10 Hidden Gems in Sri Lanka You Must Visit
Sri Lanka’s famous highlights – Sigiriya’s lion rock, Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth, the beaches of the south – are incredible, but the teardrop island is also full of secret treasures that most visitors miss. Hidden in lush forests, rolling hills and far-flung coasts, these off‑beat spots reward adventurous travellers with stunning scenery, rich culture and memorable experiences. Whether you’re drawn by nature, adventure or spirituality, you’ll find something to treasure on Sri Lanka’s lesser-known trails. Below are ten of the most captivating hidden gems, from misty mountain temples to remote seaside sanctuaries, complete with tips on what to see, when to go and how to get there.
1. Mihintale – The Birthplace of Buddhism
Perched on a forested hill just east of Anuradhapura, Mihintale offers panoramic views and a powerful sense of history. Legend holds that in the 3rd century BC King Devanampiya Tissa met Arahant Mahinda here, when the Buddhist monk came from India to introduce Buddhism to Sri Lanka www.kateandmikestravels.com. Today Mihintale is still an active pilgrimage site and an archeological treasure. Ancient dagobas (stupas), shrines and a giant white Buddha statue dot the slopes, connected by winding stone steps. Climbing up Mihintale Rock (about 300 m high) is rewarded by sweeping views of jungle and temples below. Visitors can explore ruins like the Aradhana Gala (“record of doing good deeds” rock ledge) and observe monks walking barefoot in meditation. The atmosphere is tranquil and mystical, especially at dawn or on Buddhist holidays.
Beyond its cultural allure, Mihintale appeals to foreign visitors who seek off‑season spirituality. Unlike the crowded sites in Anuradhapura and Kandy, Mihintale sees mostly Sri Lankan pilgrims and a few international history buffs, so it feels like a genuine glimpse of local life. It’s a great place for photography, meditation, or simply watching monkeys play around the ancient ruins. The climb itself is an adventure: wear good shoes or sandals, and expect about 1,100 stone steps (though there is also a road to the top if needed).
What to do and see: Besides the panoramic summit, don’t miss the colossal Buddha with its peace-sign mudra, the red-tiled Kantaka Cetiya (horsehair stupa), and the two century-old Sri Mahabodhi sacred fig tree. Walk through the forested grounds to discover hidden shrines and ponds. Learn about Buddhist art at the Mihintale Museum at the base. Sunrise from the top is particularly spectacular, when mist often curls around the hills.
How to get there: Mihintale is about 12 km east of Anuradhapura. From Anuradhapura town you can take a local bus or hire a tuk-tuk (about 20–30 minutes). The road leads almost to the summit (or near the main temple area); parking is available just below the highest point. There is a modest entrance fee (around 300 LKR for foreigners).
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon, to avoid the midday heat and afternoon thunderstorms. The dry season (December–March) is ideal. Mihintale is also very busy on Poson Poya (June full moon) when thousands of Sri Lankans make a pilgrimage; if you prefer solitude, avoid that period. In all seasons, dawn visits let you see monkeys (gray langurs) foraging at sunrise.
Tips: Dress modestly and be prepared to remove your shoes at temple areas. Carry water and mosquito repellent for the forest walks. Local guides are available at the entrance if you want more historical context. At least one excellent travel guide notes that Mihintale “is known as the site of the earliest introduction to Buddhism in Sri Lanka”www.kateandmikestravels.com, making it a must-visit for culture buffs and spiritual seekers alike.
2. Mulkirigala Rock Temple – Little Sigiriya of the South
Towering 205 m above the southern coast, Mulkirigala is a steep granite outcrop crowned by a series of ancient Buddhist temples. Often called “Little Sigiriya,” this hidden gem is best known for its exquisite frescoes and statues. The sanctuary was founded in the 3rd century BC by King Saddhatissa, and over centuries monks carved caves and built shrines into the rock’s seven terraces. Today visitors ascend a winding staircase to discover Buddha statues, demon guardians, and chamber after chamber of colorful wall paintings depicting Jataka tales. The murals – including scenes of Bodhisattvas and celestial nymphs – are remarkably well-preserved and unique in Sri Lanka.
