Sri Lanka houses some of the best trekking sites in the world because of its towering mountains, rainforests, and unique terrains. Moreover, the stunning waterfalls and stream views contribute to the beauty of the trekking trails. The icon 800-meter-tall Adam's Peak is known among trekkers as the best option for trekking in Sri Lanka for several reasons.
Top 7 trekking sites in Sri Lanka
Here are some of the best hikes in Sri Lanka:
Adam's Peak
Adam’s Peak is a famous tourist attraction for trekking as well as sightseeing. It takes a lot of effort to reach this 800-m tall colossal mountain. The trek begins from the Dalhousie village and continues to the huge standing Buddha at the top. Trekking can be hard for beginners depending upon this physical capability, particularly when there are 5500 stairs to climb. Also, dress warmly because it gets chillier as you ascend to the top.
A huge depression at the top of the mountain is a sacred pilgrimage for some religions. It is called Sri Pada in Buddhism, Lord Shiva's foot in Hinduism, and Muslims and Christians believe it was Prophet Adam's feet when he was sent back to earth from the heavens. You should start trekking at night to ensure you may arrive before dawn, and the best months to visit Adam's Peak are December and January.
Ella Town
Ella is a lovely town in Sri Lanka's Badulla district in the Uva Province. This little paradise in Sri Lanka offers a stunning spectacle of the valleys, tea plantations, and cafés and a pleasant environment all year. The main highlight of this town is its unique nine-arched railway bridge that dates back to the colonial era.
Enjoy a trekking experience over a rough track for 4 hours and explore the stunning rural landscapes, tea gardens, and Ella mountain summit. The trek begins in Bandarawela Point and takes you across the railroads to see breathtaking views of forests and hills. You can also trek to Ella town and enjoy the culture and hospitality.
Haputale Tea Factory Trek
Tea gardens and plantations are something that you don't get to see too often, and your tour to Sri Lanka will be incomplete if you don't visit one. Hapatule tea plantation is one of Sri Lanka's most beautiful tea farms. You can enjoy trekking through the most magnificent tea farms with stunning scenery and breathtaking views.
You can sit back and watch women plucking the tea all day long till the evening. You can also lend a helping hand to them. The Haputale Tea Factory Trek is short and lasts around 4-5 hours. The trek goes through lush valleys covered with tea plantations.
Knuckles Mountain Range
The Knuckles Mountain range is located in Kandy in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. The range has 34 peaks ranging in altitude from 800 to 2000 meters. The mountains exhibit the shape of fingers of a clenched fist. It is best for trekking due to its meadows, rocky tracks, pristine streams, and gushing waterfalls.
The Knuckle Mountain range is an ideal trekking destination that is visited by trekkers worldwide. You must accompany local guides to hike on these adventurous treks. The best thing about this destination is the variety of trekking trails, including:
- Trek to Dothalugala from Deanston
- Trek to Nitro Caves from Corbet's Gap
- Trek to Augallena cave from Corbet's Gap
- Trek to Kalupahana from Meemure village
Kitulgala Town
Kitulgala is a little forest town in Sri Lanka and a famous rafting and trekking destination. The town has the finest trekking trails and promises a fantastic blend of nature and adventure. Kitulgala features many adventure sports and one-day hiking places in Sri Lanka.
Apart from trekking and hiking, you can enjoy camping and mountain biking. Waterfall Trekking is the main highlight of this town. Trek along the waterfall and enjoy the scenic views and lush neighborhood with your family and friends. February to April is the best time for trekking in Kitugala Town.
Horton Plains National Park
Horton Plains National Park in Sri Lanka's central mountains is located at an altitude of 2,300 meters. It is a conserved region that houses many plant and animal species. It boasts stunning forests, mountains, and a plateau that surrounds it. The iconic 880m tall 'World's End Cliff' is also located here.
It is fun to have a thrilling trekking experience towards World's End Cliff. Moreover, lush tea gardens surround the cliff that faces various lakes and pouring waterfalls, rocky hills, and the sparkling ocean. Word End's Cliff is one of the best hikes in Sri Lanka, as you get to see vibrant flora and fauna, including Samba Deer, boars, jackals, and macaques.
Sinharja Forest
Last but not least of this list of trekking in Sri Lanka is Sinharja Forest. It is one of the last remaining virgin rainforests in the world. Despite being a small forest, it is still not fully accessible. It is home to many endangered places species, including frog mouth Owls and purple faces Langur.
You can enjoy a mesmerizing trekking experience through the forest amidst lush greenery and beautiful animals. The trek does not have ferocious animals, and locals live peacefully in the area. It is one of the best hiking places near Colombo, with lush foliage and beautiful animals. The best time to visit the Sinharja Forest is from December to April.
Conclusion
Trekking enthusiasts can enjoy various adventurous activities and fascinating scenery while trekking in Sri Lanka. This island country is a heaven for hikers and trekkers, whether it is the virgin rainforests of Sinharaja, the rugged terrains of Horton Plains, or the magnificent panoramas of Ella town. It is a must-see site due to its vast biodiversity, cultural legacy, and friendly friendliness of the locals.
