Pidurutalagala, Mountain summit in Nuwara Eliya District, Sri Lanka.
Pidurutalagala is the highest mountain in Sri Lanka, rising to 2,524 meters in the Nuwara Eliya District. This peak forms part of the central Piduru Ridges and stands as the tallest point across the island.
The mountain was formerly called Mount Pedro before becoming a military installation. Communications equipment and defense infrastructure now operate from the summit, marking a significant shift in its use.
The name Pidurutalagala means Straw Plateau Rock, a description that early inhabitants gave to these high grounds based on their appearance. Locals and visitors today still use this traditional name to identify the place.
Visiting the summit requires advance permission from military authorities since defense installations occupy the area. You should contact relevant officials beforehand to understand if and how access might be arranged.
A major forest fire swept across the mountain in 2010, destroying portions of its woodland. The Sri Lanka Air Force responded to contain the blaze and prevent further damage to the landscape.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
