Joanna James
As a tropical island Sri Lanka boasts some of the world's finest beaches; but did you know the bio-diverse land is an oasis of highlands, gorgeous plains and wilderness to explore! Sounds fabulous, do read on to discover some of Sri Lanka's best hiking trails.
This is a hikers dream trail, located within the Horton Plains National Park a beautiful chilly environ which will undoubtedly astound you. Wide grassy plains, misty mountains in the backdrop and bubbling brooks along the way will be food for your soul. The trail will take you to the iconic 'Worlds End' drop-off point; a 4,000 metre drop to a valley below from where you enjoy 360 degree views of the surroundings and even the coast on a clear day. Do take the loop trail back via Bakers Falls; one of the islands most captivating cascades. The trail is easy to medium, time 3 to 4 hours. For a comprehensive tour of the islands, best hiking trails consider the services of a reputed Sri Lanka travel agency. The best lets you experience Sri Lanka with tailor-made island tours such as Aitken Spence Travels where exploring is an adventure.
Head out to Ella, a pretty town in the Uva Province, and discover an English countryside in the centre of a tropical island. Ella is made up of hills carpeted with tea bushes, silvery waterfalls and twisting railway lines built by the British. Ella Rock located at an elevation of 1,041 metres, is the highest point there and one of the islands most popular and rewarding hiking trails. It's an easy climb which even amateurs can take on, although hiring a guide to take you to the summit is best since the trail is not clearly marked. If you are already touring the island with a top Sri Lanka tour agency, then rest assured you will be well taken care off. The trail which starts from near the Ella railway station is very exciting with a huge reward for nature lovers at the summit – don't miss this fab trail.
Adams Peak is a holy mountain better known as Samanala Kanda. One of the islands foremost pilgrimage sites the mountain is visited by devotees of many faiths. At the top is a giant footprint the Buddhist believe to be that of Lord Buddha, while some believe it to be of Adam, the first man and Hindus the footprint of Lord Shiva. It's a predominantly Buddhist environ though, with a serene temple located at the top. Climb the over 5,200 stone stairs carved into the side of the mountain, start at night and you will get to the top in time to witness an amazing sunrise. It is believed that once you start your ascent its bad luck to turn-back, and young and old can be seen managing the climb without complaints. Adams Peak stands at an elevation of 2,243 metres and the trek (when it's not a busy full moon poya day) takes around 5 to 6 hours.
Pidurangala stands in the shadow of famous Sigiriya – the Lions Rock Fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pidurangala is, however, not the lesser of the two and is equally fascinating to explore. A hiker's top trail, the lush environs are enhanced with the historical artefacts you pass, on your way up. Check out the Cave Temple, huge lion's paws carved into the rock and a statue of the reclining Buddha; once you reach the summit, drink in the gorgeous views including one of the finest views of Sigiriya Rock from across the forest cover. The climb takes 2 hours.
The Knuckles Range is located about 180kms from the commercial capital Colombo. The range is so named because of the 5 hills which look like knuckles. The bio-diverse environs are loved by naturalists and hikers; lush surroundings, brooks and waterfalls together with unique foliage make the region perfect for enjoying nature in all its exotic splendour. The elevation is within 900 to 1,900 metres; it's a medium to difficult climb and can take up to 7 hours if you are an experienced trekker.
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