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Knuckles Mountain Range

Knuckles Mountain Range

(Independent)

Home / Activities / Knuckles Mountain Range

Snapshot

The Knuckles mountain range, so called because its appearance resembles the knuckles of a clenched fist is located to the east of Kandy and Matale in central Sri Lanka, and consists of five mountain peaks and several other smaller peaks.

Duration: 2 to 7 hours
Best Time: Year-round
  • