Negombo, a lively city rich in history and culture, is only a 15-minute drive from Bandaranayake Airport (BIA). It is the most convenient big city to the airport and the perfect place to start your Sri Lankan adventure. But Negombo is more than simply a beautiful city but a place with lot of activities to adventure on. 

### Dutch Canal 

The Dutch Canal is an old waterway. This was built by Dutch during the colonial period. This is a long river runs down the city. This Canal is filled with stories from past, present and future. So, this is very special for Negombo city.  People can walk beside it and see old buildings and houses. Sometimes, people use small boats to go on the canal and see the views. It's a peaceful and nice place to visit, especially in the morning and evening when the sun is not too hot. It's a part of ancient Negombo that you can see and enjoy today.

![dutch-cannel-old](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/2of3fVF0iXeDAdJfGCPALV/db1977b5507e652c874b9c2f04c513ea/dutch-cannel-old.jpg)
![dutch-cannel](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/6RY9pnR8KhFBQkwC3MWCz1/88174af26adb45c58d350bb9cb022cbd/dutch-cannel.jpg)

### Negombo Beach

Negombo Beach is a beautiful place by the sea in Negombo. It has soft sand and blue water. Many people visit the beach to relax, swim, and play in the waves. There are places to sit, and sometimes you can see colorful boats on the water. The sunsets at Negombo Beach are really pretty with orange and pink colors in the sky. People like to take walks along the shore and collect seashells. It's a fun place for families and friends to enjoy the ocean and have a good time together. Let your inner child come out and play on the shore. 

![negombo-beach](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/2LTl9YHzbQSxe1aE2lfcPo/77e85d50bcaebaa785351825f27fdb1c/negombo-beach.jpg)
![negombo-beach-2](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/2hIHmkToYbFtiKgZSvNSqK/c6d1d9f6d07b76c12f9c78a1b5c4eaad/negombo-beach-2.jpg)

### Negombo Lagoon

At Negombo Lagoon, there's a world of exciting activities waiting for you. You can hop into a little boat and go kayaking while the sun paints beautiful colors in the sky during [sunrise](https://www.rapidadventures.lk/experiences/sunruse-kayaking-on-negombo-lagoon) or [sunset](https://www.rapidadventures.lk/experiences/sunset-kayaking-on-negombo-lagoon).

![kayaking](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/1vvyTqnw9PjIEQmVBrjNtk/b6ad042640ee0f893e4b714bb936b228/kayaking.jpg)
![sunset](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/1mMvUpXlmgjq8UxLZgSK2U/d37c6bdee9dff1a04a8d1a2b6ff7f314/sunset.jpg)

For a bigger adventure, you can join a boat tour guided by friendly experts who will share stories about the lagoon and show you interesting spots. Have you ever seen monkeys up close? On the [Monkey Island tour](https://www.rapidadventures.lk/experiences/monkey-island-tour-in-negombo), you can watch them play and swing around – it's really cool!

![monkey-island](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/3rCHvMX29VZPlyLUP4wbmc/62282f32aeb5c832392d23417482c8ab/monkey-island.jpg)

And if you're curious about local life, visit the fish market to see fishermen selling their catch.

![fish-market](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/6ileYqjPY2lkDW49ZsFyGM/62b31e656382a3404b08a2198cf35c11/fish-market.jpg)

Keep an eye out for colorful birds and other animals that live around the lagoon. And guess what? You can also just sit by the water, listen to its gentle sounds, and relax. Negombo Lagoon is full of fun, relaxation, and amazing things to explore!

Looking for a thrilling time in Negombo? Rapid Adventures is here for you. We offer fun guided tours, easy airport transfers, cozy places to stay, and even [self-ride rentals](https://www.rapidadventures.lk/rentals). Explore the Dutch Canal, check out the fish market, or relax on Negombo Beach. Whatever you're into, we've got you covered. Interested? Just reach out to us. Let's make your time in Negombo unforgettable. Rapid Adventures is the way to go. Contact us now and let's get the adventure started!

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Are you ready to have a breath-taking experience in the city of Negombo? This city is a perfect combination for both local and foreign explorers to feel the Sri Lankan cultural activities.

Let’s get discover Negombo

The Delft is the largest island among the islands belonging to Sri Lanka (approximately 50 km2 ). Delft Island is also known as  Neduntheevu Island. This island is located to the west of the Jaffna peninsula and it is about 80 km away from India. Among the islands belonging to Sri Lanka, this is the only inhabited island close to India. Several naval bases are stationed here and they also plays a major role.

![IMG-20230307-WA0060-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/4WUMECAIeoMsWOKg2CaHOM/45ffd109598b77afcc2efb73d47a5dfa/IMG-20230307-WA0060-min.jpg)

![20645450 1826479310699908 4468158950530848383 o-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/2EdyW4CACQss1m445zRMU0/eedafaf164009a856afe71620ae1c6d5/20645450_1826479310699908_4468158950530848383_o-min.jpg)

![20645267 1826486804032492 7008031805084629255 o-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/5PBGCmKUibdpyFGKkVSkay/454ffd4c3e35cb9f79ff851874ba6126/20645267_1826486804032492_7008031805084629255_o-min.jpg)

A trip to Delft Island takes about an hour’s cruise. Two navy ships, “Wadatharaki and Naduntaraki”, also have a few more boat services to assist you on your journey. There are some unique places you can visit reaching Delft. How lucky you are if you ever leave your footprints on this unique island. Most eye-catching sites were created by the Dutch. Among these, the Dutch fort, queen’s tower lighthouse, Dutch old courts, Dutch old stable, and Dutch pigeon tower. In addition, you can see the giant bio-bap tree, growing stone, old Buddhist temple foundation, and walls made of limestone. Out of all these, my heart was captivated the most by the herds of wild horses running freely everywhere. The whole island is based on coral and limestone. For this reason, limestone blocks are everywhere you look. This may be the reason why they used limestone blocks for all their constructions.

![20627003 1826477280700111 7810416677049774248 o-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/2QAuKFNt3sIc3WEn4cuhqN/9e582fa32f70f4627d7addad2b15918d/20627003_1826477280700111_7810416677049774248_o-min.jpg)

Due to Sandy soil and arid environment, a wide variety of plants can not be seen on this island, but arid coastal plants and palm trees grow mostly here. Walking in the Sandy environment is risky as sand vipers live mostly.

![IMG 20230305 061748-01-01-01-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/3kjnAOFpAYuHOLfhwqlNJc/b2bdc633e6415a51e658cccad29ea678/IMG_20230305_061748-01-01-01-min.jpeg)

The Dutch city name "Delft" is the common Sinhalese designation of the island, although the Sinhala language otherwise avoids the articulation of three consonants and does not use the ending "lft". Of course, there is a traditional Tamil name as well, "Neduntivu", also spelt "Neduntheevu", which translates to "long island" or "large island".

![20689550 1826484930699346 8183146918058055589 o-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/7chrNu4yfT6iQdQxq0G8yU/76650350d98ea59d5059b863ad289928/20689550_1826484930699346_8183146918058055589_o-min.jpg)

According to the Buddhist chronicles, there were a number of Buddhist temples on Delft Island during the Anuradhapura period. All islands near Jaffna are said to have been inhabited by a huge amount of Buddhist monks. Indeed, significant archaeological remnants of Buddhist sanctuaries are found on the islands as well as on the peninsula as well as on the mainland in Sri Lanka's Northern Province.

![20643326 1826476220700217 5404176763758466646 o-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/4vnMEzUBf9ZIfJyqhL4OpX/f4bbbee39cfc988782cbbe1da3146354/20643326_1826476220700217_5404176763758466646_o-min.jpg)

The vegetation is typical of the subcontinent's semi-arid regions. There are several Palmyrah palms, also known as Borassus palms, in addition to arid plants and grasses. On the island's sandy areas, vast stretches of aloe vera grow untamed.

![20645435 1826477704033402 7428104985089245288 o-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/10zrVLYwssgyNxn80AV7yO/dfd6c317381adb36f478f927cca5e156/20645435_1826477704033402_7428104985089245288_o-min.jpg)

Delft Island is home to 101 different bird species, including 37 migratory ones. There are also 11 mammal species, 10 dragonfly species, 8 reptile species, 1 amphibian species, and 15 butterfly species, one of which, the Lesser Albatross (Appias galane), is endemic to Sri Lanka.

__The Growing Stone__ 
![IMG 20230305 131509-01-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/4AXGo6yrbzbCHx2fN5aOZe/184388ee962964e785ca1a2a1fd12fa8/IMG_20230305_131509-01-min.jpeg)

This is said to be a gradually growing stone. The locals worship this stone, and it’s considered a small shrine where lamps are lit and offerings are made.

__The Pigeon Nest__
![IMG 20230305 102909-01-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/yDdvRlwEwOejCK2TNVdHF/39279cf5dcf53c4595f385944635aefd/IMG_20230305_102909-01-min.jpeg)

Along with other ruins, this unusual 'Pigeons Nest' may be seen on the property next to the Delft Divisional Secretariat. The Dutch people who resided in Delft and the neighbouring islands reportedly utilised homing pigeons to communicate with each other. The Dutch constructed this nest on Delft Island for these homing pigeons. Limestone that is typically present on the island is used to construct the pigeon nest.

