Are you a curious thrill-seeker excited about your Sri Lanka trip? Sri Lanka offers you astonishing possibilities to surf, hike, go on epic train rides, and all things action! Below are the 08 best adventurous places in Sri Lanka you can visit with Olanka Travels.
Hike Sigiriya but don’t forget Pidurangala.
If you are a die-hard hiker, we are sure that you would definitely grab two hikes in one visit. DEAL?
Pidurangala, the climb-worthy neighbor of Sigiriya is the most incredible vantage point for the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
The trail up to the Pidurangala rock includes a steep incline, but that’s what makes it an adventurous hike. Those early morning hikers can witness one of the most stunning sunrises from the Pidurangala rock. Do you want to know another bonus it offers? The entrance fee is just $3. This price has given an extra reason for budget travelers to pick Pidurangala over Lion’s Rock. But remember our deal? Yes, two hikes. Sigiriya, the famous Rock Fortress is a must-visit site on your Sri Lanka trip.
It’s quite a feat to climb the 1200+ steps to the top of the Lion’s Rock, but you won’t mind the heat, fatigue, and sore legs when you reach this amazing archaeological site; The frescoes, mirror wall, monastery, and cave temples, and especially the breathtakingly beautiful sunset.
The fame Sigiriya holds as a UNESCO world heritage site and its historic significance has made it one of the most expensive cultural sites in Sri Lanka.
However, we guarantee that the Sigiriya Rock hike will quench your thirst for adventure and justify the $30 you pay to visit this 8th wonder of the world.
See leopards in the Yala National Park
If you are a committed wildlife enthusiast, look no further than the Yala National Park.
Yala, located in the South East of Sri Lanka, is home to a variety of wildlife. You can sight glorious elephants, mysterious leopards, and Sri Lankan sloth bears in this National Park. Yala is most famous for its leopards. It is considered one of the best places in the world to spot leopards.
Giant crocodiles and dancing wild peacocks too are sure to make an appearance during your Yala safari. If you love watching birds, you will be amazed by over 215 bird species ranging from Blue-tailed Bee-eaters to Sri Lankan jungle fowls. To ensure seeing most of these startling wild creatures it’s best to visit Yala during the dry season from February to June.
Waterfalls and tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya
Ever thought of enjoying your holiday in Sri Lanka on top of a misty cool mountain in Nuwara Eliya?
Nuwara Eliya aka Little England is the best location for you to discover the rugged beauty of lush tea plantations and cascading waterfalls. This hilly terrain boasts lush tea plantations which produce some of the finest teas in the world. The Bluefield Tea factory, Mackwoods Tea Museum, and Pedro Tea Estate are a few of the best estates to visit on your holiday in Sri Lanka. Enjoying an exquisite pot of tea, while taking a breath of fresh mountain air should be a top priority on your Nuwara Eliya checklist.
Hike Adam’s Peak
If you are after adventure, hiking up Adam’s Peak should make it to your Sri Lanka travel itinerary. Locally known as Sri pada, it is the fourth tallest mountain in Sri Lanka and is located in Ratnapura. The sacred footprint found on top of the mountain is popularly believed to be the footprint of Gautama Buddha. Hindus think it’s Shiva’s footprint while Muslims and Christians believe it’s the first man -Adam’s.
The mountain is 2244m in height and offers an exhausting yet energizing hike above the cool clouds. To get to the peak to view the sunrise, start hiking Adam’s peak at midnight. Seasoned adventurers can make this climb any time of the year, although December to May is when devotees embark on pilgrimages.
Snorkeling, surfing, and scuba diving on the South coast
Fond of oceanic adventures in Sri Lanka? The South Coast of Sri Lanka including Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, and Weligama are iconic surfing spots. Untouched coral reefs, world-famous dive wrecks, and friendly encounters with colorful marine life await you at the South Coast of Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka offers some of the best dive holidays with ample opportunities to snorkel and scuba dive. Whale and dolphin watching tours can also be added to your tour package if you’re visiting the South of Sri Lanka.
Most beautiful train ride – Kandy to Ella
There’s possibly no other way to experience the beauty of the hill country’s scenic landscapes other than hopping on a train. Without a doubt, this is the most picturesque train ride you will experience when you travel to Sri Lanka. The train will cruise through remote villages, many dark tunnels, and also the picture-perfect Nine Arch’s Bridge. The train ride will also cover bright green tea plantations and glorious waterfalls.
See elephants in Udawalawe
No doubt, the Udawalawe Elephant Sanctuary is the best place in Sri Lanka to witness the magnificence and adventures of Asian wild elephants. Located on the boundary of the Sabaragamuwa and Uva provinces, it provides a natural habitat for over 500 wild elephants. Big or small, they are experts in water sports. Splashing water is one of the favorite activities of baby elephants.
Apart from these giants, Udawalawe is also home to water buffaloes, wild bears, Sri Lankan axis deer, and other rare mammal species. You won’t regret adding a Jeep Safari in Udawalawe to your list of adventures in Sri Lanka.
Kithulgala base camp
The Kithulgala base camp facilitates white water rafting in Sri Lanka with plenty of thrills and excitement. Located at the Eastern edge of Kegalle, Kithulgala is sought after by adventurers from all over the world. Waterfall abseiling, night camping, cave exploring, stream sliding, confidence jumping, and jungle trekking are a few of the most daring activities available when you travel to Sri Lanka. Scenic nature, birdlife, and alluring waterfalls make Kithulgala a favorite spot for sightseeing too.
Let us welcome you!
If ‘adventure’ is your middle name, a Sri Lanka holiday is ideal for you. While these are the 08 best adventurous places in Sri Lanka, there are numerous elusive spots waiting to surprise you.
