17 Best Places To Visit On Sri Lanka Hill Country Tours

Posted on by Sanjeewa Padmal (Seerendipity)

Venturing on Sri Lanka hill country tours is the best way to get to the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country. A large part of the centre of the island is occupied by towering hills, which is a result of millions of years of geographical upheavals. Sri Lanka’s hill country is a mystical, historically important, and religiously significant region filled with commercially important tea plants, train tracks, and the left eye-tooth of Buddha.

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Spend five memorable days on a tour of Sri Lanka with a variety of sightseeing activities. Visit the Golden Temple of Dambulla, bicycle around the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, tour Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and see the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) — all UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Tourist Places in Sri Lanka On Sri Lanka Hill Country Tours

Venturing on Sri Lanka hill country tours is the best way to get to the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country. A large part of the centre of the island is occupied by towering hills, which is a result of millions of years of geographical upheavals. Sri Lanka’s hill country is a mystical, historically important, religiously significant region filled with commercially important tea plants, train tracks, and the left eye-tooth of Buddha.

Hill Country of Sri Lanka shows the most attractive contrast to the beaches of Sri Lanka, which are the most popular tourist attraction on the island. Venturing on one of the Sri Lanka hill country tours that revolve around the central highland is the best way to enjoy the overwhelming natural beauty of Sri Lankan upcountry…

Taking an upcountry rail journey is one of the best ways to see the natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country, and a large number of travellers do it every day. The train cut through the lush green vegetation inch by inch on a spiral-shaped railway track. It passes steep ravines, patches of forests, cascading waterfalls, perineal waterways, gloomy tunnels, vegetable plots, and tea gardens on its arduous march to the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country.

The Sri Lanka Hill Country Tour is available in many variations, such as a 1-day Sri Lanka Hill Country Tour or a 2-day Sri Lanka Hill Country Tour. However, a 3-day Sri Lanka Hill Country Tour is the most popular among travellers visiting Sri Lanka’s hill country. The three-day hill country tour enables the travelers to explore a large number of tourist places in Sri Lanka.

3 days Sri Lanka hill country tour itinerray

Day 1: Colombo>>Kandy

Day 2: Kandy>>Pinnawala>>Nuwara Eliya

Day 3: Nuwara Eliya>>Kitulgala>>Colombo

Day 1: 3 days Sri Lanka hill country tour

Upon arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Seerendipity tours or a tour guide, and then you will be transferred to Kandy.

Attend an afternoon walking tour of Kandy’s city centre. This city served as the last royal capital of Sri Lankan monarchs before it fell under British control in 1815. It was last controlled by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe before the British took control of it. It is a UNESCO World legacy Site, and because to its extensive history, legacy, and cultural offerings, it draws tourists from all over the world.

Discover the vibrant town core, which features a gem museum and lapidary in addition to a vivid market, world-class brands, an arts and crafts facility, and more. Proceed in the direction of the Victoria Golf Course, which is without a doubt one of the finest golf courses in the world and possesses a class and elegance that are all its own. You might also go to the Kandy Market and have a stroll through the vivid hues of the fresh fruits and vegetables that are being sold there. Your evening will be perfected when you walk to the pulse of traditional music and drumming, which will be emphasised by a cultural presentation that highlights the rich and colourful culture of Sri Lanka, which is known as the Wonder of Asia.

Following that, make your way to the blossoming national asset that is the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya. The gardens, which were first designed as a pleasure garden during the reign of the royal family and were subsequently enlarged upon by the British, are situated only four miles away from Kandy and have the most welcome facilities available as well. As you make your way inside this 147-acre paradise, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a moment of happiness as you stroll through manicured lawns, pavilions, and an octagonal conservatory. You will be greeted by a wide stretch of superbly planted, rich green turf, which will tempt you to take a break and do something thrilling. A café can be found to the north of the entrance and is one of the possible stops before seeing some of the attractions of this location. Among these highlights are the Orchid House and the enormous Javan fig tree, both of which exude their own unique sense of elegance and beauty.

In Kandy, it is recommended that you pay a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in the evening. Gain insight into Kandy’s rich history by seeing its crown gem, a mediaeval temple that is home to the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. After that, you will be treated to an enthralling cultural presentation, so make your way to the auditorium.

After the day’s activities are finished, you should make your way back to the hotel to relax and indulge in a mouthwatering meal.

Overnight stay at hotel in Kandy

Day 2: 3 days Sri Lanka Hill country Tours

Immediately following breakfast, make your way to Nuwara Eliya.

Visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage en way; when you approach the 25-acre site, do not be startled when you have the chance to observe newborn elephants being bottle fed or see them move about freely causing absolutely no damage to anybody else. The orphanage was established to provide a safe haven for orphaned elephants in Sri Lanka. Seeing how these orphaned gentle giants, some of them have only three legs owing to injuries, are cared after here is a very moving sight to behold. Some of them only have three legs.

This elephant orphanage was established in 1975, and to this day, it has seen the birth of over 20 calves. It may come as a surprise to learn that some of the elephants at the orphanage have even lived to see the birth of their “grandchildren”!

