Are you looking for a thrilling and scenic adventure in Sri Lanka? Do you want to witness the breathtaking views of the island from the highest point? If yes, then you should definitely visit Pidurutalagala, the tallest mountain in Sri Lanka. Pidurutalagala, also known as Mount Pedro, is a majestic peak that rises above the city of Nuwara Eliya in the central highlands of Sri Lanka.
It is a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers who want to experience the beauty and diversity of Sri Lanka’s landscape. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Pidurutalagala, how to reach it, when to visit it, what to do there, and where to stay.
Read on to find out why Pidurutalagala is a must-see attraction for anyone who visits Sri Lanka.
Why visit Pidurutalagala
Pidurutalagala is not only the highest peak of Sri Lanka, but also one of its most impressive and significant landmarks. Here are some of the reasons why you should visit Pidurutalagala:
Height:
Pidurutalagala stands at an elevation of 2,524 meters (8,281 feet) above sea level, making it the highest point of the island. From the summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, including the hills, valleys, forests, lakes, and tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya and beyond. On a clear day, you can even see the Indian Ocean and the Adam’s Peak, another famous mountain in Sri Lanka.
Scenery:
Pidurutalagala is a stunning sight to behold, especially during sunrise and sunset. The peak is covered with lush green vegetation, including pine trees, grasslands, and flowers. The mountain is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as monkeys, deer, leopards, and birds. You can spot some of these animals along the way as you hike up the mountain.
Biodiversity:
Pidurutalagala is part of the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Central Highlands are recognized for their exceptional biodiversity and endemism, meaning that many of the plants and animals found here are unique to this region and nowhere else in the world. Some of the endemic species that you can find in Pidurutalagala are the Sri Lankan leopard, the purple-faced langur, the Sri Lankan whistling thrush, and the Horton Plains slender loris.
History:
Pidurutalagala has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. According to legend, Pidurutalagala was the abode of the gods and the place where King Ravana hid Princess Sita after abducting her from India in the epic Ramayana. Pidurutalagala was also the site of a British observatory and a military base during the colonial era. Today, Pidurutalagala hosts a radar station and a communication tower that are operated by the Sri Lankan Air Force. These facilities are off-limits to the public, but you can still see them from a distance.
How to reach Pidurutalagala
Pidurutalagala is located in the city of Nuwara Eliya, which is about 180 kilometers (112 miles) from Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. There are several ways to reach Pidurutalagala from different cities and regions in Sri Lanka by various modes of transport. Here are some of the options:
By bus:
The cheapest and most common way to reach Pidurutalagala is by bus. You can take a bus from Colombo, Kandy, or any other major city to Nuwara Eliya, which takes about 5 to 6 hours. The bus fare ranges from 300 to 500 Sri Lankan rupees (1.5 to 2.5 USD) depending on the type of bus and the distance. From Nuwara Eliya, you can take another bus to the Pidurutalagala entrance, which is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) away. The bus fare is about 50 Sri Lankan rupees (0.25 USD) and the journey takes about 30 minutes.
By train:
The most scenic and comfortable way to reach Pidurutalagala is by train. You can take a train from Colombo, Kandy, or any other major city to Nanu Oya, which is the nearest railway station to Nuwara Eliya. The train ride takes about 6 to 8 hours and offers spectacular views of the countryside, the mountains, and the tea plantations. The train fare ranges from 500 to 1500 Sri Lankan rupees (2.5 to 7.5 USD) depending on the class and the distance. From Nanu Oya, you can take a taxi or a tuk-tuk to Nuwara Eliya, which is about 8 kilometers (5 miles) away. The taxi or tuk-tuk fare is about 500 to 1000 Sri Lankan rupees (2.5 to 5 USD) and the journey takes about 20 minutes.
From Nuwara Eliya, you can take another taxi or tuk-tuk to the Pidurutalagala entrance, which is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) away. The taxi or tuk-tuk fare is about 1000 to 1500 Sri Lankan rupees (5 to 7.5 USD) and the journey takes about 30 minutes.
