Joanna James
Located 1,868 metres above sea level in central Sri Lanka and nestled by misty hills dotted with layer upon layer of tea carpets lies the picturesque city, of Nuwara Eliya. As you enjoy the beauty and cooler climes explore a bevvy of peaks and mountains offering enticing vistas for intrepid travellers.
Also known as Thotupola Peak or Thotupola Mountain this is the third-highest mountain on the island at 2,357 metres above mean sea level. Access to the mountain is from the Horton Plains in Nuwara Eliya and the mountain lies within the Horton Plains National Park. The entire trail up and down the mountain is roughly 4 km. With the cool and windy climate providing the right environment and climate and the mountain having different varieties of shrubs covering the surface the climb is a pleasant experience. Many visitors from boutique hotels in Nuwara Eliya do this trail sometimes accompanied by children to experience the trail and especially the spectacular views from the peak of the mountain.
The ninth-highest peak in Sri Lanka, the trailhead to Single Tree Hill lies close to the Racecourse at Nuwara Eliya. Ascending gradually from the beginning of the climb the track is good unless there has been rain in which case muddy patches may be encountered. The total time of the trail will take about 2 hours with a brief rest of about 15 to 20 minutes. As you approach the crest of the hill you will see a serene Buddhist Temple with a white pagoda and a lush tea plantation. Arriving at the top treats you to a breathtaking view of shimmering Lake Gregory the eye-catching lake in Nuwara Eliya, the Horton Plains, Hakgala Mountain and the Pidurutalagala Mountain range. These views will be etched in your mind for a long time. This is a trail enormously appreciated by visitors at Langdale Boutique Hotel due to the panoramic view it offers from the top.
Meaning straw-laden rock in the local language, Sinhalese and also called Mount Pedro by the British Colonials in the olden days, this is the tallest mountain on the island. Standing at a height of 2524 metres on clear days its crest is visible in many parts of the Central Province of Sri Lanka. In comparison to many other mountains which have a rocky surface, Pidurutalagala has pale green grass and during the dry season on the island, they resemble straw giving the hill its name of straw-laden rock. With a proper track uphill built during the British Colonial era, most of the climbing can be now made by vehicle and you can enjoy the last few metres on foot to experience the view.
Called little Adam’s Peak after the sacred Adam’s Peak the bigger of the two which is a site revered by Buddhists as the footprint of Lord Buddha is preserved at the bigger peak. Bearing similarities to Adam’s Peak, little Adam’s Peak is an easier climb which can be completed in 30 to 40 minutes without the help of a guide as the path is marked with signposts. The hike up and down covers about 2 km.
This is the fourth tallest mountain on the island at 2320 metres, situated about 5 km from the main entrance to Horton Plains National Park close to Nuwara Eliya. Also known as Agrabopat Hill, you commence the ascent by crossing a lush jungle environment offering an insight into the rich biodiversity which is quite rewarding. The climb takes about 02 hours and offers you a beautiful view of the different landscapes surrounding the mountain making it a greatly satisfying one.
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.
