Sri Lanka, also known as the pearl of the Indian Ocean, has been captivating visitors with its natural beauty, rich culture, friendly people and diverse landscapes for decades. It is celebrated for its stunning beaches, lush tea plantations, ancient temples, and vibrant wildlife that offer a unique blend of adventure and tranquillity, making it an irresistible destination for travellers worldwide. Most tourists visit Sri Lanka to see popular attractions such as Sigiriya, Yala National Park, beaches on the south and east coasts, Ella and much more.
However, beyond the well-trodden paths, this
paradise island reveals an array of hidden gems that remain blissfully
untouched by mass tourism. From secluded waterfalls to quaint villages steeped
in tradition and pristine, off-the-beaten-path beaches, these lesser-known
treasures promise an unforgettable journey for those who dare to explore Sri
Lanka’s authentic and unspoiled beauty. So, here’s your chance to discover some
of the hidden gems of Sri Lanka that no one talks about.
CHECK OUT THESE HIDDEN GEMS OF SRI LANKA!
1. Meeyan Ella , Ihala Kotte
Meeyan Ella is a marvellous waterfall with a deep history, nestled near the Ihala Kotte railway station. The stream that creates this waterfall originates from a place called
Helen-Maditta on the Alagalla mountain.
Originally, the waterfall fell as a single stream, however, today it drops as two smaller streams. How this once mighty waterfall became two small streams is quite an interesting story. In the mid-1800s, when the last kingdom of Sri Lanka fell under British rule, they started building a railway line from Colombo to Kandy.
At the Alagalla section of the railway line, they were faced with the challenging task of building the railway across this large waterfall. To cross Meeyan Ella, the British had to drill over 1,000 feet through the Alagalla rock and build a tunnel across it. However, this was an impossible task so they decided to block the waterfall upstream and cut two deep grooves into the rock so that the water would fall as two smaller streams.
- Best time to travel: Meeyan Ella is best visited during the rainy season which typically occurs between October and December. This is when the waterfall is at its fullest and most impressive. However, it’s always best to check local weather conditions and road accessibility before planning your visit. Added to that, visiting during morning hours and on weekdays may give you a more peaceful experience.
- Transportation & Distance: It is accessible through the Kandy to Kandyan railway between Rambukkana and Kadugannawa stations. For those travelling by bus, follow the route Polgahawela –> Rambukkana –> Mawanella to reach the 7th pillar, after which a short 3km journey would lead you to the Ihala Kotte station. Thereafter, about 1km walk along the railway line from the station will take you to the marvellous Meeyan Ella Waterfall.
2. Kallebokka 360° Viewpoint
The Kallebokka 360° viewpoint is located right on the border of the Matale and Kandy districts. It is the perfect location to watch the sunrise and sunset beautifully. On a clear day, visitors can observe the Central Highlands, Kandy City, Sembuwatte Lake, Bathalegala, Knuckles Mountain Range and Piduruthalagala all from this location.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Kallebokka 360° Viewpoint is during the dry season which typically runs from December to March. However, it can also get quite crowded during this peak season, so if you prefer a quieter experience, you might want to consider visiting during the shoulder months of April and November.
- Transportation & Distance: The viewpoint is located roughly 10km from Haputale which would take around half an hour by car, 32km from Kandy and 26km from Matale which would take several hours by car due to winding roads. If you are travelling by bus you must first get to Wattegama and take the Kabaragala bus which will take you by the turning point.
3. Blue Beach Island, Nilwella
Blue Beach Island is a private beach camping sight in Nilwella, which is near Dikwella. It is not just an island, it is a tied island. That means it is an island that is connected to the mainland by a narrow piece of land. There are a few tied islands in Sri Lanka and this happens to be one of them. Blue Beach Island gives a very unique type of camping experience and offers amazing views of the beautiful sunset in southern Sri Lanka.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit the southern coast of Sri Lanka where Blue Beah Island is located is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. This is when you can expect sunny weather and calm seas. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind the occasional rainfall, you might consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May to September
- Transportation & Distance: Blue Beach Island is located around 13km away from Tangalle, 8km from Mirissa and around 3km from Dikwella. You can easily hop on a train or bus headed down south of Lanka to get there.
4. Loolkandura Tea Estate
This is where the very first patch or test patch of tea was planted after the failure of coffee plantation in Sri Lanka. With the huge success of this, James Taylor who was in charge of this plantation has been immortalized forever. The estate has now restored several locations used by James Taylor, including the first tea patch, and opened it to the public. You can also go to Taylor’s Seat, which is a rock seat used by James Taylor, and take in some breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Loolkandura Tea Estate is generally during the dry seasons from January to March and July to September when the weather is more favourable for walking through the estate.
- Transportation & Distance: You can get to Loolkandura Tea Estate by hopping on a Deltota bus from Kandy town. Or you can simply take the B364 road if you are driving by taking the following route: Peradeniya -> Galaha Junction -> Hindagala -> Mahakanda -> Deltota -> Loolecondera. There is around 35 km to Loolkandura Tea Estate.
5. Maskeliya Reservoir
The Maskeliya Reservoir promises an unforgettable experience for both nature enthusiasts and those seeking adventure. It is a beautiful lake surrounded by lush green mountains, hidden away in a valley in the Hatton area of the Nuwara Eliya district. It is bound to take travellers to another dimension with its heavenly views. You will be able to closely experience the beauty of nature by taking a boat ride on the reservoir.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Maskeliya Reservoir is during the dry season which runs from December to March. This is because the weather is generally pleasant during this time with less rainfall marking it ideal for outdoor activities. Additionally, the dry season is when wildlife is more active, giving visitors a better chance of spotting various species.