By car:
The fastest and most convenient way to reach Pidurutalagala is by car. You can rent a car from Colombo, Kandy, or any other major city and drive to Nuwara Eliya, which takes about 4 to 5 hours. The car rental fee ranges from 5000 to 10000 Sri Lankan rupees (25 to 50 USD) per day depending on the type of car and the distance. You can also hire a driver for an extra fee. From Nuwara Eliya, you can drive to the Pidurutalagala entrance, which is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) away. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
When to visit Pidurutalagala
Pidurutalagala is open for visitors throughout the year, but the best time to visit Pidurutalagala depends on the weather conditions and the views. Here are some of the factors to consider when planning your visit:
Season:
Pidurutalagala has a cool and pleasant climate all year round, with an average temperature of 16°C (61°F). However, the weather can vary depending on the season. The dry season lasts from January to March, which is the best time to visit Pidurutalagala for clear skies and sunny days. The wet season lasts from April to December, which is the worst time to visit Pidurutalagala for cloudy and rainy days. The wet season also brings the risk of landslides and road closures, which can affect your travel plans. Therefore, it is advisable to check the weather forecast before you visit Pidurutalagala and avoid the rainy days.
Time of the day:
Pidurutalagala is open for visitors from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day. However, the best time of the day to visit Pidurutalagala depends on the views and the crowds. The best time to visit Pidurutalagala for the best views is during sunrise and sunset, when the sun casts a golden glow over the mountain and the landscape. The worst time to visit Pidurutalagala for the best views is during midday, when the sun is directly overhead and the visibility is low. The best time to visit Pidurutalagala for the least crowds is during weekdays and early mornings, when the mountain is less crowded and more peaceful. The worst time to visit Pidurutalagala for the least crowds is during weekends and holidays, when the mountain is more crowded and noisy.
What to do at Pidurutalagala
Pidurutalagala offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the things you can do at Pidurutalagala:
Hike:
The main activity for visitors who want to explore Pidurutalagala is hiking. The hike to the summit of Pidurutalagala is about 8 kilometers (5 miles) long and takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete. The hike is moderately difficult, with some steep and rocky sections, but it is well worth the effort.
The hike offers stunning views of the mountain and the surrounding landscape, as well as the opportunity to spot some wildlife and plants. The hike also passes by the radar station and the communication tower, which are the highest structures in Sri Lanka. However, you are not allowed to enter or take photos of these facilities, as they are restricted areas. You need to obtain a security clearance from the Pidurutalagala entrance before you start the hike, which is free of charge.
Sightseeing:
Another activity for visitors who want to enjoy Pidurutalagala is sightseeing. You can take a car or a bike and drive around the mountain and its surroundings, which are full of natural and cultural attractions. Some of the places you can visit are:
Hakgala Botanical Garden: A beautiful and serene garden that features a variety of flowers, trees, and herbs, including orchids, roses, and medicinal plants. The garden is also a habitat for many birds and butterflies, and offers a view of the Hakgala Rock, which is a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists. The garden is open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. every day and the entrance fee is 1500 Sri Lankan rupees (7.5 USD) for foreigners and 100 Sri Lankan rupees (0.5 USD) for locals.
Gregory Lake: A scenic and relaxing lake that was created by the British in the 19th century as a reservoir. The lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and picnicking, and also hosts an annual carnival with rides, games, and stalls. The lake is open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day and the entrance fee is 500 Sri Lankan rupees (2.5 USD) for foreigners and 50 Sri Lankan rupees (0.25 USD) for locals.
Lover’s Leap Waterfall: A stunning and romantic waterfall that cascades from a height of 30 meters (98 feet) into a pool below. The waterfall is named after a legend that says that a young couple jumped from the cliff after their parents opposed their marriage. The waterfall is accessible by a short hike from the Pedro Tea Factory, which is a historic and operational tea factory that offers tours and tastings. The waterfall is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day and the entrance fee is free.
Camp:
Another activity for visitors who want to experience Pidurutalagala is camping. You can pitch a tent at the designated camping site near the Pidurutalagala entrance, which is a spacious and grassy area with basic facilities such as toilets, showers, and fire pits. You can also rent a tent and other camping equipment from the Pidurutalagala entrance for a nominal fee.
Camping at Pidurutalagala is a great way to enjoy the fresh air, the starry sky, and the sounds of nature. However, you need to be prepared for the cold and windy nights, and follow the rules and regulations of the camping site. Camping at Pidurutalagala is open from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. every day and the camping fee is 1000 Sri Lankan rupees (5 USD) per person.
