Travel & Places Travel Knowledge

Knuckles Mountain Range - Trek Into The Wilds Of Sri Lanka!

Summary - Resembling the knuckles of a fist, the Knuckles Mountain Range in Sri Lanka is home to a rich biodiversity and is perfect for such outdoor adventures as trekking and mountain biking, amidst thick forests and stunning mountain landscapes.

Blessed with mile upon mile of sun drenched golden sand beaches, Sri Lanka is truly an island paradise. However, you would be wrong in thinking that the island's pristine beaches are the only natural attraction here. Home to thick rainforests teeming with life and lush wildlife sanctuaries with an array of exotic species, Sri Lanka offers visitors a truly unforgettable outdoor adventure. Nature lovers looking for new and exciting places to explore should definitely make time to visit the Knuckles Mountain Range.

An area rich in bio-diversity, this famous mountain range is so named because from certain vantage points it resembles the knuckles of a fist! Home to the Knuckles National Heritage and Wilderness Area, this conserved site covers around 155 sq kms and can be found in the Kandy and Matale districts.

Featuring montane, sub montane, riverine and semi evergreen forests along with patana and savanna grasslands, this impressive range provides visitors with plenty of trekking and camping adventures amidst awe-inspiring mountain landscapes. Known locally as "Dumbara Kanduvetiya" or mist laden mountain range, the Knuckles Mountain Range dates back to prehistoric times and is a perfect place for such exciting outdoor pursuits as mountain biking or hiking. As you wander through the dense forest landscapes you will come across picturesque waterfalls, pristine rivers and rustic mountain villages where people are still engaged in a traditional way of life.

Venturing into the Knuckles Range is also a great way to discover some of the island's varied flora and fauna. There are a vast number of flowering plants to be found here, of which 160 are endemic species. Of particular interest are the 25 species of orchids that can be found here. You also have the chance to observe a variety of wildlife including endemic bird and fish species. Sambhurs, elephants, barking and spotted deer, giant squirrels, wild boar and even leopards are known to reside within this vast mountain range.

Adventure travellers in search of a centrally located Sri Lanka hotel from which to explore the island's mountainous central region, where you will find such attractions as the Knuckles Mountain Range, can stay at Hotel Hill Top, Kandy. It is part of Aitken Spence Hotels which has a number of hotels Sri Lanka in key destinations around the country.


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