Adam's Peak hike in the off the beaten track

"Sri Paada" Peak Wilderness sanctuary is a natural reserve in Sri Lanka. It is the third largest (by area) of the 50 sanctuaries in the country. "Sri Paada" Peak Wilderness sanctuary is a tropical rain forest that spreads over a land of 224 square kilometers around the Sri Paada (Adam's Peak) mountain. A huge forest area that belonged to the Peak Wilderness was cut down and cleared during the British colonial rule in Sri Lanka (1815-1948) to gain land for the massive tea estates which are still functioning in Nuwara Eliya district. The remaining portion of the Peak Wilderness was declared a wildlife sanctuary on October 25, 1940.

The contours of "Sri Paada" Peak Wilderness vary from 1000 to 7360 feet above sea level. Therefore, it possesses unusual geographical formations compared to the other natural reserves of the island. Bena Samanala (6579 ft), Dotalugala, Detanagala, is some of the tallest mountains in the Peak Wilderness. It is also the birthplace of Kelani, Kalu, Walave rivers and many tributaries of the river Mahaweli which make waterfalls such as Dotalu falls, Geradi falls, Galagama falls (655 ft.), and Mapanana falls (330 ft.) inside the sanctuary.

Price Includes

Entrance fees and water is provided – there is a cool box in the vehicle and if you’re exploring the area by bike your biking guide will carry water.

Suitability for children

Kids may not follow the explanation, however there’s plenty of space to play. If you are doing the visit by bike – note kid’s bikes are not available.

Approximately Duration

Approx. 2 hours + the driving there and back or to your next activity.

Difficulty

Moderate. We rank it as Moderate not because of a climb as the surface is flat but because of the heat.

Starting Time:

9.00 AM to 12.00 AM, 10.00 AM to 1.00 PM, 2.00 PM to 5.00 PM

To wear and bring

Light clothing, sun cream, a hat. You might want to bring a change of shirt or t-shirt.

Important

You might like to see Anuradhapura by bike – a fun way of seeing town. The bike ride takes approximately 1 hour. The terrain is flat.

Private or Group

The visit is private, guided by your chauffeur guide, national guide or site guide. That said, there may be other people around at the site.