Mist & Mountains: Highlands of Sri Lanka Tour

Theme -

Hiking • Nature • Culture • Tea Trails • Scenic Beauty

Route -

Kandy - Knuckles - Riverston - Nuwara Eliya - Horton Plains - Ella - Bandarawela - Kandy

Step into the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country, where mist drapes emerald peaks and time slows to nature’s rhythm. The Mist & Mountains journey takes you across winding trails, through fragrant tea plantations, and past hidden waterfalls and cloud forests. From the cultural charm of Kandy to the rugged beauty of the Knuckles Range and the dramatic cliffs of Horton Plains, each day offers fresh air, panoramic views, and quiet reflection. Perfect for walkers, dreamers, and nature lovers, this immersive highlands tour blends soft adventure with cultural soul in Sri Lanka’s most scenic corners.

Day 01 – Arrival in Kandy

Arrive in Kandy and transfer to your hotel in the cultural capital of the hills. Spend the afternoon visiting the sacred Temple of the Tooth and strolling around Kandy Lake, soaking in the serene hilltop atmosphere. In the evening, enjoy a cultural dance show or a peaceful walk through the city streets before returning to your accommodation. Overnight stay is arranged in a comfortable hotel in Kandy.

Day 02 – Hike into the Knuckles Range

After breakfast, drive to the Knuckles Mountain Range, where cloud forests, cascading waterfalls, and rural villages await. Embark on a guided trek, exploring the lush biodiversity and scenic viewpoints along the trails. Pause for a picnic lunch amidst panoramic vistas and return to your eco-lodge or forest retreat nearby for dinner and overnight stay, surrounded by the tranquillity of the mountains.

Day 03 – Explore Riverston & Matale Valleys

Begin the day with a visit to the Riverston viewpoint and trek to Mini World's End, marveling at the vast valleys and dramatic cliffs. Enjoy a refreshing dip in natural pools or take a detour to the Bambarakiri Ella waterfalls before continuing through fragrant spice plantations and mist-covered valleys. Depending on your pace, either return to your Knuckles lodge or proceed to Nuwara Eliya, where overnight stay is arranged in a cosy hotel or boutique lodge.

Day 04 – Tea Trails & Colonial Charms in Nuwara Eliya

Transfer to Nuwara Eliya, affectionately known as “Little England,” and immerse yourself in its colonial-era charm. Visit a working tea estate and factory, learning about the tea-making process and sampling freshly brewed Ceylon tea. Explore Gregory Lake and wander through quaint colonial landmarks, absorbing the town’s serene ambiance. Overnight stay is arranged at a heritage hotel or boutique planter’s bungalow in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 05 – Horton Plains & World’s End Hike

Depart early for Horton Plains National Park for a moderate 3-hour hike to the iconic World’s End cliff and Baker’s Falls. Take in panoramic views of rolling hills and misty landscapes as you traverse the unique highland plateau. Return to Nuwara Eliya in the afternoon to relax, enjoy optional high tea, or explore the area on horseback before an overnight stay at your hotel.

Day 06 – Train to Ella & Leisure

Board the scenic train to Ella, passing through lush tea plantations, tunnels, and dramatic mountain vistas. Upon arrival, explore the charming town, walk to Ella Gap, visit the Nine Arches Bridge, or relax in a local café overlooking the hills. Spend the night in a comfortable hotel or boutique lodge in Ella.

Day 07 – Ella to Bandarawela with Hiking Options

Wake early for a short trek to Little Adam’s Peak or Ella Rock to enjoy sunrise views over the misty mountains. Afterward, transfer to Bandarawela, a quiet hill village, and explore its surrounding countryside, with optional visits to Dowa Cave Temple or local community walks. Relax for your final night in the hills at a homestay or boutique villa, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

Day 08 – Return to Kandy or Departure

Take a scenic drive back to Kandy or continue directly to Colombo Airport, passing through tea country backroads and cultural sites along the way. Enjoy one last view of the lush highlands and reflect on the rich experiences of your highland adventure before concluding your journey.