It is no secret that Sri Lanka is famous for its stunning beaches and rich historical sites. Yet, the island’s essence is found in its central highlands. In fact, located among the lush tea estates, central Sri Lanka provides a home for several hidden mountain villages. Wrapped in mist, these mountainous areas hold treasures that are unknown by many. So, if you visit these mountain villages, you will surely discover how time feels frozen as you discover these treasures.
However, these mountain villages in Sri Lanka are often accessible only by narrow roads or rugged trails. Thus, they indeed offer an experience vastly different from popular tourist attractions. Apart from that, they serve as havens of tranquility, where the sounds of cascading waterfalls replace the noise of urban life. And why not? The musical chirping of the endemic bird species found there surely magnifies the charm out there. Besides, each village has its narrative, deeply rooted in folklore, upheld by determination, and molded by the mountains themselves. So, these mountain villages in Sri Lanka are indeed worth visiting.
Whether you’re a passionate hiker, a seeker of cultural experiences, or just someone looking for a break from technology, the hidden mountain villages in Sri Lanka offer a special kind of enchantment. So, grab your backpack, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to discover the highland spirit of Sri Lanka!
What are the Best Mountain Villages in Sri Lanka?
Emerging from the verdant core of the island, the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka present a stunning panorama of marvelous mountainous landscape. This area houses several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Knuckles Mountain Range, Horton Plains, Adam’s Peak, and Pidurutalagala. These sites, as well as the well-known towns such as Nuwara Eliya and Ella, mostly attract visitors. Yet, the mountain villages nestled in between these popular spots remain largely unspoiled and hidden by the passage of time.
Among them, the best 5 hidden mountain villages in Sri Lanka are as follows.
- Meemure
- Mandaram Nuwara
- Kalupahana
- Ohiya
- Riverston
These mountain communities capture the unvarnished spirit of rural Sri Lanka. Mostly, their livelihoods are built upon tea harvesting, vegetable cultivation, cattle rearing, and enduring customs handed down through the years. Life here unfolds at a leisurely pace, deeply intertwined with the land and its seasonal rhythms.
Likewise, in a rapidly moving world, the mountain villages of Sri Lanka offer a reminder of a different lifestyle. In fact, what they offer is closer to the land, harmonized with nature, and deeply rooted in community. Hence, visiting these mountain villages in Sri Lanka is not solely about breathtaking vistas; it is also about rediscovering what truly counts.
So, before visiting them, let’s get to know about each of these best mountain villages in Sri Lanka in detail!
1. Meemure
If someone asks for a location in Sri Lanka that epitomizes the term “off the beaten path,” one can simply say that it is Meemure. In fact, it is an isolated village that ranks among the most remote communities in Sri Lanka. It is reachable only through a challenging journey of 33 km from Loolwatte. And yes, believe us, it is also through gravel roads with sharp curves, and woodlands. Yet, the rich experience it offers the visitors beats all these difficulties. It is also an area with minimal mobile connectivity, minimal electricity, and no direct public transport access. Yet, all these things make Meemure stand out as a pristine fragment of nature that amazes anyone!
The Life at Meemure
With a population of around 400 residents, Meemure is not just a place to visit, but a representation of a unique way of life. The locals here continue to depend on traditional agricultural practices, growing paddy, areca nuts, pepper, and cardamom. Each household contributes to the survival of this close-knit community, where generosity is instinctive and hospitality is woven into everyday life.
Interestingly, the origin of Meemure’s name is thought to derive from the Sinhala words “Mee” (which refers to the Mee tree) and “Mura” (which translates to boundary). This signifies that it historically marked the periphery of the ancient Kingdom of Kandy. Even now, the seclusion of Meemure feels like a living testament to Sri Lanka’s ancient history.
Untamed Nature at Meemure
What attracts adventurers and nature enthusiasts to Meemure is its unspoiled natural landscapes. Encircled by towering mountains, including the legendary Lakegala Rock, linked to tales of King Ravana, Meemure presents exceptional hiking prospects. The trails vary in difficulty but consistently reward hikers with breathtaking vistas, wildlife sightings, and chances to dip into waterfalls.
Nearby streams such as ‘Heen Ganga‘ offer natural pools ideal for refreshing swims. Moreover, hidden falls tumble down lichen-covered boulders, while butterflies, monkeys, and endemic bird species populate the woodlands.