Foreign tourists will enjoy the quiet, local atmosphere here. Unlike Sigiriya (which sees droves of visitors), Mulkirigala attracts mostly Sri Lankans and a few intrepid travelers, so you can explore at leisure. The hilltop also rewards hikers with panoramic views of palm-fringed fields and lagoons below. Monkeys (toque macaques) often scamper among the ruins, adding a playful touch.
What to do and see: Enter through the large drip-ledged rock cave at Level 1 (Ambasthala Cave) to view painted Buddhas and demon figures. In Level 3 lie the famous fresco halls – wait to see the green-skinned “angel” painting and scenes of flowers and dancers. Levels 4 and above hold the Bodhi tree (descended from the sacred Bo tree of Anuradhapura) and a massive reclining Buddha. Each tier has historic ruins and meditation caves. At the very top you reach a small summit temple with panoramic vistas.
How to get there: Mulkirigala is 7 km from Tangalle on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast. From Tangalle or Matara city, hire a taxi or tuk-tuk for the roughly 40-minute drive. (There’s no train or direct bus to the rock itself.) A paved road leads right to a parking area at the base of the climb. The ticket office is at ground level, and you climb about 400 steps in total (there are a couple of resting platforms).
Best time to visit: The dry season (December to March) is recommended, since heavy rain can make the climb slippery. On hot days it’s best to arrive early or late, as the rock faces can become sun-baked by midday. The site opens around 8 AM; many visitors head there after the morning crowds leave bigger sites.
Tips: Wear sturdy shoes or sports sandals (some stairs have uneven stones). Bring water and a sun hat. The rock is sacred, so modest clothing is expected and you’ll remove shoes in shrine areas. Hire a local guide at the base for in-depth history – many of the murals have fascinating stories that make them come alive. According to one travel guide, Mulkirigala “is renowned for its intricate murals and stone carvings depicting Buddhist mythology”, so take time to admire the artwork.
3. Knuckles Mountain Range – Misty Highland Wilderness
For jungle trekkers and wildlife lovers, the Knuckles Mountain Range is Sri Lanka’s ultimate off-beat nature escape. Named for its jagged silhouette of “fist-like” peaks, this UNESCO-listed cloud forest region sits in the Central Highlands north of Kandy. Here emerald green valleys plunge between towering ridges up to 2,000+ m high, all shrouded in mist and cloaked in orchids and moss. The highlands are so biodiverse that UNESCO calls the area a “super-hotspot,” home to rare creatures like the western purple-faced langur and Horton Plains slender loris.
Knuckles appeals to foreign visitors seeking adventure and solitude. Its deep forests harbor endemic birds, butterflies and amphibians unseen elsewhere. The air is cool and fresh – a welcome respite from the lowland heat – and tiny villages in the foothills welcome hikers with local food and tea. Popular hikes include the Mini Worlds End, a cliffside vantage looking down at the Uwa valley, and the forest trail to Kirigalpoththa, Sri Lanka’s second-highest peak. Each trek starts in pine plantations or tea estates and quickly enters dense jungle, bamboo thickets and streams.
What to do and see: Join a guided trek through the cloud forest to see rare wildlife (keep ears open for birdcalls and monkeys). Photograph orchids, ferns and cascading streams. In rainy season, waterfalls like Pitawala Pathana and waterfalls above Ohiya are spectacular. Villagers sometimes offer homestays or simple lunch tiffin, giving a glimpse of rural hill-country life. For panoramic views, the ridgewalk near Riverston or the overlook at Gods’ Bridge are musts (warning: they can be slippery after rain).
How to get there: The Knuckles region spans several trailheads. The most accessible is Riverston, about 40 km from Kandy. From Kandy’s Peradeniya Bus Station, take a bus to Riverston (via Aranayake) – roughly a 2.5‑hour ride – then hire a local guide for the jungle climb. Alternatively, a well-known trek starts from Handapana (45 km from Kandy). Roads are winding and can be slow, so many travelers simply arrange a hire car or private tour for convenience.
