Sri Lanka Travel Helper

Scenic Adventure
Tea Country
6 Days / 5 Nights
Train Journey

Hill Country Explorer

Journey through Sri Lanka's breathtaking highlands with misty mountains, lush tea plantations, and spectacular scenic train rides.

Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Horton Plains

Destinations

6 Days / 5 Nights

Duration

From $400
per person (based on double occupancy)

    Tour Overview

    Embark on an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka's stunning hill country, where misty mountains, lush tea plantations, and cool climates create a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This 6-day tour takes you through the heart of Sri Lanka's highlands, from the colonial charm of Nuwara Eliya to the breathtaking vistas of Ella and the wild beauty of Horton Plains.

    Experience the world-famous scenic train ride through tea country, hike to spectacular viewpoints, explore tea factories, and immerse yourself in the unique culture of Sri Lanka's highland communities. With comfortable accommodations, expert guides, and carefully curated experiences, this tour offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

    Scenic Landscapes

    Explore misty mountains, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints

    Iconic Train Journey

    Experience one of the world's most scenic train rides through tea plantations

    Tea Experiences

    Visit tea plantations and factories to learn about Ceylon tea production

    Hiking Adventures

    Moderate hikes to stunning viewpoints and natural wonders

    Tour Details

    • Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
    • Destinations: 3 Hill Country Towns
    • Accommodation: Plantation Bungalows & Hotels
    • Transport: Private Vehicle & Train

    Tour Route

    • Day 1: Colombo → Nuwara Eliya
    • Day 2: Nuwara Eliya Exploration
    • Day 3: Nuwara Eliya → Ella (Train)
    • Day 4: Ella Exploration
    • Day 5: Horton Plains Day Trip
    • Day 6: Ella → Colombo

    Detailed Itinerary

    Day-by-day breakdown of your hill country adventure

    01

    Journey to Little England - Nuwara Eliya

    Colombo → Nuwara Eliya

    Begin your hill country adventure with a scenic drive from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya, ascending through lush landscapes and tea plantations. En route, visit a tea factory to learn about Ceylon tea production and enjoy a tasting session. Arrive in Nuwara Eliya, often called "Little England" for its colonial architecture and cool climate.

    Today's Highlights

    • Scenic drive through hill country landscapes
    • Tea factory visit and tasting
    • Explore Nuwara Eliya town center
    • Visit Gregory Lake for a leisurely stroll
    • Check into your colonial-style hotel

    Accommodation

    Overnight at a colonial hotel in Nuwara Eliya

    Meals

    Dinner

    02

    Nuwara Eliya Exploration & Waterfalls

    Nuwara Eliya Exploration

    Discover the charms of Nuwara Eliya with visits to its iconic landmarks. Explore the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, visit a working tea plantation, and see the stunning Ramboda Falls. Experience the colonial atmosphere with a visit to the Hill Club or Grand Hotel, and enjoy the cool mountain air of this unique hill station.

    Today's Highlights

    • Visit Hakgala Botanical Gardens
    • See Ramboda Falls
    • Tour a working tea plantation
    • Explore Nuwara Eliya's colonial architecture
    • Visit a local vegetable market

    Accommodation

    Overnight at a colonial hotel in Nuwara Eliya

    Meals

    Breakfast, Dinner

    03

    Scenic Train to Ella

    Nuwara Eliya → Ella (Train)

    Experience one of the world's most beautiful train journeys as you travel from the highlands to Ella. This scenic ride takes you through tea plantations, tunnels, and misty mountains with breathtaking views. Upon arrival in Ella, check into your accommodation and take a leisurely walk to Little Adam's Peak for sunset views over the valley.

    Today's Highlights

    • Scenic train journey through tea country
    • Breathtaking mountain and valley views
    • Check into Ella accommodation
    • Sunset hike to Little Adam's Peak
    • Evening exploration of Ella town

    Accommodation

    Overnight at a boutique hotel in Ella

    Meals

    Breakfast, Dinner

    04

    Ella's Natural Wonders

    Ella Exploration

    Discover Ella's stunning natural attractions with a hike to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge and a visit to Ravana Falls. Enjoy panoramic views from Ella Rock and learn about the local legend of King Ravana. The day offers plenty of photography opportunities and chances to immerse yourself in the beautiful hill country landscape.

