The amazingly beautiful country, Sri Lanka, is a tiny island in the Indian Ocean renowned to be the “Pearl Of The Indian Ocean” but the picturesquely historical, cultural, tropical, instagram worthy and architectural beauty this little island has to offer has become the sole reason why tourists love to frequently visit this wonderous island. The lush greenery and serenity this island holds will offer you the peace you seek for but then again what if you are an adventure lover? Of course this island holds all sorts of adrenaline rushing activities for the adventure lovers as well!
For everyone who loves a leisurely trek, adventurous hike or an adventurous but tranquil camping experience, reading this further will give an insight into what type of an experience you can have in Sri Lanka. The wonderful treasures of nature will amaze you once you visit all the marvellous destinations of this island. The diversity of nature in this country cannot be explained in words hence the biggest reason why it would be one of the best destinations for your hiking or camping tour and for anyone who has visited Sri Lanka earlier for camping or hiking, they definitely know why it is a popular camping and hiking destination. You can try different types of camping and try different types of hiking and explore the wonders that will go beyond the limits of your expectations.
Sri Lanka will change the opinion you have on holiday themes. Camping here on this delightful island is not just a normal vacation under a tent, but will be some unforgettable days that peacefully end with a soothing night beneath a dazzling sky filled with twinkling stars. The days spent in this camping tour are loaded with enthusiasm, passion, unique experiences, thrilling adventures, and mouth watering delicacies cooked over an open-fire. Every camping vacation experience in Sri Lanka will be phenomenally pleasant because it will offer you the wonders of nature in serenity which will leave you in awe therefore it will be more of an investment to you rather than just a camping vacation. Not only the tourists visit these destinations for a memorable experience, even the locals travel from urban areas for an enjoyable encounter.
Sri Lanka offers a unique camping experience for all the nature enthusiasts and explorers. You can experience the lush greenery of the woodlands and the diversity of wildlife at the verdant forests and jungles in Sri Lanka. It would be the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life which will help you immerse yourself in the pristine splendour of the island.
If you need a little insight to this camping adventure, then here it is. It often starts with an exhilarating journey into the forest, where you may see Sri Lanka's breathtaking biodiversity and wild creatures. Elephants, leopards, deer, monkeys, and a wealth of bird species are just a few of the many organisms that may be found in the forest. Your senses will be fascinated by mother nature's scenic views and humming as you make your way farther into the forest.
A genuine way to admire nature and to get in touch with it is to camp in the woods. The noises of the nocturnal creatures resonating out through the woods and the dazzling stars in the sky makes the jungle a spectacular scene at nightfall.
One of the most pristine rainforests in Sri Lanka’s south western region, renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka and a very famous destination among tourists for research and eco-tourism. It is also known for its rich biodiversity and its unique ecological characteristics.
Renowned for being the location of filming of the movie “The Bridge on the River Kwai”, it is a wonderful tropical rainforest situated in the central region of Sri Lanka. It is famous for its picturesque surroundings and for the outdoor leisure activities that can be experienced such as hiking, bird-watching, and white-water rafting.
For anyone who seeks a memorable adventure which is a blend of hiking, trekking and camping then Sri Lanka is the best country to gain that splendid experience. Embark on a thrilling journey with a challenging trip over the rocky grounds, verdant mountains and then go down the beautiful meadows while you cross pristine waterways. Along the journey, visit ancient shrines and villages hidden in the woods that would offer you a glimpse into the enriching history and culture of the country.
With breathtaking glimpses of beautiful landscapes and the melodies of exotic creatures of all kinds, Sri Lanka is an island filled with hiking routes that are a sensory delight. Enjoy the wonderful view of the vibrant dusk at sunset and treat yourself to a delicious meal cooked over the campfire as you take a little break to settle down for camping. This will be a refreshing break that will give you back the energy needed to continue the thrilling journey later on.
Mentioned once again as this destination is great for a fun and adventurous hike or trek and also for camping.
Situated in the central region of Sri Lanka, it is known to have a high-altitude plateau which is renowned for its distinctive ecology and the stunning natural splendour. Many rare species of plants and animals reside here which also includes the famous Sri Lankan leopard. The World's End is the most renowned landmark of the region with a steep cliff with a drop of around 900 metres which is famous among hikers and nature lovers.
Situated in the central region of Sri Lanka, the breathtakingly picturesque Knuckles Mountain Range, sometimes referred to as Knuckles Massif, gets its title from its knuckle-shaped mountains, which resemble the knuckles of a clenched fist. This destination is famous among many hikers, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts with its mist-covered mountains, gushing waterfalls, and beautiful green forests.
