Natural Landmarks

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: LKR 930

• Foreign Children (6 - 12 years): LKR 470

• Children under 6 years: Free entry

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter.

Payment Methods 

• Only cash payments are accepted.

• Cash payments are accepted only in Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR).

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Access to Udawatta Kele Forest Reserve (104 hectares of historic forest).

• Entry to nature trails and hiking paths throughout the sanctuary.

Site Guide Availability

• No official guide service is provided at the entrance.

• Visitors can explore on their own with marked trails and signboards.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: 

Daily 8.00 AM - 6.00 PM. 

The ticket counter closes at 4.00 PM.

• Best Time: Early morning for birdwatching and cooler weather.

• Duration: 3–4 hours, depending on chosen trails.

Things to Do

• Walk along nature trails for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

• Visit Kodimale Peak for panoramic views of Kandy.

• Observe flora and fauna, including monkeys, birds, reptiles, and rare plants.

• Photography of diverse plant species, including giant lianas, shrubs, and small trees.

Recommended Dress Code

• Comfortable, modest clothing suitable for walking.

• Long pants and long-sleeved shirts for protection against insects.

• Sturdy walking shoes recommended.

• A hat or cap for sun protection.

Washrooms

• Basic washrooms are available near the entrance and inside the sanctuary.

Parking

• Parking is available at the entrance gate.

Important Notes

• Trails may be slippery during rainy weather; carry a walking stick if needed.

• Maps are provided at the entrance for orientation and navigation.

•  Moderate fitness is required for forest hiking and trail navigation.

• Carry water and light snacks, but avoid littering.

• Insect repellent is recommended due to mosquitoes.

• Remain on designated trails for safety and conservation.

• The sanctuary is best enjoyed quietly.

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: LKR 350

• Children under 9 years: Free entry

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter, which is located along the trail near the falls.

Payment Methods 

• Only cash payments are accepted.

• Cash payments are accepted only in Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR).

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Entry to the upper Diyaluma Falls area with natural swimming pools.

• Access to hiking trails leading to the top.

Site Guide Availability

• Local guides are often available at the base or nearby villages.

• Guides can lead you to the upper natural pools and ensure your safety.

• Hiring a guide is recommended for first-time visitors.

• Some visitors explore independently using offline maps.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: Open year-round, but daylight hours (7:00 AM – 5:30 PM) are safest.

• Best Months: January to May (dry season) for safe swimming.

• Duration: 2–3 hours for trekking and exploring.

Things to Do

• Trek to the base of Diyaluma, Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall.

• Hike to the top pools for swimming in natural infinity pools.

• Enjoy photography of landscapes and cascading waters.

Recommended Dress Code

• Wear light, breathable clothes suitable for hiking.

• Sturdy trekking shoes are strongly recommended, as rocks can be slippery. 

• Bring swimwear if you plan to bathe in the pools.

• A hat or cap for sun protection.

Washrooms

• No permanent washrooms at the falls or trail.

• Basic facilities may be found in nearby villages or tea shops.

Parking

• Informal parking areas are available at trailheads.

Important Notes

• The rocks near the falls can be very slippery; avoid going too close to the edges.

• Swimming is only safe in certain pools at the top. Never attempt to swim near the main cascade.

• No safety barriers exist; extreme caution is required near cliff edges.

• Moderate to good fitness is required for jungle hiking and rock climbing.

• Avoid visiting during heavy rain due to the risk of flash floods and poor visibility.

• Bring hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water/snacks.

• Respect the environment: do not litter.

• Hiring a guide is advisable if you are unfamiliar with the trails.

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: USD 5

• Children (5-12 years): USD 2.50

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter.

Payment Methods 

• Cash-only payments are accepted at the ticket counter.

• Sri Lankan rupees (LKR) are accepted for payments.

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Access to the ancient ironwood (Naa) forest, and the Rose Quartz Mountain Range, the largest in South Asia.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: Daily 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

• Duration: About 2–3 hours to explore the forest and hike the quartz mountain.

Things to Do

• Explore the Ironwood Forest, historically used as a meditation retreat by monks.

• Hike to the Rose Quartz Mountain Range for panoramic views.

• Nature walking on marked trails through 260+ acres of endemic forest.

Recommended Dress Code

• Modest, comfortable clothing suitable for hiking.

• Sturdy shoes or trekking sandals are required for the quartz mountain.

• A hat or cap for sun protection.

Washrooms

• Basic washroom facilities are available near the entrance.

• None along the hiking trail.

Parking

• Parking is available near the entrance gate.

Important Notes

• The quartz mountain can get extremely hot under direct sunlight.

• Moderate fitness is required for mountain climbing and forest hiking.

