Mountains in Sri Lanka

As one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in the Indian subcontinent, Adam’s Peak is a 7,359 feet tall mountain in Sri Lanka, frequently visited by people of almost all major religions. It is widely known for Sri Pada, a foot-shaped indentation at the summit of the pyramid-like mountain. Also called the sacred footprint, the Buddhists believe that it is the footprint of Lord Buddha, the Hindus as that of Shiva, the Muslims as Adam’s, and the Christians as that of St. Thomas the Apostle.

Mountains have the power to uplift your spirits; a reason why mountains are the most sought after destinations for all kinds of tourists. One such spot in the heart of the island country, Sri Lanka is Hanthana mountain range. The spectacular view that you get of the entire Kandy city from Hanthana mountain range will keep you awestruck for your entire journey.

Knuckles Mountain range is an unusual terrestrial landform located in Matale and Kandy, in Central Province, Sri Lanka. The name was given by the British, and the locals call this range 'Dumbara Kanduvetiya', which means mist-laden mountains. Knuckles Mountain Range is called so because of its uncanny resemblance to the fingers of a clenched fist. The range is a World Heritage Conservation Area and is relatively untouched. The range features 34 peaks, ranging between 900 metres to 2000 metres.

Locally known as Mount Pedro, Pidurutalagala is the tallest mountain peak in the country. With a height of 2524 m, the peak can be seen from the entire Central Province of Sri Lanka. The peak also serves as a base for the country’s armed forces’ radar system. It is not accessible by the general public.

With a height of 2388 m, Kirigalpotta is the second largest peak which is accessible to visitors. The 7-km hiking trail that passes by the Horton Plains National Park also leads to the mountain top. The mountain peak is located in Nuwara Eliya.

The third largest peak in Nuwara Eliya is at a height of 2357 m above the sea level. It is also referred to as the Thotupola Peak by the natives. The peak is a part of the Horton Plains National Park. The legend of Lord Rama and Ravana describes this peak as Ravana’s landing site when he kidnapped Sita, Lord Rama’s wife.

Proved to be the fourth tallest mountain in Sri Lanka, Kudahagala Mountain, also referred to as Agrabopat Hills, is said to be elevated at a height of 2320 meters (7,612 feet). This mountain is situated near the Nuwara Eliya district and can be seen clearly from the Horton Plains National Park which is also located in the area.

Gommoli Kanda Mountain, meaning ‘Hump of the Bull’ in Sinhalese due to its peak resembling it, stands at a height of 2,034 meters such that is counted to be the 13th highest mountain in Sri Lanka.

Situated in the Uva Province in Sri Lanka, Namunukula or ‘Nine Peaks’ mountain range is known to be one of the most prevalent hiking spots and the tallest mountain in the area; with an elevation of 2,035 meters.