Surrounded my mountainous and rocky terrain, Ella is one of the most popular hiking and trekking destinations in Sri Lanka. Adventure through an abundance of forests, hike up Ella Rock or Little Adams Peak and at the end of the day, relax with a cold one, in the laid-back atmosphere of Ella town.

Trek your way through religion and history, in Kandy, as you trek the footpaths connecting the medieval Gadaladeniya, Lankathilake temples and the Embakke shrine. Or take a walk in the forest, through a tea estate, mountains and traditional villages, on the trek from Ihalakotte Railway station to Dodanwala Devale. Finally, partake of the famed Hanthana hike, and join the ranks of many university students before you, who have hiked that trail as rite of passage.

The knuckles range, named after its likeness to a clenched fist, offers perhaps the most strenuous yet rewarding hiking experience. Known for its ethereal beauty, hikers truly reconnect with nature, as they walk amidst the dense flora and fauna of the knuckles range. The range is shrouded in eternal fog, which renders these treks a truly other-worldly feel. Not for the faint of heart, these treks are best suited for experienced trekkers and hikers and the true adventure seeker. Visitors may also camp, quite literally under the stars, the beauty of which on a clear night will take your breath away. Hikers should however, be aware of the leeches that inundate certain parts of the trek.

Interspersed with forest, paddy field and the Belihul-oya river, this destination, surrounded by mountain ranges is a hiker’s scenic nirvana. Bordering both the wet zone and the dry zone, the unique vegetation of Belihul Oya, is sure to excite any nature lover.

Ohiya, is the starting point for many a hike, including a hike through worlds-end and the trek to Bambarakanda falls. Over chilly mountain terrains, these treks are blessed with an abundance of scenic vistas and panoramic views. Worlds End is famed for the sheer drop at which, on a clear day, the village 4000 ft below may be seen.

Known for its chilly climes, Nuwara Eliya is excellent for a hike through tea estates or to a scenic water fall. The tea centre of Sri Lanka, all hikers must make sure to end their day with a cup of piping hot Ceylon tea.

One of Asia’s best known rain forests, the Sinharaja forest is teeming with endemic flora and fauna. With over 50% of the country’s endemic species taking up residence within the forest, these treks through the thick vegetation and jungle paths are sure to reconnect the hiker with nature.

Climb Pidurangala Rock near Sigiriya, trek the Ritigala and Mihintale hills to combine one’s love of nature, adventure and culture in a holistic package.