The Knuckles Mountain Range lies in central Sri Lanka, in the districts of Matale and Kandy. The range takes its name from a series of recumbent folds and peaks in the west of the massif which resembles the knuckles of a clenched fist when viewed from certain locations in the Kandy District. Whilst this name was assigned by early British surveyors, the Sinhalese residents have traditionally referred to the area as Dumbara Kanduvetiya meaning mist-laden mountain range. Knuckles range trekking is certainly an experience not to be missed!
Ayubowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka!
Be met at the Colombo International Airport by your Chauffeur Guide who will transfer you to Knuckles. Freshen up and relax after the long journey.
It’s an early start today. Gear up for a morning trek in the Knuckles Mountain Range.
Knuckles Mountain Forest Range consists of a range of vegetation types that have resulted from diverse climatic and topographic conditions. It supports a rich biological diversity with 128 species of birds, 20 species of amphibians, 53 species of reptiles, 15 fresh water species and 31 mammal species. All species are not equally distributed throughout the range. Their distribution depends on multiple factors such as food availability, availability of nesting sites etc. that vary with climate, elevation and land cover.
Tip 1: There will be two trekking options for selection – Water fall trekking (9 K.M’s both ways) or the Knuckles peak hike (16 K.M’s both ways). You could choose the trails according to your physical fitness level.
Tip 2: Hit the Spa once you are back to pamper yourself with a revitalizing massage.
This morning you will be headed to explore the village life around Knuckles. Heeloya is a rural, remote agricultural village in the Kandy district. The main livelihood of the village community is paddy cultivation, home gardening, livestock and spices. Villagers engage in toddy tapping, handicrafts, bee-keeping, traditional dances etc., as supplementary income sources. A very traditional village, it is unique in that it identifies itself with practicing even to this day some of the local customs in daily life.
Become a part of the village life by engaging in plucking fruits and vegetables for a meal to be prepared according to the local taste. You would also get the opportunity to explore some of the other aspects of this village being the Heeloya waterfall, local species and herbs.
We bid you farewell and safe travels as we drop you at the Colombo International Airport to meet your onward flight home.