• Trails involve steep climbs and uneven surfaces; not ideal for those with mobility issues.

• Bring hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water/snacks.

• Respect the religious and ecological significance of the site.

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: Approx. LKR 500

• Foreign Children under 10 years: Free entry

Payment Methods 

• Cash-only payments are accepted at the ticket counter.

• Sri Lankan rupees (LKR) are accepted for payments.

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Access to the famous viewpoint where Sir Thomas Lipton surveyed his tea empire.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: Daily, 5:30 AM – 5:30 PM.

• Best Time: Early morning (6:00 AM – 10:00 AM) for clear skies before mist sets in.

• Duration: Around 2–3 hours.

Things to Do

• Hike or drive up to Lipton’s Seat viewpoint for panoramic views of tea country.

• Watch the sunrise over the tea plantations from the famous viewpoint.

• Visit Dambatenne Tea Factory, built by Sir Thomas Lipton in the 19th century.

• Walk through the surrounding tea plantations and observe tea pickers at work.

• Capture photographs of sunrise or morning landscapes.

• Meet local tea estate workers and learn about tea culture.

Recommended Dress Code

• Comfortable clothing for cool weather in the morning and warmer conditions later in the day.

• Sturdy walking shoes for estate paths and trails.

•  Encourage bringing hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen for comfort during outdoor viewing.

Washrooms

• Basic facilities may be available at the small café at the summit.

• Better facilities are available at the nearby Dambatenne Tea Factory.

Parking

• Parking is very limited at the top.

• Road access is narrow and winding, so smaller vehicles and tuk-tuks are more practical.

Important Notes

• Weather changes quickly, carry a jacket or sweater for mornings.

• The viewpoint can become foggy after 10:00 AM, obscuring views.

• Roads are steep and narrow; tuk-tuks or small vans are recommended over large buses.

•  Book a tuk-tuk in advance for an early morning departure (around 5:00 AM).

• Carry water and light snacks; shops are limited at the top.

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: LKR 1,000

• Foreign Children (6–12 years): LKR 500

• Children under 6 years: Free entry

• Jeep cost: LKR 5,000 (A jeep can accommodate up to 6 adults and 2 children).

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter.

Payment Methods 

• Cash-only payments are accepted at the ticket counter.

• Sri Lankan rupees (LKR) are accepted for payments.

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Access to the Moon Plains conservation area and nature park.

• Entry to the famous viewing tower with 360-degree panoramic views.

• Private vehicles are not allowed. Jeeps for the safari must be hired separately inside the park.

Site Guide Availability

• No mandatory guides.

• Local jeep drivers act as guides, providing information on landscapes and wildlife.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

• Best Time: Early morning for clear skies and best visibility.

• Duration: 1–2 hours, depending on jeep ride and time spent at the viewpoint.

Things to Do

• Jeep safari across Moon Plains.

• Visit the “Mini World’s End” viewpoint for panoramic views of 9 mountain ranges, including Pidurutalagala, Kirigalpotta, and Hakgala.

• Spot wildlife, including elk, deer, wild buffalo, and birds.

• Observe potato plantations and agricultural areas.

• Enjoy nature photography.

Recommended Dress Code

• Comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for cool Nuwara Eliya weather.

• Hats or caps for sun protection.

Washrooms

• Basic washrooms are available near the ticket counter.

• No facilities along the jeep trail.

Parking

• Parking is available at the entrance.

Important Notes

• The weather can be unpredictable, so carry a jacket or sweater.

• Visibility drops quickly with mist; morning visits are best.

• Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: LKR 200 (approx.)

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter.

Payment Methods 

• Cash-only payments are accepted at the ticket counter.

• Sri Lankan rupees (LKR) are accepted for payments.

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Entry to the Ravana Cave site and access to the hiking trail leading to the cave entrance.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: Daily 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM.

• Best Time: Morning hours for cooler weather and fewer crowds.

• Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour (including the uphill hike).

Things to Do

• Hike to the Ravana Cave, located approximately 1.3 km uphill from the main road.

• Learn about the mythological connection between the cave and the Ramayana epic.

• Enjoy the forest scenery and panoramic views of Ella and its surrounding hills.

Recommended Dress Code

• Wear comfortable clothing suitable for hiking.

• Closed-toe shoes or hiking sandals are recommended due to uneven and sometimes slippery terrain.

• Hats are optional, but advisable for sun protection.

Washrooms

• Basic washroom facilities are available near the ticket counter.

Parking

• Limited parking is available near the trailhead, close to the main road.

Important Notes

• The path to the cave is steep and uneven; suitable footwear is essential.

