1. Baththalangunduwa Island – Kalpitiya’s Hidden Escape
Located 38 kilometers off the coast of Kalpitiya, Baththalangunduwa Island is a narrow stretch of land just five square kilometers in size. Once a thriving fishing village, it has evolved into one of Sri Lanka’s best-kept secrets—perfect for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path island adventures and authentic rural charm.
The journey begins at Kalpitiya, where a public ferry departs daily (except Sundays) to Baththalangunduwa. Although Puttalam is geographically closer, only vessels departing from Kalpitiya are legally authorized to access the island. The ferry ride itself is part of the experience, offering scenic ocean views and glimpses of local fishing life.
For those looking to explore more of Kalpitiya, meet Raju (W. Maduraj Fernando)—a passionate local tour operator who has been guiding visitors since 2007. Raju offers personalized tours and expert guidance on everything from island camping to marine activities in Kalpitiya.
- Website: www.dolphinwadiya.com
- Phone: +94 77 251 0273
- Email: dolphinwadiya@gmail.com
Why snorkel in Kalpitiya? It’s home to Bar Reef, one of Sri Lanka’s largest and most stunning coral ecosystems. Teeming with marine life such as sea turtles, reef sharks, and tropical fish, it offers a snorkeling and diving experience unlike any other in the country.
Whether you're chasing sunsets on Baththalangunduwa’s empty shores, exploring vibrant coral reefs, or meeting warm-hearted locals like Raju, this destination promises a unique blend of serenity, adventure, and cultural immersion.
👉 For more details, visit our full guide: Baththalangunduwa on Sri Lanka Travel Pages
Kirindi Ella Waterfall – A Hidden Gem in Sri Lanka’s Highlands
Located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, Kirindi Ella Waterfall is only 6.5 km from the main junction in Pelmadulla along the Colombo–Ratnapura–Batticaloa (A4) highway. Situated in the Ratnapura District of the Sabaragamuwa Province, this majestic 116-meter waterfall is just 19 km east of Ratnapura, 25 km west of Balangoda, and 55 km north of Embilipitiya.
Originating from Kuttapitiya Mountain, Kirindi Ella flows for 13 km before dramatically cascading through the lush Kaluwaramukalana Forest. Its waters eventually join the Kaluganga River via the Denawaka River in the pristine Bambarakotuwa Rainforest.
At the base of the falls lies a deep pool known as Diyagathwala, surrounded by forest that is home to wild boar, cobras, monkeys, reptiles, and diverse flora. Local villagers claim that ancient stone steps lead to the bottom of the pool where a treasure chest is hidden. Although the pool dries during droughts, no treasure has ever been found.
The top of the waterfall offers panoramic views and refreshing natural bathing spots. While it’s best to explore with local guidance, the location is generally safe to visit during dry weather.
According to legend, this location was once called Kustapitiya (“itchy place”) because a king with severe skin irritation once lived here. Local folklore also speaks of mysterious human voices on Halloween nights and fireballs appearing over the falls after dark.
How to get there: From the Ratnapura–Pelmadulla highway, turn left onto the Kuttapitiya Road and travel about 5 km. From Ratnapura, you can also take the Balangoda route to Pelmadulla, then the Pelmadulla School Road to Kiuriwandala via Narangoda. The waterfall is visible near the Kuttapitiya Tea Estate.
The Ratnapura Rest House, located 21 km away, offers a convenient base for exploring this hidden gem.
👉 For more details, visit: Kirindi Ella Waterfall on Sri Lanka Travel Pages
3. Kalthota – Hidden Natural Wonders and Village Tranquility
Nestled between Balangoda and Udawalawe, Kalthota is a peaceful rural village in Sri Lanka’s Ratnapura District. Surrounded by misty forests, quiet rivers, and ancient temples, it offers a perfect blend of nature and heritage for travelers looking to escape tourist crowds and explore Sri Lanka’s hidden countryside.
One of its most iconic natural attractions is the breathtaking Duwili Ella Waterfall (also known as Doowili Ella), located in Thanjantenna village. This 40-meter-high cascade gets its name—meaning “dust” in Sinhala—from the shimmering mist that surrounds it. Reached via a scenic forest path off the Kalthota–Balangoda road, it’s a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.
Another hidden treasure is the serene Hunugal Pokuna (Limestone Pond), a natural pool with clear water nestled deep in the forest. Although bathing is currently restricted due to conservation efforts, it remains a peaceful spot for photography and meditation. Wear good shoes for the short trek through jungle trails.