Eco-Friendly Stays at Meemure
This beautiful, hidden mountain village of Meemure lacks luxury accommodations. Yet, the village provides eco-lodges and homestays where visitors can sleep beneath thatched roofs. This will create opportunities to enjoy homemade village cuisine and awake to the crows of roosters as well. Hence, it is indeed a perfect getaway to unplug from the digital realm and rekindle a connection with nature.
Evenings at Meemure can often be spent around campfires, sharing folktales or simply soaking in the sounds of the wild. Nights are filled with stars, as light pollution is nearly absent here. The tranquility is profound, interrupted only by the calls of nocturnal crickets and the distant roar of a waterfall.
Reasons to Visit Meemure
By now, you might have gotten enough reasons to visit Meemure. However, let us again note to you that this is a magical village that caters to travelers who cherish experience over ease. There are no tourist buses or souvenir shops, only the serene, magnificent wilderness and the warmth of locals. The time you spend here will not just be a vacation, but an immersion into a way of life that is fading in other places. So, make sure you add ‘visiting Meemure’ to your bucket list when planning your trip to Sri Lanka!
2. Mandaram Nuwara
Mandaram Nuwara is a charming village nestled at the base of Pidurutalagala, Sri Lanka’s highest peak. Unlike many locations that experience mist only occasionally, Mandaram Nuwara is cloaked in fog nearly every day throughout the year. The village’s name—Mandaram (mysty) and Nuwara (town)—aptly reflects its enchanting essence. Thus, this village is also famous as the “Misty City.”
Moreover, this village is encircled by lush forests, tea plantations, and cloud forests abundant with moss, orchids, and ferns. What sets Mandaram Nuwara apart is its seclusion. It can only be accessed via a single narrow road with no exit beyond it. For many years, this geographical circumstance allowed the village to remain in serene obscurity, concealed by hills and clouds. Recently, however, it has started to draw attention, primarily from adventurous local explorers and photographers.
Life in Mandaram Nuwara
Life in Mandaram Nuwara is uncomplicated and self-sufficient. The residents primarily engage in farming, cultivating vegetables such as leeks, carrots, and cabbage on terraced hillsides. The ambiance here is peaceful. In fact, it is rich with the sounds of chirping birds, swaying bamboo, and the sporadic buzz of a watermill.
By now, this village has all the essential facilities, including electricity. Yet, it still remains largely shielded from the hustle of modern life. There is no rush hour in this place, only the cadence of rainfall, mist, and agricultural seasons.
Natural Charm at Mandaram Nuwara
Sprinkled throughout Mandaram Nuwara are waterfalls that seem to cascade directly from the clouds. The most renowned is Kolapathana Ella. It is a stunning 50-meter fall nestled in the neighboring forest. To reach this waterfall, one must embark on a brief yet picturesque hike through farmlands and jungle. This is a favorite of nature photographers and couples who search for secluded retreats.
Moreover, this region is a hotspot for biodiversity, offering chances to glimpse purple-faced langurs, unique butterflies, and numerous endemic bird species. Through Mandaram Nuwara, hikers can also make their way to the Walapane Plateau or connect to trails that lead to Pidurutalagala’s peak. However, the best is to take these routes with a guide due to the misty and perplexing paths.
Hospitality of the Village
Mandaram Nuwara does not feature hotels in the conventional sense. Instead, visitors find accommodation in simple homestays. They are hosted by friendly families who serve hearty meals. Sweet potato curry, homemade sambols, and fresh cow’s milk tea are some of the famous dishes that these villagers offer. However, the specialty is that they treat visitors, not merely as tourists, but as family.
Evenings in this village are peaceful. As the fog drifts in and temperatures fall, families gather around open fires, enjoying herbal tea infused with local spices. Power outages are common here, but in such a magical village, even the glow of candlelight is fitting.
Reasons to Visit Mandaram Nuwara
Need more reasons to visit Mandaram Nuwara? If so, remember that Mandaram Nuwara is the perfect spot for dreamers and lovers who prefer tranquility over crowds. It is not just a destination, it is an experience worth enjoying. Visiting Mandaram Nuwara means embracing its slow pace, inhaling its mist, and departing with your spirit feeling a bit lighter. So, make sure you visit when you are here in Sri Lanka next time!
