Joanna James
Sri Lanka is fortunate enough to be blessed with scores of dramatic mountains complemented by serene nature, providing you with oodles of opportunities for hiking and trekking. Unleash your inner adventurer and set out to explore the teardrop island's secluded nature.
For the people of the Buddhist majority South Asian nation, it is the country's most sacred summit where the Lord Buddha left his "sacred footprint", referred to as "Sri Pada" in the local dialect so reverently. For the tourists to the island nation, it is a 2,243 metres tall, 5200-step mountain brimming with adventure. No matter whether you are here for the spiritual journey or the heart-pumping physical expedition, either way you are afforded an amazing experience, trekking through some of Sri Lanka's most serene and breathtaking nature.
In the little, laid-back, mountainous town of Ella, the yearning explorer is provided with ample hiking and trekking opportunities, but Little Adam's Peak and Ella Rock sure do stand out. Little Adam's Peak may not be as popular as its renowned cousin Adam's Peak, but visitors to the scenic mountain are greeted by emerald-green tea fields and lush forest-clad nature that make for an equally incredible opportunity. For those with an appetite that craves more challenge than what Little Adam's Peak summons, you are sure to feed your appetite hiking up Ella Rock.
Sigiriya may not be a hike or a trek in the classic sense, but with over a 1,000 steps up a 180 metre high rock complemented by striking ancient architecture and breathtaking views, it would be a pity to leave out this gem of a rock fortress. If you find Sigiriya not exactly to your liking, a short 1-kilometre walk from the rock fortress will bring you to Pidurangala Rock, where you are afforded stunning views with much more privacy and seclusion.
The 4000 feet sheer drop at the end of the undulating plateau of Horton Plains National Park, the Great World's End Drop — shortly the World's End — couldn't have been more aptly named. The trek through Horton Plains' montane grassland and cloud forest to the World's End will treat your eyes to some of the most beautiful landscapes in all of the island nation.
Last but not least, trekking the Knuckles Mountain Range, set only a short drive away from the charming Kandy city, is without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. After a day of tiring and adventurous hiking, retreat to one of the finest hotels or resorts in the vicinity, including the likes offered by popular chains such as Amaya Resorts & Spas.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