__The Baobab Tree__
![IMG-20230307-WA0041-01-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/29UisVQkHTuKpGO7SYISat/ef7ccba95c5a021f0ca16d403015c042/IMG-20230307-WA0041-01-min.jpeg)

One of the three biggest Baobab trees in Sri Lanka is proudly grown in Delft. On Delft Island, a baobab tree stands by itself. In Sri Lanka, baobab trees (Adansonia digitata) are not native. They are African natives.The main reason to believe the alternative hypothesis, that already Arabs introduced the Baobab tree on Delft Island, is its sheer size. It seems not unlikely that this tree is more than 500 years old. Baobab trees are generally referred to as "Bottle trees" because of their peculiar shape or "Monkey-bread trees" because of their wholesome fruits. The name of the baobab tree is "Ali gas" or "Ali gaha" in Sinhalese and "Perukku maram" in Tamil in Sri Lanka.

__The Queen's tower__
![IMG-6415-01-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/5haGaSVW62ylIyFHVi4nZi/330cee2baa268cbdd1fd2a500bfe2cd8/IMG-6415-01-min.jpeg)

The Queens Tower is a simple version of a lighthouse and, of course, served as a navigation point, namely during the Dutch and British periods. According to legend, the tower previously had a reflecting surface that could be seen from a great distance. Additionally, there is a chimney-like shaft inside the tower, which creates a vacuum forcing air upwards. This might have served as a smoke or fire alarm. The Dutch originally constructed the Queen's Tower, also called "Quindah Tower" by locals. The British also built "King's Tower," another structure that has since been destroyed, leaving only the basement standing.

__The Dutch Fort__ 
![IMG-6305-01-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/5LLqWAWQIH5xp1n9qxNBMQ/d1dfa3dbc89e828792f4f3e422df3db0/IMG-6305-01-min.jpeg)

The Portuguese most likely constructed the fort.Later, the Dutch took control of it and erected a barrack close by. Limestone and coral were used to build the fort. The present structure is about 30 m long and 26.5 m wide. The walls are about 2 m thick and rise upward at least to a height of 6 m. The remaining evidence suggests that the fort may have had 2 / 3 floors.

![IMG-20230307-WA0045-01-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/3KKdJycNRrwt75SLBWTpQu/30379f32ba13eadf2c18aa0fe5b33400/IMG-20230307-WA0045-01-min.jpeg)

The herds of horses running freely in the marshy lands, as well as the large number of horses tamed by human for their day-to-day work, made me think that the island of Delft is a kingdom of horses. Your experience at Delft Island is sure to be a very nice and different experience.

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Discover the untamed beauty and intriguing history of Delft Island, Sri Lanka's best-kept secret. Immerse yourself in the kingdom of wild horses, explore ancient Dutch ruins, and encounter rare wildlife. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Delft.

Delft Island - Sri Lanka's Kingdom of Horses

Dolukanda is a mountain with a height of 1969 feet, located in Kurunegala district, with historical and biological value. According to Rama Ravana legend, Dolukanda is considered to be one of the parts of the Himalayas that Hanuma brought to heal Rama, who was injured in the war. 

![IMG20230211141143-01.jpeg-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/6QeSwc84KC1U6STlIOGXYR/42f12379e47edfca01e28455303d9728/IMG20230211141143-01.jpeg-min.jpg)

In Dolukanda, we can find rare medicinal plants such as Nagaraja, Hiruraja, Vanaraja, and Garudaraja, which are only found in the Himalayas. The ruins and ponds are evidence to prove that there was a palace complex for King Buddhadasa. 

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![IMG20230211133927-02-01.jpeg-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/EO2P1JxwpyQaOOIeDhbmD/2b7527e3052bc8fef1344b719485e047/IMG20230211133927-02-01.jpeg-min.jpg)

There are several caves in which Rahat Theros lived in the past. There are two routes to reach Dolukanda. You can go on the Kurunegala - Madagalla road, get off at the Godagala junction, and reach Doluwa village. After that, climb up the mountain via Rankirimada Vihara. 

![IMG20230212122033-01-01-2-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/1SDZR0KQm6sbCYfAWl0kka/906f8c870e1b2affb77cccce579c47cc/IMG20230212122033-01-01-2-min.jpg)

The other way is via Dolukanda Temple, which is situated on the Wellawa Ganewatta road. It is relatively difficult. When you reach the top of Dolukanda, which is full of natural beauty, you can see a wide range of views of Kurunegala, Wellawa, Ganewatta, Deduru Oya, Wariyapola, etc. 

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![IMG20230211145514-01.jpeg-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/31ILm6VR317ju2o6w9txRI/5d6b24ecd9fede7a93d69fbe7f592a0b/IMG20230211145514-01.jpeg-min.jpg)

There is a cave to spend the night in, but sometimes it is dangerous to camp on the rock due to strong winds. The cave is safe Drinking water is difficult to find on the top of the mountain. In the dry season, it's so hard to find water there. Even in the rainy season, you have to go down through the dense jungle to find the flowing stream. Anyhow, if you can climb up the top of Dolukanda, you can see a marvelous view of the sunset. 

![IMG20230211152326-01.jpeg-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/6rYl6nXJDvpnI7uV1F5kfg/23d0cbf29ac09245e576e97f0760b23f/IMG20230211152326-01.jpeg-min.jpg)

While climbing the mountain, it is advisable to be careful of poisonous snakes and wild animals in the dry region. Care should be taken to climb the mountain before the darkness of the evening. 

![IMG20230212110428-01.jpeg-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/71c1xKys67TfBGl7bkJb1E/7f773edcc0538fb5e430fba575afa038/IMG20230212110428-01.jpeg-min.jpg)

![IMG 20230223 015426-min copy](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/5Cp8WTQjaPnkmBe7rgSKzA/bd6d85fe8e4d302bb732a41e8d63cbe8/IMG_20230223_015426-min_copy.jpg)

At present, the natural environment of Dolukanda is being destroyed due to the bad attitudes and actions of the travellers. It is a matter of pain. Fulfilling the responsibility of a traveler, we commit ourselves to protecting this precious natural environment.

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Discover the legend of Rama and Hanuma, breathtaking views, ancient ruins, and the challenges of reaching the top. Join us in preserving this natural treasure as we unravel the secrets of Dolukanda's beauty and heritage.

Discover Dolukanda Mountain 

### Overview of Horton Plains Cloud Forest
![horton7-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/4vj4Rcy8sPEzuNAe9MPmU0/1a85e0f99627dd5cb56f14e734cc443b/horton7-min.jpg)

Horton Plains is a stunning cloud forest located in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka. This beautiful natural wonder is situated on the southern edge of the central highlands and is home to some of the most diverse wildlife in the world. Horton Plains is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come to experience the stunning views, trekking opportunities and beautiful nature trails. The landscape in Horton Plains is a mix of rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation that creates a picturesque and unique environment. Visitors can expect to encounter a wide variety of wildlife and bird species during their hike, as the cloud forest is home to numerous endangered species. Horton Plains is truly a nature lover's paradise, offering visitors a chance to experience some of the most beautiful nature trails in Sri Lanka.

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### Location and Getting There
![hortin6-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/1NUCqrUbnUo4kABUmGuA6a/cffc0340d92eedb8f8340809e3378bc2/hortin6-min.jpg)

Located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, Horton Plains Cloud Forest is a true gem of the island nation. Getting to this beautiful destination can be an adventure in and of itself, as visitors must navigate winding roads and breathtaking vistas.

The best way to reach Horton Plains is by car or taxi, which can be easily arranged in nearby cities like Nuwara Eliya or Haputale. Sri Lanka Hikes offers guided tours to the area as well, allowing visitors to explore the forest in the company of experienced guides.

Once you arrive, be prepared to be blown away by the natural beauty of the cloud forest. The landscape here is like nothing else in Sri Lanka, with lush greenery and stunning vistas stretching out in all directions.

Whether you're a nature lover, a photographer, or just looking for a unique experience, Horton Plains Cloud Forest is definitely worth the journey. Plan your trip today and discover one of the most beautiful destinations in all of Sri Lanka!

### Biodiversity and Wildlife in Horton Plains
![horton11-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/1wXiJcGqWICrLpzFUUajBq/e4b531c11a7f059dec11da44e0ac184d/horton11-min.jpg)

Horton Plains is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. The forest is classified as a montane cloud forest, meaning it is characterized by a constant cover of fog or mist. The unique climatic conditions in the area support the growth of a number of plant species, including many endemic to Sri Lanka.

One of the most famous residents of Horton Plains is the Sambar Deer, which is the largest mammal in Sri Lanka. This majestic creature can be spotted wandering around the forest and grasslands in search of food and water. Other large mammals such as the Wild Boar, Leopard, and Jungle Cat also call Horton Plains home.

