Nuwara Eliya is famed for its lush tea plantations, cool mountain air, and scenic landscapes—making it an ideal base for Hiking and Trekking Tours in Sri Lanka. Whether you’re after a challenging ascent or a gentle stroll through tea country, this region offers something for every outdoor enthusiast. Our favorite here is the Adams Peak Overnight Hike because of its dramatic sunrise and spiritual significance, but we also love the Horton Plains trek for its breathtaking vistas and the Village Trekking at Ramboda for an authentic village experience. Each tour offers a different slice of the area’s natural beauty, showcasing its waterfalls, wildlife, and sweeping vistas.
If you’re planning your adventure, consider what kind of experience appeals most—do you want the thrill of summiting Adams Peak? Or perhaps you prefer exploring tea country with a side of waterfalls? Our detailed reviews below will help you find the perfect match.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover six of the best hiking and trekking tours around Nuwara Eliya. These include night ascents to Adams Peak, scenic waterfall hikes, private half-day excursions combining culture and nature, and full-day adventures at Horton Plains and Ambewela farms. From challenging mountain climbs to relaxed village walks, there’s a tour to suit your style and fitness level. For each, we’ve provided insights into what you’ll see, why it stands out, and who it’s best suited for. Now, let’s explore each of these options in detail.
1. Nuwara Eliya to Summit Bliss: Adams Peak Overnight Hike
At number one, the Nuwara Eliya to Summit Bliss: Adams Peak Overnight Hike offers a truly memorable experience that combines physical challenge with spiritual reward. This tour takes you on a nighttime ascent of the iconic 2,243-meter Adams Peak, culminating in a spectacular sunrise over the highlands. The trek is led by an expert guide who knows the route well and shares local stories along the way. The journey begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Haputale, Nuwara Eliya, or Bandarawela, making it convenient to start early and beat the crowds.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a challenging climb and the awe-inspiring view from the summit. The rising sun illuminating the surrounding peaks and the spiritual significance of Adams Peak, which attracts pilgrims from all over Asia, make it a truly special moment. The route passes through the inside of the 224sqkm wildlife sanctuary, adding a chance to see some local flora and fauna.
Guests rave about the experience, with many describing it as “a must-do in Sri Lanka for adventure and soul-searching.” The cost of $100 per person offers excellent value for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, including guides, transfers, and scenic views. Keep in mind, the hike is physically demanding but rewarding.
Bottom Line: If you’re fit, love a challenge, and want a sunrise to remember, this overnight Adams Peak trek is hard to beat.
2. Nuwara Eliya: Tea Country Tour with Waterfall Hike
For a more relaxed but equally scenic experience, the Nuwara Eliya: Tea Country Tour with Waterfall Hike provides a perfect half-day getaway into Sri Lanka’s famous tea plantations. Priced at just $54 for a group of up to three, this tour is an excellent choice for those on a budget or with limited time. It starts with visits to Blue Field and Damro Tea Factories, where you can see the tea-making process from leaf to cup—an engaging experience for any tea lover.
The highlight is the hike to Ramboda Falls, one of the most stunning waterfalls in the area. The trail offers panoramic views as you ascend to the upper section of the falls, making it ideal for photographers and nature lovers. After the hike, you’ll visit the Tea Bush Tea Factory, where you can sample fresh, freshly brewed teas and learn about different blends.
A local lunch with views of the hills wraps up the tour, making it an immersive day in Sri Lanka’s hill country. The trip is perfect for those seeking a balance of culture and nature without intense physical effort. The guide’s knowledge and the scenic stops make this a highlight for many visitors.
Bottom Line: This tour is an excellent introduction to Sri Lanka’s tea region with a rewarding waterfall hike, suitable for families or casual hikers.
$54 per group up to 3
3. Nuwara Eliya Half Day Private Hiking and Sightseeing Tour
If you prefer a personalized approach, the Nuwara Eliya Half Day Private Hiking and Sightseeing Tour offers flexibility and intimacy. For just $21 per person, you get a 3 to 4-hour trip that combines a hike to Bomburu Ella, Sri Lanka’s widest waterfall, with a visit to the Seetha Amman Temple, a site of cultural significance linked to the Ramayana epic.
The hike to Bomburu Ella is relatively easy, about 25-30 minutes, and offers incredible views of the waterfall’s width. It’s best to wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be uneven. Afterward, the guide takes you to the temple, where you can enjoy a quiet moment or do a small prayer—adding a cultural dimension to your outdoor adventure.
