Sri Lanka is well-known for its picturesque beaches and stunning hill country that’s home to several popular tourist destinations. These places provide visitors with ample opportunities to capture the scenic beauty of the country. However, there are several hidden gems in Sri Lanka that are equally stunning, but often go unnoticed by tourists. These lesser-known spots are located in remote areas and remain hidden from the eyes of travelers, despite their incredible beauty and charm.
Dolukanda in Kurunegala
Kurunegala’s Dolukanda mountain range is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka that boasts a dramatic landscape and remains relatively unexplored. The 600m high mountain range is renowned for its herbal paradise and holds historical and archaeological significance, as it is linked to the Ramayana Trail in Sri Lanka. At the top of Dolukanda, there is a Buddhist Temple and a forest cave where monks meditated and resided. The trekking trail to the top of the mountain passes through the ancient Dolukanda Temple. Visitors must inform the guardian monk of the temple before beginning their climb. The route is strenuous, so it is advisable to enlist the help of a local guide.
Peacock Hill in Pussellawa
Peacock Hill is a hidden gem situated in Pussellawa, a city close to Nuwara Eliya in the hill country of Sri Lanka. At 1513 meters above sea level, it is the highest peak in Pussellawa and located alongside the A5 main road. The mountain is only 200 meters above Pussellawa city, making it an easy hike of less than 30 minutes. Once you reach the top, you will be greeted with a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. The panoramic view offers an extraordinary sight of the mountains and villages in and around Pussellawa, allowing visitors to capture some wonderful shots. Peacock Hill is a perfect location for immersing oneself in the beauty of the hill country and experiencing the stunning vistas.
Madulsima in Badulla
In the Uva Province of Sri Lanka lies a hidden gem known as Madulsima, located in a picturesque village in Badulla. This area is popular among locals for hiking and camping due to its mountainous terrain. However, many tourists are still unaware of the beauty that lies within Madulsima, particularly the Madulsima Mini World’s End. The mountain of Madulsima stands between 700 to 1000 meters above sea level with an elevation of 383 meters. The breathtaking view of endless tea plantations can be seen from this area, with the highest part belonging to Roseberry Tea Estate. The Madulsima Mini World’s End, situated at the end of the estate, is one of the completely hidden gems in Sri Lanka that is far from the major tourist destinations.
Sembuwatta Lake in Elkaduwa
Sembuwatta Lake, located in Elkaduwa in the hill country of Sri Lanka, is a hidden paradise that is perfect for those who love nature. This lake is man-made and was created using natural spring water in the Matale district. At an elevation of 1,140 meters, the lake is surrounded by the Cambell’s Land Forest reserve and lush green tea estates, providing a stunning background. The area features beautiful green mountains, towering thick pine forests, and lovely tea plantations. Sembuwatta Lake is a popular destination for leisure travel, with activities such as zip-lining, swan, and motorboat riding available. The pine forest is also a famous hiking spot in the area. The lake is quite deep, around 9-12 meters, so swimming is not permitted, but a nearby separate swimming pool is available. Visitors can also stay overnight in the holiday bungalow, which offers modern facilities.
Thalpe Rock Pool Beach in Galle
Thalpe beach is one of the most stunning beaches in Sri Lanka, located about 10 km away from Galle city and close to the famous Unawatuna beach. The Rock Pool Beach in Thalpe is a hidden gem that most visitors are unaware of. It is popular only among locals who are adventurous about sea bathing. The rock pools provide a perfect seaside getaway in a secluded area. As the pools are isolated from the coral reef, they offer a calm and safe environment for sea bathing. According to the villagers, these rock pools were created about 50 years ago by cutting out corals and soaking coconut husks to extract coir. If you’re seeking a serene beach experience, then Thalpe is definitely worth a visit.