Best time to visit: April to August is generally best, with clear weather and blooming wildflowers. The monsoon months (October–December) can be very wet and paths muddy. Early mornings often have mist that clears by midday, giving magical forest ambiances. Temperatures range from 15–25°C, so pack a light jacket for night and early hikes.
Tips: A local guide is mandatory for most Knuckles treks (a conservation measure and safety precaution). Dress in long sleeves and pants to guard against leeches, as this forest is famous for them. Good hiking shoes are essential. Bring snacks or lunch – there are few shops beyond the trailheads. Many who’ve been here describe Knuckles as wild and enchanting; UNESCO notes the area’s “extraordinary range of flora and fauna”. For a cooler adventure far from the crowds, you can’t beat Sri Lanka’s cloud-shrouded Knuckles.
4. Sinharaja Rainforest Reserve – Ancient Jungle Sanctuary
Hidden in Sri Lanka’s southwest, Sinharaja is the island’s last viable lowland rainforest – a biodiversity jackpot. UNESCO designated it a World Heritage site for good reason: over 60% of its trees and half of its animals (from butterflies to mammals) are found nowhere else. This emerald wilderness of giant lianas, towering trees and winding streams is a must for nature fans. Despite its global fame among ecologists, Sinharaja remains off the radar for many tourists, so even a weekday walk through its trails often feels blissfully private.
Why foreign visitors will love Sinharaja: the chance to see Sri Lanka’s endemic wildlife in a primeval setting. Look for the red-faced macaque, purple-faced langur and Sri Lanka blue magpie. Dawn chorus here is unforgettable – the jungle literally wakes up with chirps, croaks and birdcalls. Photographers and botanists will marvel at endemic orchids, golden fungi and giant figs draped in vines.
What to do and see: The official entrance is at Deniyaya (Mastian) or Neluwa (Kitulgala side). All visitors must hire a certified guide (and pay an entry fee). Guides lead you on loop trails of varying length – from a few hours up to multi-day stays at a park bungalow. The easiest loop near the jetty crosses streams and passes through primary forest; keep an eye out for the endemic green pit viper on leaf litter. For more of a challenge, the Madulsima trail ascends to a viewpoint on Sinhagala, rewarding trekkers with a jungle panorama like the image above. Even a short tour is educational: guides can locate rare spot-necked otters, frog nurseries and explain medicinal uses of plants.
How to get there: Sinharaja sits roughly 3 – 4 hours’ drive south of Colombo. From Galle or Matara on the south coast, head inland toward Deniyaya or Weligama via small roads. The most common route is via Deniyaya; there’s a signposted turnoff on the Colombo-Matara highway. Public buses run to Deniyaya or Neluwa junction, but schedules are sparse; most foreign tourists hire a driver or join a tour from Galle or Colombo. Accommodation nearby ranges from simple guesthouses to eco-lodges on the forest edge.
Best time to visit: The dry season (January–March, or June–September) is best, when trails are less muddy and animal viewing is easy. Heavy rains (October–December) turn the forest floor to a slick, leech-infested mudbath – not ideal for casual outings. Early morning walks often yield the most sightings (wildlife tends to rest midday in cool shade).
Tips: Wear long-sleeves/trousers and good hiking shoes. Carry insect repellent. Flash photography may be restricted in some zones (to protect wildlife). Bring snacks – there are no shops inside the reserve. The experience is more rewarding when savored quietly: slow down and listen to the jungle’s symphony. Remember, Sinharaja “is the country’s last viable area of primary tropical rainforest”. Visiting it feels like stepping back into ancient Ceylon – a must for eco-conscious travelers.
5. Kumana (Yala East) National Park – Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Far from the popular safaris of Yala and Udawalawe, Kumana National Park in the southeast is a peaceful wilderness of lakes, lagoons and dry jungle. Also called Yala East, Kumana is a hidden gem for wildlife lovers because it sees far fewer visitors than its famous neighbor, yet it boasts a rich variety of animals. It’s especially renowned for its birdlife: over 200 species have been recorded here, including thousands of migratory waterfowl each year. Between April and July, tens of thousands of spoonbills, storks and ducks flock to its shallow lagoons. At any season you may spot flocks of flamingos, pelicans or the stately black-necked stork.