• Bring water and avoid visiting during heavy rain, as the trail can become slippery.

• The cave interior is dimly lit; a flashlight or phone torch is recommended.

• Visitors with mobility challenges may find the climb difficult.

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: LKR 1,240

• Foreign Children under 12 years: LKR 620

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter.

Payment Methods 

• Cash-only payments are accepted at the ticket counter.

• Sri Lankan rupees (LKR) are accepted for payments.

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Access to the main walking trails within the rainforest.

• Basic visitor facilities such as washrooms and resting huts.

Site Guide Availability

• Local guides are available at the entrance and are highly recommended for safety and educational purposes.

• Guides provide insights on flora, fauna, and natural history, as well as assist with navigation through the trails.

• Guide fee is based on negotiation and tour duration.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

• Best Time: Start early in the morning to avoid rain and observe more wildlife activity.

• Duration: 2–4 hours for a short to moderate trek; full-day hikes are also possible.

Things to Do

• Guided rainforest treks and nature walks.

• Visit the Anagimale Falls, Narangas Ella, and natural rock pools.

• Birdwatching, home to over 100 bird species.

• Photography of unique flora and endemic species.

Recommended Dress Code

• Wear light, breathable clothing suitable for tropical climates.

• Long pants and covered shoes are recommended for leech protection.

• Carry a raincoat or umbrella, as showers are frequent.

Washrooms

• Basic toilet facilities are available near the entrance.

• It is advisable to carry tissues or toilet paper, as supplies may be limited.

Parking

• Parking is available at the forest entrance.

Drone Use

• Drone flying is not permitted without prior approval from the Forest Department due to environmental and wildlife protection regulations.

Important Notes

• Visitors must stay on designated trails and avoid disturbing wildlife.

• Leech socks and insect repellent are strongly recommended.

• Do not litter; carry all waste out of the reserve.

• Weather can change quickly, so carry adequate water and rain protection.

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: LKR 975

• Children under 12 years: Free entry

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter.

Payment Methods 

• Cash-only payments are accepted at the ticket counter.

• Sri Lankan rupees (LKR) are accepted for payments.

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Entry to Pitawala Pathana Nature Trail, including the famous “Mini World’s End” viewpoint.

Site Guide Availability

• No mandatory guides.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

• Best Time: Early morning for clear skies and best visibility.

• Duration: 1.5–2 hours for the main trail.

Things to Do

• Hike the Pitawala Pathana Trail leading to Mini World’s End, offering panoramic views of the Knuckles Valley.

• Nature observation and landscape photography.

• Study the area’s unique grassland vegetation and endemic species.

Recommended Dress Code

• Wear lightweight, comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for hiking.

• Covered shoes or hiking boots are recommended for rocky and uneven terrain.

• Carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection.

Washrooms

• Basic toilet facilities are available near the ticket office.

Parking

• Parking is available at the entrance gate.

Drone Use

• Drone use is restricted within the Knuckles Conservation Forest.

• Visitors must obtain prior approval from the Forest Department of Sri Lanka before flying drones.

Important Notes

• Stay on designated walking paths to protect fragile vegetation.

• Carry adequate water and snacks, as shops are limited in the area.

• Dispose of waste responsibly; the site is part of a protected ecosystem.

• The weather can change rapidly, so bring a light rain jacket.

• Avoid visiting during heavy rain as trails can become slippery and unsafe.

Entrance Fees

• Foreign Adults: LKR 500

• In-Person: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter.

Payment Methods 

• Cash-only payments are accepted at the ticket counter.

• Sri Lankan rupees (LKR) are accepted for payments.

What Does the Ticket Include?

• Entry to the Hummanaya Blow Hole observation area and the viewing platform.

Opening Hours

• Opening hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM.

• Best Time: During the midday to afternoon period when sea pressure is higher, creating stronger water sprays.

• Duration: 30 minutes.

Things to Do

• Watch the blowhole spout seawater up to 25–30 meters high during peak wave conditions.

• Visit the interpretation centre to learn about the natural mechanics of the blowhole.

• Enjoy coastal photography and panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.

Recommended Dress Code

• Wear comfortable casual clothing suitable for warm coastal weather.

• Non-slip footwear is recommended, as rocks near the viewing area can be slippery.

• A hat and sunglasses are useful for sun protection.

Washrooms

• Basic washrooms are available near the ticket counter.

Parking

• Parking is available close to the entrance.

Important Notes

• The blowhole’s activity depends on sea conditions. It is most active during the Southwest monsoon season (May to September).

• Visitors should stay behind safety barriers and avoid standing too close to the cliff edge.

• The walking path from the ticket counter to the viewing platform is about 400 meters uphill.