Now OctoberSouth and west ShowersEast and north TurningWhen to go

Colombo

Get the app

Hikes

Sri Lanka’s best hikes are in the hill country and the cultural triangle: Ella Rock, Little Adam’s Peak, Horton Plains to World’s End, the Knuckles range, Pidurangala and the overnight climb up Adam’s Peak. Start early, before the heat and the mist.

Places travellers love for this, verified by local editors.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth RelicSigiriyaMirissaElla RockColombo Lotus TowerArugam BayTEMPLE OF THE SACRED TOOTH RELICSIGIRIYAMIRISSAELLA ROCKCOLOMBO LOTUS TOWERARUGAM BAY

The short answer

Adam's Peak, or Sri Pada, is a sacred mountain of about 2,240 m, climbed overnight by pilgrims to reach the footprint shrine at the summit by dawn. It is a hard climb of several thousand steps, but in the December to May season it is one of Sri Lanka's great experiences.

Hikes: questions people ask

When can I climb Adam's Peak?

The pilgrimage season runs from December to May, when the path is lit and tea stalls are open. Most people climb through the night to reach the top for dawn.

Do I need a guide for hiking in Sri Lanka?

Not for popular, well-marked walks such as Little Adam's Peak or Horton Plains. Hire a local guide for the Knuckles range and other remote trails, where paths are unclear.

Are there leeches on hikes in Sri Lanka?

Yes, in wet forest and grass, especially after rain. Leech socks help, and the bites are a nuisance rather than a danger.