Guests who come at 9:15 in the morning and 1:15 in the afternoon will get the opportunity to see adorable newborn elephants being fed milk. The daily bath times in the adjacent river, which take place every day at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm, are also not to be missed because they give lots of memories that will be with you forever.

Continue further to Nuwara Eliya, where you will be able to check into your hotel, after which you can look forward to a satisfying meal and a restful night’s sleep.

Overnight stay at hotel in Nuwara Eliya

Day 3: 3 days Sri Lanka hill country tour

Following a scrumptious breakfast, it’s time to go sightseeing in Nuwara Eliya.

Visitors are reminded that they are close to the well-known British colonial hideaway of Nuwara Eliya by the winding, steep roads that are covered in mist and that meander through the rich green blankets of tea plants that are found in the chilly temperature. The “City of Light,” which was previously dominated by English and Scottish planters, is still dotted with colonial bungalows, hedgerows, and one of the greatest 18-hole golf courses in the world. This adds to the ambiance of the English countryside that permeates the area. A trek through the verdant grass and along the brick walls of the hamlet in the countryside should reward hikers with stunning views of the thriving community below.

Get on board a rattling train that is smoking and hissing its way through the lush valleys of the hill region, which are split by innumerable waterfalls and are dotted by tea pluckers clad in brightly coloured saris. You may even rent a bike and go for a relaxing ride around the shores of Lake Gregory while being splashed by the water.

Immediately following the conclusion of your tour, you will be transferred to a beach resort by way of Kitulgala.

Kitulgala, which is one of the wettest regions in Sri Lanka and is visited by two monsoons on a yearly basis, is the setting for the well-known film “The Bridge on the River Kwai” and is a significant period in the calendars of many countries across the world. If excitement in the vicinity of Colombo is what you want, then Kitulgala is the place for you!

Grab your gear and get ready for an exciting rafting challenge on the white river as it rumbles its way downstream, spilling and splashing all over the place. Slide down into the deepest depths of tunnels that are plagued by millions of bats after hopping from rock to rock upstream for a mind-blowing waterfall leap that should stretch your voice to the core. If you are not the type of person who thrives on extreme adventure, then all you need to do is take a simple walk down a well-trodden path to appreciate the pristine beauty of the woods.

What are the 40 must-see tourist places in Sri Lanka tour holidays?

  • Anuradhapura Historical city
  • Polonnaruwa historical city
  • Dambulla Golden temple
  • Galle Fort and beaches
  • Kandy the temples, tea gardens, botanical gardens
  • Sigiriya rock fortress
  • Trincomalee beaches and temples
  • Jaffna Fort and Hindu temples
  • Colombo shopping
  • Kataragama Temple
  • Bentota beach
  • Arugam Bay beach
  • Batticaloa beach
  • Beruwala beach
  • Kalutara beach
  • Hambantota
  • Hikkaduwa
  • Kalkudah
  • Kalpitiya
  • Mirissa
  • Negombo
  • Nilaveli
  • Pasikuidah
  • Unawatuna
  • Horton Plains
  • Bundala national park
  • Yala national park
  • Udawalawe national park
  • Knuckles mountain range
  • Minneriya national park
  • Sinharaja nature reserve
  • Wilpattu national park
  • Madu River estuary
  • Kitulgala
  • Ella
  • Adams peak
  • Ratnapura
  • Nuwara Eliya
  • Pinnawala elephant orphanage
  • Bandarawela
This Sri Lanka hill country tour lasts 3 days (2 nights) and covers many important tourist places such as Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Pinnawala, and Kitulgala. This private hill country tour also includes important historical places such as the Sigiriya rock fortress, the Dambulla golden temple as well as the tooth relic temple of Kandy. This 3 days hill country tour starts from Colombo and the west coast beach resort. The tour includes entire ground transportation by private vehicle, all entrance fees and activity costs, a live English-speaking guide, and all taxes.

Where is Sri Lanka hill country?

Sri Lanka’s hill country is located in the middle of the island, resulting from millions of years of geographical upheaval. And according to geologists, the upheavals are still taking place and mountains are still growing. The central mountain range act as a wall between western and eastern flatlands, and spreads from north to south about 65 km.

The mountain occupies mainly the south-central part of the island, which is widely known as Central Highlands-this rugged terrain is the heat of Sri Lanka. This high plateau includes the most number of Sri Lanka mountains including the highest peak in Sri Lanka (Pidurutalagala is the highest at 2,524 m), which occupies the southern end of the plateau.

Tea plantations cover a large portion of Sri Lanka’s hill country. Beautifully and colourfully dressed skinny women rush through the Tea bushes and stoop from time to time to pick the tender leaves of the tea bushes. In the same manner, these women move rapidly through the tea bushes and collect fresh, tender leaves that are processed in the tea factory and converted into delicious beverages. As the train climbs higher and higher, tea pluckers gradually fade into blurry silhouettes on the landscape.

Sri Lanka 3-day tour with Sigiriya rock fortress, Dambulla golden temple Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya

What is the weather like in Sri Lanka hill country?

