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Please note that 18% VAT will be added to all prices from 01 April 2026 onwards.
TREK #1: Wepathana Walk 2km walk (soft-medium level)
Explore our nearest village, Wepathana, where many of our team members live! You will start at Polwaththa Eco Lodges and then walk through the village where you will see and learn about the beautiful Kandyan Forest Gardens. During this walk, you will meet local people attending to their daily chores who will often gladly invite you into their homes. Your guide will explain about the local customs, plants, spices and wildlife that you encounter during this experience!
DURATION: Approximately 2 hours.
IDEAL FOR: Those wanting to experience rural life and nature at a leisurely pace.
TERRAIN: A bit up and down and mostly on narrow paths on firm ground. Elevation between 650 - 700 meters above sea level.
PRICE: US$ 8.00 p.p. including our local Guide and a bottle of water. * 10% discount applicable for groups of 4 or more.
TREK #2: Village Walk & Waterfall swim 6km walk with a ride back in our tuk-tuk or jeep (soft-medium level)
Waterfall & Village Trek: Kandy's Most Popular Family Hike
Our most popular trek is a soft-to-medium hike perfect for families and all fitness levels, ending with a refreshing waterfall swim.
Starting at the lodge, the trail winds through Kandyan Forest Gardens and quaint villages, where you'll see locals at their daily chores — often inviting you into their homes to watch traditional crafts like treacle and jaggery-making (palm syrup and sugar).
Your guide will point out spice and fruit trees along the way — cloves, pepper, nutmeg, coffee, cocoa, jackfruit, mango, and more — plus rice fields, a glimpse of our reforestation project, and stunning mountain-lake views.
The route covers 4km of jungle and village trails, a short jeep or tuk-tuk ride, then a 1km walk down to the waterfall for a picnic lunch and swim, before returning to the lodge by jeep.
DURATION: Approximately 4-5 hours.
IDEAL FOR: Those wanting to combine a longer walk with a great village and jungle experience ending with wild swimming and a picnic lunch.
TERRAIN: 4km mostly down-hill on village paths and 2,5km on a jungle path to and from the water-fall.
PRICE: US$ 24.00 p.p. including packed lunch, our local Guide and a bottle of water. *10% Discount applicable for groups of 4 or more, 30% more for single person.
Trek #3: Village walk & River swim 4km walk (soft level)
River Village Walk & Swim: Naranpanawa by Huluganga
This scenic walk begins at our lodge and winds through quaint villages and Kandyan Forest Gardens, where you'll see locals going about daily life and often be invited into their homes — a rare chance to watch treacle and jaggery-making up close. Your guide will point out spice and fruit trees along the way, including cloves, pepper, nutmeg, coffee, cocoa, jackfruit, mango, and papaya.
Near the river, water buffaloes still work the rice fields. After about 2 hours, you'll reach Naranpanawa by Huluganga — the historic riverside spot where Kandyan kings once bathed and where the famous "Sunlight" soap advert was filmed. Local legend says an ancient king lost his golden comb here, giving Naranpanawa its name ("no golden comb"). Join villagers as they bathe, wash clothes, and draw sand from the river, then relax with a swim and picnic lunch in a deep river pool.
For more privacy, opt for the quieter spot further upriver, complete with a private changing hut — perfect for families or small groups.
DURATION: Approximately 3 hours including a river-swim.
IDEAL FOR: Those wanting an educative soft trek mixed with nature and adventure. The river swim requires competency in swimming. It is also ideal for families with children (under supervision).
TERRAIN: You start with a short climb and thereafter, it is mostly flattish and downwards on fairly broad pathways on firm ground with about 70 steps down. After the river-bath and picnic lunch you will be taken back to the lodge by jeep.
PRICE: US$ 24 p.p. including lunch, a guide, bottle of water and transport back to the lodge.*10% Discount applicable for groups of 4 or more, 30% more for single person.
Trek #4: Five-in-one Total 4.5km (medium level)
Village Life & Waterfall Adventure: School, Jungle & Swim
This immersive half-day hike offers a true taste of daily life in the area — a village school visit, jungle trekking, a local bus ride, and a stroll through Kandyan Forest Gardens, all ending in a refreshing wild swim at a hidden waterfall.
The walk begins with a 2km path to the village school, where local children learn each day. Join a short class lesson, interact with the students, and hand out pens and exercise books as gifts.
From there, a scenic 20-minute ride — by local bus or our jeep — leads to a jungle trail ending at a hidden waterfall, complete with a Tarzan-and-Jane feel. Swim in the large, clean natural pool (around 20°C) with a gradual, easy entry, and enjoy a picnic lunch waterside. When you're ready, hike 1km back to the vehicle for a scenic tuk-tuk or safari jeep return to the lodge.
