Explore Sri Lanka’s Village Walks for Nature Lovers

Nature lovers looking for an authentic experience in Sri Lanka will find plenty of opportunities to explore its beauty away from busy tourist hotspots. One of the best ways to do so is by booking village tours in Sri Lanka. These walks will take visitors through quaint rural villages tucked away from the tourist trails. They provide a closer look at Sri Lanka’s natural landscapes, its people, and the rich biodiversity of the region. Here are three locations you can consider exploring on nature walks and what to expect:

Unlike typical tourist areas, village walks are off-the-beaten-path, and offer a more rounded experience. They allow travellers to slow down and experience the beautiful surroundings, as well as interact with local communities. During the walk, you will pass lush paddy fields, coconut and tea plantations, and go past streams and lakes. In addition, you can meet the villagers who live off the land, and observe their way of life.

Located in the ancient city of Sigiriya, this walk offers an authentic Sri Lankan village experience. Book walking tours in Sri Lanka which will take visitors through greenery and paddy fields, where you’ll see traditional farming methods in action. One of the highlights is crossing a peaceful lake on a catamaran, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding forests and hills.
There are banana plantations and small hamlets, and as you go further into the wilderness, you’ll see a variety of bird species, butterflies, and even wild elephants in the nearby forests.

The stunning views of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the distance makes this walk an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.

Visitors can unwind in eco-luxury hotels in Sigiriya such as Jetwing Vil Uyana, nestled in a lush wetland, which attracts different bird species. Another top hotel located a few minutes away is Jetwing Lake in Dambulla, set near the scenic Siyambalawewa tank.

Ella is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, situated in Sri Lanka’s misty hill country. A village walk here is guaranteed to take you through some of the most picturesque landscapes in Sri Lanka. An Ella village walk will enable travellers to experience lush tea plantations, waterfalls, mountains and dense forests full of birds and small animals.
Starting from the scenic town of Ella, the walk traverses through small villages set on the hillsides, offering a breathtaking view of Ella Gap. The highlight is the Ravana Falls, a majestic waterfall set amidst the surrounding greenery. You’ll pass through vegetable farms, tea estates, and small homesteads where you can observe locals going about their daily lives.
Find accommodation at Jetwing Kaduruketha, a scenic resort in Wellawaya just outside Ella. Here, you can go on a night walk in the hotel grounds after dark to discover amazing wildlife, including owls, frogs, and insects. The resident naturalist will share interesting insights to enhance your experience.

Bentota, a charming resort town located on Sri Lanka’s south west coast, has some of the most enchanting scenery in the island. Nature trails through the rural countryside in Bentota offer a glimpse into the vibrant Sri Lankan lifestyle. You will pass lush paddy fields and observe farmers at work outside quaint hamlets. Also keep your eyes peeled for birds and animals, such as water buffalo. Next, hop on a bicycle and head to Brief Garden, once the residence of Bavis Bawa, the famous Sri Lankan architect. Explore the beautiful grounds of the estate, dotted with sculptures and thriving tropical plants.

One of the best places to stay in Bentota is Jetwing Saman Villas, a romantic boutique hotel which offers deluxe oceanfront rooms.

Walking holidays in Sri Lanka offer a blend of natural beauty and culture, while also providing an insight into the natives’ way of life. Each walk offers a unique way to connect with the island’s natural surroundings and its welcoming people.