Tea plantation tour:
Another activity for visitors who want to learn more about Pidurutalagala and Sri Lanka is a tea plantation tour. You can visit one of the many tea estates that surround the mountain and see how the famous Ceylon tea is grown, harvested, processed, and packed. You can also taste some of the finest teas in the world and buy some as souvenirs. Some of the tea estates that offer tours are Pedro Tea Estate, Labookellie Tea Estate, and Bluefield Tea Estate. The tea plantation tours are open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day and the tour fee is about 500 Sri Lankan rupees (2.5 USD) per person.
Where to stay near Pidurutalagala
Pidurutalagala is close to Nuwara Eliya, which is a charming and cozy city that offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors. You can choose from hotels, resorts, guesthouses, and homestays that suit your budget and preferences. Here are some of the places you can stay near Pidurutalagala:
Jetwing St. Andrew’s: A luxurious and elegant hotel that is housed in a colonial-era mansion. The hotel features spacious and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a golf course, and a garden. The hotel is located about 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) from Pidurutalagala and the room rate is about 20000 Sri Lankan rupees (100 USD) per night.
Araliya Green City: A modern and stylish hotel that is designed to blend with the natural environment. The hotel offers cozy and well-equipped rooms, a restaurant, a cafe, a gym, a pool, and a rooftop terrace. The hotel is situated about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from Pidurutalagala and the room rate is about 15000 Sri Lankan rupees (75 USD) per night.
The Hill Club: A historic and charming hotel that was established in 1876 as a club for British planters. The hotel preserves the old-world charm and elegance of the colonial era, with antique furniture, fireplaces, and paintings. The hotel provides cozy and quaint rooms, a restaurant, a bar, a library, and a tennis court. The hotel is located about 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) from Pidurutalagala and the room rate is about 10000 Sri Lankan rupees (50 USD) per night.
The Rock Hotel: A budget-friendly and family-friendly hotel that offers clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, a lounge, and a garden. The hotel is located about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from Pidurutalagala and the room rate is about 5000 Sri Lankan rupees (25 USD) per night.
The Tea Garden: A homely and hospitable homestay that offers a unique and authentic experience of living in a tea plantation. The homestay offers simple and cozy rooms, a shared kitchen, a dining area, and a balcony. The homestay is located about 13 kilometers (8.1 miles) from Pidurutalagala and the room rate is about 3000 Sri Lankan rupees (15 USD) per night.
Tips for travelers
Pidurutalagala is a wonderful and rewarding destination for travelers who love nature and adventure. However, there are some things you need to keep in mind before you visit Pidurutalagala. Here are some tips and advice for travelers who plan to visit Pidurutalagala:
Security clearance: You need to obtain a security clearance from the Pidurutalagala entrance before you start the hike or the drive to the summit. The security clearance is free of charge and requires you to show your passport or identity card and fill out a form. You also need to follow the rules and regulations of the Sri Lankan Air Force, such as not entering or taking photos of the restricted areas, not littering or damaging the property, and not making loud noises or disturbing the peace.
Weather precautions: You need to be prepared for the cold and windy weather at Pidurutalagala, especially at the summit. The temperature can drop to as low as 5°C (41°F) at night and the wind can be strong and gusty. You need to wear warm and layered clothing, a hat, a scarf, and gloves. You also need to bring a raincoat or an umbrella, as the weather can change suddenly and it can rain anytime. You also need to check the weather forecast before you visit Pidurutalagala and avoid the rainy days, as they can reduce the visibility and increase the risk of landslides and road closures.
Packing essentials: You need to pack some essentials for your visit to Pidurutalagala, such as water, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, a camera, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and a map. You also need to bring some cash, as there are no ATMs or card machines at Pidurutalagala. You also need to bring your passport or identity card, as you need to show it at the security clearance.
Permits and regulations: You need to obtain a permit from the Forest Department if you want to camp at Pidurutalagala. The permit is free of charge and requires you to show your passport or identity card and fill out a form. You also need to follow the rules and regulations of the camping site, such as not making fires, not cutting trees, not hunting animals, and not leaving any waste behind.
Pidurutalagala is a magnificent and memorable destination that showcases the beauty and diversity of Sri Lanka. It is a place where you can enjoy the views, the nature, the history, and the culture of the island from the highest point. Pidurutalagala is a place that you should not miss when you visit Sri Lanka.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Pidurutalagala today and experience the adventure of a lifetime.