Foreign tourists seeking quiet, uncrowded safari are drawn to Kumana’s serene beauty. Picture yourself in an open jeep at dawn, rolling past sand dunes and mangrove shorelines as crocs bask in the sun. Elephants come to drink at waterholes, and leopards, elusive but present, sometimes prowl the bush. Unlike the road-saturated Yala, Kumana offers stretches of wilderness where the only tracks are animal prints.
What to do and see: The park is basically divided by the Kumbukkan Oya river into a dry northern park and a lush southern swamp. A morning jeep safari is recommended – local guides know the watering holes where animals concentrate. Bring binoculars for birds: common species include painted storks, cinnamon bitterns and Asian openbills. You can also visit the tranquil Kumana Tank (a large reservoir) or boat on the Kumbukkan Oya. The coastal salt flats and lagoons mean you might even spot sea turtles nesting on the beach fringes of the park.
How to get there: Kumana is in Ampara District, about 20 km from the surfers’ haven Arugam Bay. From Arugam Bay town drive southwest about 30 minutes on bumpy roads to reach the park entrance. (There’s no train or bus to Kumana; most visitors arrive by private car or organized tour.) Alternatively, it’s a full-day drive (~7–8 hours) from Colombo or Kandy; some intrepid travelers combine it with trips to nearby Panama village or Lahugala Kitulana NP. The closest airport is Mattala Rajapaksa (opened 2013) near Hambantota; from there it’s a 2‑hour drive via Arugam Bay.
Best time to visit: The dry season (April–July) is ideal. As Kumana’s grasslands dry up, wildlife concentrates around the remaining waterholes, making sightings easier. It’s also turtle nesting season on nearby beaches. Monsoon in October–January makes some tracks muddy and inaccessible; January–March is tolerable but can see fewer birds.
Tips: Book your safari through a reliable local operator – they know the rhythms of the park. Early-morning game drives (6–10 AM) are best; afternoons can be sweltering. Pack sun protection and plenty of water (it’s very warm in the east). Keep a respectful distance from wildlife and never feed animals. Note: Kumana’s visitor facilities are minimal (no lodges inside). Most tourists stay in Arugam Bay or Panama village and do a day trip. As one guidebook notes, Kumana is “renowned for its diverse bird species, with over 200 recorded”, so don’t forget your camera and bird book.
6. Kitulgala – Rafting and Adventure in the Jungle
A two‑hour drive west of Kandy plunges you into the Kelani Valley, a lush rainforest gorge criss-crossed by the Kelani River – home to the adventure hub of Kitulgala. Famous as Sri Lanka’s premier white-water rafting spot, Kitulgala offers a thrilling blend of adrenaline and scenery. The rapids here range from easy Class II to challenging Class V, all set against a backdrop of steep jungle-covered hills. In fact, Kitulgala was the real filming location for the movie “The Bridge on the River Kwai,” and you can still see the old railway bridge that inspired the story (now a footbridge) spanning the river.
Adrenaline-seekers will love Kitulgala for rafting, canyoning and waterfall rappelling. The Kelani River gurgles through narrow canyons where guides will have you jumping into emerald pools or abseiling down cascades like the 105‑ft (32 m) Mannarawa Falls. Mountain biking trails from the town take you through tea and rubber plantations into remoter villages. Even short stops here get heart rates up, but the reward is cool clear river water to swim in and pristine rainforest trails to hike.
What to do and see: Obviously, sign up for a white-water rafting trip – there are several outfitters in town offering half-day and day tours. Most packages include cliff jumping and a swim break at a riverside waterfall. Beyond rafting, try “Marvel Canyoning,” which adds zip-lining into deep gorges, or a trek to hidden spots like Sandun Ella (a 30 m waterfall perfect for abseiling). Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the quiet Peak Wilderness forest trails nearby, where you might spot endemic birds and macaques.