DURATION: Walk totally 4.5km in 3 sections and parts by jeep & bus
IDEAL FOR : Those wanting to experience a wide range of village life and true nature.
TERRAIN: Somewhat up-hill at times, narrow foot-paths approaching waterfall, the rest easy.
PRICE: US$ 24 p.p. including lunch, a guide, transport, pens & exercise books (if group smaller than 7 pax the group pays totally US$ 15 for books and pens) and a bottle of water. *10% Discount applicable for groups of 4 or more, 30% more for single person.
Trek #5: Bambaragala Rock Total 4.5km (medium-hard level)
Bambaragala Rock Hike: Spectacular Victoria Lake Views
For a short but intense climb with stunning views over Victoria Lake, the Bambaragala Rock hike is the perfect challenge. After a 20-minute drive, you'll reach Bambaragala Rajamaha Viharaya — a hidden gem of a temple partly built into the rock itself and deeply significant to local villagers.
Climb a few steep stairs to explore the temple, then continue hiking through forest for 45 minutes to reach the summit, where sweeping views of Victoria Lake await.
Bring sun lotion, sturdy walking shoes, and plenty of water on sunny days — and please stay clear of the cliff edge for safety.
DURATION: Total approximately 3.5 hours including climb and transport.
IDEAL FOR: Those wanting a medium/ challenging climb with spectacular views of the Victoria Lake.
TERRAIN: Steep climb including stairs leading up to temple followed by steep patches of forest and rock. Peak elevation is 760 meters above sea level.
PRICE: US$ 21 p.p. including guide, picnic lunch, transport and bottle of water. *10% Discount applicable for groups of 4 or more, 30% more for single person.
Trek #6: Village walk, Tea and River swim 4km walk + 14km by tuk-tuk or jeep (one-way) (soft-medium)
Village Walk, Tea Factory Tour & River Swim
Starting at our lodge, this trek winds through quaint villages and Kandyan Forest Gardens, where you'll see locals in their daily routines and often be welcomed into their homes to watch traditional treacle and jaggery-making. Your guide will highlight spice and fruit trees along the way — cloves, pepper, nutmeg, coffee, cocoa, jackfruit, breadfruit, mango, and more — plus rice fields still worked by water buffaloes near the river.
After about 2 hours of walking, a jeep or tuk-tuk will take you through scenic tea plantation views to the Hathale Tea Factory, where you'll learn the full tea-making process — from growing and harvesting to processing and tasting.
On the way back to the lodge, stop at the famous Naranpanawa River for a refreshing swim and picnic by the water.
DURATION: Approximately 5-6 hours.
IDEAL FOR: Those who prefer a smaller walk, learn about the local life and the famous tea industry.
TERRAIN: You start with a short climb and thereafter, it is mostly flattish and downwards on fairly broad pathways on firm ground with about 70 steps down.
PRICE: US$ 34 p.p. including Guide fees, packed lunch and a bottle of water. *10% Discount applicable for groups of 4 or more, 30% more for single person.
Trek #7A: Knuckles Base 16-18km walk + 26km by tuk-tuk or jeep (hard level)
Knuckles Mountains Trek: Villages, Tea Estates & Natural Pool
This spectacular hike showcases the region's diverse landscape — quaint villages, temples, jungle, tea estates, and bathing spots — all in one unforgettable trail. Enjoy fantastic views and authentic rural life along the way, including the iconic "line rooms" of local tea pluckers.
The trail climbs to the base of the Knuckles Mountains, ending at a natural pool fed by cascading water (around 18°C) — perfect for a refreshing swim. From here, take the local bus back or continue 4km through forest to a modern tea factory, then catch a bus or tuk-tuk back to Polwaththa.
This is a challenging trek — good walking shoes and a sun hat are essential to handle the midday sun in open areas.
DURATION: Approximately 6-7 hours.
IDEAL FOR: Those seeking a fairly challenging trek and wanting to see typical rural life.
TERRAIN: A steady climb most of the way through village roads and jungle paths on firm ground. Elevation 1,050 meters above seas level.
PRICE: US$ 37 p.p. including Guide fees, packed lunch and a drink. *10% Discount applicable for groups of 4 or more, 30% more for single person. MUST BE BOOKED 7 DAYS IN ADVANCE
Trek #7b: Mini World’s End 12km walk + 33km by vehicle; one-way - Via Hunasgiriya (medium-hard level)
Knuckles Mountain Hike: Biodiversity & Mini World's End
This adventure begins with a scenic jeep or tuk-tuk ride through breathtaking mountain, valley, lake, and tea estate views. From the trailhead, embark on a medium-to-hard 12km hike through the incredibly diverse Knuckles Mountain Range — Sri Lanka's most biodiverse region.
