Ultimate Guide To Elephant Rock Arugam Bay: A Hidden Path
Last updated on April 18th, 2024 at 07:29 am
Looking for an easy way to reach Elephant Rock?
By following this detailed guide, you can easily reach this amazing place without walking too much.
Elephant Rock in Arugambay is a unique place to visit while you are in Arugambay.
It is a popular destination for surfers and offers stunning panoramic views of the lagoon and sandy beach.
Whether you want to experience the sunrise or sunset, you will be rewarded by the breathtaking bird’s eye view that Elephant Rock Sri Lanka provides.
Additionally, watching surfers from above is an incredible experience that adds to the thrill of being there. If you seek an unforgettable adventure in Arugambay, visit this unique place for an amazing experience.
This website uses affiliate links, through which we may receive a commission without any extra cost to you.
Why is it called Elephant Rock?
This stunning rock formation got its name from its resemblance to an elephant sleeping position when viewed from a distance, and you can also spot a few elephants near this rock area in the morning and evening.
How far is Elephant Rock from Arugam Bay
The Elephant Rock is situated approximately 4 km away from Arugambay.
Elephant rock Arugam bay directions
There are three ways you can reach Elephant Rock.
01. Walk along the beach from Arugam bay
You can reach the rock by walking along the shoreline from Arugambay. However, It is strongly discouraged because it is a tiring long walk, and there are no shaded areas to rest.
02. Follow the Google map path
If you search for elephant rock Arugam Bay Directions on Google Maps, it will show a path about 2.5 kilometres away from Arugam Bay.
Once you reach Kudakalliya Beach, you must walk along a narrow stretch of shoreline between the lake and the ocean, about 1 kilometer long.
This is the nearest path to the rock from Arugam Bay. Still, it is not recommended due to the difficulty of walking on the sand. Sometimes, the lagoon and the beach will be connected, especially in the rainy season, making it impossible to reach the rock.
03. Surfers Hidden Path to Elephant Rock
This path is located around 7 kilometers from Arugam Bay. It is a popular trail for experienced surfers as it provides easy access to the base of the rock without too much walking. Although most local tuk-tuk drivers know about this path, they do not easily take this route due to off-road and sand trails.
Read More about surfing in Arugam Bay
Ultimate Guide To Best Surfing Spots In Arugam Bay
These easy-to-follow Elephant Rock guide with images will help you reach Elephant Rock easily and save a lot of time and walking distance.
Follow Panama Road south until you reach Nawalaru Bridge. You will be crossing several small bridges along the way.
Take a moment to enjoy the beautiful scenery of this bridge and its surroundings. If you are lucky, you can spot elephants, peacocks and buffalos here.
After crossing the bridge, continue for another 2 kilometres until you see the Special Task Force board on your left.
At this point, you’ll encounter two separate roads; take the left one onto the dirt road.
Note:
This is the last Google Maps location. From here, you have to follow the dirt path.
Go further until you reach the army camp. Take the left dirt road next to the army camp.
You will come to another Y-junction with two signs. Take the right road with the board Historical Lanka Viharaya.
From here, the road is only accessible by bike, tuk-tuk, or walking, as it is narrow and covered in sand.
Follow the sandy path until you reach a parking spot. From there, follow the path to the beach, and you will reach Elephant Rock Beach in no time.
Note:
Be careful on a bike as the path gets sandy towards the end.
How to climb Elephant Rock
Important tip
Don’t start climbing from the Rock’s right side facing the seaside.
When you reach the base of the rock, take the trail on the left-hand side through the bushes. It will circle Elephant Rock and lead to the lagoon’s edge. Start your climb from here.
Halfway up the rock, you’ll see a little Buddha statue under a rock. This is a great spot to relax and watch the surfers.
From here, you have two choices to get to the top. If you go right, it’s a short climb that takes you to the ledge with a amazing Bay Area view. If you go left and through a small hole, a winding path takes you around the entire rock and past the amazing views of the Indian Ocean.