For birdwatchers, Horton Plains is a paradise with over 50 species of birds to spot. The Yellow-eared Bulbul, Dull-blue Flycatcher, and Sri Lanka White-eye are among the bird species that are found in the forest. The Sri Lankan Whistling Thrush is also a common sight and its beautiful song echoes through the trees.

Horton Plains is also home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians, including the endemic Rhinophrynus dorsalis frog. Visitors to the area can also spot snakes such as the Rat Snake and the Green Pit Viper.

It is important to remember that Horton Plains is a protected area, and visitors should respect the wildlife and not disturb the natural environment. While the park offers visitors the opportunity to see and appreciate these amazing creatures up close, it is important to do so responsibly.

### Attractions in Horton Plains
![horton10-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/7pUrVuTJSif9uxj4lgHKHB/13ed82e6def8a8d35bcd4ebaa961034a/horton10-min.jpg)

Aside from the incredible biodiversity and stunning scenery, there are plenty of attractions in Horton Plains that are worth checking out. One of the most popular spots is Baker's Falls, a picturesque waterfall located along the circular hiking trail. The waterfall drops from a height of around 20 meters, and its cool, refreshing mist is a welcome relief from the heat and humidity of the Sri Lankan lowlands.

Another must-see spot in Horton Plains is World's End, a dramatic cliff-edge that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. From this vantage point, you can see all the way to the southern coast of Sri Lanka on a clear day. It's an incredibly impressive sight, and one that should not be missed.

![horton8-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/3zGSabBcz2kChEMGzsoDlU/ff1bdcace659a4d80ed0586f8fd7e86f/horton8-min.jpg)

In addition to Baker's Falls and World's End, there are plenty of other sights and activities to enjoy in Horton Plains. You can take a guided tour of the park to learn more about its unique flora and fauna, or you can simply wander along the trails and take in the breathtaking scenery. With its rugged mountains, lush forests, and winding streams, Horton Plains is a truly magical place that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

### Best Times to Visit Horton Plains
![horton12-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/4Qef6xZZWL6hIgCArdmUvP/2aa4aab7f724ab53526b178723208c3b/horton12-min.jpg)

The weather in Horton Plains can vary greatly depending on the season, making it important to carefully consider when to plan your visit. The park is open year-round, but the best times to visit are generally during the dry season between December and March, or in August and September.

During these months, you'll enjoy clear skies, mild temperatures, and fewer chances of rain. The dry season is also a great time for hiking and trekking, as the trails are more accessible and the views are more stunning.

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That being said, visiting during the wet season between April and June can also be rewarding, especially for those who appreciate lush green landscapes and blooming flowers. However, keep in mind that hiking trails can be muddy and slippery during this time.

It's worth noting that the park is closed on Mondays and can also be closed during periods of heavy rain or mist, which can limit visibility and make it unsafe to hike.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Horton Plains is subjective and depends on what you want to experience. Take into account the weather conditions and your own preferences to decide when is the right time for you.

### Trekking and Hiking Opportunities in Horton Plains
![horton9-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/4nKa5Nk9oCnc4Mz75NeaO/b6230c7f780c4b20cfaf5976a97543c0/horton9-min.jpg)

One of the best things to do when visiting Horton Plains Cloud Forest is to explore its vast expanse through trekking and hiking. The terrain here is challenging, yet it's well worth it because of the stunning scenery that awaits you. 

There are several well-marked trails throughout the forest that vary in difficulty and length. Some trails take only a few hours to complete while others may take up to a full day. Regardless of which trail you choose, be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring plenty of water as the climate can be dry and hot.

One of the most popular hiking routes is to World's End, which is a sheer cliff that offers breathtaking views of the forest and valleys below. The hike to World's End is challenging, but the view is well worth the effort. The trail is about 5.5km long and takes around 3 hours to complete. 

Another popular trek is the one that takes you to Baker's Falls, which is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. The trail is about 3km long and takes around 1.5 hours to complete.

For those who enjoy more extended treks, the full-day hike to Kirigalpoththa is highly recommended. This trail is quite challenging and requires a lot of stamina and physical fitness. However, the views from the summit of the second-highest peak in Sri Lanka are truly stunning.

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No matter which hiking trail you choose to explore in Horton Plains, always be sure to respect the environment and its wildlife. Be mindful of the forest's delicate ecosystem, avoid littering, and refrain from disturbing the animals in their natural habitat.

Trekking and hiking in Horton Plains Cloud Forest is undoubtedly one of the highlights of visiting this magnificent natural wonder. Whether you are an experienced hiker or just starting, there are several trails that cater to different fitness levels and abilities. With spectacular views of the forest and its inhabitants, a hiking excursion in Horton Plains is an unforgettable experience that shouldn't be missed.

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### Tips for Visitors to Horton Plains
1. Dress Appropriately: As Horton Plains is a mountainous area with cool temperatures, it is essential to dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable. Also, wear sturdy footwear as the terrain is rugged and uneven.
2. Bring Snacks and Water: As there are no food or water facilities in the park, it is best to bring your snacks and enough water to stay hydrated during your visit.
3. Respect the Wildlife: Horton Plains is home to various animals and birds, including Sambar deer, leopards, and several endemic species. Always maintain a safe distance from the wildlife and do not feed or disturb them.
4. Do Not Litter: To preserve the pristine environment of Horton Plains, visitors are encouraged to keep the park clean and dispose of their trash properly.
5. Be Prepared for Weather Changes: The weather in Horton Plains can be unpredictable, so it is advisable to carry rain gear and extra clothing in case of sudden weather changes.
6. Follow the Park Rules: To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, follow the park rules and regulations, including staying on designated trails, not smoking, and not using drones or other electronic devices.
By following these tips, visitors can have a memorable and rewarding experience at Horton Plains, one of Sri Lanka's most stunning natural attractions.

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In the central highlands of Sri Lanka, Horton Plains is a beautiful cloud forest known as the Horton Plains National Park, one of the country's most beautiful nature reserves. 

Horton Plains Sri Lanka : A Guide to One of the Most Beautiful Cloud Forests

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This was actually a sudden plan at the beginning of 2022, after the outbreak of Covid-19. It was really challenging at that time to convince my mother to let me go rafting or even to go out with my colleagues. However, on the condition that our father was coming with us, we managed to get her permission.

![day1-min-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/7sNxDL0AgwCav0ZJO5glcr/bdc9b6618de367e9471fd2a451695839/day1-min-min.jpg)

On that day, we initially headed to the Plantation Hotel in the morning to get ready in our wetsuits. After that, we all got into a jeep and drove to the [White Water Rafting](https://www.rapidadventures.lk/experiences/white-water-rafting-at-kitulgala) destination. The guides advised us that only 8 people can travel in a paddle boat, so we had to split into two teams. Before commencing the rafting, they went over the safety protocol and gave us thorough instructions. The day was great weather with clear skies and a mild temperature. Although we arrived a little later than expected, there was no crowd at that time. Perhaps weekdays were less crowded than weekends.

![day2-min-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/6dm7DSyouzu5spn0TuMzsu/f860745657fc7d679fb9b5d126a84ace/day2-min-min.jpg)

Though it was warm outside, the water was quite frigid. I was both anxious and eager as I boarded the raft for what the near future held. I was filled with goosebumps as I well-thought-out what would happen. I realized that the initial part of the rafting was essentially a sightseeing tour without any whitewater. I felt at ease upon hearing this. I paddled the raft in accordance with their directions, relishing in the spectacular surroundings. The area was surrounded by enormous trees that were on the river's left bank. The image of the murky green water crashing against the rocks made a beautiful scene. I closed my eyes and just enjoyed the serenade of birds as the sound of a rushing river played in the background.

![day3-min-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/7xoPOb3kUtRRxN66OxlkW4/8a4578758d0d5c9cc645df4b5e46154b/day3-min-min.jpg)

The white water was seen in the distance as I floated down the river. As we got closer and closer to it, my heart rate began to increase. We were instructed to paddle quickly in order to enter there at the necessary speed. But it seemed as though we almost got dragged into there by accident and the water splashed over the boat. The water's splash revivified us all. I'm at a loss for words to describe that sensation. Definitely, you should try that and experience it. 

![day4-min-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/6UJnYN75AvnZr1E1DfmwFS/1b1ca9ef4fa253e78e3b1a0f9cc2da75/day4-min-min.jpg)

Our guide told us that there were nine rapids (5 major rapids & 4 minor rapids) in total, and this one was the easiest of them all. My need for other rapids intensified after experiencing the first one. 

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The boat unexpectedly turned upside down while it passed one of the major rapids. Even though they had our consent to do so, nobody knew where the boat would turn. My head was dipped under the water in the blink of an eye, and when I opened my eyes, everything was yellow. It took me a while to realize I was underneath the boat that was turned on its side. I was quite afraid at the time, but the wetsuits always keep us from sinking. I emerged from the water and was surprised to find that I could breathe.

