sites including the Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, the Sigiriya rock fortress, and the Dambulla golden temple.
5. Nasdanda Mountain is one of Sri Lanka’s best trekking locations.
The important details of trekking Nasdanda Mountain
- Seven kilometers, or 4.2 miles, make up the distance of the walk.
- Duration of hiking trip: two hours
On these hiking tours in Sri Lanka, you may anticipate trekking, fun, physical exertion, and really fulfilling experiences. You will come across enthralling and engaging scenery.
For adventure sports enthusiasts and hikers looking for unique experiences, Nasdanda Mountain is a top destination in Sri Lanka. The summit is situated inside the island’s central mountain range, in the Badulla region. The less-known area provides opportunities for mountain biking, walking, trekking, and strolling.
At an altitude of about 1500 meters above sea level, Nasdana Mountain is situated between the districts of Badulla and Nuwara Eliya. For those who choose Ella as their vacation spot, hiking and climbing aficionados, it is an extremely sought-after place. The mountain resembles an elephant when viewed from a distance, and its pinnacle soars to a remarkable elevation of almost 2250 meters above sea level.
The mountain’s peak provides a breathtaking view across the region of Uwa. For novice climbers, reaching the mountain’s peak presents difficulties and possible risks. A special security monitoring platform was built during the British occupation, giving them the ability to monitor the whole area. The platform has faced delays in the past since it was founded about 75 years ago.
The railway that connects Nanuoya and Badulla crosses the Nasdana Mountain. The mountain rail line goes through a number of tunnels, the most notable of which is the one that goes through the Nasdana Mountains. Two distinct climate patterns exist on either side of the tunnel, which is a noticeable characteristic. There is a humid environment at one end of the tunnel and an arid one at the other.
Many streams originate from Nasdana Mountain, which is acknowledged as a major watershed. Currently, this area’s upper watershed is a protected area within the mountains. This classification is applicable to places that are at least 5000 meters above sea level.
The vegetation present in the country’s lowlands is not the same as that of the Nasdana tain. The area’s high elevation, consistent rainfall, evening and morning mist, and moderate temperatures are the main factors influencing the variance in vegetation.
Chena farming, which entailed clearing and burning land for agricultural reasons, was once practiced on the Nasdana mountain and the areas around it. As a result, a large quantity of the initial valuable forest was removed, leaving primarily secondary forest cover made up of plants like eucalyptus. The numerous waterfalls that emerge from Nasdana’s streams enhance its natural beauty. Not far from Alawathgoda lies the well-known and gorgeous waterfall known as Diyawatanalla.
6. The best hiking routes in the Nuwara Eliya area of Sri Lanka
The middle mountain range’s Nuwara Eliya, Bandarawela, Horton Plains, and Haputale provide a number of high-altitude hiking locations. The central mountains are an essential part of most hiking itineraries in Sri Lanka since there are so many trekking places in these regions. Every hiking location in the Himalayas provides an exciting and comprehensive experience, from the journey through Horton Plains National Park to Lipton Seat in Bandarawela. At Kitulgala, the western slope of the mountain range is home to plantations and rainforests.
Situated on the southern flank of the central mountain range, there are a number of hiking trails that rank among Sri Lanka’s best treks. These pathways highlight the distinctive qualities of nature trails. There are several interesting hiking locations in Sri Lanka’s central province, including historical sites, prehistoric ruins, lush forests, and other attractions.
7. Pilkington Point exploration is one of Sri Lanka’s top trekking sites.
With its elevation of 1400 meters above sea level, Pilkington Point is well known in Sri Lanka as a popular trekking destination as well as a gorgeous viewpoint. Despite its picturesque appeal, Pilkington Point is not a popular viewpoint, and you won’t see large groups of hikers here. My impression is that this climb is regarded as one of Sri Lanka’s best. Spending some time on this activity is strongly suggested if you are visiting Bandarawela, Haputale, or Ella.
