When tourists consider a tour to Sri Lanka they tend to envision golden beaches, green tea plantations and ancient temples. However, other than cultural riches and beaches, there is something more that can be called a whole different world- the astonishing Sri Lanka’s Highlands and Waterfalls. The magical scenery is the meeting place of rolling mountains, foggy valleys, and rushing waterfalls, which provide adventurers with an opportunity to explore nature in its most original state.

The Charm of the Highlands

The central highlands of Sri Lanka have been a UNESCO World Heritage site due to the biodiversity and the dramatic beauty they possess. This cool refreshing area has access points such as towns such as Nuwara Eliya, Ella, and Haputale. In contrast to the hot climate of the coast, the highlands greet tourists with fresh mountain air, slopes with tea, and picturesque railway trips that pass through tunnels, bridges, and valleys of an emerald-green hue.

Here, life slows down. Nuwara Eliya, which is sometimes known as Little England, shows its colonial allure through its cottages, gardens and golf courses. On the other hand, Ella has emerged as a backpackers and trekkers favourite and boasts of a relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking panoramic views including Ella Rock and Little Adams Peak. These towns combined are the ideal starting point towards the beauty of the Sri Lanka Highlands and Waterfalls.

Fascinating Waterfalls

Any visit to the central part is not complete without following its waterfalls. The highlands are most celebrated with some of the most spectacular cascades in Asia each with its own story and charm.

• Diyaluma Falls: Diyaluma is the second-tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka and is 220 meters in height. Those who come to see the natural infinity pools which are found at the summit of the mountain, adventurers enjoy hiking to the mountain top and then the crystal-clear waters flow into the valley below.
• Ravana Falls: This waterfall is situated near Ella and it is a waterfall shrouded in legends, which supposedly has some relation to the epic of Ramayana. It is a tourist destination that is easily accessible and photo friendly all year round.
• Bambarakanda Falls: This is the highest waterfall in the nation and it measures 263 meters. Bambarakanda is a serene place between pine forests and is ideal to those who want to be alone.
• Dunhinda Falls: Dunhinda falls produces a hazy effect with the plunging water into the basin. To get there, the uphill is through beautiful forest paths, which contribute to the adventure.

Every waterfall represents the strength and splendor of nature, which calls tourists to stop and pay attention to the vibration of the highlands.

Adventure Awaits in Every Step

The highlands are not only scenic, but a playground to the adventure outdoors, to thrill-seekers. Mountains and tea estates are covered by the hiking trails, which include both easy walks and difficult ones. The legendary hike to Horton Plains and the Worlds End provide hikers with a view of the far off horizon.

In the meantime, adrenaline enthusiasts may go zip-lining down the valleys or mountain biking over rough terrains or even do the local tours to uncovered waterfalls. In Horton Plains National Park wildlife lovers will be fascinated by the variety of flora and fauna, including exotic orchids, colorful birds, and the elusive leopard.

Tea, Culture, and Community

The landscapes are bewitching but the highlands are also all about people and traditions. The area is the center of the tea industry in Sri Lanka. The tourists may also be taken on a tour of operating tea factories, as well as walk through the plantations and enjoy freshly brewed cups of Ceylon tea, which is regarded as one of the best in the world.

The highland people are very hospitable especially in local market places and community villages. Tasting real Sri Lankan food to attendance at cultural festivals, one of the tourists will be able to embrace the land and its stories better.

Best Time to Visit

Highlands are a great destination that one can visit all year round but the best season is subject to your choice. For cool, clear skies and vibrant landscapes, December to April is ideal. May to September are monsoon months that lead to heavy rains hence making waterfalls even more striking but makes the trekking trails slippery. In any case, the gorgeousness of the Highlands and Waterfalls in Sri Lanka is omnipresent and in various moods depending on the season.

Tips for Travelers

• Bring enough to cover every condition: It may be hot one day, and cold another, bring light clothes during the daytime and heavier clothes in the evenings.
• Bring comfortable shoes: Most of the attractions include hikes thus a good pair of shoes is good and comfortable.
• Travel by train: Kandy to Ella train ride is sometimes described as one of the most picturesque train ride in the world as it goes through the tea fields and mountain ranges.
• Be environmentally friendly: Take care of the untouched nature by not littering and not damaging nature.

A Journey Worth Taking

The Highlands and Waterfalls of Sri Lanka are not simply a travel experience or a trip into the soul of this island. The combination of the natural beauty, the exploration possibilities, and the cultural richness brings the memories that are lifetime. Whether it is hiking as far as Worlds End, bathing in mountain pools or sipping tea on a plantation veranda, the highlands call you to slow down and live life with greater purpose.

At Go Kite Tours we are of the view that all the adventures must bring out the beauty of the land as well as the culture. Our customized itineraries will help make your trip in the highlands a smooth, engaging and memorable experience.

Then when you are ready to follow misty paths, reveal hidden falls, be amazed by the art of nature, there is no better moment to begin planning. Touring Sri Lanka via the Go Kite Tours will lead you to the very heart of the highlands, where waterfalls sing the songs, mountains breath and adventure never stops.