I wasn't lying; at that point, I was incredibly afraid of it. But I truly loved that incident. Even now, just thinking about it gave me goose flesh. 

![day6-min-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/4jUTEitbAbxMiakNv1lkno/0300aa402c2b233a035e119d37bd9901/day6-min-min.jpg)

We all re-boarded the boat without difficulty, and there were only a few more rapids to cross. Once it was over we all jumped into the water and floated along the river.  

![day5-min-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/683gdsl2iiXl1KM82GfD9h/575e5e7550f89dc07b407d7e14dac5d7/day5-min-min.jpg)

As we floated along the river, we were besieged by the canopy of trees that were bending into the channels. The shimmer of sunshine sparkling through the canopy and the sporadic mild breeze invigorated our tired bodies. The clear water reflected the light. In some places the clarity allowed us to see every pebble and every tiny creature beneath the surface. While our main focus was on reaching the end, it was simply fantastic to catch a glimpse of these little beauties.

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Finally, we got out of the hotel. I had never experienced anything like the exciting feeling of [white-water rafting in the Kelani River](https://www.rapidadventures.lk/experiences/white-water-rafting-at-kitulgala). I've always liked having adventures, but this was unique.

Then again, we got into the jeep to go to the Kataran Oya. It was the place for [canyoning](https://www.rapidadventures.lk/experiences/experience-canyoning-at-kitulgala). We had to trek around 1 KM to reach the destination. There were 7 natural rock pools that are a miracle from nature and are utterly beautiful. We were mesmerized by the river and the surrounding wooded area. Here, we could try the water stream slide and the confidence jump. Once we got there the guides provided comprehensive guidance before starting the activities. 

![day8-min-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/6hSueVmiloGa6bVQ6JnXRh/efd70491bd79bd1c7eda869d6ffcdc32/day8-min-min.jpg)

The height of the first rock pool was not much. So, we managed to jump in there easily. The height increased as it progressed (Over 6 feet in height). I was afraid even though I had reached the edge to jump. Nevertheless, I desired to jump with confidence.

![day7-min-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/2MuC6ape7VkEkbeeKXwkv7/224dc4ac60905fb20200b4b1b80e5815/day7-min-min.jpg)

We swam in the cool and clean water of the rainforest and slid through the water streams like kids. We had a lot of fun there. It was outstanding in each and every way. Time flew by while we were there without even feeling hungry. Therefore, sadly we have to turn back there. Again, we came to the hotel to have our lunch. 

You might be wondering why I was making such a big deal out of just jumping into the water. Once you've had the experience, you'll understand it. So, [try now](https://www.rapidadventures.lk/experiences/day-out-at-kitulgala) and don't be late.

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The water is an eventual contradiction. While it can occasionally be calm, it can also be incredibly powerful. Hence, while having fun, make sure of your safety gear.


Experience the thrill of White Water Rafting and Canyoning in Kelani River and Kataran Oya with natural rock pools and water stream slides. Read about the author's exhilarating journey filled with challenges, adventure and stunning natural beauty. 

Kitulgala Rafting with Adventure Activities

To be honest, I barely managed to get out of my bed that morning to get ready for the Gerandi Ella expedition.

Around one o'clock in the morning, we got on the bus at Seeduwa. There were only the Rapid Crew members there at that moment. Still more individuals remained to get onto the bus. After chatting with them intermittently, I fell asleep on the bus because I was sleepy, and it was comfortable enough for sleeping. I had a good night's sleep and a fresh beginning because we had to travel for more than three hours. That enabled me to get rid of my fatigue.

By 5.30 am, we were able to arrive at Katugastota and collect the abseiling equipment. Later, around 7.30 am, we reached our destination after travelling along a winding route from Kalugala to Gerandigala. 

In that village, a home-hosted our breakfast. When compared to the knuckles event, there were fewer facilities, yet their hospitality must be appreciated.

Our excursion began once we had finished our breakfast. There were green sights and a very cool environment. The first part of the road was straightforward, passing through the village. So, we were able to witness some of their crops on both sides of the road. The moist atmosphere was accommodating for leeches, but we didn’t get bothered by leeches as the road was clear. Yet, we had taken care when walking through the grassy areas because nobody wanted to get bitten by a leech at the beginning point.

![set1-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/7g7uAbNvizpQnHLRjAgltP/99d2e077edcbdbca1432662e22872db6/set1-min.jpg)

![set2-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/7u6a9PuJVq99eU8xLWHwDy/74a09e4089ee5c542d20ea67a7ee60a5/set2-min.jpg)

Whilst going away from the village, it was quite challenging as the slope was steep; we had to rely on each other and the branches and tree roots for support.

![set3-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/6ukHJkv8TEYKWGG4IjHB3P/af68022460b80c608fee2a503096f2ba/set3-min.jpg)

![set4-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/1wIEO0qwBwVMeMzz8PPdhK/33580968ee0401e11dfc2820182c2016/set4-min.jpg)

Then we stepped onto the plateau in the following section. Giant mountains formed a dyke around us. Some villagers came there to feed their buffalo. In front of us, the Gerandigala peak was stunningly apparent. There, we took our group photograph before starting to climb once again.

![set5-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/65mWdyF8uuDaSjCyQ8vghw/266e3c5f712fe14063515cc78b24179f/set5-min.jpg)

![set6-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/49VyrV7gbbAY7dYDCAnPvZ/df076ab7cc5c259967d487ec20f7161b/set6-min.jpg)

In order to reach the top, everyone stooped and crawled through the rocks. We were surrounded by grass that was taller than us, and that burning itch if I accidentally touch them. Although the distance was shorter than the "Knuckles five peaks challenge," there were some critical points that I found extremely impossible to get through on my own. 

![set7-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/K75is3MWcZPPA3Ubh6Xp6/2e4f20ff0df12a2a7478b6e1a79b0683/set7-min.jpg)

It was hard to climb the swiftly rising steep slope. But whenever we glanced around, the scenery offers breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and rivers. The sound of the water flowing was musical. The cocktail of hiking and nature there was a cure for clearing the mind of the superfluous and enabling us to concentrate on the wider picture.

![set8-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/27dApXL4t7tblJi4D99zSt/1a7e9730cf741fa66cf13c1936ce998a/set8-min.jpg)

![set9-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/CNDEVvrF7uS7pIwI3RR9m/192dcc2c6381d3cb313adab1ccdbfc99/set9-min.jpg)

Finally, we reached the event's most arduous phase. Because of this, the majority of my friends who were thinking of attending this event changed their minds. Even though I arrived, I felt a bit hesitant about continuing beyond this point as I was afraid of dangling on a rope in a hazardous area. 

At noon, we arrived there, and while heading there, we noticed some guys returning from the hill. Since we had to wait for them to descend, we entertained ourselves at the base of the waterfall. Trees provided shade over that area, and the level of water there was low. Since we could fill our water bottles by going close to the stream. It was a great place to be in nature. We waited there and got a bit of rest while enjoying ourselves and taking photographs. Miraculous sight created by flying dragonflies over water-spattered rocks. However, when I attempted to take a picture of them, they were gone in a flash. 

![set10-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/28YsoSIeMSPkhLjS8su7RZ/c5c362b5acec0df06f6d988f402de1f0/set10-min.jpg)

![set11-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/RktfltQzFjwjzaTkNEhMj/d04ee49fc27062788c49d5e933a84973/set11-min.jpg)

Still, just half of the mountain remained for us to climb, we didn't have much time to spend there. So, we hurriedly left that place. At that moment, the sun was harshly burning us with its sudden brightness. The space there only allowed moving one at a time, so I must wait till it was my turn. Aside from the members of the rapid adventure team, two people from the forest department came to assist us. All of them prioritized our safety. They brought a climbing rope, harness, carabiners, a belay device, and helmets for us to support while climbing over this rock. They initially prepared me by using these to ensure that if the rope slipped from my grasp, I would not fall and guided me to step up.

![set12-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/okQnycLPJvL3zyOLqpLbF/8bf32964ef8c9b01996acceb71f71496/set12-min.jpg)

Even though it was harder than I expected, I gained confidence by knowing I didn't fall and was capable of reaching the top. Despite the small height, it marked a crucial junction that we needed to cross.

There was a narrow space to switch over each other. From there onwards we had to walk for around an hour. When moving forward from there the sheer upward. We seemed to be standing on a cliff as we looked behind us. The landscapes were mind-blowing and magnificent. It was realized that I was higher up than I had imagined. I was lucky enough to spectator it that I had never experienced before. From there on, we could see the entire village. The deep blue of the sky inspired us whilst the vivid colours of the lawn, tiny plants and flowers overwhelmed our sensations. Even though the sun was directly roasting us, the cold wind was able to lift our spirits.

