Renowned for its blissful and beautiful beaches, there is also a part of Sri Lanka that isn't just limited to the waters. A unique side of this island country that boasts of a majestic, rugged mountainscape, the highlands of Sri Lanka make for the perfect retreat for thrill seekers and adventure enthusiasts. With numerous lush rolling hills to mountain ranges, this teardrop shaped country offers its curious travellers some of the best trekking trails.
Mainly located towards the south and central regions of the island, the Sri Lanka trek routes cover the highlands of the country, that mainly consists of the high plateaus through the cloudy forests and misty landscapes. If you are an adventure enthusiast who is planning their next trip to Sri Lanka with a view to squeeze in a few fun and exciting activities as a part of their itinerary, here are some of the best places for hiking in Sri Lanka.
From epic viewpoints, to ancient ruins and sacred spots, cover them all with these best trekking routes in Sri Lanka on your next visit
Adam’s Peak
Among the most renowned Sri Lanka trekking routes, Adam’s Peak is a hiking trail in the country that mainly attracts spiritual travellers from across the world. Considered as the island’s most sacred summit and an iconic pilgrimage spot, Adam's Peak is a destination that is largely visited by travellers despite their individual religious beliefs and inclinations.
A trekking place in Sri Lanka that begins from a village in Dalhousie and follows a path up to the top of the mountain, once you have completed this particular hike, you will be rewarded with the most amazing views of the surrounding landscapes. A trekking route that is lined up with thousands of steps, this particular Sri Lanka trek is quite a strenuous one, and mainly takes place during the pilgrimage season which is between the months of December and May.
Sinharaja Forest Reserve
One of the biggest lowland tropical forests in Sri Lanka, the Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a wonderland for nature lovers. Boasting of an extremely rich biodiversity, this Sri Lanka trek route is brimming with the most fascinating wildlife. Most of the travellers opting for this route base themselves in the villages of Kudawa and Deniyaya before purchasing tickets and arranging guides to venture out.
A popular destination for hiking in Sri Lanka, this Sri Lanka trekking trail offers you a firsthand glimpse into the teaming wildlife of the country. A trek that usually begins early in the morning, the entry to this forest reserve is on foot which is mandatory to keep oneself safe from dense undergrowth of the region.
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Lipton Seat
A popular viewpoint in Sri Lanka, Lipton Seat is a destination of true fascination for the history buffs and of course, for all those who love a good, hot steaming cup of tea. A Sri Lanka trekking trail that begins at the Dambatenne Tea Factory, this route is quite an easy one and can be opted for beginners as well. Combine your hike here with a tour of the Dambatenne Tea Factory to witness the tea making process firsthand.
Hortons National Park
Among the very few natural reserves in Sri Lanka that allows its visitors to walk unaccompanied, to reach Horton’s National Park one needs to arrange for a drop off vehicle since there are no public transport options available. A place for hiking in Sri Lanka that takes place across a plateau, the views of the nearby lowlands along with the pleasant weather conditions truly makes this trek a memorable one. This trekking place in Sri Lanka covers the region of Baker’s Fall before returning back to the park entrance at Far Inn.
The Knuckles
An offbeat path in Sri Lanka that is away from the regular tourist crowds, the Knuckles Mountain range is located towards the northeast of Kandy and is a part of the UNESCO Peak Wilderness Protected Area. A region that is mainly inhabited by the locals, the wildlife here is also quite extensive. A Sri Lanka trek route that invariably requires a guide, if you plan to hike here prior arrangements are a must.
The ones who mostly plan on trekking to The Knuckles follow a two day itinerary, where they camp and explore the nearby small villages and landscapes before venturing out for the hike.
Ella Rock
A bit of a challenging hike for first timers, Ella is a hub for hiking enthusiasts in Sri Lanka amidst the hills. Following routes that cover tea estates, waterfalls and numerous popular viewpoints, once you have been able to complete this particular Sri Lanka trek you will be rewarded with the most splendid sights.
Little Adam’s Peak
The perfect trekking place in Sri Lanka for beginners, this particular trek route in Sri Lanka is an uncomplicated one. Covering areas that offer the most breathtaking sceneries through lush green hills and beautiful waterfalls, this Sri Lanka trek is great for the nature lovers.