How to get there: Kitulgala is about 70 km (2–3 hours) from Colombo and 40 km (1.5 hours) from Kandy. The easiest route is by road via Kurunegala–Ganewatta, since the scenic train through the hills has already passed (the railroad track ends at Hatton now). Many travellers hire a car from Kandy or Colombo. The main town is small, with guesthouses and cafes on either side of the river. Outfitters will drive you to launch sites on the Kelani River, which winds about 10 km through steep forest.
Best time to visit: Rafting is best in the late rainy season (October–November) and early dry season (December–January), when water levels are high for rapids. (Monsoon trickles the river in April–June.) The weather is warm year-round, but afternoons can be rainy; mornings are usually dry.
Tips: Waterproof bags and equipment rental are standard. Wear water shoes or sports sandals (not flip-flops). For first-timers, guided rafting is safe and fun – they’ll provide lifejackets and helmets. Local operators emphasize safety: “Conquer the rapids of the picturesque Kelani River at Kitulgala – the heart of white water rafting in Sri Lanka”. Bring a change of clothes (you’ll get soaked!) and a waterproof camera if you can. If adrenaline isn’t your thing, Kitulgala still offers peaceful riverside walks and birdlife (look for kingfishers in the shallows).
7. Kalpitiya – Dolphin Waters and Kite Paradise
On the rugged northwest coast of Sri Lanka, Kalpitiya is emerging as an adventure-lovers’ paradise. This long peninsula separates the Puttalam Lagoon from the Indian Ocean, creating a network of shallow waters and sandbars ideal for watersports. Kalpitiya’s claim to fame is dolphin watching – at certain times of year you can join boat trips to see pods of spinner and bottlenose dolphins dancing in the waves (sometimes numbering in the hundreds!). Occasionally, even blue whales pass by on their migration. Thanks to the unique geography, divers and snorkelers also find pristine coral reefs in Kalpitiya’s deep channels.
Kite surfers flock to Kalpitiya for its consistent winds and calm lagoons. Blustery breezes blow here from May to October (southwest monsoon), making it one of Asia’s top kiteboarding destinations. Beginners can learn in waist-deep water at places like Banana Reef or Orchid Lagoon, while experienced riders chase downwind runs along the coast. Sundowners here are spectacular – imagine sipping a cool drink on a sandy spit, watching kite-sailors carve arcs against a fiery sunset.
What to do and see: Book a half-day dolphin-watching cruise (best between November and April). Bring binoculars and a waterproof jacket (you’ll get spray). For kiteboarding, there are several international-standard kite schools on the lagoon side. If you prefer land, rent a bicycle or scooter to explore quiet fishing villages and salt flats. Kalpitiya also has historical sights like the 17th-century Dutch Fort, and plenty of seafood restaurants serving fresh lagoon catch.
How to get there: Kalpitiya town is about 150 km (3–4 hours) north of Colombo along the coastal road. The nearest airports are Bandaranaike (Colombo) or a quicker domestic flight into Batticaloa, but most travelers drive or take a private transfer. Public transport exists (buses from Colombo to Puttalam, then tuk-tuk inland) but a car is much more convenient. Once in Kalpitiya, most beaches and lagoons are just minutes apart.
Best time to visit: Dolphin season in Kalpitiya is November–March. Kite season is longer – the winds are strong from May to September, and even moderate in December–March. April and October can be transitional (lower wind). Rainfall is minimal November–April, making it pleasantly dry for tours.
Tips: Whether on land or water, protect yourself from the sun and heat. Bring reef-safe sunscreen (the coral areas are sensitive). Book dolphin trips through reputable operators who respect wildlife (avoid chasing the animals too closely). Tide conditions matter: snorkeling is best at mid/high tide. A local travel guide sums up Kalpitiya’s charm well: “Kalpitiya is a rising ecotourism hotspot known for its dolphin-watching tours, kitesurfing, and untouched beaches”. In short, it’s a hidden coastal gem – less crowded than Goa or Phuket, but offering every water thrill under the sun.
