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Sri Lanka… its beaches, its temples... But what about hiking?! Little is known, but walking in Sri Lanka is one of the best ways to explore the country. With the diversity of climates and reliefs, many options are possible. Fortunately, you have chosen to contact Shanti Travel, a local travel agency specializing in treks in Sri Lanka and tailor-made trips since 2009. A small selection of trekking possibilities in Sri Lanka.
Located in the center of Sri Lanka, this massif is one of the most beautiful in the country. Seen from Kandy, its shape resembles the knuckles of a closed fist. Whichever entry of the national park you choose, adventure is possible for all levels and you can even camp there and trek for several days. One of the most beautiful tracks in this park is the one that leads to Dumbara and Duwili Ella falls. Apart from being magnificent, the path presents varied landscapes leaving no space to be bored. Dense forest inhabited by birds, scorpions (impressive but fortunately not dangerous), elephants, rice terraces and small pastoral streams are on your way before reaching the final goal, the magnificent Dumbara waterfall. This hike, although a bit sporty, can be done in one day. To continue towards Duwiri Ella is another story! After various climbs and descents, intermediate waterfalls, the reward of the view from the Duwiri cave is worth all your efforts but you must plan to camp on site. As in all tropical countries, and even more in the mountains, the weather is very unpredictable.
Located in the highlands of Sri Lanka, this park is one of the few national parks where hiking is allowed. Forget everything you know, all the blogs you may have read about Ceylon, the image of the country you have built in your mind as you arrive ... in Scotland. And yes! Large plains of short grass, steep cliffs, morning mists, deer and hinds, and especially wearing a “winter cap” in the early morning. We’d almost forget that we are on a tropical island ... Be careful, be there for the opening of the park because the fog will appear towards the end of the morning. There are many trails in this park, but for a first visit, we recommend the classic loop with a little secret: at the fork, turn left to start with World's end and enjoy a breathtaking view of the region without too many travelers by your side and end up with Baker's fall. Do not forget to turn around regularly because the view is splendid the other way too.
Ella, located in the middle of the tea plantations, is without doubt one of the best known cities in Sri Lanka. In our opinion, it is also one of the best regions for hiking on the island. Less steep than the Knuckles, more temperate than Nuwara Eliya, in addition to that, it offers tracks for all levels, the views are breathtaking, no matter which direction you look at! Above all, a “must do” is Little Adam’s peak (not to be confused with the big Adam’s peak). Easily accessible, a breathtaking view and the possibility of turning back at any time without regret, the landscapes being magnificent from the start of the hike. Opposite, the famous valley, named Ella’s gap. Be careful, the slope might be a challenge for beginners. For the magic of the tea plantations with the colorful touch of the pluckers’ sarees, you should go to Haputale and the Lipton’s seat. But to get off the beaten track, we can only recommend the surroundings of the famous Bambarakanda waterfall. Admittedly, many visitors come to admire it but few are those who venture into the surroundings for a proper walk. To gain height, the summit of Wangedigala is ideal. For a hike accessible to all, take a right to the waterfall to cross the pine forest. At the exit, high grasses, pastures, the Lanka Ella waterfall and more tea plantations await you.
We could tell you about the magic of the early mornings in the wilderness, the adventure at the top of the country and even the smiles of the Sri Lankans that you will come across during your strolls, but we had to make a choice for this article. Therefore, we look forward to talk to you by phone to discuss all the places that we have not been able to mention above (Adam's peak, Sinharaja, Kandy, Bible rock, etc.) and share our passion for Sri Lanka with you. Hope to hear you soon!