![set13-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/624ycqo2GYL5ceadj3mSkd/ae8b4f558d3ddade3f3ce9f067faca0d/set13-min.jpg)

![set14-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/4Iu4YPpYlPx5BSJ6cnD7l8/c072e42805507db37c338aa506aa45cb/set14-min.jpg)

![set15-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/PImHwKfjNDpCk9AA8Kcb1/696f5e855f94b8e645b4fc1711fefb4f/set15-min.jpg)

![set16-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/6b98Ek5cID2u3IZbvhOps2/972e27a5605c27271fee3805a573a629/set16-min.jpg)

When we eventually mounted the hill, we were able to see the guys who had gone before us sitting near the waterfall. From the road we came from, the vicinity of the waterfall resembled to be grassland, but on the opposite side, there were lots of enormous trees. 

![set17-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/XYQ2fFVp2U4aXJx7be1Pt/1840b9ac50b0d57d260da4bd5ada87a8/set17-min.jpg)

I took off my shoes and ran close to the waterfall so that my feet could feel the cold water. Where the water fell downwards looked like an infinite pool. I'm at a loss for words to explain how amazing it was. We had no trouble moving around on the rocks because the water was at a low level. There was where we had our lunch. The little birds serenaded us, and the fresh air was more energizing than coffee ever could be. 

![set18 copy](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/549Qi6HTry7bhZZJz8Yts1/3f81db01abd661c910f04c9c8a4514a1/set18_copy.jpg)

![a6](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/5rF5QbGMz1FPAwGWH9ZCTm/7232a6847085ca2d5f70812ad4359ed1/a6.jpg)

After had our lunch we went up along the stream. Although the water was ice cold, we jumped into the water to refresh ourselves. When we spent time in nature, all of our perceptions were stimulated. We had a great time there. Regrettably, it seemed to me that the time was flying by.

As the sky began to get gloomy and it seemed to be raining, we had no way of pleasuring ourselves there for very long.  Unfortunately, we had to go back at that time. Otherwise, we had cautioned that the mist would prevent us from coming off. Even then the tiny raindrops were falling signalling that it was time for us to head back. Apart from the one spot on the cliff, we arrived more quickly than we went up. Nevertheless, we were once more stuck at the turning point.  When we came down through the rock, we got an abseiling experience. Therefore, it wasn't as challenging as climbing and we could easily land.

![set19-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/1RTz1Wqe1Wwft9sYyMKjww/b2e69e32b190dd834f49063c4064d539/set19-min.jpg)

After getting a couple of individuals down, we started to move forward because we could see the mist starting to blur the scenery. As we were getting down, drizzle and thick fog terribly disturbed us. Although I already said that I walked down, almost everyone kept falling and tripping due to the muddy path that the rain had created.

Anyway, we managed to come to the plateau where we took the photograph this morning. We were informed to wait there until others came. Waiting there in the heavy rain with thunder and lightning made us scarier. But the view there was amazing with the sunset. I felt extremely cold and was about to freeze because I didn't have a raincoat with me. With the rainfall leeches also came out and began to trouble us more. 

![set20-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/HGZDC1qkDnCFiJqpspsv8/d440e5a487bed03aaefbcddcab15a990/set20-min.jpg)

However, we managed to come down the mountain at approximately 8:00 p.m. and immediately had to start the mission of removing leeches. No one was able to survive without being bitten by leeches.

I had quite a tough day than expected. I'm glad I was able to have such an incredible experience, even though I ended up getting soaked in the rain and bitten by leeches. Though the leech bites remain itchy, I absolutely delight in sharing that experience. I'd definitely spend a couple of nights there to breathe in the mountain air and watch the majestic landscape.

![cover-gerandi-ella-blog](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/7tkjU1dQBGcYhfrS6wTHZR/824e28cf67f3a07eeb400115db351fd5/cover-blog-min__1_.jpg)

Going outside can assist you in acquiring some peace and clarity. Gaining the advantages of what nature has to offer can be done via hiking. Hiking allows us to relax and unwind. Thus, accept the risk instead of losing it. You will realize that you are smarter than you believe.

![gerandi ella](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/4fgabZuD5FVXiTmJZz5Ipc/94bc55bd30e89d6ca34a90c53bd651d7/IMG_9426_copy.jpg)


Similar to the previous event, it was a Saturday early morning. I had a pretty hard time thinking of an adventure after a tough week. Even in the morning, I had the impression that I needed more sleep rather than taking a hike. 

Experience the majestic of Kalugala Geradi Ella

Traveling has been a source of inspiration and adventure for people all around the world. But when it comes to women, the journey is often harder, yet more rewarding. Women who travel are not only breaking societal norms, but also proving that the world is a place meant for all genders to explore.

### 1.	Jacki Hill-Murphy
![Jacki Hill-Murphy](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/38fZhoIvexDIpFTPSWgcmH/b0c3173598d9f8e61004908d4334b7b3/jacky-min.jpg)

Jacki Hill-Murphy is a British explorer who has traveled across four continents and ventured into some of the most remote places in the world. Her expeditions include a journey across South America on horseback, retracing the steps of Isabella Bird in Iran, and crossing the Andes by foot. What sets Jacki apart is that she travels solo, relying only on her wits and the kindness of strangers along the way. Her journeys have inspired many women to take on solo travel and to embrace the unknown with open arms.

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### 2.	Megan Jerrard
![Megan Jerrard](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/2kJETunYYKqURkIQ7AWHWS/096a5b0021a704d2d70df6458e7dcec9/megan-min.jpg)

Megan Jerrard is an Australian travel blogger who has been traveling full-time with her husband since 2007. Together, they have visited over 100 countries and documented their journey on their blog, Mapping Megan. Megan's story is inspiring because she has not let the fear of the unknown stop her from exploring the world. In fact, she embraces it, and her blog is full of tips and advice for other women who want to do the same.

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### 3.	Anusha Subramanian
![Anusha Subramanian](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/3sHPz5VLntcJjJMPdIfr1V/9f7dcfee66612d9f051a31f15045c41b/anusha-min.jpg)

Anusha Subramanian is an Indian journalist who quit her job to travel across India on a motorbike. Her journey took her across 20 states in India, which was a result of her taking her first trek in the wild at the age of seven. Anusha's story is a reminder that women can be adventurous and that there is no limit to what we can achieve if we put our minds to it.

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### 4.	Sarah Marquis
![Sarah Marquis](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/4DkQ26Utk8X1luxSRuD5Rr/b10b9d2b7561d8fed958e3bce6628b91/sarah-min.jpg)

Sarah Marquis is a Swiss adventurer who has hiked across some of the most remote places in the world. Her expeditions include a solo journey across Australia, a walk from Siberia to the Gobi Desert, and a hike from the Andes to the Amazon. Sarah's story is inspiring because she has not let the dangers and challenges of traveling solo deter her from pursuing her passion for exploration.

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These are just a few of the inspiring women who travel and have made a mark on the world. Their stories show that women can be just as adventurous and fearless as men, and that the world is a place meant for all of us to explore. Whether you are traveling solo or with a group, their stories will inspire you to take on the unknown and to embrace the journey with open arms. Make travelling your priority because it builds confidence, create connections, expands your mind, sparks creativity and above all it is a whole package of fun. 

So, are you ready ladies? Take your first step in exploring the world and all it has to offer you. Not to forget that we at Rapid Adventures always embark on a journey to give the best traveling experience to all, especially to all first timers and travel lovers. 

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Here are a few inspiring women who travel and their stories that will make you want to pack your bags and set out on your own adventure.

Redefining travelling for women to break stereotypes

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It was a truly spectacular day for me. Still, I am eager to talk about that experience. If I had a chance to know earlier that hiking is more amusing, I would have tried this earlier. 

![IMG 7330-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/6vdGnUJQyUCoKnEpMdASSC/2dfd31070d6d338951ab2b8b9d1887e3/IMG_7330-min.jpg)

It was last weekend. The crew planned to leave around 1:00 am from Colombo fort.  So, I had to wake up at midnight. Otherwise, they informed us that it would be difficult to reach all 5 peaks by evening. Waking up in the middle of the night felt a bit awkward, but the euphoric feeling of the event had already kept me awake. We took the bus from Miriswatta junction and started our journey there. I tried to break the ice by talking to the people next to me about the weather. Along the way, we met new faces and we talked and got to know each other.

![IMG 7332-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/4osbk1qz45pQvBAgARVEZX/bd81a3207c580963e0f03809e4abfca5/IMG_7332-min.jpg)

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By 8:00 we were able to reach Thangappuwa village. As it was a little late, we were advised to get our breakfast quickly and get ready for the hike. The guides briefed us on the rest of the event and what we needed to know. And also, they told us that we were lucky because it was a sunny day. Otherwise we wouldn't have seen Knuckles Peaks.

![20230211 095221](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/2laFshUCt056WztMv2z2HF/cb57f6589b8e3d62a3dc84f5ffa04da9/20230211_095221.jpg)

![20230211 101732](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/7lv8HaRFPgDol6rREJNBu0/7de761256484267ff5b3726ec013f0e0/20230211_101732.jpg)

![20230211 102232](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/3PQznVArdUgsaTmNlhsbbm/236536d8c414827a11399e0c14760d9d/20230211_102232.jpg)

Afterwards, we began hiking. The first part of the walk was really tough as it was through the tea plantation. Moreover, the sun was shining brighter than we thought. Therefore, it was boiling hot.  Sweat was dripping down my face. I felt like I'm less fit than I thought, but I didn't want to give up on this at the initial step. I slowly started climbing the hill with all my strength. Finally, the edge of the tea estate was visible.