Along the way, take in stunning forest and stream views, plus sightings of rare birds and lizards native to the area. A highlight of the trek is the scenic 3km stretch by "Mini World's End," offering some of the most dramatic viewpoints in the range.
DURATION: Approximately 7 hours
IDEAL FOR: Those wanting a fairly challenging walk mixed with great views of mountains in jungle surroundings.
TERRAIN: Parts of dense forest, uphill and flattish by Mini World’s End and a climb thereafter - on mainly firm ground. Peak elevation is 1,400 meters above sea level.
PRICE: US$ 42 p.p including Knuckles entrance ticket, transport, packed lunch and guide fees.*10% Discount applicable for groups of 4 or more, 30% more for single person. MUST BE BOOKED 7 DAYS IN ADVANCE
Trek #7C: High Knuckles 20km walk + 32km by tuk-tuk or jeep (one-way) (very hard level)
Knuckles Mountain Range Summit Trek: Sri Lanka's Ultimate Hike
Reach the summit of the Knuckles Mountain Range on this unforgettable full-day trek. After an early morning drive (about 1 hour), begin your ascent into the Knuckles Reserve, crossing dense forest on relatively flat terrain before the real climb begins — reaching Peak 1 after approximately 3 hours.
From here, continue to Peak 2 for even more breathtaking views and a well-earned picnic lunch at the summit. The descent takes another 3 hours, leading to a scenic waterfall for a refreshing swim, followed by an easy final stretch through tea plantations.
Explore one of Sri Lanka's most biodiverse regions, home to unique wildlife like the endemic leaf-nosed lizard and purple-faced leaf monkey, alongside over 1,000 species of flowers and trees — including wild orchids.
DURATION: Approximately 9-10 hours.
IDEAL FOR: Those seeking biodiversity and a rewarding and challenging trek through tea plantations and steep climbs through dense forests with stunning views.
TERRAIN: A steady climb through dense forest with some steeper climbs as you approach the peak. Peak elevation is 1,860 meters above sea level.
PRICE: US$ 51 p.p. including Transport, Guide fees, packed lunch and a bottle of water. *10% Discount applicable for groups of 4 or more, 30% more for single person. MUST BE BOOKED 7 DAYS IN ADVANCE
Trek #7D: Seven Waterfalls 14km walk + 28km by tuk-tuk or jeep (one-way) (very hard level)
Kotanganga 7 Waterfalls Trek: Adventure Hike Through the Knuckles
Calling all adventure seekers and waterfall lovers — this trek through a stunning cluster of 7 waterfalls, spanning roughly 100 meters, is one for the bucket list. After an early morning drive (about 1 hour), start climbing from the base of the first waterfall, with the option for a quick dip before the steep ascent begins.
Wind your way up and around each waterfall through dense forest, until reaching the top of the final falls, Kotanganga, where sweeping views of the Kandyan Hills await. Stop here for lunch and another refreshing dip.
After a short break, descend through the dense Knuckles Forest toward Thangappuwa — a scenic 7km walk ending at a traditional line house, where a jeep will be waiting to take you back to the lodge.
DURATION: Approximately 5-6 hours.
IDEAL FOR: Those seeking an adventure and a challenging climb with rewarding views.
TERRAIN: A steep, rocky climb with dense forest, waterfalls, rocks and jungle. Peak elevation is approx 1,100 meters above sea level.
PRICE: US$ 48 p.p. including Guide fees, packed lunch and a bottle of water. *10% Discount applicable for groups of 4 or more, 30% more for single person. MUST BE BOOKED 7 DAYS IN ADVANCE
Trek #7E: Overnight in Knuckles 12km through Heeloya (15km by tuk / jeep) and 6km towards Rangala (hard)
Overnight Knuckles Mountain Trek: Villages, Tea Estates & Camping
Discover a whole new side of Sri Lanka on this overnight trek through the Knuckles Mountain Range, taking in diverse landscapes, quaint villages, rice fields, jungle, and tea estates. The journey begins in Heeloya, a traditional village surrounded by rice fields where you'll see local life up close, before climbing into tea plantation country to experience the rural world of tea pluckers and their iconic "line rooms."
The 12km hike ends at a rustic campsite on the edge of the Knuckles range, where you can stay in a tent or wooden cabana. Enjoy a traditional meal, then unwind by a bonfire under the stars.