This region offers more comfortable weather compared to most parts of the island. Hill Country has a mild climate, where the temperature hovers around 15 ˚C. It can be a bit cold in the evening and after sunset, the temperature can go down to the -2 ˚C mark in the months of November and December.

Kandy, the Gateway to Sri Lanka’s hill country

Kandy, the last stronghold of Sri Lanka’s monarch, lies at an elevation of 500 metres above sea level and is the gateway to Sri Lanka’s hill country. Kandy is one of the most visited cities in Sri Lanka and harbours dozens of important tourist places to visit. (14 of the best places to visit in Kandy) Kandy had been able to maintain its independence even during the Portuguese and Dutch periods, during which the maritime region was controlled by foreign rulers. However, the Kandy king was not able to withstand the invading army of the British, which was backed by a few local regional leaders. Ultimately, Kandy was ceded to the British crown in 1815, which was also the end of the Sri Lankan monarchy.

Kandy remains the spiritual centre for Sri Lankan Buddhists. Clustered around the lake of Kandy or “Kiri Muhuda” (milk sea), Kandy is framed by two striking religious monuments — a towering white Buddha, which keeps its eye on the city from the hills and the gold canopied roof that crowns the lakeside Temple of the Tooth.

What is the highest point of Sri Lanka’s hill country?

The highest point of Sri Lanka hill country is Pidurutalagala, which rises up to 8,280 feet from sea level. From the base of this mighty upheaval rise abruptly four extensive ledges, at different elevations, and a number of lofty mountains, some of which reach the height of 5,000 to 8,000 feet above sea level. The highest, called Pidurutalagala, reaches 8,280 feet, and at the foot of it lays the Nuwara Eliya plain, just 200 feet below.

Its position is, roughly speaking, in the centre of the highlands and approximately at the highest elevation. What wonder, then, at its pure and unpolluted air and its marvellous effects on the enervated constitutions of denizens of the low country, who use it as a sanatorium for recruiting the energies they have lost!

Characteristics of Hill Country of Sri Lanka

The mountains are hidden in the mist, rolling Tea estates, tumbling waterfalls, and picturesquely located hilltop villages – are some of the aspects of the enchanting hill country. The Hill Country of the island rises up to 2524 m from the mean sea level and Nuwara Eliya is the highest elevated city in the central mountain of Sri Lanka. One can reach the hill country by car or rail and it is just a few hours away from the commercial centre (Colombo) of the country.

The central highland of Sri Lanka shows the most attractive contrast to the beaches and other attractions of the low-elevation areas of Sri Lanka. The central highland is one huge upheaval, having an area of 4,000 square miles.

The hill country is with an irregular surface of hills and peaks of varying elevation, deep ravines and grassy plains, dense forests and open valleys, gentle streams and roaring cataracts a dozen distinct climates, each with its special characteristics of animal and vegetable life, from the lofty palms and gorgeous flowering shrubs of the lower elevation to the hardwood trees and English flowers of the highest; from the steaming haunts of monkeys to the cool regions beloved of the elk.

What are the activities available in Sri Lanka’s hill country?

  • Rock climbing
  • Trekking
  • Hiking
  • Golfing
  • Horse riding
  • Boating
  • waterfall abseiling
  • Whitewater rafting
  • Mountain biking
  • Bird watching
  • Exploring wildlife
  • Fishing

Hill Country of Sri Lanka attracts thousands of nature lovers and it offers surreal landscapes, cool climes, and rich heritage for its visitors.  It offers many fascinating activities for nature lovers, hikers, and adventure seekers in a peaceful tranquil environment.

Whether it is rock climbing, fishing for trout, playing golf on one of the most beautiful golf courses, visiting a sacred spot on top of a mountain, or trekking through the rugged wilderness, time in the beguiling hill country will reinvigorate the body and refresh the soul.

There is a choice of climate and choice of scenery to suit any constitution and to gratify every taste; the wildest rugged country and the sweetest undulating grassy plains; the wild sport for the daring, golf links and trout fishing for quieter spirits, and a new world withal for those who need a complete change from familiar scenes.

Simply Sri Lanka 8 Days Private Tour with Luxury Accommodation- This eight-day private tour takes you to the most important tourist places on the island such as Sigiriya rock, Dambulla golden temple, the tooth relic temple of Kandy, the national park of Udawalawe. Towards the end of the trip, you will be anchoring on the empty beaches of Mirissa.

Visiting Nuwara Eliya on Sri Lanka hill country tour

The beautiful mountainous area extends to the most elevated city of Nuwara Eliya, it extends over the greater portion of the fruitful district of Kotmale, the whole of Uda Dimbula, Uda Hewaheta, and Walapane. It embraces within its limits nearly every variety of climates experienced on the island.

While in the plains of Nuwara Eliya, the thermometer frequently falls below the freezing point, and, in the coldest period of the year, upon rising in the early morning, the refreshing spectacles present themselves of the white frost clothing the ground in every direction; in the valley of Maturata, and especially in Walapane, the heat at almost the same period of the year, is most oppressive.

The country so described affords some of the most beautiful and varied scenery on the island; gentle undulating slopes of grassy plains, patches of forests, mountains, and cliffs with breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls of surpassing magnificence, and here and there a glimpse of a tributary of the Mahaweli Ganga.

Hills Country as a health resort

Central Highland the most popular health resort is a popular holiday destination among the locals as well as foreign tourists. It attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists every year and boasts to be well developed to cater to the demand of tourists. Central high land can be a place for relaxation and adventure. With a large number of mountains and cliffs, patches of forests, slopes and ravines, caves, streams, rivers, and waterfalls, it can be used for adventure holidays at any given time of the year.

Trekking in Sri Lanka’s hill country

The abundance of mountains and valleys in Sri Lanka’s hill country makes it a very favourite place for Sri Lanka trekking tours. Most Sri Lanka trekking tours include Sri Lanka hill country resorts such as Ella, Nuwara Eliya, and Bandarawela as they harbour many trekking routes. Travellers do not need to go far from the popular hill country resort of Nuwara Eliya in order to find a suitable place for an enjoyable trek and enjoy a very different landscape and some very different trekking conditions.

The lower ranges of Sri Lanka’s hill country, running down towards the Indian Ocean, are generally warm and covered with pristine forest cover. The higher rangers may have a cool climate while the forest cover is not as dense as in the lower ranges. However, Sri Lanka mountains (lower as well as high ranges) offer great walking in a magical area where jagged mountains and deep gorges are mixed with tea plantations, waterfalls, rivers, patches of forests, terrace ride paddies, and small hamlets. The boulder-rich terrain may not offer you gentler trekking and it can be a bit challenging for novices.

Visiting Kandy on a Sri Lanka tour to the hill country

Nestled among the lush green mountains and located around the picturesque Kandy Lake, the last kingdom of Sri Lanka, located 500 m above sea level, harbours a large number of historical as well as natural attractions. Kandy is the hub of the hill country; this historical city is the home of the most sacred temple on the island, where the left eye-tooth of Buddha resides. Kandy is the last bastion of colonial rulers of the island today it is a world heritage site owing to historical importance.

Kandy is predominantly a Buddhist-occupied city and most people in the city are believing in Buddhism, a Large number of Buddhist temples are scattered in the old part of the city and the Lake area. The city holds the most beautiful pageant in the country in the month of Esala or July. The historical pageant is named Esala ceremony and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors from all around the world.

What are the 21 best places to visit in Sri Lanka hill country Itinerary?

The 21 places mentioned hereunder are located in Sri Lanka’s hill country. Some of these places are included in most Sri Lanka multi-day trips. However, some of the places coming under this list cannot be accommodated in regular multi-day trips. These multi-day trips such as Sri Lanka 7 days tour and 2 week Sri Lanka trip are taking place on a designated travel route and important tourist attractions on teh route are included in the package. The tourist attraction that is a bit far off the route is not included due to the time required to reach them. However, if you plan a Sri Lanka hill country trip with a few overnight stays in a hill country resort such as Nuwara Eliya, you will be able to cover many places mentioned here.

  1. Tooth relic temple
  2. Elephant orphanage
  3. Peradeniya botanical garden
  4. Pidurutalagala mountain
  5. Gregory Lake
  6. Tea plantations
  7. Horton plains national park
  8. Tea factory / Tea museum
  9. Ravana rock
  10. Pilkington Point
  11. Dowa temple
  12. Adisham Bungalow
  13. Tangamale nature reserve
  14. Ella Gap
  15. Mountain of Sendakatti
  16. Little Adams peak
  17. Ravana Waterfall
  18. Ramboda Waterfall
  19. Pallewela waterfall
  20. Secret waterfall
  21. Nil Diya Pokuna (Nil Diya Pond)

Elephant orphanage: on Sri Lanka hill country tour

The journey from Colombo to Kandy is a treat with fine views of the scenery afforded by the road or railway. One should not miss the elephant orphanage on the half-alone Colombo-Kandy highway. It is the home to the biggest herd of elephants in the world with more than 80 animals in the herd.

Spend five memorable days on a tour of Sri Lanka with a variety of sightseeing activities. Visit the Golden Temple of Dambulla, bicycle around the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, tour Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and see the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) — all UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Peradeniya botanical garden: on Sri Lanka hill country tour

The Peradeniya botanical gardens another attraction of the city is located just outside the city centre.  It contains a bewildering array of local and foreign species set in a tranquil site adjacent to the mighty Mahaweli Ganga, Sri Lanka’s longest river.

Nuwara Eliya is located at the heart of the southern hill country, the highest elevated city, and the most favourite hill station during British rule in Sri Lanka. The city is well known among the locals as ‘little England’ owing to its somewhat similar weather to Scottish weather, old colonial-style building, 18-hole golf course, Victoria Park, a racecourse, and excellent fishing in the lakes and rivers around the city.

Gregory Lake: on hill country tour

The temperature can drop to close to freezing after sunset and it is common to see smoke rising from the chimneys of the many Tudor-style mansions. Gregory Lake and the surrounding area is a great places to anchor yourself while exploring the countryside, there are many treks through the mountains, escapements, forests, and plantations that can be used for a walk, hiking, and mountain climbing.