![20230211 113818](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/34JNfOkESdOB09XQn4BDS5/51ff103ac9e1c6ded7bb05397bffad74/20230211_113818.jpg)

![20230211 114001](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/owaRIDzKRwr3wJkCkTEs8/c58c80bf6eaf8c3cc904aa371036758a/20230211_114001.jpg)

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After that, we stepped into the knuckles forest reserve. The cold environment with trees helped to wipe away our fatigue. The trekking route was full of natural beauty and gifts such as many leats, various types of plants, birds, and animals. We walked slowly, cherishing whatever we saw along the way and remembering the special landmarks along the way. After one and half hour walk, we reached the viewpoint of the knuckles. It was a flatland *gal thalaawa*. From there we could see all 5 peaks of Knuckles. As it was a sunny day, the leeches didn't bother us much.  

![20230211 112755 03](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/5CQEbKuwn67fjfvnChNl6y/f10c25901bec9384d5a91de6ded45f0d/20230211_112755_03.jpg)

Every time I would ascend the next hill and be met with a new glimpse, the magnificence of the surroundings would literally steal my breath away. I paused and took photographs of the mind-taking views I've never seen before. I wished I could have taken pictures of the vistas with my eyes because within a second the wonderful views disappeared into the mist.

![20230211 144639](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/5Rq4DTVkW2n3FT86WRbVh6/74103f33ff1b97c596d74c30db37b9b1/20230211_144639.jpg)

Hunger was unbearable so we had our lunch on the way to the 2nd peak of Knuckles. Then we started to walk again. Even though I said I went on foot, I had to crawl and creep under shrubs in many places to reach the end. From the 2nd peak, which was the highest peak in Knuckles, we could see the other peaks as well. The scenery was so alluring. I thought it would be better if the safety, comfort, joy and emotional detachment experienced at the top of the hill could be achieved in other places as well.

![20230211 171007](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/1s6u00bYur7MqPc6ATVOSr/a60c764f369488b04bd89b7c8a7b2d16/20230211_171007.jpg)

We took a short break there and climbed the 3rd peak as per the group's request before turning back. Rapid adventure crew wanted to make this event pleasant for each and every one of the team. So, they decided to let us go to the 3rd peak and take the risk of getting down the mountain at night.  A few people in the group went over the 3rd top and I'm delighted to say I was one of them. When we looked along the road we came from, there were too many grasses and leeches. It might be because fewer people are going there. We enjoyed the landscape from the mountain's summit.

After taking photographs we started to get down from the top. Time did not allow us to go to the rest of the hill.  I felt a little sad about it because to get to the other peaks I have to come back and go through the difficult part of the hike again. Nevertheless, I was quite proud of myself for making it to the third peak. We could go down faster than we went up. It felt a little easier, but my legs started out to shake from the difficulty of walking. From that point, one of the team members took care of me and helped me down the slope. On the way back I saw that they were treating the other members as well. No one was neglected. Each and every one of the rapid adventure crew was very supportive and friendly. I was happy to say that even though they knew us that morning, the rest of the team helped a lot and had a great time with all of us. 

![20230211 142525](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/7xLALRiy15w76PzoE6Qd8y/5052e0f3bc261e791fdfdffc0682a58e/20230211_142525.jpg)

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It was possible to descend half of the mountain before getting dark and the rest of the mountain got down with the help of the torchlight. Mist with cold wind and darkness gave us a ghostly impression. I felt dehydrated as the water bottle, we had was empty. I had to wait until we met the leat *(diya paara)*.  

On the way down the hill, I felt very tired and felt like I didn't have enough strength to go forward. Also, I had terrible blisters from the shoe cutting my foot. It was excruciatingly painful. Going down in the dark, I tripped and fell in two or three places. However, I managed to descend the mountain with the aid of others. 

![IMG 7550-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/3W4h4XY94VzInb2LKtpbkZ/cfd27012fc592c4e7e2d877b0d2a01b2/IMG_7550-min.jpg)

I won't lie; it was at times challenging, but overall, it was a wonderful, adventurous experience. I'll always remember that as a significant life experience. Even now, the euphoria was still present. The pleasant memories and enduring friendships will remain, while the blisters and pain will heal and soon be forgotten. Now I know that everybody who likes having adventures should try Knuckles.

![20230211 144709](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/NjFbqBisWekgqeKOiDOGr/ea0e86f8304d67884ab14ea3930454ab/20230211_144709.jpg)

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I wouldn’t call myself a usual hiker or even fit enough to do it. But I wanted to try because I've always loved nature and long walks, I decided to give hiking a shot with Rapid Adventures, and I'm so glad I did it!

A Day Trip to Knuckles Five Peaks 

Colombo, Sri Lanka's largest commercial city, integrates the island's rich culture and heritage alongside modern tourist spots and conveniences. The capital's distinct colonial past adds more value to the surroundings and offers a plethora of tourist attractions and museums that showcase Sri Lanka's profound history. You'll gain more insight into the island's culture and traditions if you spend a day or two in the capital. So, here are some of the best places you can visit in Colombo.  

##### Gangaramaya Temple
![gangaramaya-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/75rNkT6FL6GYdpwX17UFxx/e2c64a6521d77bcffc6cf137518acda3/gangaramaya-min.jpg)

One of Colombo's most prominent and distinctive temples is Gangaramaya Temple. The architecture of the temple is a mishmash of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese traditions.  Being located on the banks of the famed Beira Lake in Colombo 2, the Gangaramaya temple eludes a 120 old history and includes the main temple, a museum, a library, and vocational training facilities. The temple is a major tourist destination, a place of worship, and is living proof of the island’s ancient artisanship. 

##### Red Mosque
![red-mosque-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/4YSPBtbYh3zfppBNeWG2AR/00b426003571a978eefa901cce578097/red-mosque-min.jpg)

Jami Ul-Alfar Masjid, popularly known as the Colombo Red Mosque, is a very remarkable piece of architecture that will wow you with its unorthodox colour schemes and wonderful design. With its tall minarets and location in the Pettah area, this oldest mosque originally served as a dependable landmark for sailors travelling to Colombo harbour. It looms above the nearby buildings and streets and you’ll be able to easily identify the Mosque. Both men and women are allowed entry here, but you must respect local norms by dressing modestly, covering your head, and wearing appropriate clothing. 

##### Lotus Tower
![lotus-tower-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/6j1ApoZN5URSMCtiaIpEKz/5f912b75ec5c8047c69571518e4e0271/lotus-tower-min.jpg)

In 2019, Sri Lanka unveiled the Lotus tower, the highest self-supported structure in South Asia. The lotus-shaped tower, which is 350 meters (1,150 feet) tall, will be used for communication, observation, and other leisure activities. It can be seen all around Colombo, its suburbs, and the majority of the main roads leading out of and surrounding the city. The Lotus flower, which in Sri Lankan tradition represents purity and is said to represent the nation's thriving progress, served as the design inspiration for this structure. On special days, the tower is illuminated at night and you’ll be mesmerized by its colours. 

##### National Museum of Colombo
![national-museum-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/54GLCUx6yioelFy3K8y4yD/751a853954fd11f1931a6fd425bb98d7/national-museum-min.jpg)

The museum was founded in 1877 by William Henry Gregory, the British governor of Ceylon from 1871 to 1877 and is considered one of the largest museums in Sri Lanka. Along with important historical and indigenous artefacts, farming practices, equipment, and traditional craft, the building's artworks reflect the essence of the Dutch, Portuguese, and British Colonial eras and also elude the knowledge carried out by our ancestors. The structure of the museum is well thought out and simple to travel along the hallway, and the guards will direct you to the different exhibits. There are three primary parts to it: a natural science area, cultural galleries, and a gift store. You will require at least 2-3 hours for the tour because it has a lot of artefacts from the prehistoric and colonial periods and the tour itself can be regarded as a gateway to another era. 

##### Viharamahadevi Park
![viharamaha-devi-park-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/5YLEqvnEq7wG69mMdXzJ4r/9373d1e72caa5cc2bb09f1ab01923a33/viharamaha-devi-park-min.jpg)

This stunning park, which is one of Sri Lanka's largest and oldest parks, is situated not far from the Colombo National Museum. Prior to being renamed in honour of King Dutugemunu's mother, the Viharamahadevi Park was known as Victoria Park. A massive Buddha statue and several water fountains add to the tranquillity and beauty of Viharamahadevi Park. The park also provides beautiful views of sunrise and sunset for an unforgettable experience. There is also a small zoo and a play area for kids. The park is a family destination, with many families picnicking in the neighbouring garden. There is also an open stadium that is utilized for various activities, including concerts. Further, there are several foods stands in the area that sells great munchies. 