For those who love quiet adventures, Kalthota’s forest walks offer calming paths beneath thick canopy. These shaded trails are perfect for soft hikes, birdwatching, and slowing down your pace to absorb the sounds and scents of the wilderness.
Culture seekers can visit the ancient Budugala Rajamaha Viharaya, a Buddhist temple complex dating back to the 1st century BCE. Located along Diyavinna Road, this sacred site contains ruins and stone structures of archaeological and spiritual value.
If you’re extending your heritage exploration, don’t miss the Kuragala Monastery Complex, a nearby religious site carved into a rock plateau with centuries of history, meditation caves, and panoramic views of the surrounding region.
On warm days, locals love to relax at the Walawe River Bathing Point, a quiet riverside area popular for picnics and peaceful dips. Though not widely known to tourists, it offers a glimpse into everyday rural life.
Life in Kalthota flows gently—framed by tea gardens, misty forests, and welcoming homes. Whether you’re trekking to waterfalls, uncovering temple ruins, or chatting with locals under a jackfruit tree, Kalthota delivers the kind of quiet, immersive experience that travelers remember for a lifetime.
4. Kanneliya – Rainforest Trails, Village Life & Hidden Waterfalls
Located just 35 km from Galle in the Southern Province, the Kanneliya Rainforest is one of Sri Lanka’s last remaining lowland rainforests and a declared UNESCO biosphere reserve. It's a biodiversity hotspot filled with endemic flora, rare fauna, cascading waterfalls, and hidden forest trails that offer a refreshing escape from the coast.
The rainforest is part of the larger KDN forest complex (Kanneliya–Dediyagala–Nakiyadeniya) and is ideal for those seeking soft adventure, birdwatching, photography, or simply soaking in the sounds of nature. Towering trees, moss-covered boulders, and natural canopy corridors create an almost dreamlike trekking experience.
Along the many trekking trails, you'll discover quiet waterfalls like Anagi Mala Ella and Narangas Ella, small forest streams, and natural bathing spots. The moderate hikes are suitable for all ages, and most routes are guided by local forest rangers or villagers.
Beyond its biodiversity, Kanneliya also offers glimpses into simple village life. Small settlements bordering the forest rely on spice cultivation, herbal medicine, and sustainable forest practices. Staying in a local eco-lodge or enjoying a traditional rice-and-curry meal cooked over firewood brings a warm, cultural dimension to your visit.
Whether you’re looking for bird calls at sunrise, a forest bath under a waterfall, or a peaceful walk among towering trees, Kanneliya remains one of Sri Lanka’s most serene and under-visited nature reserves.
👉 For more details, maps, and visitor tips, explore our guide: Kanneliya Rainforest on Sri Lanka Travel Pages
5. Lankagama – Southern Sri Lanka’s Hidden Rafting Adventure
Tucked near Deniyaya on the edge of the Sinharaja Rainforest, Lankagama is a peaceful, nature-rich village that’s now making waves—literally—as the South’s newest destination for white water rafting. Once an experience limited mostly to Kitulgala, rafting in Lankagama offers equally thrilling rapids but with fewer crowds and breathtaking rainforest surroundings.
The rivers here, fed by multiple forest streams and waterfalls, offer ideal conditions for adventure lovers. Guided by local experts, you’ll paddle through scenic jungle corridors, bounce over natural rock drops, and glide past misty tree canopies—all while hearing the calls of tropical birds from deep within Sinharaja.
This experience is operated by the passionate team at Sinharaja Adventure Camp, who specialize in safe, eco-friendly tours through the area. Whether you’re a first-timer or a thrill-seeker, rafting in Lankagama is perfect for solo travelers, couples, and small groups looking to try something new in the Southern Province.
Beyond the water, Lankagama’s charm lies in its unspoiled village life. Surrounded by tea estates, spice gardens, and rainforest trails, it offers a unique opportunity to unwind, connect with locals, and experience simple southern hospitality.
💬 For bookings and dates, contact Sinharaja Adventure Camp:
Tel: 071 288 5717
👉 Want to explore more or plan your trip? Search for “Lankagama white water rafting” or visit Sinharaja Adventure Camp on social platforms and travel forums for firsthand experiences and reviews.
