Ohiya’s 5 Best Tours & Experiences (With Prices & Reviews)

Ohiya is a fantastic place to explore if you enjoy a mix of scenic landscapes, active adventures, and local culture. With its lush forests, high-altitude water systems, and proximity to Horton Plains, it offers a variety of experiences that appeal to nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking authentic Sri Lankan sights. We’re particularly fond of the Ella: World’s End & Bomburuella/Upper Diyaluma Waterfall Tour, which combines breathtaking viewpoints with a visit to Sri Lanka’s widest waterfall. It’s a full-day private tour perfect for those who want a deep dive into the area’s natural beauty.

Another favorite is the Devil’s Staircase Guided Hike to Kalupahana, which offers a challenging trek with impressive waterfalls and panoramic views. For those interested in a more leisurely but still active experience, the Belihuloya: 3-Night Hiking Tour with Kayaking & Transfers combines hiking with kayaking on the Samanalawewa Reservoir, giving a well-rounded adventure. If you prefer riding through the highlands, the Private Motorbike Passenger Ride to World’s End lets you soak in the scenery from the back of a motorcycle. All these experiences highlight Ohiya’s diverse appeal—whether you want active pursuits, scenic vistas, or cultural insights.

Quick Overview

Our list showcases a range of tours that highlight Ohiya’s natural beauty and adventurous spirit. From the 11-hour private day trip exploring Horton Plains and waterfalls (see details here) to the 7.5-hour trek across forests, tea plantations, and bird sanctuaries (check it out), each offers a distinct way to experience Sri Lanka’s highlands. The guided hike along Devil’s Staircase (more info) is suited for those craving a rugged challenge, while the Belihuloya multi-day tour with kayaking (details here) is perfect for travelers looking for an immersive, multi-day escape.

1. Ella: World’s End & Bomburuella/Upper Diyaluma Waterfall Tour

At number 1 on our list is this comprehensive 11-hour private tour from Ella that combines scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and national park exploration. It starts with a pickup in Ella, then takes you through Horton Plains National Park, a UNESCO site. Here, you’ll walk through cloud forests and open grasslands to reach the stunning World’s End viewpoint, which offers a dramatic drop of over 870 meters. The walk is manageable but offers stunning views that are worth every step.

Afterward, you’ll visit Baker’s Falls, a charming cascade tucked inside the park, before heading to one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive waterfalls—Bomburu Ella (Waterfall), known as the widest in the country, or the picturesque Upper Diyaluma Waterfall. Both are spectacular and worth the visit, with the choice depending on the day’s weather and your preference. The tour is praised for its flexibility and personalized experience, with a guide sharing insightful details about the region’s flora and fauna.

This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy combination hikes, scenic beauty, and waterfalls. The full-day format ensures you get a thorough taste of Sri Lanka’s hill country, making it an excellent value for those wanting an in-depth experience.

Bottom line: A well-rounded, private day trip offering breathtaking views and waterfalls — perfect for nature lovers staying in Ella.

2. The Pekoe Trail, Stage 12, Trekking Fm Udaweriya To Haputale

Next up, the 7.5-hour trek along The Pekoe Trail showcases Sri Lanka’s tea country at its best. This stage takes you from Udaweriya to Haputale, winding through Thangamale bird sanctuary, lush forests, and tea plantations. The trail offers a mix of pine and eucalyptus forests, along with pockets of rain forest that are rich with birdlife and native flora. The tour also includes a visit to Adisham Bungalow, a beautifully preserved colonial estate with stories to tell.

What makes this trek stand out is the opportunity to see Sri Lanka’s highland landscapes up close while walking through different forest types. You’ll enjoy the fresh mountain air and panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The trail is suited for hikers looking for a moderate challenge, with well-marked paths and scenic stops along the way.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to combine nature, history, and local culture, with the added bonus of seeing Sri Lanka’s tea-growing regions firsthand. The trail is well-reviewed for its peaceful setting and variety of scenery, making it a favorite among hikers seeking an authentic hill country experience.

Bottom line: An excellent choice for active travelers wanting a mix of forests, birdwatching, and colonial history on a well-organized trek.

3. Ohiya: Devil’s Staircase Guided Hike to Kalupahana

At number 3, this guided hike along the Devil’s Staircase from Ohiya to Kalupahana is a rugged, rewarding challenge. The trail is famous for its dramatic V-shaped gorge, steep ascents, and breathtaking views of the highlands and tea estates. The hike includes a visit to Bambarakanda Falls, Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall at 270 feet, which is a highlight for many.

