11 Best Hikes In Sri Lanka
- Kate Colliety
- 2 days ago
- 9 min read
Sri Lanka might not be the first place you think of for hiking, but it actually ended up being where we did the most hiking on our Asia trip.
Through lush tea plantations, high mountains, up pilgrimage steps and, alongside wild elephants this small country delivered some unforgettable hikes.
This blog shares the most famous treks such as Ella Rock, Adam’s Peak and Sigiriya, but we also go beyond them and share the hidden gems of Horton Plains, The Knuckles Mountain Range and Sinharaja Forest Reserve for those looking to get off the usual tourist track and unearth Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.
We spent two months exploring the island and are excited to share the best hikes we uncovered. Ones we think absolutely deserve a spot on your Sri Lankan itinerary.
Contents
Adam’s Peak - Most Challenging Hike In Sri Lanka
Little Adam’s Peak - Best ‘Easy’ Hike
Ella Rock - Best Viewpoint in Sri Lanka
Sigiriya Rock - Most Famous Hike In Sri Lanka
Pidurangala Rock - Best Sunrise Hike in Sri Lanka
World’s End Horton Plains - Scenic Cliff Trail In Sri Lanka
Elephant Rock - Best Hike In Arugam Bay
Lipton’s Seat - Tea Plantation Hike In Sri Lanka
Sinharaja Forest Reserve - Best Hike For Birdwatching
Dunhinda Waterfall - Best Waterfall Hike
Knuckles Mountain Range - Best Hiking Destination In Sri Lanka
Time: 6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate - Hard
Elevation: 2,243m
Adam's Peak, locally known as Sri Pada, rises in the heart of Sri Lanka and holds deep religious significance. Legend says Adam, Buddha, or Shiva took their first steps on Earth here, uniting multiple faiths. Today, it's both a sacred pilgrimage site and a popular hiking destination attracting trekkers from all over the world.
The hike consists of 5,500 steps weaving up to the peak of the mountain, which is 2,243m (7,359ft), a height that rewards climbers with panoramic views. The climb is often started in the shrouds of darkness (2-3am) to avoid the sun, making the peak's view even more rewarding when daylight breaks.
When we visited Adam’s Peak, the rain was lashing and the wind howling. Although we probably shouldn’t have, we still made our way up the mountain, completing the climb in 3 hours. The path is easy to follow and lit up if you hike during pilgrimage season (Dec–May). The top is windy and cold, so bring layers. There’s nothing else quite like this hike, and therefore we recommend you add it to your itinerary. Location 📌
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation: 300m gain
Little Adam’s Peak has panoramic views over tea plantations and the misty valley below, while still being accessible to most travellers. This was easily one of our favourite things we did and should definitely be on your Ella Itinerary.
Despite the name, Little Adam’s Peak is much gentler than its big brother, Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada), and it only takes around 30-50 minutes to reach the summit with breath-taking views, making it very popular with tourists. Location 📌
Ella Rock - Best Viewpoint in Sri Lanka
Time: 4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: ~1,045m summit (approx. 430m elevation gain from Ella town)
Ella Rock is one of the most popular hikes in the Ella region and offers some of the most rewarding views over the Ella Gap, tea plantations, and lush countryside. The round trip takes around 4 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend soaking in the views at the top.
The hike begins with a scenic walk along the railway tracks from Ella town, followed by a gradual climb through tea fields, forest, and rocky paths. The route isn’t always clearly marked, which can make navigation a little tricky in places.
You may come across friendly locals who walk with you and offer directions or assistance. While this may feel helpful at first, be aware that some expect a “guide fee” at the summit, even if you didn’t request their help. A few hikers have also mentioned being asked to pay around 1,000 LKR at the top to access the view.
We recommend downloading an offline map (like Maps.me or AllTrails) before starting the hike, and politely declining any guiding offers if you prefer to hike independently. Despite these small challenges, Ella Rock remains a must-do for those looking to experience one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic viewpoints. Location 📌
Sigiriya Rock - Most Famous Hike In Sri Lanka
Time: 1.5-2 hours round trip
Difficulty: Moderate (mostly stairs)
Elevation: ~200m
In the heart of the Cultural Triangle, Sigiriya Rock, also called Lion’s Rock, is one of the most popular tourist attractions. The hike to the top of Sigiriya Rock is along a long flight of stairs that leads you up to the UNESCO world heritage fortress which was built on top of the rock. The Sigiriya Rock hike also has a hefty entrance fee of around $30, so we opted to hike Pidurangala instead. Location 📌
Time: 2 hour round trip
Difficulty: Moderate (rocky scramble at the top)
Elevation: ~200m
Pidurangala is a neighbouring rock to Sigiriya and we think it has better views. It doesn’t have an ancient fortress on the summit but hiking Pidurangala rewards you with views of Sigiriya Rock that protrudes out of lush green jungle. We started the hike at 5am to reach the summit at sunrise and would recommend this to anyone planning to visit the area.