6. Madulsima – Above the Clouds at Mini World’s End
Welcome to Madulsima, a breathtaking village located in Sri Lanka’s Uva Province, known for its elevated scenery and mystical cloud-covered peaks. The main attraction, Madulsima Mini World’s End, sits between 2,300–3,400 feet above sea level and offers one of the most spellbinding camping and hiking experiences in the region.
Perched atop the mountain edge of the Robbery Estate, this panoramic viewpoint rewards early risers with sweeping views of the eastern plains and tea gardens blanketed in morning mist. On sunny days (especially between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.), you’ll enjoy crystal-clear vistas across the valleys and toward Sri Lanka’s eastern coastline.
The surrounding landscapes are dotted with picturesque tea plantations, cascading waterfalls like Umang Oya, Bambarabotuwa, and Kekunagala, and lush jungle patches that make every journey a visual delight. Local legend tells of the name "Pitamaruwa," where tea boxes were exchanged between caravans centuries ago.
Life in Madulsima moves gently and peacefully. You’ll meet tea workers, home gardeners, and welcoming villagers who embody rural Sri Lankan warmth. Hikes and scenic lookouts are often guided by locals who know every bend and trail.
How to reach Madulsima:
• From Ella: take the Ella–Passara Road → Passara–Madulsima–Metigahatenna Road
• From Meegahakiula (on Badulla–Mahiyangana Road): expect a longer, more challenging route
The nearest major city is Monaragala.
🗺️ Other great viewpoints in Sri Lanka’s central mountains include Selagama Mini World’s End, Pitawala Pathana, and Deanston Mini World’s End.
✅ Best time to visit: August – expect mystical mists and cooler weather.
✅ Explore with: Trishaws, bikes, tea lorries, or local buses – transport options are varied and scenic.
👉 For full travel details, directions, and updates, visit: Madulsima on Sri Lanka Travel Pages
7. Yatiyanthota – A Gateway to Waterfalls and Lush Nature
Surrounded by misty hills, forest canopies, and hidden waterfalls, Yatiyanthota is a quiet yet lush gem in the Kegalle District of Sabaragamuwa Province. Often overlooked on the way to more famous towns, this serene village is a paradise for waterfall chasers, nature walkers, and anyone craving a peaceful getaway into central Sri Lanka’s greener side.
The area is home to cascading beauties like Olu Ella—one of Sri Lanka’s tallest single-drop waterfalls—and the lesser-known Bopath Ella and Rukmale Ella, all tucked into the surrounding jungles. These natural spots offer ideal day trips, short hikes, and breathtaking photo ops.
Beyond the waterfalls, Yatiyanthota’s charm lies in its rural simplicity: tea gardens, paddy fields, rubber estates, and small roadside shops where you’ll find spicy snacks and steaming cups of plain tea. Locals are friendly and happy to help you navigate the scenic byways and forest routes.
For nature lovers, the riverbanks, narrow bridges, and mist-covered footpaths provide meditative walks and peaceful stops. The climate is refreshingly cool year-round, especially in the mornings and late afternoons.
Yatiyanthota is also gaining interest as an offbeat location for eco-tourism and weekend escapes from Colombo—just a few hours' drive away but a world apart in atmosphere.
👉 To explore hidden trails, waterfalls, and more, visit: Yatiyanthota on Sri Lanka Travel Pages
8. Adventures in Belihuloya – Sri Lanka’s Outdoor Playground
Nestled in Sri Lanka’s hill country, Belihuloya is a nature lover’s paradise and one of the island’s top adventure destinations. With its cool climate, lush valleys, rivers, and mountains, Belihuloya offers everything from high-energy activities to peaceful eco-retreats—all wrapped in one unforgettable experience.
Begin your journey with trekking in Belihuloya, where trails wind through forest canopies, across rocky riverbeds, and up scenic hillsides. Whether you're a casual walker or an experienced hiker, you'll find a trail that delivers both challenge and reward.
For those who love two wheels, cycling in Belihuloya offers thrilling downhill trails that cut through tea estates, riverside paths, and misty mountain roads. It’s an ideal setting for both leisure riders and adrenaline seekers.
The Samanalawewa Reservoir sets the stage for unforgettable canoeing experiences. Paddle through calm waters reflecting the surrounding mountains, and enjoy quiet moments of serenity as kingfishers dive nearby and clouds drift over the peaks.