The best time to visit Elephant Rock
Sunrise
Visiting Elephant Rock at sunrise is the best time. You can hike up the rock in more excellent conditions and watch the sun appear from below the Indian Ocean.
At this time, you’ll likely be the only ones on the rock, and the morning sky has a subtle haze and beautifully soft light, making it the perfect time to take great photos.
Afternoon
Climbing during the afternoon will likely lead to significant sweat and challenges due to the scorching rock surface. Arugambay experiences intense heat from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. At this period of the time it is not recommended to visit this place.
Evening
After 4 p.m., the temperature decreases, and the lighting takes on a gentler quality. What’s particularly captivating is the opportunity to witness a stunning sunset backdrop complemented by surfers riding the waves below.
Remember that this enchanting time draws a crowd of fellow surf enthusiasts and travellers eager to share in the picturesque moment. Despite this, it remains the prime timeframe to embrace this spot’s charm fully.
Important tip
01. If you want to visit sunrise or sunset, take a torch with you.
02. Take enough water.
03. Wear proper hiking shoes for the climb.
04. Avoid rainy days; it is hard to climb on the rock, and sometimes, the gravel roads are hard to access.
05. During the surfing season, a few pop-up shops are available with water bottles and juices.
Where to stay near the Elephant Rock
Luxury
Jetwing Surf
Jetwing Surf is situated in Pottuvil, just a few miles from Whiskey Point. While staying at this hotel, guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant with fantastic seafood dishes from the fresh catch. Additionally, the pool bar provides an excellent view of the stunning sunset, and guests can enjoy a finely crafted cocktail while taking in the magnificent view.
Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing
If you’re searching for a stunning 5-star resort experience in Arugam Bay, look no further than Kottukal Beach House.
This place is truly incredible. The rooms are impeccably clean and minimalistic, boasting a roomy private bathroom and terrace that offers a breathtaking ocean view.
Guests praised the staff’s exceptional kindness and the delicious food served at the resort restaurant.
Affordable
Arugambay Roccos
Arugambay Roccos is a stunning hotel situated right by the ocean. Their pool area is charming and has cosy lounge chairs both on the beach and by the pool. The hotel boasts a beautiful design, and you can relish some delicious food and drinks at their on-site restaurant and bar while enjoying the beach.
The rooms are immaculate and minimalistic, with the choice of booking breakfast for two. The hotel’s location is superb and is situated near the best restaurants and shops on the main road, making it an ideal choice for travel couples.
The Spice Trail
The Spice Trail in Arugam Bay is a top choice for travellers, conveniently located near the beach and main street. The hotel offers chic double rooms, an outdoor pool, and a spacious sun terrace. Also, guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast in their booking, making it an excellent value.
Budget
The Long Hostel
The Long Hostel is a top choice if you’re looking for a lively and social atmosphere during your travels.
This place includes air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned dorms, private rooms with attached bathrooms, and budget dorms with fans and shared bathrooms. Each bed in the dorm has a locker for your belongings. Our coffee shop serves European coffee and meals, and we have a laundry service, modern bathrooms, and an outdoor garden with hammocks and surfboard stands.
Due to its popularity, making a reservation ahead of time is recommended. This hostel is top-rated among backpackers and offers an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow travellers if you’re journeying solo.
Riva del Sole Guest House
Located near the main street of Arugam Bay, Riva del Sole Guest House is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers. This guest house offers roomy accommodations with cosy double beds, air conditioning, and a generously sized private bathroom featuring a refreshing rain shower.
Elephant Rock Height
The rock is around 100 meters tall and it is the only elevated position on the coastline with an amazing panoramic view.
Conclusion
While exploring Arugambay, make sure to take advantage of the distinctive attraction of Elephant Rock.
This location offers an unparalleled experience, especially if you take the hidden path favoured by surfers, adding an extra layer of uniqueness to your visit.
Read more
Best things to do in Arugam Bay
Our travel recommendations are accurate and reliable because we conduct thorough research and consult with locals with in-depth knowledge of the destination. If you choose to book a hotel or tour through us, rest assured that we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. This commission enables us to continue our diligent research and maintain the quality of our website.
