7 Days Sri Lanka Trekking and Camping Itinerary – An Adventurer’s Paradise
Sri Lanka is more than golden beaches and cultural wonders, it’s also a dream destination for trekking and eco-adventures. Misty mountains, rainforest trails, hidden waterfalls, and wildlife-rich national parks make it perfect for active travelers. To make the journey exciting yet comfortable, we’ve designed a 7-day Sri Lanka trekking itinerary that includes scenic hikes, wildlife safaris, and one unforgettable night of camping under the stars with best Sri Lanka tour.
This itinerary balances the thrill of the outdoors with relaxation, giving you the best of Sri Lanka’s nature and culture.
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Day 1: Arrival in Colombo – Transfer to Kandy
Your adventure begins upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport. After meeting your guide, drive towards Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, nestled in the central highlands. Along the way, you’ll stop at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage or a local spice garden if time permits.
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Evening walk around Kandy Lake
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Visit the Temple of the Tooth, one of the most sacred Buddhist shrines in Sri Lanka
Overnight stay: Kandy hotel or guesthouse
Day 2: Knuckles Mountain Range Trekking
Today you begin your trekking journey in the Knuckles Mountain Range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With cloud forests, rivers, waterfalls, and mountain villages, Knuckles offers the most rewarding hikes in Sri Lanka.
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Trekking through forest trails, crossing streams, and enjoying panoramic viewpoints
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Interact with villagers in remote hamlets for an authentic cultural experience
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Enjoy a picnic lunch in the wilderness
Overnight stay: Return to Kandy (hotel)
Day 3: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya – Tea Country Hiking
Travel through scenic mountain roads towards Nuwara Eliya, also known as Little England. Along the way, stop at Ramboda Falls and lush tea plantations.
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Short hike through tea estates with panoramic views
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Guided visit to a tea factory to learn about Ceylon tea production
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Evening walk around Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya town
Overnight stay: Nuwara Eliya hotel or cottage
Day 4: Horton Plains Trekking – World’s End
Early morning transfer to Horton Plains National Park, one of the best trekking locations in Sri Lanka.
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Trek the World’s End trail (approx. 9 km, 3 hours) with breathtaking viewpoints
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Visit Baker’s Falls along the route
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Spot wildlife such as sambar deer and exotic bird species
Return to Nuwara Eliya in the afternoon for relaxation.
Overnight stay: Nuwara Eliya hotel
Day 5: Ella Trekking – Little Adam’s Peak & Nine Arch Bridge
Journey further south to Ella, one of the most charming mountain towns in Sri Lanka. Ella is perfect for light treks and breathtaking views.
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Hike to Little Adam’s Peak (easy trail, approx. 1 hour)
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Visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge
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Optional: Trek to Ella Rock for a longer hike
Overnight stay: Ella guesthouse or eco-lodge
Day 6: Yala Safari Camping Experience
Today is the highlight of your itinerary, an unforgettable night of safari camping in Yala National Park. After breakfast, transfer to Yala and check into your campsite, such as Big Game Camp Yala.
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Afternoon jeep safari in Yala, famous for leopards, elephants, and crocodiles
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Relax around the campfire with freshly prepared meals under the stars
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Sleep in a comfortable tent surrounded by the sounds of nature
Overnight stay: Safari camping in Yala
Day 7: Safari & Return to Colombo
Wake up to the sounds of the jungle and enjoy a morning safari drive for another chance to spot wildlife. After breakfast at the campsite, begin your return journey to Colombo. Depending on your flight schedule, you can stop at Galle Fort or Mirissa Beach on the way back.
Overnight stay: Departure or Colombo hotel (if staying longer)
Why Choose This Itinerary?
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Balanced Adventure: Includes trekking in Knuckles, Horton Plains, and Ella with plenty of scenic walks.
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One Unique Camping Night: Instead of multiple nights outdoors, you enjoy one luxury camping night at Yala, thrilling yet comfortable.
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Diverse Experiences: From mountains to tea country to wildlife safaris, this itinerary shows you the real diversity of Sri Lanka.
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Flexibility: Suitable for couples, families, and groups. Extra trekking days can be added for those who want more adventure.
Other Popular Camping Alternatives
If you want to swap Yala camping for another destination, here are some equally great options:
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Gal Oya Lake Camping – Experience boat safaris with swimming elephants.
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Wilpattu Safari Camping – Perfect for leopard sightings in Sri Lanka’s largest national park.
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Banyan Camp – An eco-retreat by a lake, ideal for a rustic yet artistic escape.
Final Thoughts
This 7-day Sri Lanka trekking and camping tour is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. You’ll hike through mountain ranges, explore tea country, visit waterfalls, and end your trip with a night of safari camping in Yala. It’s adventurous without being overwhelming, making it ideal for travelers who want an active holiday without giving up comfort.
From the misty hills of Nuwara Eliya to the wild jungles of Yala, every step of this itinerary connects you to Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and culture. One night of camping makes the experience truly unforgettable, the kind of story you’ll tell long after your journey ends.