The final stop is Single Tree Hill, which provides panoramic views over Gregory Lake and the town of Nuwara Eliya. This spot offers a great photo opportunity and a peaceful end to your half-day escape.
Guests appreciate the flexibility, and the guide’s local insights add depth to this short but rich experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a quick, private experience combining nature and culture, all at an affordable price.
$21.00 per person
4. Horton Plains Park & Worlds End Guided Trekking From Nuwara Eliya
Number four on our list is the Horton Plains Park & Worlds End Guided Trekking tour, a full-day adventure that showcases some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landscapes. This tour, priced at $70 per person, includes hotel pickup and a guide to ensure you get the most out of your visit. Horton Plains is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for waterfalls, lakes, and the dramatic drop at Worlds End, where the sheer cliffs offer jaw-dropping views.
The trek covers various terrains, from dense forests to open plains, with chances of spotting local wildlife. The trail is well-maintained but involves some uphill walking, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. The guide shares interesting facts about the flora and fauna, enriching the experience. Afterward, you’ll visit the Pedro Tea Factory, where you’ll learn how Sri Lanka’s tea is processed and sample some of the best blends.
Guests praise the well-paced itinerary and the abundant photo opportunities, especially at Worlds End. The combination of nature, wildlife, and tea production makes this tour a well-rounded day trip for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive day combining hiking, wildlife, and tea, this guided tour is hard to beat.
$70.00 per person
5. Adam’s Peak: Overnight Trek via Peak Wilderness Sanctuary
At number five, the Adam’s Peak: Overnight Trek via Peak Wilderness Sanctuary offers a different approach from the summit hike—exploring the lush tropical rainforest around the famous mountain. Priced at $110 per person, this 10-hour adventure suits those interested in nature and wildlife as much as the climb itself.
The route takes you through the Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, an area rich in biodiversity, where you’ll encounter a variety of birds, plants, and possibly some elusive mammals. The trek involves a night hike to the summit, with your guide sharing insights about the rainforest ecosystem. Reaching the top for sunrise is optional but highly recommended, as the view from Adams Peak is spectacular and the journey through the rainforest adds depth to the experience.
Guests appreciate the combination of physical challenge and immersive nature, though it’s more suited to those with a good fitness level. The tour provides a chance to connect with the rainforest environment that surrounds the pilgrimage site.
Bottom Line: If you want a nature-focused trek with a touch of adventure, this rainforest journey leading up to Adams Peak is a great choice.
$110 per person
6. Exclusive: Village Trekking Tour at Ramboda
Finally, the Village Trekking Tour at Ramboda offers a relaxed, authentic village experience. This private tour, costing $45 per person, is perfect for travelers seeking to see rural Sri Lanka firsthand. You’ll explore waterfalls, rivers, tea plantations, and local farms, all while enjoying the peaceful pace of village life.
The highlight is the walk through the surrounding countryside, visiting tea plantations and a tea factory, where you can learn about traditional tea-making processes. The tour also includes a farm visit and a local village lunch, providing a taste of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. This tour is ideal for those who want to combine outdoor activities with culture.
Guests find the personalized nature of the tour appealing, and the scenic stops make it a relaxing yet interesting outing. It’s a great choice if you prefer a leisurely pace and meaningful interactions with locals.
Bottom Line: For a gentle, cultural walk that showcases rural life, this village trek is hard to beat.
$45 per person
How to Choose the Right Hiking or Trekking Tour in Nuwara Eliya
Choosing between these tours depends on your fitness level, interests, and available time. If you’re after a challenging adventure and sunrise views, the Adams Peak overnight hike is unmatched. For a shorter, culture-rich outing, try the half-day private tour or the village trek. Want a full day of varied scenery? Horton Plains offers stunning landscapes and wildlife, especially for nature lovers.
Consider your budget: tours range from $21 to $110, so plan accordingly, and book early during peak travel seasons. If you’re unsure, a private tour like the Ramboda Village Trek offers customizable options and more personal attention.
Final Thoughts
Nuwara Eliya offers a wide range of hiking and trekking options—from challenging mountain ascents to gentle village walks—each showcasing the region’s natural beauty and local culture. The Adams Peak overnight hike is a must for adventure seekers, while Horton Plains provides a scenic day trip for nature lovers. For those with limited time or looking for a cultural touch, the half-day private tour or village trek hits the spot.
Whatever your style, these tours provide a wonderful way to experience Sri Lanka’s hill country firsthand. To ensure you don’t miss out, consider booking your preferred tour early, especially during busy seasons. Now, lace up your hiking boots and get ready for unforgettable views and authentic experiences in Nuwara Eliya.