Joanna James
Hiking will always be a favourite way to explore a country while also getting the necessary amount of exercise! Sri Lanka is a country with plenty of stunning hikes on offer, read more to discover!
The one hike no one should miss during their time in Sri Lanka is the Spiritual Hike to Adam's Peak! Locally known as Sri Pada, this spot is Sri Lanka's most sacred summit that is revered by everyone living on the island, from Buddhists, Muslims, and Christians alike. From the very bottom, the village of Dalhousie to the top is a whopping 5200 steps, each one very well worth it once you get to the top. As you go higher and higher, you're gifted with jaw-dropping landscapes and views.
The best time to start your hike is as soon as the night falls so that you're on top just before dawn and can witness the marvelous spectacle brought about by the rising sun. The best time to start your hike is at 2 am, in order to beat the crowds, especially during pilgrimage season. The entire hike takes roughly around 2.5 to 4 hours.
Ella boasts plenty of hills and mountains, making it quite the hiking hub in Sri Lanka. In fact, pretty much every local residing in Ella can provide you with a verbal map of the tracks and trails, waterfalls, and tea estates, as they are quite well-versed! Do not forget to go by the Nine Arches Bridge, an iconic spot in Ella not to be missed. Little Adam's Peak gives you great views of waterfalls and tea factories, surrounded by mist. This trek is a relatively quick and easy one, perfect for even beginners.
For a more adventurous and tougher hike, Ella Rock is ideal! Starting right at the track at Ella station, you're gifted with dizzying views that are sure to leave you in awe when you reach the very top.
Browse through the Travel to Ella blog for the best hiking tips in Ella, just before you head over there!
While this hike is a relatively long one, it's also quite easy. Horton Plains is ideal for those who want to spot interesting animals and trek through stunning greenery, without too much energy! At the very end, you'll be looking over one of Sri Lanka's most jaw-dropping vistas, ironically named World's End. This plateau is covered with wild grassland, waterfalls, lakes, thick forest, and rocky outcrops. Keep in mind there is no means of public transport to and from the location, therefore you may need to arrange to pick up and drop off. You'll need around three hours to complete the entire round trip!
A biodiverse wonderland, the Sinharaja Forest Reserve is known the world over for its buzzing wildlife, greenery, and rivers. Home to over 140 bird species, of which 33 are only found in Sri Lanka, rare mammals, and interesting flora and fauna. This is a lovely jungle escape, especially for nature enthusiasts.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
