Sri Lanka may be a tiny island in the Indian Ocean, but it packs such diverse landscapes allowing you to travel from one unique location to another in a matter of a few hours. From lush rainforests to sparkling beaches and rolling mountains, there’s something for every traveller. 

If you are looking to explore Sri Lanka beyond its stunning beaches and historical sites, there’s a whole new side to  be discovered amidst the mountains. And what better way to do that than hiking to the top? The central hills are one of the best places where you can explore the mountainous beauty this island has to offer. 

So, lace up your hiking boots and get ready because we are going to reveal some of the easiest mountains to climb in Sri Lanka!

Little Adam’s Peak

Nestled in the hill country, Ella, is a hiker’s paradise with a variety of trails that showcase the natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country. With cascading waterfalls, lush green tea plantations, scenic vistas, and cool mountain air, Ella is always a welcome break that gives travellers a taste of the hill country charm. 

The Ella Rock hike is one of the most popular trails in Ella. While this hike might be a knee-busting hike with quite a bit of a climb, there’s another mountain that’s waiting to be explored – Little Adam’s Peak! 

While the mountain has been named after the famous Adam’s Peak because of the resemblance, don’t let the name fool you. Little Adam’s Peak is relatively easier to climb. 

It’s a hike of about 4.5km that takes you up to 1,141m above sea level. As you wind your way through this scenic path through lush green tea plantations, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the Ella Rock, sprawling tea plantations and the Ella Gap.

Tip: Set your alarm early to beat the crowds and witness the stunning sunrise at the summit. 

Pidurangala Rock 

Looking for a hidden gem near Sigiriya? While Sigiriya is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country, did you know there’s a lesser-known rock adjacent to it that offers breathtaking 360 views of the surroundings? 

This is none other than the Pidurangala Rock. Compared to its more famous neighbour, Pidurangala sees fewer visitors, making it the perfect place to catch a glimpse of the stunning sunrise and sunset in peace. That’s not all; it’s also one of the best viewing spots of the Sigiriya Rock! 

While the rock is about 200m tall, you don’t need to worry too much about the climb. It’s a manageable 30-40 minute climb to the top along a well-maintained path. Along the way, you’ll also come across the Pidurangala Cave Temple. Weathered by time, this cave temple is survived by a few remains. However, despite that, you can still find a huge reclining Buddha statue inside the temple with much of the original structure still intact. 

After the cave temple, the rest of the climb may get a little challenging because there are a few boulders you need to get past in the final stretch. So, be careful on the climb and watch your footing because some rocks can be loose, and you may encounter snakes on the way to the top. 

Horton Plains and World’s End 

Nestled close to the quaint and serene city of Nuwara Eliya is the Horton Plains National Park, an absolute must-visit if you are in the area. At the top of this national park awaits World’s End – a cliff edge with a sheer drop of 4000 feet, treating you to some of the most breathtaking views in the country. 

You must set your alarms and hit the trail bright and early to catch the best views. This is because, as the sun rises, the clouds can roll in, covering up the magnificent view. Plus, it’s also a good way to avoid large crowds, and you may even get the chance to encounter some wildlife. However, you’ll be hit by the morning chill at this time. So make sure you bring a light sweater or a jacket to keep you warm. And don’t forget to wear walking shoes or hiking boots for a comfortable trek.

The hike spans about 9.5km, taking you on a looped journey through a variety of landscapes and habitats. Along the way, you will encounter the Mini World’s End and the enchanting Baker’s Falls. 

Tip: Be extremely careful near the edge, as there are no fences or safety rails in World’s End. 

Important Things You Need 

Although these hikes are fairly easy and short, it’s still essential that you gear up with a few essential items to ensure an enjoyable experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Plenty of water - Don’t trick yourself into thinking you may not need much water because climbing to the top is short. Despite the short hike, you still need to stay hydrated because you will likely work up a sweat along the way. So, pack enough water to keep you hydrated throughout the climb. 
• Snacks – While this is not one of the essentials, it’s not a bad thing to have some snacks tucked away in your bag. As you start your climb early in the morning, you may find yourself feeling hungry after some time. So it’s best to take something you can nibble on to keep your energy up. 
• First aid kit – Yes, it's a short hike, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. You never know when an accident might happen, so having a first aid kit can be a real lifesaver in case of minor mishaps, like if you scrape your knee along the trail.
• Comfortable/proper footwear and clothing – To get the best experience, comfort is key. Make sure to wear comfortable, properly fitting footwear and clothing that allows you to move around easily. 

So, are you ready to explore the mountainous beauty that Sri Lanka has to offer?  Pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots and get ready for an unforgettable experience with Fernando Travels.