Ella, a small town in the Badulla District, is known for its breathtaking natural splendour. The gushing waterfalls, tea plantations, and stunning scenery all add to the attraction that hikers and campers from around the world would go for. Visit tea factories and watch how the finest tea is made. Guests can settle down for a tranquil camp and enjoy the charming nature of Ella while tasting a cup of the finest Ceylon tea.
A small mountain range having a similar name and shape to another renowned range known as the Adam’s Peak is a very popular destination among tourists due to its breathtaking scenery of the surrounding valleys and hills which would be the perfect spot for camping because you can enjoy the stunning view of the dawn and dusk. Photographers and nature lovers must visit this place for camping.
For all the wildlife enthusiasts and bird lovers, you can try National Park camping which will be a blend of Wildlife camping and Birdwatching camping which should be an experience you should never miss. This little island is home to a wide range of animal species. The diversity of wildlife including the giant elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles and a variety of bird species will leave you amazed.
"Leopards!" will be one definite word that most of the wildlife photographers that visit Sri Lanka want to hear as Sri Lanka has been renowned among most of the wildlife photographers who visit here for its leopards. Elephants of Sri Lanka are also a popular animal species because a lot of travellers visit here to witness these majestic creatures with their own eyes. The national parks are also home to a variety of species of birds which makes it a paradise for birdwatchers.
When dusk falls, you may return to a campground tucked away in the heart of the national park, so that you can relax under the canvas while admiring the sights of wildlife and the calming sounds of nature. Camping in a national park here in Sri Lanka is a special and wonderful opportunity to get in touch with nature and the environment and enjoy it for what it's worth. You will treasure this experience for a lifetime.
Wilpattu, Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks are all popular destinations located in the northern region of Sri Lanka. Well loved among wildlife and nature enthusiasts, these destinations are perfect to try wildlife camping, birdwatching camping and National Park camping. The yearly elephant reunions at the Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks are well-known for offering visitors spectacular sights of elephants and other wildlife. With leopards, sloth bears, and many other bird species, Wilpattu National Park delivers a special camping experience.
Situated in the southeast part of the island, the greatest population of leopards in the world is found at Yala National Park along with the giant elephants, sloth bears and crocodiles.
Gal Oya National Park is located in the eastern part of Sri Lanka and is renowned for its wild elephants. You can set up your camp by the Senanayake Reservoir which provides a spectacular view.
Udawalawe National Park is located in the southern part of the island and this national park is also very popular among visitors for the wild elephants. There are marshes and meadows and you can choose somewhere that suits your likings to set up your campsite.
Who wants to go to the beach? Oh everyone sure do want to and Sri Lanka is popular among travellers for its pristine beaches. This gorgeous island is surrounded by the gorgeous sun-kissed beaches with sky-blue waters which is home to a diverse range of marine life organisms and most popularly the coral reefs. From sunbathing on the beach to surfing the coastal waves, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the island’s coastal regions. Camping along one of these golden beaches is the ideal way to relax and enjoy the serenity of the ocean.
Watch how the golden sun sets across the skyline as you enjoy the sound of the sea waves breaking on to the coast in the evenings. You can then enjoy a campfire on the beach, prepare a delicious seafood supper, and enjoy the spectacular view. Fall asleep at your campsite to the relaxation from the sea breeze and the sound of the waters as it calms your soul. Beach camping is a memorable experience that gives you the chance to escape from the outer world and reconnect with nature in serenity.
Sri Lanka provides you with a variety of pristine beaches with warm blue waters and you can choose any one of them to enjoy beach camping. The most popular tourist destinations for beach camping would be Kalpitiya Beach Paradise, Mirissa Beach, Negombo Beach, Yala Beach, Kalkudah Beach, Pasikuda Beach, Ahungalla Beach, Bentota Beach, and Tangalle Beach.
Glamping is luxurious camping and it may be the perfect way to try camping at your comfort for anyone who does not like camping. Glamping in Sri Lanka offers a comfortable camping atmosphere in which you can get in touch with the wilderness while savouring modern facilities. It gives you the perfect fusion of nature and luxury, with the benefits of living in extravagant shelters furnished with comfy mattresses and restrooms to exquisite cuisine.