Up the intensity with an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) ride through rugged terrain around the Beyond Boundaries Adventure Camp. Off-roading with views? Yes, please.
For team challenges, Belihuloya offers Paintball Games and Archery Tag. Both are unique ways to bond with friends or colleagues in the middle of nature—with action-packed strategy, competition, and loads of fun.
If you're looking for something truly immersive, don’t miss the Cloud Safari—a full-day guided adventure through forest paths, waterfalls, hidden landmarks, and stunning viewpoints. It’s one of the most enriching ways to understand the natural beauty of Belihuloya.
Whether you're after action, relaxation, or a mix of both, Belihuloya delivers. With its unbeatable landscape and range of adventure experiences, it remains one of Sri Lanka’s most underrated outdoor gems.
👉 Discover more activities, routes, and trip ideas here:
Belihuloya on Sri Lanka Travel Pages
Official Adventure Portal – BelihuloyaSriLanka.com
9. Pitawala Pathana – Sri Lanka’s Natural Grassland Wonder
Located in the scenic Riverston region of Sri Lanka’s Matale District, Pitawala Pathana is a stunning montane grassland that sits atop the Knuckles Mountain Range. Known for its unique landscape and biodiversity, this high-altitude plateau is one of the most peaceful and photo-worthy spots in central Sri Lanka.
The star attraction is the Mini World’s End—a sheer cliff drop offering jaw-dropping panoramic views across misty valleys and distant peaks. It’s an easy 750-meter walk from the main entrance, making it a perfect soft-adventure trek for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
The grassland here is home to a unique ecosystem where rare herbs and shrubs grow directly on rocky surfaces, nourished by the region’s cool climate and frequent mist. Along the trail, you’ll encounter butterflies, endemic lizards, and colorful birds, making it a quiet delight for nature photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
The surrounding area is a peaceful escape from the hustle of the cities. Travelers can combine this visit with other Riverston highlights like Riverston Tower, Thelgamu Oya river bathing spots, and Sera Ella waterfall.
Be sure to bring a light jacket, as the winds on the plateau can get chilly, and the mist can roll in unexpectedly—adding to the mystical beauty of the place.
👉 For directions, entry details, and more attractions nearby, visit:
Riverston & Pitawala Pathana on Sri Lanka Travel Pages
10. Kalabokka – 360° Views from Sri Lanka’s Scenic Summit
Nestled in the highlands of Matale District, Kalabokka 360 Upper Division View Point offers one of Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking panoramic experiences. This viewpoint, often called simply “Kalabokka,” delivers a stunning 360-degree perspective across valleys, peaks, and iconic landmarks—making it a bucket-list destination for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers.
The journey begins with a 1.5-hour drive from Matale town, covering about 30 kilometers. The final 6 km stretch is a rugged, off-road adventure best tackled with a 4WD or motorcycle, adding an exciting edge to the trip.
Upon reaching the summit, you’re welcomed by serene surroundings, a traditional Hindu Kovil, and small cabanas where you can relax and take in the view. From here, on clear days, you can spot Adam’s Peak, Bible Rock, and the shimmering Sembuwatta Lake in the distance—all part of the region’s vast and varied landscape.
Kalabokka also offers camping facilities, making it ideal for those looking to spend a night above the clouds. With a modest camping fee of Rs 3,500, you get access to basic facilities like toilets, maintained by the local community as part of a sustainable eco-tourism effort.
Surrounding Kalabokka are hiking trails, friendly villages, and scenic stops waiting to be discovered. It’s a dream destination for photographers thanks to the constantly shifting light, wide open landscapes, and rich cultural presence.
Whether you visit in misty mornings or under starry night skies, Kalabokka promises a mix of solitude, adventure, and cultural depth. Be sure to check the weather and pack accordingly for altitude changes and chilly breezes.
👉 Plan your visit and learn more at:
Kalabokka 360 Viewpoint on Sri Lanka Travel Pages
From misty mountains to quiet beaches, secret waterfalls to forest trails, Sri Lanka is filled with hidden treasures waiting to be explored. Whether you're a solo backpacker, a couple on a romantic honeymoon, a family on an unforgettable holiday, or traveling with kids in search of soft adventures—these lesser-known destinations promise something for everyone. Ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those seeking peaceful getaways or off-the-beaten-path travel, each location offers its own unique charm, rich culture, and unmatched beauty. Start planning your next journey and uncover the real, unspoiled side of Sri Lanka.