Trekking and Hiking

Horton Plains, perched high in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, is famed as the country’s coldest and windiest plateau. This vast expanse of montane grasslands, evergreen forests, marshes, and glistening streams creates a unique ecosystem unlike anywhere else on the island. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010, it is home to a remarkable array of endemic flora and fauna, making it one of Sri Lanka’s most important biodiversity hotspots.

Among its most iconic features is World’s End, a sheer cliff with jaw-dropping views stretching across the plains and valleys below, best admired in the morning before the mist settles in. Nature enthusiasts will also enjoy exploring Baker’s Falls and spotting wildlife such as sambar deer, purple-faced leaf monkeys, and a wide variety of highland birds. Horton Plains is not only a natural treasure but also a serene escape for hikers, photographers, and eco-travelers.

Sinharaja Forest Reserve is Sri Lanka’s last surviving stretch of virgin rainforest and a true jewel of the island’s biodiversity. Classified as both a Tropical Lowland Rainforest and a Tropical Wet Evergreen Forest, it is an ecological marvel where life thrives in abundance. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sinharaja shelters an extraordinary concentration of endemic species, with studies showing high endemism among its butterflies, amphibians, reptiles, fish, mammals, and birds.

For birdwatchers, Sinharaja is a paradise, offering sightings of rare species like the Red-faced Malkoha, Green-billed Coucal, and the striking Sri Lankan Blue Magpie. More than half of the mammals and butterflies here are found nowhere else in the world, highlighting its irreplaceable ecological value. Walking through its dense canopies and listening to the chorus of life, visitors experience nature in its purest form — untouched, unspoiled, and timeless.

Riverston, rising 1,424 meters above sea level in the Knuckles Mountain Range, is one of Sri Lanka’s hidden hiking treasures. Located in Matale, this scenic peak offers sweeping views of rolling hills, lush valleys, and the famous Pitawala Pathana Mini World’s End, a dramatic escarpment perfect for panoramic sightseeing. Despite its beauty, Riverston remains relatively unknown to international visitors, preserving its tranquil charm for those who seek an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

The hike to the summit is accessible and rewarding, with a gentle 2-kilometer trail winding its way to the SLT Tower viewpoint. A paved path makes the ascent easy, requiring no special gear, while the refreshing highland breeze greets travelers at the top. Riverston’s untouched landscapes and peaceful atmosphere make it ideal for day trips, nature walks, and photography, offering a serene counterpart to Sri Lanka’s more popular hiking spots.