- Transportation & Distance: You can get on a train from the Fort railway station to Hatton Town and hop on a tuk-tuk or bus from there to Maskeliya. The distance between Hatton Town and Maskelia Reservoir is about 9.6km and would roughly take around 15-20 minutes to drive.
6. Aberdeen Falls, Ginigathena
This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka. This breathtaking 98-meter waterfall is located in the Central Province nestled amidst lush greenery. This hidden gem offers a tranquil escape with its cascading waters, serene pools, and picturesque surroundings, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. According to folklore, there is a tunnel leading from Aberdeen Falls to the neighbouring Lakshapana Falls.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Aberdeen Falls is from September to December. During this time the weather is quite clear and the water levels are moderate making it safer for swimming.
- Transportation & Distance: There isn’t a direct train to Aberdeen Falls, but you can easily get a train from the Fort Railway Station to Watawala Train Station and then hop on a tuk-tuk or bus from there. It is located about 3km southwest of the Watawala Railway Station. You can even hop on a bus from Pettah to Nawalapitiya or Hatton and get to Aberdeen Falls.
7. Nil Diya Pokuna, Ella
The enchanting “Blue Water Pond” is a place steeped in legend and mystery associated with the infamous King Ravana. It is an underwater pond situated in the largest underground cave unearthed in Sri Lanka. The cave has a rabbit hole entrance through which the pond can be accessed.
This is definitely not for the faint-hearted and truly earns its place as one of hidden gems of sri lanka as you have to creep through narrow tunnels which are often dark and confined. However, once you reach the pool, which itself is a natural wonder with its crystal clear blue waters sourced from an underground spring, you will realize this journey is full of awe and excitement despite the challenges.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Nil Diya Pokuna is between December and March. This is because the weather is more predictable during this time, making it much easier to explore the area and enjoy the natural beauty.
- Transportation & Distance: Nil Diya Pokua is located approximately 13.3km away from Ella and just a short tuk-tuk ride away from the town. You can get to Ella via train or bus from Pettah.
8. Fool's Bridge, Ulapane
While Sri Lanka has an impressive array of bridges, some of these bridges are situated off the beaten track and rarely visited by locals or tourists. During the British Colonial era in the mid-19th century, there was a necessity to construct a bridge over the Mahaweli River at Ulapane. What is unique about this bride is the side arches (commonly found in steel bridges) are constructed at the bottom of the bridge with an inverted shape, instead of the usual design seen in other steel bridges. This is why this bridge is known as the “Fool’s Bridge” or the “Upside Down Bridge.”
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Fool’s Bridge is during the spring months of April and May or the early fall months of September and October when the temperatures are generally mild.
9. Nidangoda Falls, Haputale
Nidangoda Fall, situated in Haputale, is special for its serene and unspoiled beauty, nestled amidst lush tea plantations and misty hills. This hidden gem offers a tranquil escape with its gentle cascade and crystal-clear pool, providing an ideal spot for relaxation and nature appreciation. The fall’s secluded location ensures a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquillity amidst the hidden gems of Sri Lanka.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Nidangoda Fall is during the dry season which runs from December to March.
10. Dolukanda, Kurunegala
This mountain with a height of 1969 feet is situated in Hiripitiya village in the Kurunegala district. Legend has it that when Lord Hanuman brought the Great Himalayas to heal Rama who was injured in the war, some parts of it fell on top of Dolukanda. This mountain is home to rare medicinal plants that are believed to have supernatural powers to cure any disease, which can only be found in the Himalayas. If you’re looking for trekking trails and hikes with combination of abseiling experience in sri lanka, this is the place.
Dolukanda is a mountain adorned with numerous ancient ruins.
- Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit Dolukanda is during the dry season which runs from December to April. However, if you prefer lush greenery and don’t mind the occasional rainfall you might enjoy visiting during the shoulder seasons of May to August.
- Transportation & Distance: You can get to Kurunegala via bus or train from Fort. From there you may have to inquire on which bus to take to Dolukanda or you can simply hop in a tuk-tuk from Kurunegala to Dolukanda.
Safety Measures to Consider
Since most of these places are located in remote villages in Sri Lanka and have fewer visitors, it is essential to prioritize your safety. A few safety measures to consider are:
● Research beforehand.
● Ensure you have a first-aid kit with essential supplies and necessary medications.
● Stay updated on local weather conditions.
● Obtain travel insurance if needed.
● Carry necessary equipment, camping gear etc.
● Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Places to Find the Cheapest Accommodations
When visiting any of these places you can are sure to find cheap accommodation if you do some thorough research. Keep an eye out for local guesthouses and homestays which will provide you with a more authentic experience at a lower cost. There are bound to be many of these close to all of these hidden gems of Sri Lanka.
Conclusion
Exploring the hidden gems of Sri Lanka offers an unparalleled glimpse into the island’s authentic beauty and rich culture. These lesser-known spots provide a serene escape from the more touristy areas and reveal the true heart of Sri Lanka. Discovering these secret treasures not only enriches your travel experience but also supports local communities. So go out on a limb and venture off the beaten path to uncover the secrets of Sri Lanka that many travellers overlook, and you’ll find a world of wonder waiting to be explored.