Pilkington Point’s breathtaking scenery, which has a lush valley with mist-clad hills in the distance, is a strong argument to visit. As Pilkington noted, it is uncommon to find the pristine splendor of the island’s natural scenery in other places.
Located inside the Poonagala tea estate, Pilkington Point is around 32 kilometers from Haputale. The route 32la-Poonagala-Koslanda may be used to get there. The viewpoint’s entrance is easily visible, and it’s around 20 kilometers from Bandarawela.
The Pilkington Point entrance is located on the right side of the road while coming from Bandarawela. The walk to Pilkington Point takes around thirty minutes, and the two kilometers of hiking pathway are covered. You will be able to witness breathtaking vistas of the misted hills before arriving at the summit.
After reading this article, you are convinced that there are still trekking options available in Sri Lanka. Find the best hiking experience in Sri Lanka for your outdoor activity and become enthralled with the amazing and thrilling sport of hiking in Sri Lanka. This is your chance to prepare the gear you’ll need and set out on an amazing journey to Sri Lanka.
8. Sri Lankan trekking adventures: The Lipton Seat
When visiting Haputale, you should incorporate the incredible adventure of trekking to Lipton Seat on your agenda. Lipton’s seat is located inside the Dambatenna tea estate and provides a broad viewpoint with stunning aerial views of the surrounding tea plantations, mountains, and valleys. One of the first tea plantations Thomas Lipton bought was the Dambatenna estate. Thomas Lipton was a passionate nature lover and used this place to amuse his visitors. From a vantage point that spans four provinces, the Lipton Seat provides an expansive view. The international port of Hambantota, which is located near Sri Lanka’s southern border, is visible from the Lipton seat’s expansive panorama.
When is the best time to start hiking at Lipton Seat?
There’s little question that the best time to hike to Lipton Seat is early in the morning to catch the breathtaking dawn. However, in the wee hours of the morning, the sky might be cloudy, making it difficult for you to see. The Lipton seat has regular showers and a cloudy sky due to its high altitude.
9. For a fantastic trekking experience in Sri Lanka, go to Cliff Lodge.
Cliff Lodge is a modest campground run by a family close to Haputale. It’s easy to visit Hauptale if you’re thinking about doing so. The Cliff Lodge is situated in a unique environment and has minimal impact on the local ecology. Cliff Lodge offers hotel alternatives so that visitors may enjoy the surrounding area’s picturesque grandeur. The 1.5 kilometers of hiking track that leads to the cliff lodge are rather long. An experienced hiker can frequently finish this trek in about an hour. The track is said to be an easy trip suitable for both novice and experienced hikers.
10. Trekking and exploring Sri Lanka’s Kabaragala Mountain
Eight kilometers are covered in this trek.
The hike lasts three hours. You can anticipate a very rewarding, physically taxing, and pleasurable experience on these hiking tours in Sri Lanka. You will come across enthralling and engaging scenery.
One of the tallest mountains in Sri Lanka’s central region is Kabaragala Mountain, which is located close to Nawalapitiya in the Kandy district. Kabaragala is becoming more and more popular among hikers in Sri Lanka because to its excellent hiking options, which are popular picks for daring tourists. The mountain’s highest summit, which is located at an elevation of around 1500 meters above sea level, can usually be reached in three hours on a moderately tough trek. The breathtaking view from the mountain’s peak is the hike’s most notable reward. A broad vista of Sri Lanka’s hilly region may be seen from the top of the Kabaralgala mountain. In the distance, trahillyrs may make out notable sites including Kotmale, Adams Peak, Ambuluwawa, Saptakana Mountains, Pidurutalagala Mountain, and Batalegala Mountain. Find out more about the Sri Lankan trek known as Kabaragala.
