Knuckles Mountain Range
A rugged, UNESCO-listed mountain range northeast of Kandy, named for its knuckle-like peaks, with cloud forest, waterfalls and some of the island's best hiking.
Stand in the right spot near Kandy and look northeast, and you'll see where the Knuckles got its name: a row of peaks rising and dipping like the knuckles of a clenched fist. Up close, it's one of the wildest corners of Sri Lanka, and a highlight for anyone who loves to walk.
The range is part of the island's UNESCO-listed Central Highlands, and it feels a world away from the busy towns below. Trails wind through misty cloud forest, grassy ridges, tea-country edges and small villages, with waterfalls and viewpoints scattered along the way. Many walks start from Hunnasgiriya or from Meemure, a remote village that still feels untouched by time. The roads in are rough, so you'll need a 4WD or a patient tuk-tuk driver.
This isn't a place to rush. Give it a full day at least, and longer if you want to stay overnight in a village and walk deeper into the hills. An entry fee applies at the conservation areas, and hiring a local guide is a smart move. They know the paths, and the weather up here can change quickly.
The best time to go is January to April, when the drier months bring clearer views and easier trails. Outside that window, expect rain, slippery paths and leeches. Bring good shoes, a rain layer and plenty of water, and start early. From Kandy, it makes an unforgettable day away from the city.
At a glance
- Entry fee: Entry fee applies
- Opening hours: Daylight hours
- Time needed: Full day
- Best time: January to April, the drier months
How to get there
The range spreads northeast of Kandy. Most trails start from Hunnasgiriya or Meemure, reached by 4WD or a long tuk-tuk ride.