Hiking Adventures: The Best Hiking Trails in Sri Lanka

For those who love nature and are seeking out the best hot spots for hiking in Asia, consider visiting the island of Sri Lanka for an awesome experience. From stunning views to serene waterfalls and even ancient forests, this tropical island is packed with great hiking trails. Here are a few you ought to visit.

Adam’s Peak

The mountain is home to an ancient footprint which is believed to be Lord Budda’s by some and Adam’s by others. For those planning to hike this trail, the season begins on the full moon day (poya) in December and is open until Vesak in May. The hike usually begins at 2 am, you will reach the top by sunrise for a splendid view.

Ella Rock

Ella_rock
Image by Vyacheslav Argenberg via wikimedia commons

Ella Rock is a favourite among adventurers seeking a mix of challenge and reward. The hike takes you through lush tea plantations, misty forests, and scenic viewpoints. The trail can be steep, but reaching the summit provides stunning vistas of the Ella Gap and the surrounding countryside. This is also classed as one of the top places to visit in Sri Lanka with hotels from popular chains like Aitken Spence Hotels.

Sinharaja Forest

If you are planning on hiking with family this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the ideal place to be. With easy trails, look forward to seeing some endemic flora and fauna, exotic birds, butterflies, and little streams.

Pidurangala

Located near Sigiriya, this hiking spot offers an alternative hiking experience with fewer crowds. The trail is moderately challenging, and the summit rewards hikers with unmatched views of Sigiriya Rock and the surrounding plains. The sunrise from Pidurangala is particularly mesmerising, making it a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers.

Adam’s Peak

The much venerated Adam’s Peak is regarded as Sri Lanka’s holy mountain, attracting a steady stream of devotees – in addition to many sightseers – who gladly make the demanding trek to the summit of the mountain. The focus of the reverence is the enigmatic feature that is found at the mountain’s peak, which Buddhists regard as the footprint of Buddha. Other religions provide their own interpretations of the sacred footprint. As you plan your visit to Adam’s Peak, an attractive choice of accommodation would be Nuwara Eliya holiday bungalows such as the appealing The Cottage by Jetwing. This attractive accommodation makes an ideal base from which to head out on your adventures.

Many Sri Lankans of all ages undertake the challenging climb to the summit of Adam’s Peak. For most the objective is to reach the summit in time for the sunrise which is a remarkable natural phenomenon that is shrouded in mystery. Most pilgrims also visit the shrine that may be found at the summit of the mountain.

Adam's Peak
Adam’s Peak. Image Credit: Green Holiday Travel

You will find that the climb to the peak may be commenced from either Dalhousie or Ratnapura, with the former being the shorter and more popular option. You will have no problem locating the path to the top as you will find a host of souvenir stalls and teashops lining the route. As you commence the hike you will see a line of alluring lights stretching all the way to the top of the mountain.

The ascent to the top of the mountain takes some time, but you will find many tea shops and snack stalls on the way if you desire to replenish your energies. The objective is to reach the summit in time for the sunrise, when the sun projects the mountain’s shadow onto the billowing clouds and countryside below. Climbing Adam’s Peak is always a remarkable and rewarding experience that is sure to capture the imagination of the adventurous visitor.

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Adam’s Peak

A journey that commences at the village of Nallathanniya and leads to the magical surroundings of one of Sri Lanka’s tallest mountains which holds a special place in the hearts of many devotees. Adam’s Peak or ‘Sri Pada’ is located in close proximity to the ‘City of Gems’ and is one such escapade you must experience. Take the trip as part of your holiday in Sri Lanka. Indulge in holiday travel Sri Lanka has to offer by selecting Sri Lanka Holiday Travel as your guide.

Steeped in historical value, the mountain is 2,243 metres tall and showcases a footprint considered by Buddhists to be that of Lord Buddha. Muslims and Christians believe that it is the footprint of Adam while Hindus state that it resembles the print of Siva. Many endemic species can be seen when climbing the mountain but it is the sunset that one should look out for.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+