From Misty Mornings to Mountain Cliffs

If you're looking for the best hike in Sri Lanka—one that combines raw nature, remote trails, and unforgettable wildlife—the Bambaragala Trail at Ahaspokuna is a rare gem. Nestled deep within the vast jungles of Ahaspokuna, this full-day bushwalk isn't for the faint-hearted, but it completely changed how I see the island—and myself.

It all began with birdsong. Still wrapped in dreams, I heard hundreds of birds calling from every direction. As I stepped barefoot onto the wooden deck outside my tent, the mist carried scents of earth and wildflowers. I was at Ahaspokuna Bush Walks Camp, a place where glamping in Sri Lanka means seclusion, luxury, and immersion in nature.

Over breakfast—coconut water, omelet, roti with spicy fillings, and coffee the way I like it—I braced myself for what was promised to be an epic 6-hour journey into the unknown.

I had already tried one of the shorter trekking trails the day before, so I was eager to challenge myself further. Accompanied by Saranga, my expert naturalist, and Nava, the tracker, we began descending into a nearby village, then into bean fields dotted with thin poles and red soil.

That’s when the real hiking in Sri Lanka began—uphill, rocky, exposed to the midday sun. My legs grew heavy, and my heart pounded with each step. Just when I thought I couldn’t go further, a cool breeze swept across the ridge—and suddenly, everything opened up.

Ahead of me were sweeping views across the mountains, down to Udawalawe, and beyond. That vastness froze time.

Saranga, with sharp eyes and deep local knowledge, pointed out birds, butterflies, and trees unique to this part of Sri Lanka. I didn’t think I’d care about anything but walking, but I found myself fascinated. Maybe it’s time to carry binoculars.

We reached a cliff so steep I couldn’t see the bottom. That’s where we paused for lunch—roti sandwiches, sweet helapa, and fresh fruit. The others had rice and curry, smiling like they were at home.

We followed a narrow trail down along a crystal-clear stream, past vines and mossy rocks, back into the bean fields. My legs were trembling from exhaustion and awe. Six hours after we began, we returned to Ahaspokuna, glowing in golden afternoon light.

I soaked in my bush bathtub with hot water and tea beside me. Night fell, and lamps lit up my balcony. Wrapped in a robe, I followed Saranga to the dining tent, past the campfire crackling under stars. Dinner was local, slow-cooked, and served with wine—glamping Sri Lanka at its absolute finest.

For me, the Bambaragala Trail isn’t just a path—it’s a story I carry with me. If you're chasing the best hikes in Sri Lanka, places that go beyond the guidebooks, this is it. Whether you're on the Pekoe Trail, looking for hiking places in Sri Lanka, or just want to escape into the wild in style—Ahaspokuna Glamping Camp is where the journey begins.

By

IDA LINDHOLM

Edited on 14th July 2025