11. Trekking in Sri Lanka: Badulla’s Wangedigala Mountain
In Sri Lanka’shillyl country, trekking is a very popular activity that offers visitors a variety of intriguing and reachable sites for this thrilling experience. In Sri Lanka’s hill country, Wangedigala Mountain is a popular trekking location. Situated in Kalupahana, inside the Badulla district, lies the Wangedigala Mountain. Because Wangedigala Mountain is not as well-known among tourists, fewer people visit it. A party of adventurous locals travel to Wangedigala for a camping and trekking excursion. The summit of Wangedeigala mountain extends across a distance of more than a hundred meters, with one end connecting to Gonmolliya, Balatuduwa, and Wangedi-Kanda (Wangedi mountain). Standing 2034 meters above sea level, Gonmoliya is a well-known summit in Sri Lanka.
12. Trekking trip in Sri Lanka: Range of Knuckles Mountains
“Knuckles Mountain” is the name given to a range of mountains that, from a distance, resemble a closed fist. One of the best places in Sri Lanka to visit is Knuckles Mountain, which is located in a similar region close to the hilly city of Kandy. It provides a special combination of breathtaking scenery and exhilarating adventure. Climbing the Knuckles mountain gives visitors the chance to see the enthralling alpine scenery, cascading waterfalls, and enduring streams.
Travel companies provide this hiking vacation in Sri Lanka with transportation supplied from Kandy. You may schedule the Knuckles hiking and trekking excursion from Kandy. The 4-hour Knuckles Trek winds through the high area’s lush woods. An experienced naturalist who has guided many tourists in the past and is very knowledgeable is leading the visitors. In Kandy, the Knuckles trekking excursion starts at about seven in the morning. A traditional lunch prepared in a local village house will be provided to participants. For further information on the Knuckles hiking tour, please contact admin@seerendipitytours.com.
13. National Park of Horton Plains
At a particular point called World’s End, the Horton Plains plateau abruptly ends with an amazing cliff that drops 880 meters. The trail returns in a loop to Baker’s Falls, which is two kilometers distant; after that, it goes on for 3.5 kilometers further to the park entrance. Three hours is more than enough time to do the 9.5 kilometers of travel round trip. Because of the frequent mist, especially from April to September (rainy season), it’s best to get at World’s End early in order to have a clear view.
starting at nine in the morning. Moving forward, the only thing visible from the world’s End is a dynamic white barrier that seems to be moving constantly because of the wind. Early in the morning, ideally between 6 and 10, is the best time to visit before clouds start to develop. Here you will get a direct view of the southern shore as well as a broad overview of the little town and the tea plantation towns down in the valley.
On Sundays and federal holidays, the hiking route of Horton Plains National Park is quite crowded, so avoid going there during such times.
When strolling, put on your sun protection gear, such as a hat and sturdy shoes. Assemble supplies like sunscreen, food, and drinks. When you get at World’s End, spoil yourself with a breakfast package from your guesthouse, which you may enjoy outside. Over the plains, there are frequent temperature swings that change quickly from bright sunshine to freezing fog. At about six in the morning, the temperature starts to drop considerably, so bring extra blankets.
Since many of the official trails have difficult, muddy terrain, it is strictly forbidden to trespass on them. There are no defenses at World’s End, and many people have died as a result. Make sure you have a strong hold on your child as you go closer to the edge.
14. Pilkinton Point
At a height of around 1400 meters above sea level, Pilkington Point gets its name from Sir George Pilkington, one of the most significant English tea innovators of the 19th century. A little shelter marks the spot, as does a worn stone plaque that has been there for a century and lists local landmarks.
After about an hour of hiking, one may reach Pilkington Point from the Bandarawela-Koslanda road. There’s a defined route that climbs steeply for another 45 minutes to Millennium Point, which gives one of the greatest vistas in the highlands at a height of 1500 meters. Be cautious when you approach the upper platform since it has been steadily declining. You should always be on the lookout for wild boars and elephants, especially at night.