Upper Diyaluma in Badulla
Located in Badulla, the 220-meter-tall Diyaluma waterfall is one of the most renowned waterfalls in Sri Lanka. Tourists are drawn to its majestic height and breathtaking beauty, as well as the stunning landscapes that surround it. However, few people know about the even more impressive hidden gem that lies upstream: Upper Diyaluma Falls. Getting to Upper Diyaluma is more challenging than reaching the main waterfall and requires the assistance of locals due to its remote location. Despite the difficulty, the stunning views at the top make it a must-see destination for any adventurous traveler.
Sera Ella in Riverston
Located in the Knuckles Forest Reserve, Sera Ella is a hidden gem among Sri Lanka’s many waterfalls. Standing at 10 meters tall and 15-20 meters wide, it can be viewed during a hike to Riverston peak in Matale. The waterfall’s unique feature is a natural cave located behind it, accessible by stairs on the rock. Visitors can safely walk into the cave and stand behind the cascading water, a rare opportunity to see a waterfall from behind. Even at full flow, the cave is a secure place. With over 400 waterfalls in Sri Lanka, Sera Ella is a must-see for those seeking a unique and memorable experience.
Bambarakiri Ella in Riverston
Located in the serene and peaceful setting of the Knuckles Mountain range, Bambarakiri Ella is a hidden gem amidst the breathtaking greenery. Just like Sera Ella, this waterfall can be found during your visit to Riverston. The waterfall measures 10 meters in height and cascades into three parts. During the rainy season, the water comes crashing down to earth at high speed, creating a spectacular sight. The main attraction of this waterfall is the picturesque suspension bridge that spans across the falls. This bridge provides an opportunity to capture stunning photographs of the beautiful waterfall. Additionally, the rock pool at the base of the waterfall is perfect for a refreshing dip during the dry season. However, it can be extremely dangerous during the rainy season due to the high water volume and slippery rocks.
Lakegala Peak in Meemure
Lakegala Peak, located in the stunning city of Matale, is a hidden gem known for its natural beauty. This rocky mountain stands tall at 1370 meters and is considered one of the most challenging peaks to conquer. Despite its photogenic appearance, the steep rock angle makes hiking quite difficult. Lakegala Peak is known as the most perilous hike in Sri Lanka. However, if you are an expert in rock climbing, this is the perfect spot for you. As there are no specific hiking trails, it is advisable to seek assistance from a local guide. Even if you do not wish to climb, you can still admire the breathtaking scenery and the pointed summit of Lakegala Peak. With its stunning landscape, this area is among the hidden gems of Sri Lanka and should be explored.
Adisham Bungalow in Haputale
Adisham Bungalow is a historic gem tucked away in the serene hills of Haputale, located near Ella. This charming British country house was constructed in 1931 by an English planter, and its timeless beauty has been preserved for over 90 years. The tranquil misty hills surround the bungalow, making it an alluring sight for visitors. The property boasts a sprawling 10-acre garden, meticulously landscaped with vibrant blooms. The garden is home to an array of roses and other flowers, showcasing the natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country plants. It’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those who appreciate historic architecture.
Sithulpawwa Temple in Hambantota
Sithulpawwa Temple is an ancient Buddhist monastery situated in the southern coastal city of Hambantota, which is a hidden gem worth discovering. It is located 18 km east of the pilgrimage town of Kataragama and is over 2000 years old, built in the 2nd century B.C. by King Kavantissa. The temple is situated on a massive rocky hill, offering breathtaking views from the top. The temple complex has numerous caves and shelters that were used by monks for meditation and education. The ruins of stone Buddha and Bodhisattva images are scattered throughout the monastery premises. The temple’s location is stunning, providing visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding areas.
Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
Yapahuwa Rock Fortress is a hidden gem situated on a massive rock of 90 meters high. While Sigiriya is a well-known fortress in Sri Lanka, Yapahuwa is equally impressive and yet undiscovered by many. Exploring this fascinating site provides visitors with a chance to capture some picture-perfect shots for their social media feeds. The fortress offers a serene and peaceful environment, allowing visitors to soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings. The highlight of this rock fortress is its long ornamental stone staircase, which features around 100 steps and is built on the steep embankment of the rock.