3. Kalupahana
The village of Kalupahana often escapes the notice of travelers rushing to Ella or Nuwara Eliya. However, for those who take a moment to explore, Kalupahana unveils itself as an entrance to Sri Lanka’s most stunning landscapes. It is a tranquil village surrounded by towering ridges, verdant forests, and rustling pine groves. To be specific, it rests between Haputale and Belihuloya.
Kalupahana acts as a starting point for some of the finest treks and natural attractions in the country, with Bambarakanda Falls being the most notable, the highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. For outdoor enthusiasts and hikers, this village is a remarkable treasure ready to be discovered.
Natural Charm at Kalupahana
Kalupahana is located at the base of the Horton Plains escarpment, creating a distinctive landscape of steep hills, winding paths, and expansive viewpoints. The village itself is compact, with homes scattered among tea plantations and vegetable gardens. The climate is dominated by cool mountain air, and mist often rolls in during the mornings and evenings, covering the valley in a delicate grey shroud.
The area is abundant with water sources, supplied by streams from the central highlands, and features numerous small waterfalls and natural bathing spots. Life here is simple and agricultural. Local residents cultivate potatoes, carrots, and beans, while some families care for dairy cows or engage in tea harvesting.
Bambarakanda Falls in Kalupahana
Located just a short distance from the village is the impressive Bambarakanda Falls, cascading over 260 feet into the gorge below. Although it can be reached by vehicle, hiking through the forest from Kalupahana is the most rewarding way to appreciate its grandeur. The path meanders through pine woods and leads to various viewpoints, ideal for photography.
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Devil’s Staircase trail commences near Kalupahana. This rugged 14 km route, characterized by steep climbs and sharp turns, takes trekkers to the village of Ohiya through secluded forest areas and dramatic drops. Despite its difficulty, it provides one of the most thrilling trekking experiences in Sri Lanka.
Accommodation at Kalupahana
Kalupahana has a few eco-lodges and homestays, typically operated by locals who cater to the needs of hikers and nature lovers. Accommodations are basic yet comfortable, with home-cooked meals and warm herbal tea served beside crackling wood stoves.
Reasons to Visit Kalupahana
Kalupahana is perfect for the adventurous spirit. So, if you are a hiker, or fond of adventures you have simply got the reason to visit Kalupahana by now! In fact, it is ,a destination where mountain paths begin and worries dissipate. So, hiking in such an environment will surely give you a rewarding experience.
Apart from that, Kalupahana is a village where silence resonates louder than noise. In fact, as evening approaches, the temperature drops. And yes, it gives you the most comfortable climate to relax. Going beyond, the night sky over Kalupahana sparkles with stars, making it a favored spot for astro-photographers and those seeking solitude. Imagine a night under such a sky with a relaxing climate! And yes, that is what Kalupagana gifts you along with its magical beauty. So, make sure you don’t miss it!
4. Ohiya
Small and often unnoticed, Ohiya is situated between Haputale and Ambewela, renowned mainly for its closeness to Horton Plains National Park. Perched high in the central hills at nearly 6,000 feet above sea level, it is one of the most captivating mountain villages in Sri Lanka. However, beyond serving as a gateway to this famous plateau, Ohiya possesses its unique charm, revealed through misty vistas, wildflower meadows, and timeless mountain panoramas.
The journey to Ohiya is part of the delight. In fact, this village sits on the Badulla railway line, celebrated as one of the most picturesque train rides globally. As the train winds through tea plantations and tunnels, Ohiya Railway Station materializes like an ethereal stop in a dream, often covered in dense fog, with only the locomotive’s whistle resonating through the hills.
The village itself is calm and quiet, featuring only a few homes, a quaint post office, and a couple of local shops. The cool climate and the distant sounds of waterfalls create an ideal retreat for those seeking solitude and nature enthusiasts alike.
Entryway to Horton Plains
Ohiya is located just 8 km from Horton Plains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its sweeping grasslands, cloud forests, and the stunning drop at World’s End. Most tourists embark on a hike across the plains after an early morning tuk-tuk ride from Ohiya. However, a few determined travelers choose to walk the trail from the village, navigating forest paths filled with the chirping of birds.
This lesser-known path to Horton Plains offers its own unique experience. In fact, it is not rare to see sambars, giant squirrels, or even the tracks of a shy leopard along this route. Moreover, this path features several rare flowers too. So, walking amidst these natural wonders itself will give you an unforgettable experience.
