For the keen hiker, a plethora of opportunity awaits in Sri Lanka’s diverse and luscious hill country. The beautiful area of Belihuloya provides a superb base from which to try out a wide variety of hikes through jungle, across paddy fields and up mountains. The river and numerous waterfalls in the area are other key attractions that allow hikers to enjoy a refreshing dip en-route! In the same area the mysterious Horton Plains National Park offers some excellent hikes in an unusual environment, characterised by forest patches, grasslands and some high-altitude vegetation. Highlights include the dramatic 880 metre drop at World’s End and the beautiful Baker’s Falls.

When climbing the infamous Adam’s Peak Wilderness Sanctury (Sri Pada), its best to begin your ascent at night in order to arrive at the top in time for a magical sunrise, when the mystical shadow of the mountain peak is perfectly cast across the clouds below. It is one of those truly unique moments that will live on in your memory long after the aches and pains from the climb have gone! The attractive area of Bandarawela and the nearby town of Ellaare also renowned for their many walks, including Little Adam’s Peak, Ella Rock and the Namunukula Mountain Range. If you’re in the vicinity of Kandy, don’t miss out on exploring the beautiful knuckles Mountain Range. The region stretches an impressive 155 sq km, with five major forest formations, a wide variety of rare and endemic flora and fauna and some breathtaking mountain scenery. It is a real paradise for hikers, offering numerous trails that journey across clear rivers, through dense forests, past flowing waterfalls and lush tea plantations, and alongside terraced paddy fields and colourful Kandyan home gardens.