8. Rekawa Turtle Beach – A Night with the Sea Turtles
Rekawa is a quiet fishing village in southern Sri Lanka that comes alive at night for one very special reason: it’s one of the country’s most important sea turtle nesting beaches. Here, endangered loggerheads, green turtles, olive ridleys, hawksbills and leatherbacks come ashore under the moonlight to dig nests and lay eggs. Because of this, the village’s Turtle Conservation Project has turned Rekawa into a model of community-based ecotourism. Foreign visitors can join guided night walks along the moonlit sand to witness these magnificent creatures in action – a truly magical wildlife encounter.
What makes Rekawa appealing to tourists is the chance to see an up-close nature spectacle while knowing you’re helping protect it. Watching a 300-kg leatherback emerge from the waves, settle and lay dozens of eggs in a pit is as humbling as it is thrilling. It’s an experience very few places on Earth offer. Plus, the surrounding area – with its golden beach, coconut palms and quiet lagoon – provides a serene getaway from beach crowds.
What to do and see: Book a “turtle watch” tour (there is no admission fee, but donations are encouraged) on a full-moon night between April and July, when nesting peaks. You’ll meet at the Turtle Watch Center around 8:00 PM, then walk in small groups to the beach with a conservationist escort. Highlights include seeing turtles laying eggs and the hatchlings scrambling into the sea. (Hatchling season is also April–July, but the adults come earlier.) By day, relax on the wide golden sands or take a boat ride on the nearby lagoon, home to birds and small crocodiles.
How to get there: Rekawa is about 20 km east of Tangalle, the main town on the south coast. From Tangalle, a tuk-tuk or short taxi ride on winding roads brings you to the Turtle Watch site in Rekawa village. There’s no road right up to the beach (to protect the habitat), but your guide will lead the way. Many travelers combine Rekawa with visits to Galle (about 100 km away) or Horton Plains.
Best time to visit: Peak nesting season is April–July (Sri Lankan winter). Full-moon nights are the best for seeing turtles come ashore. Also, hatchling release can be seen in May–July. Avoid the October–December rains, when breeding is low. (Incidentally, January–March full moons also see some turtle activity, albeit fewer turtles.)
Tips: Dress softly (cover shoulders and knees), and use no flash photography during the night walk (it can disorient turtles). Walk slowly and quietly, and follow the guide’s instructions (never handle the turtles or eggs). Bring a red-filter flashlight if you have one (some guides provide them) – red light is less disturbing. The project runs on donations – even a small contribution helps pay the village “nest protectors” who guard the eggs from poachers. A conservation website notes that Rekawa “became recognized as one of Sri Lanka’s most important sea turtle nesting beaches”. This is an opportunity to witness nature’s wonder while supporting an inspiring eco-effort.
9. Ritigala Forest Monastery – Ancient Ruins in the Wilderness
Hidden deep in the jungles north of Mihintale, Ritigala is a ruined forest monastery steeped in mystery. For over a thousand years (from the 3rd century BC to the medieval period) Buddhist monks lived and meditated here atop the mountain, away from the world. Only rediscovered in the late 19th century, the site is now a quiet archaeological park. Today the climb through dense jungle to Ritigala’s summit is as much a pilgrimage as the destination: moss-covered brick walls, stone pillars and labyrinthine terraces emerge through creeping vines, evoking a lost civilization.
Visitors find Ritigala magical: the ruins feel as though swallowed by the trees. In the monsoon, waterfalls cascade beside meditation platforms. On clear days, the view from the top covers the wet-zone plains and even far-off Adam’s Peak. The slow, misty ascent is very different from the more crowded cultural sites, offering solitude – you may only meet a handful of Sri Lankan families on weekends.
What to do and see: Start at the base temple and follow the stone-paved path into the sacred grove. Highlights include the Pothgul Vehera (Scholars’ Hall) with stone seats under giant banyans, the twin ponds fed by springs, and the King’s Coronation Pavilion adorned with lion carvings. Climb to one of the highest ruins to see ancient bathing pools. Birdwatchers can spot endemic species like the green magpie or orange-billed babbler in the surrounding forest.
How to get there: Ritigala lies about 25 km north of Anuradhapura, near the village of Angammedilla. From Anuradhapura you can take a local bus or tuk-tuk on the Anuradhapura–Trincomalee road and turn inland at Muttettugala junction. There is a small entrance fee to help maintain the site. The main trail is well-marked but steep; sturdy shoes are strongly recommended.
