The Knuckles Forest Reserve in the foothills of Kandy is a UNESCO-recognised area for its natural beauty and incredibly rich and diverse flora. Explore this sensational landscape on foot, leaving no trace but taking away lifelong memories.
- Trek through a reserve recognised by UNESCO for its beauty and biodiversity
- Discover the diversity of Sri Lanka’s flora and fauna
- Soak in the total serenity of this off-the-beaten-track location
What's Included ?
Refreshments, guide, porter, lunch.
What to wear ?
Trainers/hiking boots, coat.
Named after the range’s resemblance to a clenched fist, the Knuckles mountains are a hiker’s paradise. Led by a knowledgeable naturalist, follow an almost deserted trail to discover the extraordinary landscapes, biodiversity, small villages and viewpoints of this protected nature reserve. Soak in total serenity as you climb cliffs, navigate montane cloud forests, descend through wildflower fields and pause at waterfalls. The best time to hike is between March and April or June and August when the weather is fine and the flora is in bloom. Choose between a half-day 8km trek or a full-day 18km hike, both of which are extremely rewarding. Be aware that while your guide is extremely knowledgeable his communication in English occasionally requires patience.
What is the significance of the Knuckles Mountains' name?
The Knuckles Mountains are named for their resemblance to a clenched fist when viewed from a distance. This unique geological feature has contributed to the mountains’ iconic identity and serves as a point of interest for visitors exploring the region.
What is the best time of year to hike in the Knuckles Mountains?
The optimal times for hiking in the Knuckles Mountains are typically between March and April, or June and August. During these months, the weather is generally favorable, with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Additionally, these periods coincide with the blooming of flora, adding to the scenic beauty of the landscape.
What are the options for hiking trails in the Knuckles Mountains?
Visitors to the Knuckles Mountains can choose between a half-day 8km trek or a full-day 18km hike, both of which offer rewarding experiences. These trails lead through diverse terrain, including cliffs, cloud forests, wildflower fields, and waterfalls, providing opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region.
“Our experience hiking in the Knuckles Mountains was absolutely unforgettable! Led by a knowledgeable naturalist guide, we embarked on the full-day 18km hike, and it exceeded all our expectations. The diverse landscapes, from towering cliffs to lush cloud forests and picturesque waterfalls, left us in awe at every turn. Despite the occasional language barrier with our guide, his passion for the region shone through, enhancing our appreciation for the natural beauty and biodiversity of the area. We highly recommend visiting during the recommended months to witness the blooming flora and enjoy the pleasant weather. This adventure was the highlight of our trip to Sri Lanka, and we can’t wait to return for more hiking adventures in the Knuckles Mountains!”
“Our family had a fantastic time exploring the Knuckles Mountains on the half-day 8km trek. The scenery was breathtaking, and our knowledgeable guide led us through a variety of landscapes, including wildflower fields and serene waterfalls. While the language barrier with the guide was occasionally challenging, his enthusiasm and expertise made up for it, providing valuable insights into the region’s natural wonders. We appreciated the flexibility of choosing between different hiking options to suit our family’s needs. Overall, this was an enriching and enjoyable experience that we would recommend to other families seeking adventure and nature exploration in Sri Lanka.”