There is no other place in Nuwara Eliya which is better than the Gregory lake esplanade to soak up the relaxing vibe in Nuwara Eliya town. Well-laid esplanade is consisting of green space for relaxing with flower gardens, and shops. Gregory Lake Esplanade features a few play areas, as well as many garden benches. The spacious garden is fully open to Gregory Lake and it provides plenty of space for a picnic lunch, dinner or a snack on the waterfront.

Ashok Vatika: on a hill country tour

Mount Piduruthalagala and the forest around provide a great site for exploring the fauna and flora of montane forests. Ashok Vatika better known as Haggala Botanical Gardens are just 9 km from the city with a fascinating collection of flowers in the mountain.

Tea plantation: on Sri Lanka hill country tour

Sri Lanka hill country tours are not completed if it does not include a visit to a Tea factory and a trek in a Tea plantation, because upcountry invariably means the tea plantations. A large portion of Sri Lankan hills is covered with tea plantations.

Among the most iconic vistas of hill country are the rolling tea estates that carpet vast swathed terrain in an emerald sea. Women who are in colourful saris look like colourful butterflies from the distance in the rolling tea plantations, walk along with the tea bushes and pluck the golden tip of the branches and toss them into the baskets slung on their backs. Being one of the biggest industries on the island, tea plays a very important role in Sri Lanka’s economy. It employs twenty per cent of the total labour force in the country.

After the introduction of tea in the late 19’s the industry thrived here more than anywhere else in the region, today Ceylon tea is considered to be the best tea in the world, and the mountains with warm climate during the daytime and cold and mist in the evening provide the best climate to reap the finest quality of it. One can experience the whole process of tea production in a leading tea factory, where plucked tea is dried, crushed, fermented and fired using machinery that has remained largely unchanged since Victorian times.

This nature tour includes rainforest trekking, white water rafting, safari, hiking, and trekking. This adventure tour also includes whale watching based in southern Sri Lanka. If you

Horton Plains National Park: on a Sri Lanka hill country trip

Dominated by flat grassland, which is surrounded by a cloud forest, Horton plains national park is given a well-deserved epithet of “wonderland in the mountains”. This is one of the last remaining mountain forests on the island, usually included in most Sri Lanka hill country tours.

Horton plains national park has a large extent of forest as well as grassland and is lavishly decorated by mother nature with lakes, perennial streams, waterfalls, animals, birds, and many other species of Faun. The park is often visited by locals as well as foreign travellers. Most tourists who visit Nuwara Eliya do not fail to see this fascinating patch of forest that lies 2300 meters above sea level.

It has a salubrious climate similar to Nuwara Eliya but much cooler. Horton plains national park is very rich in scenic beauty, which is closely attached to its Fauna and flora. A long trek through the forest, grassland, water streams, and mountains takes you to an unknown territory of natural beauty, which is unique to this ecological setting.

Horton Plains is one of the most beautiful national parks on the island and one of the very few where travellers are allowed to have a walk. This is the place to have a safari on foot. Horton Plains is truly a wonderland and has an abundance of greens and blues of lush green vegetation, valleys, mountains, and blue sky.

Ella: on the Sri Lanka hill country tour package

Once Sri Lanka was also called Pearl in the Orient and paradise island, whoever thought of those names had not taken it lightly; you are in search of some beautiful places to experience some magical scenery, dreamlike vistas that you see on television, travel documentaries, Ella is one of the best bet for you. Click here to read more About Ella.  

Hill country scenic train trip

Hill country train journey is a stunning journey through rolling tea plantations, isolated villages, misty hills, and patched of forests. Usually the most hill country train journey for travellers starts in Kandy, which is one of the hubs of Sri Lankan railway track.   The Kandy railway station started in 1860s during the British Colonial era; the building still inherits the old colonial characteristics and barely changed from its original form. After the train starts to move, it goes in the direction of south and east from Kandy further in to the higher elevated areas I the hill country. The train passes many popular hill country resorts such as Hatton and Nanu-Oya.  The journey to Ella from Kandy lasts about 6-hour even though it is merely 164km to cover from Kandy to Ella. The locomotive cannot keep the constant speed due to the mountain peaks that it has to conquer on the along the way.

The train track goes through the many mountains; these mountains are pierced and turned to tunnels by the colonial rulers in the past.  Hairpin curves along the track are also making the train to slow.   Few minutes after starting the trip from Kandy, the travellers starts to witness the vivid landscapes, thick forests, and mountain terrains, however, keep in mind that the best is yet to come. After about 1 hour from Kandy you are entering the Nuwara Eliya region and the scenery and the landscape starts to change dramatically. The train starts to slow down as it starts to climb the mountain. Now you start to see tea plantations, beautiful landscapes, mountain valleys, tea plantations and beautiful scenery for the rest of the journey.

Nanu Oya railway station sandwich between the Kandy and Ella railway station, The travellers, who are heading to Nuwara Eliya should get off t the Nany Oya railway station and have a few kilometres ride from the railway station to the city, now the train has come to the highest point of the hill country track, about 100 meters from the sea-level. Few kilometres further down the track the from Nanu Oya railway station, the commuters can witness a beautiful Elgin fall in the nearby valley. The train arrives at the highest point on the hill country rail track, at an elevation of 1907. Afterwards the there is a slow descent to Ell.