##### Galle Face Green
![galle-face-green-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/6IiaBMwUHsyMwZ9eSpaUxS/b6c0294aad8013b26d95a14f45ded294/galle-face-green-min.jpg)

For a tranquil evening and to watch the sunset, Galle Face Green is Colombo's most well-liked beachfront park. Not only that, but there are various activities to do such as flying kites, tasting Sri Lankan street food, strolling or running, and enjoying the fresh wind from the Indian Ocean.

##### National Zoological Garden - Dehiwala
![zoo-dehiwala-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/1ujYDSOfUJhh5H4j6Lxe6t/a6ad7d41dbccd28b925db70ea7c3d278/zoo-dehiwala-min.jpg)

The National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka, often known as the Dehiwala Zoo, is a large green sanctuary just a short drive from the city's centre. It is home to a variety of intriguing animals, birds, and butterflies. As one of the first Asian zoos to implement the open zoo idea, it was founded in 1936. More than 2500 creatures make up Dehiwala Zoo, which is home to a wide variety of native and exotic species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. It is well known for its incredible variety of flora as well as for its deep canopy of trees and beautiful, groomed gardens. The zoo has made significant contributions to animal conservation by rearing rare and endangered species.

We believe that you got a clear insight as to where you should hurry now. Gear up! An adventure is right ahead of you. 


Colombo, Sri Lanka's largest commercial city, integrates the island's rich culture and heritage alongside modern tourist spots and conveniences. 

Our Top Picks to Visit in Colombo

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According to the laws in Sri Lanka (MOTOR TRAFFIC (AMENDMENT)ACT,  NO. 8 OF  2009), non-residents or foreigners should obtain a driving permit to ride a vehicle on their own.  

![driving-1-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/39Ew44fBk478EUHOBAKpR5/e8e76191ef6ee976575d415fd25485a2/driving-1-min.jpg)

__There are two options available.__ 
1. Obtaining a Temporary Sri Lankan Driving Permit
2. Possessing an endorsed International driving Permit 

__If you are going for the option 1,__

1. You should have a Driving License from your home country.
2. You don’t have to go through either the written or practical examinations if you have a foreign license.
3. The country, which is the issuer of the license should be approved by the Department of Motor Vehicles. 
4. If the license is not in English, an English translation of the license issued by the relevant embassy or any authority in each country is mandatory. 
5. Needful documents. 

- Your own Country Driving License (English Copy/ Translation if not in English) + Photocopy
- Your National Passport + Photocopy of profile/photo page and Sri Lankan Visa Page

The temporary Sri Lankan Driving Permit could be obtained from the Department of Motor Vehicles in Werahera, Borelasgamuwa. 
(Location: [https://goo.gl/maps/PbKeS5w4VBrm5uXd6](https://goo.gl/maps/PbKeS5w4VBrm5uXd6))

To know about charges, visit [Charges For Services](https://dmt.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=47&Itemid=170&lang=en)

For more information, visit [Department of Motor Traffic](https://dmt.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=featured&Itemid=101&lang=en)

![driving3-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/7759mMslFjA5nw7ziMANxf/e2bf1d041e035323b357f0a0cd287990/driving3-min.jpg)

__If you are going for the option 2,__

The International Drivers License or the International Driving Permit obtained in your home country should be endorsed by the Automobile Association of Ceylon.

Now you are super ready to drive around Sri Lanka on your own. Have a safe ride. 

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Decided to drive yourself on the roads of Sri Lanka? Rest assured. We have included everything you need to know and it’s just a 1-minute read. 

How to Get Temporally Driving Permit in Sri Lanka 

Sisikirana Villa is a majestic property standing tall and extremely beautiful in white, peaceful and mind pleasing, located in a quiet and peaceful neighbourhood just 4 km away from the scenic town of Galle and just 5 minutes away from picturesque Unawatuna! It is a 3-bedroom country house fitted with modern amenities. Whether you are travelling as a family or as a group of friends you will find this villa ideal for a relaxed and calm stay. Both inside and out offers plenty of places to relax, unwind and entertain yourselves fully with no regrets!

Inside the doors of the villa, are the colourful cushions and beautiful wall hangings amidst the antiques and wooden furniture. Protecting the ancient and valuable nature of this premises, Sisikirana Villa stood out as a combination of both a modern interior and an ancient exterior. The area houses the dining table that can seat ten. Overlooking a pond full of beautiful fish, the interior brings out a peaceful vibe. 

![LA5A1483-scaled](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/45rJVTDb5T9fEnyd5eQzWe/6f3ff62d6eb3cba5a90ffbdaa238293a/LA5A1483-scaled.webp)

The villa comprises of 3 double bedrooms each which has a cozy queen bed, an attached bathroom, a huge wardrobe along with a dressing table and air conditioning. The room doors and windows open up to the landscaped garden and bring in the morning rays of sunshine lighting the whole room. The lounge area includes a comfortably furnished den with plush sofas, TV and DVD player along with a telephone and WiFi facilities.

Outdoors, the main attraction of Sisikirana villa is the soothing swimming pool, perfect to have a refreshing dip. It’s decorated around with sun lounges to relax with a drink and nibbles. The equipped bar adjoining the pool allows you to have your own beverages served chilled and fresh. The BBQ facilities await to make your late night chilling sessions more eventful.

![LA5A1534-scaled](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/5TmtzrM7FnJe5ghsZ9dWyf/ed9da2911bd1c617e3dcc014f511dfef/LA5A1534-scaled.webp)

The villa is serviced by a group of friendly and hospitable management staff. You can prepare your meals in the fully-equipped kitchen though the services of an in-house chef or on your own. In general, the continental cuisine decorates the dining, served hot and smells delicious!

A stay here gives you the opportunity to walk around to many distinct places including the beautiful beaches along the Unawatuna coastline. A miniature hike through the lush forests stepping on the rocky steps leads you to the Jungle beach which is truly a hidden Gem in Unawatuna. It is not far away from Roomassala, the Handungoda Tea Plantations and the Peace Pagoda too.

All in all, the serenity and the peaceful atmosphere at Sisikirana Villa relaxes and destresses you while you dwell. The pet friendly neighbourhood allows your fur buddies enjoy with you too! This is a promise to a magical stay at the heart of Unawatuna. A visit to the villa will prove the intuition right!

![LA5A1503-scaled](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/6Dg2a1QShQVRrVvQth1kW4/aa17d8a841207ab9437210a34415e5d1/LA5A1503-scaled.webp)

Sisikirana Villa is a majestic property standing tall and extremely beautiful in white, peaceful and mind pleasing, located in a quiet and peaceful neighbourhood just 4 km away from the scenic town of Galle and just 5 minutes away from Unawatuna! 

Hidden gem in the heart of Unawatuna 

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The Bible Rock or “Bathalegala” is a rock mostly similar in formation to the world famous citadel; Sigiriya. With a height of 797.7m and a breath of 710m, it is located in the district of Kandy, in close proximity to Aranayake. It can be seen majestic and tall when you travel along the Kandy road passing Kadugannawa. 

This rock is named after the British as it looks like a book when viewed from the Kandy road. According to the history of this rock, it is said that when the Kandyan Kingdom was under the threat of the Portuguese, locals set men to watch over for trespassers at the highest peaks around Kandy. Bathalegala was one such watch point with a very clear view of the Kadugannawa pass and the valley of Kegalle. Also, according to the villagers, this magnificent rock lies just below the earth’s magnetic field line which makes it dangerously prone to lightning strikes, many as dozens per day! It’s highly advisable to refrain from hiking during the rainy season.

![bible-rock-3](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/2dztJE8thOwWNCmJxeT6nh/5d8eb615c17a45cbae7b3c8e4fa8e9b2/bible-rock-3.webp)

![bible-rock-2](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/5FwFM1bIkTM2VedQNJBbQI/6c5a8c708d4303c5e9da4abd33727a38/bible-rock-2.webp)

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##### Getting there
We were a bunch of 6 backpackers from Colombo, and we took the 5.45 am train to Kandy; the famous class 12, Chinese blue dragon and reached Kadugannawa at around 8.30 am. From the Kadugannawa station, we took a walk to the Kadugannawa bus stand which is right in front of the station and took a bus to Mawanella. At Mawanella, we took the Mawanella-Aranayake bus (659) and got off at the top of the Hathgampola Temple road which shows a direction board saying “to the Bathalegala road”

__This hike can be done in two ways:__
Start the hike at the Hathgampola temple. The elevation is around 500 m with a climb of around 3.5 kilometres. This is where we started our hike and it took us around 2 hours to reach the trail-head.
Start at the trail-head where the elevation is around 150 m with a climb of 450m. Until the trail-head, the tarred roads are narrow and quite steep. Hence, you can only go in small cars, three wheelers and on motor bikes. There is parking space at the trail-head but is limited.

![bible-rock-4](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/2ZZmahgLSQ9SAUdx6ilphG/fc03f2b4515ca8905a6a3e032cc20205/bible-rock-4.webp)

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##### The Hike Trail
We started walking up the road from the sign board. This road was tarred and was surrounded by tall Maana grass and rubber trees. The constant winds blowing across made the hike feel quite less tired.