15. The natural reserve of Tangamale and the Adisham bungalow
Adisham is a large, robust granite country mansion constructed in the Tudor style. It lies three kilometers west of the village of Haputale and has lovely orchards and English gardens. The Sylvestro Benedictine order has owned the plantation since 1961. A Scottish tea grower built it in 1931. However, guests are free to wander about the grounds and take in the two tastefully renovated colonial rooms.
A approved hiking trail runs beside Adisham’s main gate, heading west up the ridge’s peak for around 8km, till it terminates at the peaceful sanctuary of Tangamale. You could spot a variety of animals on a peaceful stroll among the pine and eucalyptus trees, including orioles, mini-verts, green barbets, blue magpies, and hornbills. You may either continue to Idalgshinna, where the trail stops, or you can turn around and head back to Haputale. Even if the terrain is slightly steep, it is still quite doable.
Which gear is recommended for your trekking and hiking trips in Sri Lanka?
When trekking in the broad outdoors, nothing compares to the feeling of calm and peak performance that comes from having the right gear. Hiking boots, a hiking vest, trekking poles, sunglasses, a selfie stick, and a backpacking chair are all necessary items for a hiking trip.
The upper part of hiking boots frequently combines leather and mesh for improved ventilation and durability when hiking. These boots are usually equipped with rubber or other materials that offer support and the capacity to resist slipping. The air cushioning under the heels improves comfort level overall and reduces the amount of strain felt with each stride, particularly on lengthy hikes.
During a trek, hiking poles are necessary to provide safety and facilitate comfort. Hiking with hiking poles can save a hike’s length substantially when compared to hiking without them. With hiking poles, you can increase stability and lessen the strain on your joints.
If you’re going on a hike in Sri Lanka, you absolutely must have hiking sunglasses. You will be walking in the sunshine for long stretches of time on all of Sri Lanka’s routes. As a result, wearing sunglasses is essential to protecting your eyes. Outdoor sunglasses are essential because they shield your eyes from damaging UV rays and keep your face from getting irritated from extended squinting.
When trekking, a selfie stick is essential equipment for taking pictures of oneself and enabling autonomous photography. Admire breathtaking scenery as you travel these routes. There can be times when you want to take a picture against a beautiful background. However, you will not be able to do so without the help of a friend or a stranger who just so happens to be around.
For the hike up Adam’s Peak, a lightweight backpacking chair is a very helpful tool. Depending on your level of fitness, the trek up Adam’s Peak might take longer than five hours, thus, this is a long backpacking trip. When hiking Adam’s Peak, it’s important to keep your load as light as possible. That being said, as there are several rest areas throughout the path, it is highly recommended to bring a lightweight chair.
Although drinking water is necessary for living, its weight can be taxing. Having a large volume of liquids in your backpack might be difficult and inconvenient.
Drinking two liters or more of mineral water is advised for a hike like the Adam’s Peak walk.
One good way to reduce the weight of your knapsack is to use a portable water filter rather than carrying around bottled mineral water for the duration of the journey.
Are you ready to travel to Sri Lanka with Seerendipity Tours and go trekking?
Seerendipity Tour, a travel agency, has its main office in Colombo and is entirely local-owned. Seerendipity Tours has a group of very competent and experienced local specialists, which is a big plus. They are completely competent of planning and arranging your dream Sri Lankan holiday.
We guarantee the most affordable prices for your day trip to Kandy.
By using us to book a trip, you are scheduling the tour directly with the local company, cutting out middlemen and guaranteeing the best possible price. Tell us about your preferences and travel plans by getting in touch with us directly.
Plan the best possible one-day trip to Kandy with an experienced expert.
Our team will design a personalized program for you that you may tweak until you get the best deal for your requirements. You may also go through our available travel packages to get some inspiration. We provide pre-designed tour packages that may be tailored to meet your needs and exact specifications. Reach out to us over the phone or by email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. The phone numbers that are listed are 0094-77-440977 and 0094-77-4440977 on Wha