The trail starts behind a temple and includes a short forest path, stone steps, and a bit of rock scrambling at the top - so bring a torch and wear decent shoes. You don't need a guide but you can book a tour here if you prefer. Location 📌
World’s End Horton Plains - Scenic Cliff Trail In Sri Lanka
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: ~2,100m (Horton Plains plateau altitude) (approx. 347m elevation gain )
The World’s End hike in Horton Plains National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking treks. This moderate 9.5 km loop takes you through cool cloud forests and open grasslands, leading to the famous cliff where the plateau drops nearly 1,200 meters straight down. The views from the edge are unforgettable, especially if you start early around 6am to catch the morning mist lifting over the valleys below. At around 2,100 meters altitude, it’s a refreshing break from the lowland heat and a perfect way to experience Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes. Location 📌
Time: 30 Minutes
Difficulty: Easy - Moderate
Elevation: ~50m
Elephant Rock is a great short climb to get views over lagoons, the ocean and stretching golden sand. With the potential to spot wild elephants and a great sunset point this is not to be missed during your stay at Arugam Bay. Although the drive is a little off the beaten track and you may get lost on the way we think that’s part of the adventure! We visited Elephant Rock in mid-october and it lived up to its name. On the drive to the base of the rock we saw a huge wild elephant in the bushes, slightly scary but definitely an amazing moment we’ll never forget! Location 📌
Lipton’s Seat - Tea Plantation Hike In Sri Lanka
Time: 1-1.5 hours (round trip)
Difficulty: Easy - Moderate
Elevation: ~1,895m (approx. 178 m elevation gain )
Lipton’s Seat is a must-visit viewpoint perched in the heart of Sri Lanka’s famous tea country. Named after Sir Thomas Lipton, the legendary tea pioneer, this spot offers panoramic views of rolling tea plantations stretching as far as the eye can see.
The hike to Lipton’s Seat is relatively gentle and takes you through fragrant tea fields and peaceful trails. Most people visit early in the morning to catch the mist rising off the hills, creating a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for photos.
In the wet season there will be frequent downpours (it’s how the fields stay so green) so come prepared with a raincoat and sturdy footwear! Location 📌
Sinharaja Forest Reserve - Best Hike For Birdwatching
Time: 3-6 hours (depending on trail and pace)
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: 200-1,100m (varies by trail)
Sinharaja Forest Reserve is Sri Lanka’s last remaining rainforest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, bursting with incredible biodiversity and natural beauty. This lush, dense jungle is a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers home to dozens of endemic bird species you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
The trails wind through thick tropical forest, alongside streams and waterfalls, offering a peaceful escape into a vibrant world of greenery. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for colourful birds like the Sri Lanka blue magpie and the elusive green-billed coucal.
Because of the rainforest environment, expect the paths to be muddy and slippery, especially after rain, so sturdy, waterproof shoes are a must. Guided tours are highly recommended here, not just for safety but to help spot wildlife and learn about this unique ecosystem.
Whether you’re into bird watching, photography, or just soaking in raw nature, Sinharaja is an unforgettable experience and a highlight for anyone wanting to explore Sri Lanka’s wild side. Location 📌
Time: 30-45 minutes (round trip)
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation: ~100m
Dunhinda Waterfall is one of Sri Lanka’s most stunning and accessible waterfalls, located just outside the town of Badulla.
The walk to Dunhinda Falls is a gentle 15-minute trek through a shady forest path filled with birdsong and occasional glimpses of local wildlife such as monkeys. It’s an easy hike suitable for most travellers and a perfect stop between Sigiriya and Ella.
Once you reach the waterfall, the sheer drop and the thunderous flow of water make for a breathtaking sight and excellent photo opportunities. Location 📌
We’ve saved the best hiking destination till last! The Knuckles Mountain Range in central Sri Lanka is one of the best areas in the country for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. Boasting 48 different trails through UNESCO World Heritage landscapes that include natural cloud forest, vibrant tea plantations and the most isolated town of Meemure, a unique backpackers destination.
Our favourite hike here was the 5 peaks trek, which summits all five peaks of the Knuckles dramatic ridgelines. A steep incline takes you through grasslands, forests and clouds before emerging at the summit.
We completed the Five Peaks Hike in around 8 hours from our homestay, Rohana Estate. Now we did, right or wrong, complete the Knuckles Five Peak hike without a guide… but you can read here why you should not do that! Location 📌
Other popular hikes in The Knuckles Mountain Range:
Dolthalugala (Most Popular Hike in Knuckles)
Duwili Ella Waterfall Trail
Kalupahana Trail
Nitro Cave Trail
Corbett’s Gap
Mini World’s End
Lakegala
Manigala
Book your Knuckles day trip or overnight camping hike here!
After two months exploring Sri Lanka's trails, we can confidently say this island offers some of the most diverse and rewarding hiking in Asia. Whether you're seeking spiritual journeys up Adam's Peak, photogenic sunrise views from Pidurangala, or wildlife encounters in pristine rainforests, Sri Lanka delivers experiences you won't find anywhere else.
Ready to start planning your Sri Lankan hiking adventure? Click through to our detailed guides for each hike to get everything you need to know - from exact starting points to what to pack and our personal experience.
 | Surfing Accessories Sri Lanka is a surfers paradise and it's also great for beginners with multiple surf spots being a sandy bottom. Don't forget a zinc sun cream and surf hat!
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 | LifeStraw Filtered Water Bottle Allowing you to fill up water whenever and wherever with peace of mind plus you’re helping the environment! |
 | Binoculars For SafariHome to leopards, elephants and crocodiles having a pair of binoculars is a must to appreciate the wildlife Sri Lanka has to offer! |
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Top Tips For Travelling Sri Lanka
Rent a Tuk Tuk as Transport - This made our trip! Not only did we have complete freedom and flexibility it allowed us to have authentic relationships with locals. Use our code "KandM" for 5% off Tuktuk Rental
Stay in Homestays - Staying in local homestays meant we experienced authentic food and the local way of life. Everyone was extremely friendly and happy to help.
Don’t Forget the North - Many tourists stick to the south coast but if you have time explore places such as Anuradhapura, Trincomalee and Arugam bay!
Embrace The Chaos and get stuck in, the locals are friendly and love to help and share information about their home!
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Thank you for reading and enjoy your Sri Lankan adventure. Reach out to us over on Instagram @KateandMikesTravels. We always love to hear from people who read our blogs!
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