After a distance, we came across an incredible stone well that was built back in the year 1967. According to the villagers’ beliefs, this well never runs out of water!

From here onwards, after walking about a kilometre, the Bible rock is visible at a sight! The trail which initially started off with a narrow foot path and a mild slope now continues to grow steep. Continuing the walk for another 1.5 kilometres will bring you to the start of a journey that takes you through the lush forests.

##### Start of the trail route
We now reach the start of the trail route with a sign very hard to miss saying “Bathalegala”. The trail is an elevated slope where mighty rocks precariously balance at the fringes of the lush forest. This climb gets steeper and is a continuous climb. The forest is rather cool as the entire surrounding is nothing but the thick and green, dense jungle! Towards the end of the trail, it’s a rocky terrain and there are a few steps to climb guided by a wire railing. (which you shouldn’t really depend on though) The slippery foot path towards the end of the climb makes it quite challenging but by this time you are almost there and you feel the cool breeze at the top and start seeing the beautiful surroundings.

__You are now at the summit !__

![bible-rock-8](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/6SSvh1vYzbBjgYh5IpH6AL/91d8750d18165eceff46e66e84243855/bible-rock-8.webp)

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##### The Breathtaking view at the summit
Words wouldn’t sum up the beauty up here! The scenery down below with the mist is beautiful! The paddy fields and the thick Maana grass growing all over makes it scenic and green.

![bible-rock-6](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/4kadAlr97qLDyQ9pCv0aCJ/c1b2147ca9b3bf151dfd2daf1fc6459e/bible-rock-6.webp)

![bible-rock-5](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/3aZK1KwRNh36Jed3sAx5lQ/860e558fd5672ed8ba04005e3236b128/bible-rock-5.webp)

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The summit point is a campsite and it is the center of the division between the paths of the viewpoints. We took a left and reached the Southern view point. From here, there are many attractions down below, both far and near!

The Samasara mountain, the Ambuluwawa Peak on the southeast, Uthuwankanda, Urakanda on the right, Devanagalakanda, Adam’s Peak, Kabaragala, the Rakshawa Moutain and even the beautiful Asupini Ella at a distant can be seen surrounding this Rock.

Quite a bit stepping upwards through the Maana grass, are the remains of an old forest retreat used by reclusive monks. This is known to be the “Bathalegala Bauddhaloka Temple” built in 1997. There is a small Stupa along with a shrine room and a huge bell at the entrance which we all rang taking turns on our way up and down!

Further downwards, there is an abandoned cave under a massive overhanging rock which can shelter around 10-12 people on a rainy day.
The Northern view point is led to by the trail on to your left from the campsite. This viewpoint has more spacious vicinity. Main attractions include the Alagalla mountain peak, the Knuckles mountain range, Urakanda on the left, the Kadugannawa town, the Colombo-Kandy main road and the Central plateau.

##### Heading back down
After having some snacks and relaxing on a flat rock for about half an hour, we decided to head back downwards. We decided to take the same route we climbed up to descend too.

The climb downhill was much tedious because many of us stumbled over some rocks and roots. As the path downwards is a slope, there is a high chance of slipping as well. Back on our way down, we reminisced the good moments we had and certainly felt that the climb from the Hathgampola temple itself was worth it rather than only hiking from the trail-point!

A definite, one day climb which would leave you mesmerized by the breathtaking views up from the Bible Rock!

![bible-rock-thumb-1-1080x675](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/459EyA3iaPVEUszKnfQmz9/15d98ec1829ee766d7841dc64a55df8c/bible-rock-thumb-1-1080x675.webp)

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##### Tips to remember
- The best time to hike would be from January to April.
- Avoid rainy days because it can be very slippery and dangerous and also according to the villagers, lightening hits the rock many times a day.
- Wear light and comfortable clothing such as a pair of tracks, a light coloured t-shirt and shoes with a good grip.
- Take binoculars to take a closer look at all the beautiful attractions.
- Start the hike as early as possible.
- Take protective head gear and sunscreen to minimize the sun burns.
- Make sure you buy everything you need before you start the hike at Hathgampala itself.
- There are no leech attacks.
- Carry a litre of water each and a few packets of biscuits. We took some marshmellows and it certainly gave a bit of extra energy too!
- __Most importantly, make sure you bring all the polythene and plastic bottles back with you just as how you took them. Leave nothing, but footprints!__

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The Bible Rock or “Bathalegala” is a rock mostly similar in formation to the world famous citadel; Sigiriya. With a height of 797.7m and a breath of 710m, it is located in the district of Kandy, in close proximity to Aranayake. 

A Trek to Bathalegala (Bible Rock) 

Sri Lanka is a very special hiking destination. There are trails for all sorts of experience, from easy walks to more intense treks. Sri Lanka also has over 400 waterfalls, a visit to which is included in plenty of hikes. Here are some of the best hiking and trekking trails in Sri Lanka.

##### Ella Rock

![ella-rock-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/3e5DHYmiXw7vpwgpPT9DAZ/db906a6b7b59d633bb7391bc7233c9dd/ella-rock-min.jpg)

Ella Rock is a day hike from Ella town in the highlands, about 1000 meters above sea level. It’s best to leave your hotel or guesthouse early in the morning so as to avoid the crowds and the rain that usually comes in the afternoons. You might have a neighborhood dog following you up to the top!

##### Little Adam’s Peak

![little-adamspeak-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/6eC3fH3zUmQCeECkkx2xbf/c7a4258c686a8b1232eefc0424343bd3/little-adamspeak-min.jpg)

Little Adam’s Peak is another hike in the mountain town of Ella. An easy day (preferably morning) hike, the views from Little Adam’s Peak is of rolling hills and tea plantations (although it’s sometimes covered in mist).

##### Horton Plains and World’s End

![horton-plains-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/3FJS6kVaj7Wu9kaZHnFfKk/cf3a9cd250b8a7feea61614f57b08db4/horton-plains-min.jpg)

Horton Plains National Park is an area in the Sri Lankan Highlands at around 2000 meters above sea level. It consists of a rich plateau with thick forests, breezy grasslands, misty lakes and fresh waterfalls. There are a few options for hikers on Horton Plains, from short one hour trails to longer ones that span the entire plateau. On one edge of Horton Plains is World’s Edge, a sudden and steep 800 meter fall overlooking the countryside. On a clear day, even the ocean can be seen.

##### Knuckles Mountain Range

![knuckels-range-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/1mDEYxEN6El5SejkhOYQBE/4e93ca0d1c6a18bcf691c54999752318/knuckels-range-min.jpg)

The Knuckles Range is located in the Central Highlands, between the regions of Kandy and Matale. The mountains are called ‘knuckles’ because of their shape from certain vantage points. The Knuckles Range has plenty of options for all types of hiker. One option is to take a day hike to one of the lowest peaks, have lunch at the top and come down a different way. Another is to take a three-day, two-night expedition to Meemure. Apart from those classic routes, there are some other trails that can be explored with Rapid Adventures. One of the most special things about the Knuckles Range is that hikers can experience all types of ecosystem, including sudden changes in weather and temperature.

##### Meemure

![meemrue-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/ovqKo1c2CCVH1hOcYqHge/f1425ab6eadfbad22056db97824718c9/meemrue-min.jpg)

Meemure is the most isolated village in Sri Lanka. An expedition to Meemure is an unforgettable experience, but isn’t best for day trippers. Hikes of more than two days are easier for experienced hikers. To get to Meemure, go to the Knuckles Range and take a trail from there. During a one-day hike or three-day expedition, the main attraction is the pointy mountain looming over the village.

##### Pidurangala

![pidurangala-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/4jkGPjmYHIsU5lURojmaxT/7b181d82df86cd48b8da24f9370346dd/pidurangala-min.jpg)

Pidurangala is a large rock in the Sigiriya region. Hiking Pidurangala will give hikers a great view of the Sigiriya Fortress and 360 degree views of the valley around. A favorite way of trekking Pidurangala is at dawn, to watch the sunrise, and then after lunch going up Sigiriya for the sunset. A breakfast picnic atop Piduragangala is also a great way to start the day.

##### Adam’s Peak

![adams-peak-min](//images.ctfassets.net/2ctencdtf9g8/7d7Nq8bhdcWFiDz6k2w9qI/af4d477c1bc2c7aed7010d4a810946e7/adams-peak-min.jpg)

The hike to Adam’s Peak is more like a pilgrimage than a hike. People from all four of Sri Lanka’s religions have their reasons to climb up the 5200 steps to a height of over 2000 meters. It’s most popular to climb up for the sunrise, but in reality there are people going up and coming down throughout the day and night. November to May tend to be too rainy and it can be hard to climb, so it’s best to climb Adam’s Peak at other times of year.

The Best Hiking and Trekking Trails in Sri Lanka Sri Lanka is a very special hiking destination. There are trails for all sorts of experience, from easy walks to more intense treks. Sri Lanka also...

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