Hill country village tour in Ella

On your village tour in Ella, you will make a hike through the beautiful countryside in Ella and watch the bottom of the valley. You will enjoy the beautiful hike with rivers, waterfalls, pristine forest cover, bird songs and flowers blooming everywhere. Communicate with your guide, who is from the community in the village. This is a perfect opportunity to learn about the typical traditional village life, their customs and the problem that they face on day to day life. The hike is a perfect opportunity to connect with nature.

Ella-backpacking paradise of Sri Lanka Hill Country

Elle, one of the most scenic places with many sites for adventure tourism is on the radar of adventure lovers. Ella is a place for a wide range of activities such as trekking, hiking, mountain climbing, and rainforest exploration, therefore, Ella is included in most Sri Lanka hill country tours.

Visiting the waterfalls in Ella

Ella is a popular mountain resort in Sri Lanka, especially among foreign travellers. The rugged terrain of Ella is popular for many interesting activities such as Hiking, trekking, mountain climbing, jungle trekking, and bird watching. If you can dedicate more than 2 days or more to your Ella trip you are able to many waterfalls including Pallewela waterfall.

If you are fascinated by waterfalls, especially beautiful waterfalls, Ella is one of the best places for you, Ella is bursting with waterfalls. Ella offers many waterfalls and some of them such as Ravana waterfall, and Dunhinda waterfall is well known in Sri Lanka. Apart from waterfalls, caves, and trekking and hiking trails Ella also offers great vistas for its visitors. The view from Ella spreads all the way up to the south coast on a day with a clear sky and the view is magical. Click here to read more about Sri Lankan waterfalls.

Pallewela waterfall

There are many beautiful waterfalls in and around Ella Such as Ravana waterfall. However, some of the waterfalls such as Pallewela Ella are not known to travellers. Pallewela Ella (Pallewela waterfall) or Alikote Ella is an off-the-beaten-track tourist attraction in Ella. Most travellers, who visit Ella miss this beautiful waterfall. However, this beautiful waterfall is not far from the Ella tourist resort and is easy to reach from Ella. The Waterfall is only about 10 km from Ella on Ella-Wellawaya road. Pallewela Ella is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the area.

Secret waterfall

The secret waterfall is another hidden jewel. Like Pallewela waterfall it is not known to most travellers, which are visiting Ella. Both secret Ella and Pallewela Waterfalls are located in the Karandagolla area. However, there is a considerable amount of hiking involved with both waterfalls and that can be exhausting for some people.

Nil Diya Pokuna (Nil Diya Pond)

Nildiya Pokuna is a tourist attraction on the Rakkitha road off Ella- Wellawaya main road. It is worth visiting this heritage site on your trip to Ella if you have time. It is rare to find this type of tourist attraction, especially due to its claustrophobic nature to some people. The travellers need to crawl in the narrow tunnel to reach Nildiya Pokuna. Nildiya Pokuna is hidden in a cave that can be reached through a narrow tunnel. Visiting Nildiya Pokuna is a horrifying experience for some travellers while for some tourists it is an interesting and magical experience.

Ramboda waterfall

Ramboda Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka and is found in the Pussellawa district, in Kandy. Rmboda Falls cascade through the Ramboda plateau. Ramboda is to be found between Nuwara Eliya and Kandy on the Sri Lanka hill country road. This area has a large extent of forest cover and a large number of tea plantations. Ramboda and the surrounding area have a very limited number of buildings, and therefore, travellers can see only the green cover as they traverse through the area. Ramboda inherits many topographical variations and travellers can see mountains, valleys, huge rock formations, rivers, waterfalls, and flat lands here.

With a height of 358ft, Ramboda stands as the 11th highest fall in Sri Lanka. The cold winds are a constant and the steps of the rocks fall like cascades of ivory and paint a gorgeous picture against the backdrop of the sky. a Visit to teh waterfall involves a mild 500 meters trek downhill, and anyone can scale it quickly. In terms of vivid landscapes and cosy climate, Ramboda Falls checks all boxes that will keep tourists engaged and on their feet!

Ramboda also has beautiful sights and rare birds cooing in the thick forests. Overall, a trip to Ramboda Falls will have you on a retreat with nature. The gushing waters and their sounds as they crackle hitting the rocks experience awe–parallel. The central Sinhala province of  Pussellawa has people whose warm hearts never cease to welcome people into their land. Ramboda falls one of a kind experience with nature and is far away from commercialization!

Sri Lanka hill country rock climbing at Ravana rock

Nearby are the ancient Ravana rock temple, the Ravana Ella Cave, and Ravana Falls all are mentioned in the great epic of Ramayana. Ella is identified as the site where the abducted Princess Sita (wife of King Rama) was hidden by King Ravana.

On this 7-day Sri Lanka private trip you will be visiting ancient monuments in the cultural triangle, tea country, Spice and herbal garden, wildlife reserve, botanic gardens, Idyllic west coast beaches, plus enjoy a breath-taking view on the hill country rail journey from Peradeniya to Nanuoya, learn to cook a Sri Lanka meal and many more. Towards the end of the trip, you will have time to relax on the pristine beaches of Sri Lanka’s west coast.