You may pick from a variety of picturesque sites to enjoy the peace and solitude of nature, from luscious green woods to blissful lakes. You may spend the day taking part in outdoor interests like hiking, paragliding, or town exploration before coming to your luxurious tent for a pleasant night.
Yala - Leopard Nest provides elegant, romantic, and adventurous lodgings nearby the Yala National Park, including tree nests and luxurious tents. There is another glamping spot in Kirinda, namely Cinnamon Wild Yala which offers private balconies, an outdoor pool, and stunning views of the beach and jungle.
Ahungalla - Jungle Beach at Ahungalla is another glamping destination in the southern region of Sri Lanka which is encircled by lush green forests and a crystal blue ocean. With activities including a spa, musical bar, beach volleyball, watersports, table tennis, and cycling, it delivers both memorable moments and timely delights.
Kalpitiya - On Dutch Bay Island you can visit Kodev which is a special glamping getaway with views of the Kalpitiya lagoon and the Indian Ocean. You can camp outdoors with first-rate accommodations, in a virgin wet zone that is eco-friendly.
Wilpattu - Thamaravila Wilpattu provides exquisite timber homes, tented cabins with a thatched roof, and personal veranda platforms along with a breakfast buffet.
Wirawila - One of the best eco-lodges in Sri Lanka, Flameback Eco Lodge, offers five-star grandeur along with natural magnificence. Tucked in a bird sanctuary by the serene Weerawila lake, it offers glamping adventures and healthily delicious food made with ingredients gathered from nearby villages.
When you visit the amazing Knuckles Mountain Range, adventurous Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Lunugamwehera national park with diverse wildlife, the architectural masterpiece Sigiriya and the historical city of Kandy, you can find a variety of other glamping spots. Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of breathtaking spots which provides you with the opportunity of glamping as well so why not visit Sri Lanka while you can.
Scenic camping in Sri Lanka is a chance you can get to reconnect with nature, admire the breathtaking beauty, and revitalise your spirit while you immerse yourself in the blissful scenery. You may fully immerse yourself in the tranquil environment of the island with this fantastic time.
The popular breathtaking destinations including Horton Plains, Ella, National Parks and Knuckles Mountain Range were all explained and you have a great idea on how amazingly splendid experiences these destinations can provide you. Capture the eye-catchy scenery which feels serene and candid by visiting Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Knuckles, and most of the highlands.
Try countryside camping in Sri Lanka for a special chance of exploring rural life and culture while engaging in activities such as gardening, preparing unique Sri Lankan dishes, or visiting the neighbourhood markets. You can take treks through woods, tea farms, and paddy fields in several different destinations where there is a diversity of wildlife and lush greenery. It's a great chance to get in touch with blissful nature and the warm and welcoming neighbourhood while learning the island's culture as you make lifelong memories.
Most Popular Countryside Spots For Camping
Sri Lanka would be the perfect destination for a honeymoon because the diversity in nature and the weather will suit the likes of different couples. You can escape into the paradise of a couple’s getaway and experience the pristine blue waters, glorious sunsets that will set a romantic evening for the two of you, nights under the dazzling stars which will be memorable, harmonious weather changes from the cool rainy mists to warm springs, adventurous moments and the serenity of the hillsides that will take away all the weariness from the preparations and the enjoyable day of your big day.
You can also get a chance to enjoy our unique food culture all while having your privacy to create the most romantic and unforgettable moments on your camping trip. Whether you want it to be luxurious or affordable, you can try all the above mentioned camping types as you like. Go camping and enjoy the freedom and the privacy as you like, here in Sri Lanka!
In Sri Lanka, hiking is a fun and enjoyable activity that provides you with an opportunity to appreciate this island's diverse topography and uniqueness of nature. Sri Lanka has a wide choice of hiking paths that are ideal for hikers of all levels of experience, from luscious tropical rainforests to untamed mountain ranges and gushing waterfalls. Hiking and camping are activities that are done together as you can have an adventure as you hike or trek and settle down to camp once you need a break.
Most destinations that were listed for the best camping destinations in Sri Lanka are popular destinations among tourists for hiking as well. Namely some of them are Knuckles Mountain Range, Ella Rock, Horton Plains National Park and Adam’s Peak. The island's tropical weather makes trekking pleasant throughout the year, although the ideal period of time for hiking is from December to March which is the dry season. You can try many different types of hikes, from quick day walks to extended expeditions that provide an immersing adventure in the woods. More than 50 hiking and trekking paths in unique and wide ranging landscapes await you for a soul-satisfying trip. Families may choose short paths, couples and teams can choose trails that are pretty challenging, and experienced hikers can tackle harder excursions and treks. Every tourist, regardless of their age, physical fitness level, or personal goals, has their own type of hike here.