The next morning, after breakfast, set off around 8:30am on a shorter walk toward Peru Village, rewarded with breathtaking mountain views and a distant glimpse of Lake Victoria. A short, winding descent brings you back to the jeep for the return to the lodge.
DURATION: 2 days (Day 1; 6-7 hours, Day 2; 4 hours).
IDEAL FOR: Those seeking a challenge, breathtaking views and a campsite adventure.
TERRAIN: A steady climb through paddy fields, jungle, tea plantations and forest. Elevation approx 1,200 meters above sea level.
PRICE : US$ 67 p.p. including a Guide, packed lunch, water, overnight stay with dinner and breakfast. *10% Discount applicable for groups of 4 or more, 30% more for single person. MUST BE BOOKED 7 DAYS IN ADVANCE
#8: Waterfall Tour (72km driven tour of Waterfalls & Tea Plantations)
Rainy Day Waterfall Tour: 4 Stunning Falls Near Kandy
The perfect option for exploring the local area when trekking isn't possible due to rain, this scenic tour lets you experience the beauty of the region without the hike.
Ride by tuk-tuk or jeep to visit 4 stunning waterfalls, including the famous Jodu Ella and Saree Ella ("Ella" means waterfall in Sinhala). Along the way, pass through lush tea plantations, local villages, and breathtaking mountain views, with opportunities to swim in natural pools.
DURATION: Approximatly 5-6 hours.
IDEAL FOR: Those who prefer to use the jeep or tuk to visit area’s waterfalls, tea plantations and Knuckles Mountains.
TERRAIN: Mainly paved roads.
PRICE : US$ 37 p.p. including transport, packed lunch and a bottle of water. 10% Discount applicable for groups of 4 or more, 30% more for single person.
#9: Birdwatching 3km walk (soft level)
Guided Birdwatching Walk: 70+ Bird Species Near Kandy
Explore the area around Polwaththa, home to over 62 bird species, including 17 endemics — among them the Ceylon grey hornbill, Layard's parakeet, Ceylon wood pigeon, and chestnut-backed owlet.
This 2-hour guided walk covers mostly flat terrain with a few short uphill climbs, passing through Bululand — our first reforestation project and home to the protected, vulnerable-classified Sri Lanka wood pigeon.
DURATION: Approximately 2 hours.
IDEAL FOR: Birdwatchers!
TERRAIN: Mostly flat with a short climb towards Bululand.
PRICE: US$ 15 p.p. including locally trained guide. *10% discount applicable for groups of 4 or more.
#10: Yoga (beginner-medium level)
Jungle Yoga Retreat: Morning & Evening Sessions Near Kandy
Imagine waking to birdsong deep in the jungle, taking a 10-minute forest trek to our yoga shala, and rolling out your mat as monkeys welcome you to morning practice.
Join us for an energizing morning yoga session (Vinyasa/Hatha) and a slow, restorative evening practice — the perfect way to reconnect with your body, breath, and the stunning nature surrounding you.
Our yoga classes are flexible and welcoming to all levels, including beginners and families. Speak with our yoga teacher to learn more, and we'll happily tailor the experience to your needs.
DURATION: 60-90 minutes per class
IDEAL FOR: For anyone that wants some exercise, stretch or is simply curious to learn more. It is a perfect way to start your day!
TERRAIN: 10 minute walk through the forest on mostly flat land.
PRICE: Rs. 2,000 p.p. including mat, bolster and pillow.
#11: Tree Planting (beginner-medium level)
Kandyan Forest Gardens: Protecting 2,000 Years of Biodiversity
Help protect Sri Lanka's ancient Kandyan Forests — thriving ecosystems that have existed for over 2,000 years — while reducing your carbon footprint.
Kandyan Forest Gardens are an ancient agroforestry system that sustainably grows fruits and spices alongside native forest trees. Originating centuries ago, this traditional farming method is found across the wet zones of central Sri Lanka, including Kandy and Matale.
Naturally organic, these forest gardens support an abundance of spices, fruits, and wildlife — from deer and giant squirrels to the endangered toque macaque and over 60 bird species — making them one of the most biodiverse forest ecosystems in the world.
Sadly, financial pressures are pushing many farmers and landowners to sell their land for development or shift to unsustainable farming practices, threatening these centuries-old forests. Our Forest Healing Foundation is dedicated to reversing this trend and preserving Sri Lanka's Kandyan Forest Gardens for future generations.
DURATION: 60 minutes
IDEAL FOR: For anyone wants to give back to nature and learn not only about tree planting but also nurturing and protecting it from wildlife.