Community and Accommodation at Ohiya
The villagers of Ohiya are few but welcoming. Most are working on the estates or engaged in small-scale farming. An increasing number have started homestays and basic guesthouses, providing cozy accommodations, hot showers, and meals made from local ingredients, often cooked over firewood stoves.
Dining here is a delightful experience. A warm lentil soup, red rice, carrot curry, and fresh strawberries will surely be a part of your meals here. Some hosts will even prepare breakfast for early risers heading to Horton Plains. So, nothing to worry, just follow your heart as you arrive at Ohiya!
Reasons to Visit Ohiya
There are many reasons for you to visit Ohiya. The first one out of all is that Ohiya is a heaven for trekkers! In addition to Horton Plains, Ohiya also serves as the starting point for the Idalgashinna-Ohiya trail, recognized as one of Sri Lanka’s most stunning hikes along the railway tracks. It is indeed a breathtaking stroll through tea plantations and misty hills, offering sweeping views over the southern plains below. So, if you have a passion in hiking, make sure you visit Ohiya.
Apart from that, for those who love photography, Ohiya’s foggy mornings, mossy pathways, and vintage railway bridges present endless inspiration. Moreover, for anyone looking to relax, there is nothing more soothing than enjoying a cup of tea on a porch while the clouds drift softly across the valley.
After all, Ohiya is not about the sights, is all about unique experiences. The cool breeze against your skin, the crunch of gravel beneath your feet, the vision of a blue train vanishing into the mist, and what so not? So, simply, it is a destination that resonates with the explorer within you, quietly yet profoundly. Thus, plan your next trip to Ohiya once you are here in Sri Lanka.
5. Riverston
Nestled in the Matale District of Sri Lanka, close to the town of Rattota, there exists a highland region that often gets overlooked in favor of more popular spots like Horton Plains or Ella. However, for those who venture off the beaten path and ascend into the misty elevations of Riverston, a realm of untouched natural beauty and serene culture lies in wait. Famous for its steep drop-offs, wonderful grasslands, and gusty winds, Riverston encompasses several small villages that hover on the brink of both geography and adventure.
In fact, Riverston stands over 3,000 feet above sea level. It is a part of the Knuckles Conservation Range, recognized as a UNESCO biosphere reserve. The mountain communities here are few in number, small in size, and primarily engaged in agriculture. Locals cultivate cardamom, ginger, pepper, and an array of leafy greens on terraced plots that resemble patchwork quilts when observed from an aerial view.
The climate remains cool and invigorating all year round, with unexpected mists rolling in during the afternoons. However, this region is famous for its strong winds. Particularly at Mini World’s End, a stunning viewpoint near Pitawala Pathana, sudden winds can sweep across the plateau at any moment.
Mini World’s End and Pitawala Plains
The title “Mini World’s End” is quite fitting. This vertical cliff offers breathtaking views over the Knuckles foothills and the Mahaweli River far beneath. In contrast to the more popular World’s End at Horton Plains, Mini World’s End is less frequented, quieter, and arguably more enchanting due to the ever-changing mist.
The trail begins near the village, traversing the Pitawala Pathana grasslands, an uncommon ecosystem of low grass and rocky formations. However, be sure to look out for endemic lizards, frogs, and birds that thrive in this wind-swept environment.
In the vicinity, you can also discover Sera Ella, a waterfall concealed deep within the forest, renowned for its natural cave that permits you to walk behind the falling water. It is better to get the assistance of local youth in the area if you choose to hike to Sera Ella as it winds through spice plantations and shaded jungle paths that can be challenging at a time.
Community at Riverston
The majority of accommodations in the Riverston region consist of village homestays or nature lodges that are designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape. Typically, these are managed by families who have resided in the mountains for generations. The meals are rich in local flavors, including dishes made from freshly harvested greens, turmeric-spiced curries, and home-brewed coriander tea.
Since Riverston remains relatively unknown, your stay as a guest positively impacts the local economy. Many community members now depend on eco-tourism for income and are actively committed to forest conservation and trail upkeep. So, helping them, in return is a support to up-lift tourism in Sri Lanka.
Reasons to Visit Riverston
Riverston is a place that instills a sense of humility most delightfully. Whether you find yourself at the edge of a cliff above the clouds or trekking along a narrow trail through magical woods, it is a destination that both humbles and excites you simultaneously.