Trekking sites in Ella: Little Adam’s Peak

This best alternative for people, who find Adam’s Peak Mountain climb, is beyond their endurance. The mountain looks exactly the same as Adam’s Peak and that’s the very reason for naming it Little Adam’s Peak.  One can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Ella Gap from the summit of the mountain. The climb takes about 1 hour and can be easily reached from Ella. Take the road in the eastward direction from Ella and a 12 km drive take you to the starting point of the climb. Click here to read more on Adam’s peak.

Hills country attractions Sri Lanka: Ella gap

Ella Gap is the deepest ravine on the island of Sri Lanka. Ella’s gap is about 100 meters deep and more than 10 km long. Ella provides a beautiful view over the low-elevated southern part of Sri Lanka on sunny days with a clear sky. A number of treks in Ella provide an opportunity for a memorable low exhausting adventure.

Sri Lanka hill country tour: Visiting Ella market

The laid-back remote small city of Ella gets a lively, busy, electrifying atmosphere every Wednesday morning, as the weekly market kick-off on the Passara-Ella main road. On the day of the market, farmers and villages are awakened with enthusiasm, farmers gathering here to sell their goods while villages gather to collect fruits, vegetables and all other ingredients required for the family.

A large number of colourfully dressed females are gathering along the road with their goods in a bid to sell the products at the best price. This weekly market is the main source of fresh vegetables and fruits for the accommodation providers in Ella, all of which serve home-cooked suppers to their guests.

Sri Lanka mountain trekking: Pilkington Point

This is actually a viewpoint located in Bandarawela. It enables you to have a bird’s eye view over the low elevated southern Sri Lanka. The name” Pilkington Point” is derived from the name of the popular English planter, George Pilkington. After travelling several kilometres on the Bandarwela- Koslanda road is the narrow road that leads to the summit. One needs to take a trek on a marked trail and it takes about 30 minutes to reach the viewpoint.

Sri Lanka hill country temple: Dowa temple

Dowa temple is believed to be originated during the last phase of the Anuradhapura kingdom. But according to some scholars it was in existence as early as the 1st century BC. Apart from antiquity, the temple is a popular religious institution in Bandarawela. The temple accommodates a large number of Buddha statues and paintings. The image house, which is believed to be a hiding place of King Walagambahu (1st century BC), is a natural cave in magnitude size and showcases some beautiful religious paintings and Buddha statues. One of the highlights of the temple is the partly completed gigantic granite Buddha statue on a monolithic rock.

Hill country colonial bungalow: Adisham Bungalow

Adisham Bungalow is a spacious palace occupied by a pioneer planter of British Origin. It is picturesquely located on a mountain, providing a breathtaking view over the mountains, escapement, and tea plantation in the lower elevated area.

The scenic view from the palace must be enjoyed by every visitor to Haputale. The palace is built in the English style and the material was imported to build the palace. The workers were brought from India and England to make sure it is of top-notch quality. The surrounding area of the palace is exceptionally calm and peaceful. It is dominated by woods and plantations and has no inhabitants within several kilometres of its reach. Click here to read more on Adisham bungalow.

Exploring Sri Lanka hill country Fauna and Flora

Tangamale nature reserve is located just in front of Adisham Bungalow. It is about 5 km from the city of Haputale. A part of this patch of the forest consists of the secondary forest with trees such as pines. The rest of the forest is made of the primaeval forest that originates many centuries ago. The forest is spread over 131 hectares and can be a handy spot for an enjoyable trek. Several species of animals and many species of butterflies can be seen here. And it is a very popular nature reserve among bird lovers as well.

Sri Lanka hill country trekking at the mountain of Sendakatti

The Mountain of Sendakatti is another place for an enjoyable trek amidst the picturesque greenish environment.  Here you won’t feel tired due to the cool healing clime. The view is at its best in the early morning before the appearance of clouds and mist. The trek is to be found near Haputale town above the Haputale gap.

Visiting Ravana waterfall on Sri Lanka hill country tour

Ravana waterfall is another popular tourist site, which is sandwiched between Ella and the southern coast of Sri Lanka. The waterfall is conveniently located on the Ella-Wellawaya main road, a few kilometres south of Ella mountain resort.

Although Ravana waterfall lacks in width compared to many other waterfalls on the island, they more than makeup for that in terms of height. Indeed, the Ravana waterfall spreads only a few meters across the rock face, its height exceeds more than 500 meters. However, during the monsoon, it increases its width by around 3 folds with the swelling incoming water stream.

Travellers can find an impressive amount of water pouring down over the falls throughout the year. The waterfall is located facing the Ella-Wellawaya main road. The waterfall cuts through the road, underneath the Ella bridge. Many travellers are not forgetting to make a stop at the waterfalls as they venture on this travel route, because, simply it is difficult to ignore the beauty of the waterfall.  The Ella Bridge is the only viewing platform of the Ravana waterfall.  

