The Sri Lanka hiking and trekking tourism market is poised for remarkable growth, with its market size estimated to reach USD 780 million by 2025 and projected to expand to a staggering USD 2.1 billion by 2035, according to industry forecasts. This represents a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.5% over the ten-year period, underscoring the island’s rising appeal as a premier destination for adventure and eco-tourism in South Asia.
Nature-Based Tourism in Sri Lanka Experiences Resurgence Post-Pandemic
As global travelers increasingly prioritize experiential and sustainable tourism, Sri Lanka’s diverse topography - ranging from misty central highlands to coastal rainforests - has emerged as a significant draw. The country’s expanding network of eco-lodges, national parks, and well-maintained hiking trails are driving growth in nature-based travel in Sri Lanka.
Adventure enthusiasts are flocking to iconic trails such as Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada), the Knuckles Mountain Range, and Horton Plains, while newer trekking routes in Ella, Belihuloya, and Nuwara Eliya are gaining international attention. The government’s efforts to integrate sustainable tourism practices and enhance rural tourism infrastructure are further contributing to the growth of the Sri Lanka trekking tourism sector.
Economic and Environmental Impact of Hiking Tourism in Sri Lanka
The economic impact of hiking and trekking tourism extends beyond tour operators to benefit local communities, especially in the Central and Uva Provinces. The projected USD 2.1 billion market size by 2035 signals not just financial growth but also the creation of employment opportunities in rural areas, bolstering community-led conservation and hospitality initiatives.
With a focus on low-impact adventure tourism, Sri Lanka’s tourism authorities are prioritizing eco-tourism development that supports biodiversity protection, carbon offsetting, and education about the island’s unique flora and fauna.
Key Trends Driving Sri Lanka’s Hiking and Trekking Boom
The 2025-2035 forecast highlights several key trends that will shape the hiking and trekking industry in Sri Lanka:
• Digital nomad and wellness travel convergence: Many visitors are combining trekking with yoga retreats, meditation, and Ayurvedic wellness experiences.
• Cultural-heritage hiking experiences: Pilgrimage treks and guided hikes to ancient monasteries, rock temples, and colonial-era pathways are seeing renewed interest.
• Millennial and Gen Z travel preferences: Younger travelers are seeking authentic, Instagram-worthy outdoor adventures, making Sri Lanka a top adventure travel destination in Asia.
• Sustainable travel commitments: Both public and private sectors are investing in green certifications, plastic-free zones, and community-based tourism models.
Challenges Faced by the Sri Lanka Hiking and Trekking Tourism Market
• Inadequate Trail Infrastructure and Maintenance: Many popular and emerging trekking routes in Sri Lanka suffer from limited signage, poor trail maintenance, and a lack of basic amenities such as rest stops, clean water sources, and emergency shelters. This poses safety risks for hikers and limits accessibility, particularly for international tourists expecting standardized infrastructure.
• Limited Emergency Response Systems in Remote Areas: Several trekking destinations are located in remote, mountainous regions where medical facilities, rescue operations, and communication networks are sparse or nonexistent. The absence of reliable emergency response protocols can deter high-value international travelers and tour operators from promoting these regions.
• Environmental Degradation and Trail Overuse: As tourist footfall increases, some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic trails, such as Adam’s Peak and parts of Ella Rock, are experiencing environmental stress. Issues include soil erosion, littering, wildlife disturbance, and damage to flora. Without proper carrying capacity guidelines and eco-management strategies, natural assets could be degraded irreversibly.
• Seasonal Dependency and Climate Variability: The hiking and trekking industry is highly seasonal, with demand peaking during dry months (December to April). Monsoons and extreme weather events-exacerbated by climate change-make certain trails dangerous or inaccessible during off-seasons, leading to inconsistent tourist arrivals and revenue.
Source: Future Market Insights Inc.