Best time to visit: The dry season (May–September) is ideal for hiking here expatstraveltogether.com. Avoid the peak monsoon (October–January), as the forest can be soggy and slippery. Early mornings are beautiful, with mist clearing off the ruins. If you’re interested in culture, note that the site may close during major Buddhist holidays (check locally).
Tips: This is a sacred site, so dress modestly. Since the forests are cool and shady, a light jacket may be handy. There are no facilities on-site (bring water and snacks). Local guides are available and can explain the history – for example, legend says Ritigala was founded by King Pandukabhaya over 2,000 years ago expatstraveltogether.com. In fact, one guidebook vividly describes Ritigala as “where spirituality and nature intertwine, creating a serene and mystical atmosphere”expatstraveltogether.com. Allocate at least 2–3 hours to explore – the feeling of walking among ancient ruins in the jungle is truly unforgettable.
10. Diyaluma Falls – Mountain Waters and Natural Pools
Tucked into Sri Lanka’s central highlands, Diyaluma Falls is the country’s second‑highest waterfall (220 m) yet still very much under the tourist radar. Cascading down a sheer cliff in multiple stages, Diyaluma plunges into a series of natural rock pools where adventurous visitors can swim at the top of the falls. The remote location and rugged approach mean that, even when dozens of locals visit on weekends, you’ll often have stretches of the falls to yourself – a magical reward for the hike.
Diyaluma appeals to hikers and photographers. The trek up to the top pools (about 1.5–2 hours one-way) winds along the Uva plateau, through pine forests and rocky outcrops. From the base, the view of the multi-tiered cascade in emerald jungle is breathtaking. Once you reach the upper ledge, you can relax in the refreshingly cool plunge pools with the waterfall thundering beside you. During Sri Lankan New Year in April, locals bathe in these pools in festive tradition – you may join in or simply watch the fun.
What to do and see: Most visitors hike from the village of Koslanda (near Haputale) along a rugged trail. There’s an entry fee and a permit system to control numbers. Along the way you’ll see the waterfall gradually appear, and near the top there’s a small shrine and rest area. Bring swimsuits and towels – the natural infinity pools have stunning views down the valley. Also be careful: cliffs are steep. At the base of the falls (a short drive from the trailhead) you can take photos from a viewpoint, and many locals picnic in the river pools there.
How to get there: Diyaluma is about 50 km southeast of Horton Plains or 15 km from the town of Koslanda. The usual approach is to go through Ella or Bandarawela to Koslanda, then up a dirt road to the trailhead. Hiring a vehicle is easiest; public transport gets you only as far as Koslanda. From Koslanda village, a jeep takes you to the falls’ bottom or trail-start.
Best time to visit: Visit in the late dry season (March–April) when the pools are full but the peak season crowds in Ella and Nuwara Eliya have not yet descended. The falls is strong year-round (since it’s spring-fed) but avoids the heaviest rains of October–December. Morning hikes are good – you’ll reach the summit by noon when the sun is high over the valley.
Tips: Bring a change of clothes and shoes for water. Be prepared for leeches on the forested trail! The final climb has cables and stone steps for safety, but watch your footing in wet areas. Locals charge a small fee to let you park or pass (5–10 LKR). One Sri Lanka travel blogger calls Diyaluma “a hidden gem” that offers both “the 2nd highest waterfall” views and “plenty of natural swimming pools”srftravelssrilanka.com. Indeed, for a slice of wild highland beauty away from the crowds, few places compare.
References: For more information, see official travel guides and local tourism resources on each destination. Many of the above details are drawn from travel articles and Sri Lanka Tourism descriptions (e.g. UNESCO World Heritage entries whc.unesco.org whc.unesco.org and conservation project sites turtlewatchrekawa.org lovesrilanka.org) as well as first-hand travel blogs expatstraveltogether.com srftravelssrilanka.com. These will help you plan visits and learn more about Sri Lanka’s rich but often overlooked attractions.