Places to visit in Sri Lanka hill country – Lipton seat

A few kilometres further south of Ell on Nuwara Eliya-Wellawaya road is Haputale, a popular hill country resort in Sri Lanka. The mountain-rich hill country resort is dominated by tea plantations and vegetable gardens. Lipton Seat is a tourist attraction in Haputale located within a tea plantation. To reach Lipton’s seat one needs to drive around 1 hour and make a hike of about 30 minutes. Lipton’s seat is located on top of the mountain and commands a breathtaking view over the surrounding area. The name of the tea plantation and the viewpoint is taken from the celebrated Thomas Lipton. Thomas Lipton arrive in Sri Lanka during teh British rule in 1890 and engage in the tea industry. He is one of the very tea planters on teh island.

Major tourist places of Sri Lanka upcountry tours

This hill country tour of Sri Lanka includes the major tourist attractions mentioned above, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Horton Plains, and several other important tourist attractions. We have planned this Sri Lanka upcountry tour at the request of many travellers, who wanted to visit Sri Lanka’s hill country holiday stations.

Most Sri Lanka hill country tours follow the same route with a small variation.

Usually, Sri Lanka tours start in Colombo as usual, but they may start on the beach areas on the west and southern coast on request. The first base of Sri Lanka hill country tours is Kandy. Kandy sits 500 meters above sea level.

Sri Lanka hill country tours visiting Nuwara Eliya

From Kandy, the hills country trip takes the guests to Nuwara Eliya, on its winding roads, which occupy a picturesque high plateau. The city is surrounded by mountain peaks and has a mild climate throughout the year. Nuwara Eliya is the most popular hill country resort on the island and is considered to be one of the most scenic cities on the island.

Map of Sri Lanka hill country itinerary

Map of Sri Lanka hill country itinerary

How long is the Sri Lanka hill country tour?

The Sri Lanka hill country tour is a 4 days trip, including important tourist attractions in Sri Lanka’s upcountry. Below is Sri Lanka 4 days hill country tour in a nutshell.

The duration of the Sri Lanka hill country tour highly depends on the time availability and the budget. e.g, if you have an unlimited budget and have plenty of time for the Sri Lanka hill country tour, it is recommended to plan one week Sri Lanka hill country trip. However, if you have time constraints and budgetary restrictions you can curtail the hill country tour. Sri Lanka hill country tour can be booked as one day Sri Lanka trip, 2 day Sri Lanka trip, or 3 days Sri Lanka trip or extended it up to any number of days as you wish.

Day 1 Colombo-Kandy: Sri Lanka Hill country itinerary

You will Seerendipity Tours representative (at the airport or hotel in Colombo) and drive to Kandy, which is considered the hub of Sri Lankan culture. You will pass picturesque countryside along the way, however right after starting the tour will counter many busy cities, where you heap the vehicle and large gatherings of people. However, as you increase the distances from Colombo the drive becomes faster and smoother.

After about 3 hours you make the first stop of the hill country tour at the Pinnawala elephant orphanage. After visiting Pinnawala you start the journey to a Spice garden. After the spice garden proceeds to the hotel in Kandy, check-in, and leisure.

In the afternoon visit, Kandyan cultural show, and in the evening visit the tooth relic temple ceremony.

Day 2 Kandy-Nuwara Eliya: Sri Lanka hills country itinerary

After leisurely breakfast proceeds to the hotel in Nuwara Eliya, En-route visits a Tea plantation and tea factory. After visiting the Tea factory trek to the Ramboda waterfall at Ramboda plateau, which is one of the most scenic waterfalls in the central highland of Sri Lanka.

You will reach Nuwara Eliya around noon, check in at the hotel and take a brief rest before visiting Horton plains national park and having a 1-hour trek through the forest.

In the evening sightseeing tour of Nuwara Eliya and visit Sita temple, Victoria Park, Gregory Lake and Nuwara Eliya market.

Day 3 Nuwara Eliya-Ella : Sri Lanka hills country trip

Board the Ella-bound train from Nuwara Eliya and enjoy one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. In the afternoon visit short trips to 9 arch bridge, hike at mini Adam’s Peak, Ella Rock, and visit Ravana waterfalls.

Day 4 Ella-Colombo: Sri Lanka hill country itinerary

After breakfast leave for the hotel in Colombo, En-route the Whitewater rafting and rainforest trek in Kitulagala and reach your hotel in Colombo in the afternoon.

Why you should choose Seerendipity for the Sri Lanka hills country trip

Seerendipity Tour is an entirely locally owned travel company with a head office in Colombo. The highly experienced local staff is a key strength of Seerendipity Tours, and they can plan your dream holiday to Sri Lanka.

The best price guaranteed for you srilanka 5 days trip

When you book a tour with us, you directly book the tour with the local company, which means there are no middlemen and therefore you can guarantee the best price. Simply get in touch with us and let us know when you travel and what you like to see.

Plan your best srilanka 5 days trip with expert

Our staff makes a personalised programme for you, which you can change until you find the best package for you. You can also browse our existing tour packages for inspiration; all our ready-made tour packages are customizable and can be tailored to meet all your expectations. Write to us at admin@seerendipitytours.com, tel. 0094-77-440977, WhatsApp 0094-77-4440977

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