    Today's Highlights

    • Hike to Nine Arch Bridge
    • Visit Ravana Falls
    • Moderate hike to Ella Rock (optional)
    • Photography at scenic viewpoints
    • Local cuisine experience

    Accommodation

    Overnight at a boutique hotel in Ella

    Meals

    Breakfast, Dinner

    05

    Horton Plains & World's End

    Horton Plains Day Trip

    Embark on an early morning excursion to Horton Plains National Park for a memorable hike to World's End, a sheer cliff with a dramatic 880-meter drop. The park is home to unique flora and fauna, and the hike takes you through montane grasslands and cloud forests. Visit Baker's Falls and enjoy the pristine natural environment of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

    Today's Highlights

    • Early morning hike in Horton Plains
    • Spectacular views from World's End
    • Visit Baker's Falls
    • Wildlife spotting in the national park
    • Return to Ella for relaxation

    Accommodation

    Overnight at a boutique hotel in Ella

    Meals

    Breakfast, Dinner

    06

    Return to Colombo

    Ella → Colombo

    After a final hill country breakfast, begin your journey back to Colombo. En route, stop at a spice garden to learn about Sri Lanka's famous spices and their uses. Enjoy a farewell lunch before continuing to Colombo, where you'll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight or to your city hotel if extending your stay.

    Today's Highlights

    • Final hill country breakfast
    • Visit to a spice garden
    • Farewell lunch with local cuisine
    • Scenic drive back to Colombo
    • Airport transfer or city drop-off

    Accommodation

    No accommodation (end of tour)

    Meals

    Breakfast, Lunch

    What's Included

    Everything you need for an unforgettable hill country adventure

    Included

    • 5 nights accommodation in hill country hotels
    • Daily breakfast and dinner
    • All transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle
    • Scenic train ticket from Nuwara Eliya to Ella
    • Professional English-speaking guide
    • All entrance fees to mentioned sites
    • Horton Plains National Park entrance and guide
    • Tea factory tour and tasting
    • Spice garden visit
    • Bottled water during tours
    • Government taxes and service charges

    Not Included

    • International flights
    • Visa fees
    • Travel insurance
    • Lunches (unless specified)
    • Personal expenses
    • Tips for guides and drivers
    • Optional activities
    • Alcoholic beverages
    • Any services not mentioned in inclusions

    Pricing Options

    Choose the accommodation style that suits your mountain getaway

    Standard

    $400
    per person
    • 3-Star Hill Country Hotels
    • Breakfast & Dinner Included
    • Private A/C Vehicle
    • English Speaking Driver
    • Scenic Train Journey
    • All Included Activities
    • 24/7 Support
    Select Plan

    Luxury

    $650
    per person
    • 5-Star Luxury Properties
    • All Meals Included
    • Luxury Private Vehicle
    • Expert Tour Guide
    • Scenic Train Journey (1st Class)
    • All Included Activities
    • 24/7 Premium Support
    • Luxury Tea Plantation Bungalow
    • Private Guided Hikes
    • Spa Treatment
    Select Plan

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Find answers to common questions about the Hill Country Explorer

    What is the weather like in the hill country?

    The hill country has a cooler climate than coastal areas, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Mornings and evenings can be quite cool, especially in Nuwara Eliya. It's advisable to bring warm clothing, including layers, jackets, and comfortable walking shoes. Rainfall can occur throughout the year, so a light waterproof jacket is recommended.

    How difficult are the hikes included in this tour?

    The hikes in this tour are rated as moderate. Little Adam's Peak is an easy 1-2 hour round trip with well-defined paths. Ella Rock is more challenging, taking 3-4 hours round trip with some steep sections. The Horton Plains hike is approximately 9km (5.6 miles) on relatively flat terrain but at high altitude. All hikes can be adjusted based on your fitness level, and our guides will ensure a pace that's comfortable for you.

    What should I pack for a hill country tour?

    We recommend layered clothing for changeable weather, including warm layers, waterproof jacket, comfortable hiking shoes, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, reusable water bottle, daypack for hikes, camera, and any personal medications. The key is to be prepared for cool temperatures, potential rain, and lots of walking.

    Is altitude sickness a concern in the hill country?

    While Sri Lanka's hill country reaches elevations up to 2,500 meters (8,200 ft), altitude sickness is generally not a significant concern for most travelers. However, some people might experience mild symptoms like shortness of breath during hikes. We recommend taking it easy for the first day, staying hydrated, and informing your guide if you feel unwell. Our itineraries are designed to acclimatize gradually.

    Can we customize the hiking activities?

    Absolutely! We understand that travelers have different fitness levels and interests. We can customize the hiking activities to suit your preferences - whether you'd like more challenging hikes, easier walks, or alternative activities. Please discuss your preferences with us when booking so we can tailor the experience to your needs.

    Ready for Your Mountain Adventure?

    Contact us today to book your spot or ask any questions