TERRAIN: 5-15 minute walk through the forest of fairly flattish land, depending on location
PRICE: $10,- per plant plus any donation towards The Forest Healing Foundation.
#12: Organic Farming (beginner-medium level)
Organic Farming Experience: Traditional Sri Lankan Agriculture
Experience traditional Sri Lankan farming firsthand at our organic farm — a 1-acre plot revived using time-honored methods, including organic fertilizer and natural irrigation systems.
Work alongside local villagers on hands-on tasks like ploughing, building waterways, and planting seeds, while learning how this traditional farming approach works in harmony with the natural ecosystem.
Activities vary by season, from land preparation to harvest. The experience ends with a traditional hearth-cooked lunch of rice and vegetables grown right on the farm — with the option to join in the cooking, plus a refreshing dip in the farm's natural spring.x
DURATION: 3 hours.
IDEAL FOR: Anyone that is interested in traditional farming and getting their hands dirty!
TERRAIN: Slightly steep farmland with a stream.
PRICE: $25,- per person including a traditional lunch. 10% Discount applicable for groups of 4 or more, 30% more for single person.
#13: Traditional Cooking Class (beginner level)
Traditional Sri Lankan Cooking Class Near Kandy
Learn to cook authentic Sri Lankan curry the traditional way, immersed in nature just outside Kandy, taught by our own local villagers.
Choose from a range of traditional dishes — including beans, aubergine, dhal, sweet potato, and pumpkin curry — plus a fresh salad, made using organically grown ingredients from our own land. Discover the role of fresh coconut and spices in traditional Sri Lankan cooking, and learn the techniques passed down through generations.
DURATION: 2-3 hours.
IDEAL FOR: Those who want to experience and learn how to cook Sri Lankan food the traditional way while surrounded by nature.
PRICE: US$ 17.00 p.p. including meal (min 2 persons) / US$ 14.00 p.p for In-House guests (min 2 persons).
#14: Community Spice Experience
Eko Land Produce: Women's Empowerment Farm Experience
Join the women of Eko Land Produce, our women's empowerment project led by Nihal, founder of Polwaththa Eco Lodges. Work alongside local women to learn about the spices, fruits, and coffee grown naturally on our land — with the chance to harvest (seasonal), process, sort, and pack your own take-home batch.
Have a specific interest, like coffee? We'll tailor your experience to include harvesting, processing, roasting, and brewing your own fresh cup — plus a pack of beans to take home.
DURATION: 2-3 hours
IDEAL FOR: Those who want to get a hands-on experience in spice processing or simply want to learn how these spices make it to your home.
PRICE: US$ 20.00 p.p. excluding VAT.
10% Discount applicable for groups of 4 or more, 30% more for single person.
#15: Kandy & other Activities
Kandy City Tour: Temple of the Tooth, Markets & Botanical Gardens
A tour of Kandy city can easily be arranged by jeep, tuk-tuk, or local bus — we encourage guests to try the bus for an authentic and affordable local experience. In Kandy, explore the city center, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), browse the Central Market, go shopping, or relax with tea, coffee, or a cold beer at a café overlooking the bustling streets. The Peradeniya Botanical Gardens are just 6km from the city center.
Feel free to ask us for personalized recommendations!
By car or van
Depart at 8:15am after breakfast to arrive in time for the Temple of the Tooth ceremony (entrance Rs. 2,000), running from 9:30–10:30am. Afterward, walk through the city center to the Municipal Market and Botanical Gardens (entrance Rs. 3,000). Return to the lodge by around 4pm.
By public transport
Leave by 7:45am after an early breakfast to catch the start of the ceremony. It's an approximately 1.5km downhill walk to the bus halt, followed by a 45-minute bus ride to Kandy (around Rs. 120). A tuk-tuk from the lodge costs roughly Rs. 3,000.
Other nearby activities
Explore Sigiriya and Wasgamuwa National Park (100km, about 2.5 hours), or visit the local weaving mill, village school, and Naranpanawa Temple closer to the lodge.
#16: Co-working
Jungle Coworking Space Near Kandy | The Snug
Our coworking space at The Snug offers a peaceful, productive setting surrounded by the sights and sounds of the jungle — the perfect backdrop for remote work near Kandy, Sri Lanka.
Whether you're staying a few days or a few weeks, The Snug combines a comfortable focus-friendly environment with the clarity that comes from working close to nature. When the workday winds down, unwind with board games, great drinks, and tasty snacks — striking the perfect balance between work and relaxation.
Ideal for: remote workers, freelancers, digital nomads, writers, and anyone seeking a quiet, beautiful workspace with reliable high-speed internet and great food.