For travelers in search of mountainous seclusion with a hint of wilderness, Riverston reveals Sri Lanka’s best-kept secret, one gust of wind at a time. So, visit Riverston and experience this delight yourself.
Tips for Travelling in Mountain Villages in Sri Lanka
Exploring the lesser-known mountain villages of Sri Lanka provides unforgettable experiences, but it also carries a responsibility. These ecosystems and communities are delicate. Unsustainable tourism may disrupt local life, harm pristine environments, and undermine the unique charm that makes these places appealing. So, make sure you keep these points in mind as you travel in these hidden mountain villages in Sri Lanka!
Respect the Culture of the Mountain Villages
Most mountain villages in Sri Lanka have retained strong cultural identities influenced by centuries of tradition. They have their ways of practicing their religion. They have their style in dressing, talking, and reacting. Going beyond, they maintain various practices in farming, cooking, and respecting nature as well. Hence, valuing their traditions and culture will give a perfect impression for the communities in those villages, which in return will motivate them to treat you better!
Seek Permission before Taking Photos
Not everyone would be willing to have their personal life captured. So, if you wish to take a photograph of villagers or their homes, make sure you inform them beforehand. It will be an instance that shows your courtesy to them and prevents unwanted disputes at the same time.
Support Local Businesses in Mountain Villages in Sri Lanka
Communities in these mountain villages are solely dependent on minor agricultural livelihoods, and on providing accommodation to the visitors. Choosing a local home-stay and purchasing their local products instead of hunting for large-scale businesses will surely brighten the lives of those innocent people. Moreover, it will indirectly be a reason to improve the facilities in these areas as well.
Reduce Environmental Impact in Mountain Villages in Sri Lanka
These villages are frequently surrounded by protected forests, streams, and wildlife habitats. Hence, make sure you leave only footprints as you explore them. Follow designated trails to prevent soil erosion and safeguard native flora. Use reusable water bottles and bags as much as possible, and properly dispose waste. Carry a bag for trash if bins are unavailable. By following a few simply steps like that, you can surely reduce the environmental impact that occurs!
Observe Wildlife from a Safe Distance
After all, the wildlife in these areas belongs to nature, and they have no sense of how to deal with humans. So, make sure you keep a safe distance when observing them. Moreover, never try to feed them, pet them, or touch them. If the wild animals cause any harm to the travelers, it would be hard to seek medical assistance in the rural areas of these mountain villages.
Promote Sustainable Tourism Efforts
Numerous villages have started community-led ecotourism initiatives. So, you too can promote sustainable tourism by selecting eco-friendly lodgings that utilize renewable energy or sustainable materials. Going beyond, you can even consider volunteering or donating to conservation or community projects if opportunities arise.
Be Ready for Basic Amenities and Weather Conditions
It is always better to check the climate of the mountain village that you are visiting, to get the best experience. These areas are mostly misty, cloudy, and rainy. You can simply visit the website of the Department of Meteorology of Sri Lanka to get the weather insights!
Pack Essentials
Remote mountain villages may have limited facilities. So, it is important that you pack important items like rain gear, durable footwear, charges, first-aid, additional clothes, hygiene products, electronics items that you need, and a flashlight in case of emergency. Also, it is important that you carry cash, as ATMs are often not available.
Likewise, by traveling thoughtfully, you not only contribute to preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka’s mountain villages, but also ensure a hassle free stay during your travel.
Conclusion
After all, Sri Lanka’s concealed mountain communities are far more than isolated locations. They are living mosaics interwoven with the beauty of nature, age-old customs, and authentic human kindness. From the rugged wilderness of Meemure to the misty streets of Mandaram Nuwara, the adventurous paths of Kalupahana and Ohiya, and the wild splendor of Riverston, each village presents a unique segment in the narrative of Sri Lanka’s highlands.
Visiting these remote areas encourages you to slow down, inhale deeply, and reconnect with the natural rhythms of the land and the pulse of local inhabitants. Thus, when approached thoughtfully, a trip to Sri Lanka’s hidden mountain villages transforms into not just a travel adventure through stunning landscapes but a significant interaction that elevates both people and place.
So, whether you are a daring explorer, a lover of nature, or someone searching for peace, the mountains of Sri Lanka harbor innumerable secrets waiting for you to uncover. Venture off the usual path, and allow these hidden villages to reveal a side of the island you will always cherish. Happy and safe travelling!