There are various names for hiking and trekking in Sri Lanka which have become much more like brand names. For example, consider trekking in Sri Lanka's national parks and Ella. All of these excursions have gained fame as brands that highlight the Pearl of the Indian Ocean as a popular tourist attraction for hiking. You will encounter a lot of local species, including monkeys, deer, and several bird species, as you stroll across the rocky landscape. You can also travel to isolated villages while hiking and interact with the residents to fully experience the exquisite Sri Lankan culture and traditions. Another type of hike is travelling a significant distance for a religious belief while taking a chance to connect with oneself and nature spiritually. This is called a religious pilgrimage.
Hiking in Sri Lanka is a breathtaking excursion beyond your expectations that provides you a chance to reconnect with the blissful nature, push yourself forward, and make lifelong unforgettable moments. It is an encounter that offers a unique insight on the island's natural grandeur and the glory of its cultural heritage.
Forget about the adventurous hikes and treks that you can experience over the land, take a dive into the deep and dark underground cavern that leads you into a crystal-clear pond with a bluish reflection which is known to be even deeper with most of it still undiscovered by humankind. It is said to be one of the hardest places to take a hike off to. Immerse in the thrill of this adventure and take yourself on a hike into this hidden world by passing through the sharp textured rocky walls, steep rocky edges and diverse widths of the tunnel as you crawl and find your way down into the depths of this cavern.
Make sure to travel down there with an expert guide who would possess enough knowledge to take you safely as it would be one of the hardest and riskiest adventures. Ropes, high intensity headlights as it would be pitch black dark, swimsuit and life jackets if you would want a little swim in the pond, and most importantly wear something that would ensure the safety of your body as this would not be an easy journey. Once you get to this mesmerising crystal clear pond, you would notice that the water is very calm, still and cold. It would be surprising and you would not even notice whether there is water until you make ripples in it. Once you shine a light into the water, the reflection would be bluish and gorgeous.
At a height of 2000 metres you can find the Horton Plains National Park that offers thriving peaks, woods, pristine lakes, and gushing waterfalls. World’s Edge is a trail with an ocean view which is one of the many options for hikers. Three hours are needed to complete this 9.5-kilometer hike, however if the weather is bad or if it is misty, then the vision may be hampered. Travelling early in the morning is ideal as clouds can be avoided. These plains, with their varied habitats and indigenous wildlife, also include major rivers. Montane evergreen forests, grasslands, and aquatic habitats are also a part of this natural splendour. Enjoy all of this as you take an adventurous hike.
Discover the historic treasures of Sigiriya, where nature and history blend harmoniously. Take yourself on a hike and explore Pidurangala Rock. Go hiking to take in the breathtaking sunrise at Sigiriya Rock Fortress and travel the Ramayana Trail through Sigiriya, Dunuvila, Laggala, and Ritigala. Discover the Ironwood Forest of Namal Uyana and climb Rose Quartz Mountain for a spectacular panorama. Take a hike over Ritigala mountain, an intricate mosaic of the natural world's grandeur, to conclude your excursion. Each step in Sigiriya is a gateway to a time of majesty and magnificent harmonies of the environment.
Tucked away between Kandy and Matale in the Central Highlands is the mountain range known as the Knuckles Mountain Range. It gets its title because of its knuckle-like shape. A variety of animal species can be seen here, and the hikes are very challenging due to the magnitude of it, therefore it should only be attempted by experienced hikers with a guide. From day treks to multi-day excursions, numerous routes are available for different hikers. A unique adventure can be enjoyed because of the range's unique ecosystems and ranging weather.
Ella Rock is another worthwhile day trek which offers panoramic views of the Ella city along the way and at the top of the summit. It has a total height of about 1000 metres and consists of waterfalls, rubber tree forests, and tea plantations which you can encounter throughout the 4-hour climb. This serene location in Sri Lanka's Hill Country is well-known for its reverberating elements and soothing farmland ambience, making it the ideal spot for hikers and wildlife lovers.
Another hiker’s choice of destination is the Little Adam’s Peak with a height of 1141 metres which is a two to three-hour hike. Nature photographers would love this hike as there would be several opportunities to capture the natural splendour along the trail, which meanders past tea farms as well. The best time for hiking is early mornings with its well-lit trails and breathtaking dawn views from the summit.