Looking for an amazing hiking spot? Idalgashinna Mountain in the Badulla district is a perfect place for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Sitting at about 5,300 feet above sea level, this beautiful destination offers stunning mountain views, fresh air, and a peaceful escape. Whether you love hiking or just want to enjoy nature, Idalgashinna is a must-visit!
Why Visit Idalgashinna Mountain?
- Amazing Views – See beautiful peaks like Kalupahana, Wangedigala, Balathuduwa, Gommoliya, and even Bambarakanda Waterfall!
- Scenic Train Ride – Enjoy one of Sri Lanka’s most stunning railway journeys.
- Peaceful Camping – Spend a night under the stars with breathtaking scenery.
- Beautiful Nature – Explore forests, tall pine and oak trees, and unique wildlife.
- Stunning Sunrise & Sunset – Watch the sky turn golden from the mountaintop.
How to Get to Idalgashinna Mountain
🚂 By Train:
- Take a train from Colombo Fort Railway Station to Haputale Station (6-7 hours).
- The best train option is Night Mail because you can arrive at Idalgashinna in the early morning around 5.30 am to 6 am.
- Sit on the right-hand side of the train for the best scenic views!
- Get off at Idalgashinna Station (between Haputale and Ohiya) and hike to the mountain.
- Alternatively, From Haputale, take a local bus or tuk-tuk to Idalgashinna village.
🚗 By Car:
- Drive towards Haldummulla, then take the road to Idalgashinna village.
- The road is rough, so a 4WD vehicle is best.
- The beautiful views make the drive worth it!
Hiking in Idalgashinna
- A 1.5 km trek from the village takes you to the top.
- The hike is not too hard, and the cool mountain air makes it enjoyable.
💡 Tip: Get there early to see the sunrise — the view is unforgettable!
Things to Remember
- Pack Warm Clothes – Nights can be very cold.
- Watch Out for Leeches – Wear good hiking shoes and bring salt or repellent.
- Protect Nature – Take your trash with you and keep the place clean.
- Travel Light – A light backpack makes hiking easier.
Important Update: Camping is No Longer Allowed
Camping at Idalgashinna was once a fantastic experience, but unfortunately, it has now been banned. In August 2022, a large group of over 200 campers faced issues when their camping gear, drones, and cameras were taken by forest officials. The authorities stated that Idalgashinna is a protected area, and camping is no longer permitted.
One of the main reasons for the ban is that some visitors left trash, cut trees for firewood, and harmed the environment. As a result, a judge ruled that camping is strictly prohibited, and those who try may face legal action. Some people believe there may be a system targeting campers unfairly, but either way, it’s best to avoid any trouble.
If you plan to visit Idalgashinna, please respect the rules and enjoy the beauty without disturbing nature. Let’s help protect this amazing place!
Final Thoughts
Idalgashinna Mountain is perfect for hikers and nature lovers. The stunning views, peaceful surroundings, and fresh air make it an ideal getaway. Although camping is no longer allowed, this hidden gem is still worth visiting for a breathtaking hike and unforgettable scenery.
📍 Plan your trip today and enjoy the beauty of Idalgashinna responsibly! 🌿🏕️
Did you find this guide helpful? Share it with your friends and help spread awareness about protecting nature! ✨
Plan Your Adventure: Explore Our Interactive Map!
To make your journey even easier, check out our interactive map, where we’ve marked all these amazing destinations. Use it to plan your trip and discover more hidden gems in Sri Lanka!
To plan your trip with public transportation in Sri Lanka, visit Sri Lanka Railways for train schedules.
For your reference, I will put the Idalgashinna Mountain Main Trail route GPS coordinates in GPX format.
This is not my actual GPS route, but an approximately corrected one according to my hike. Please comment below if something is wrong with my hiking trail.