During this hike, you’ll navigate narrow, rugged paths that test your stamina but reward you with sweeping vistas. The trail offers a sense of adventure, with sharp bends and steep climbs that thrill experienced trekkers. The guide shares insights into local geology and forestry, adding depth to the experience.

This tour is best suited for those comfortable with physical activity and seeking a true outdoor challenge. It’s suitable for fit travelers who want to push their limits while discovering some of Sri Lanka’s most impressive waterfalls and landscapes. The rugged terrain means a good pair of hiking shoes is essential, but the sense of accomplishment at the end makes it worthwhile.

Bottom line: A challenging but memorable trek for adventure-seekers eager to see Bambarakanda Falls and enjoy highland panoramas.

4. Belihuloya: 3-Night Hiking Tour with Kayaking & Transfers

For travelers looking for a multi-day escape, the Belihuloya: 3-Night Hiking Tour offers an immersive experience. Over four days, you’ll explore trails like the Samuel Baker’s Hunting Trail and Devil’s Staircase, while also enjoying kayaking on the Samanalawewa Reservoir. This combination makes for a great balance between active hiking and relaxing water activities.

The tour includes visits to Bambarakanda Waterfall, Sri Lanka’s tallest, and scenic tuk-tuk rides through the countryside. The kayaking component provides a peaceful break from hiking, with calm waters perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Accommodation is usually in local guesthouses, offering authentic hospitality and a chance to connect with local culture.

This experience is ideal for active travelers who want a multi-day adventure with varied activities. It’s perfect for those who enjoy hiking, water sports, and exploring rural landscapes in a relaxed pace. The tour offers good value considering the included transportation, accommodation, and activities, but it requires multiple days and a decent level of fitness.

Bottom line: A comprehensive, multi-day adventure suited to travelers wanting a mix of hiking, kayaking, and local immersion.

5. Private Motorbike Passenger Ride to World’s End | From Ella

Finally, for a unique way to experience the highlands, the private motorbike ride from Ella to Horton Plains is a scenic, eco-friendly option. Traveling as a passenger on a motorbike with a licensed local rider, you’ll wind through mountain roads and tea plantations, reaching World’s End for its jaw-dropping drop and panoramic vistas.

This tour, lasting around 9 to 10.5 hours, includes stops at Baker’s Falls and a walk through Horton Plains. It’s a flexible, intimate way to see the area without the bulk of a large group. Many travelers find the motorbike ride especially memorable because of the personalized service and the chance to see the countryside up close.

Suitable for those comfortable with motorbike travel and looking for an adventurous day, this experience balances thrill with scenery. It’s a great alternative for those who want an active, eco-conscious way to see Horton Plains, especially if you’re keen on avoiding crowded tours.

Bottom line: An adventurous, private ride ideal for those who enjoy motorbiking and want a personal, scenic experience in Sri Lanka’s hill country.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Ohiya

When deciding between these options, consider your fitness level, budget, and interests. If you love detailed, private tours, the Ella: World’s End & Waterfalls trip offers thorough exploration with expert guides. For a challenging trek, the Devil’s Staircase hike provides physical engagement and stunning waterfalls. The multi-day Belihuloya tour suits those wanting a longer adventure with kayaking, while the motorbike ride offers a quick, scenic, and eco-friendly experience.

Think about the time you have—full-day adventures suit those with limited days, whereas multi-night tours require more planning. Always check the weather forecast, especially for outdoor hikes, and book early, as popular experiences fill quickly.

Final Thoughts

Ohiya offers a diverse set of tours for adventurers, nature lovers, and cultural explorers alike. For a comprehensive day in the highlands, the Ella: World’s End & Waterfalls Tour is hard to beat. For those craving a challenging trek with breathtaking waterfalls, the Devil’s Staircase hike is a must. Looking for a multi-day escape? The Belihuloya experience combines hiking, kayaking, and local culture beautifully. If you want something more relaxed and scenic, the private motorbike ride will give you a memorable, personal view of Sri Lanka’s hill country.

Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you get your preferred dates. Each of these tours offers a different way to discover the natural beauty and adventure possibilities in Ohiya—so choose what fits your style, and enjoy exploring one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic regions.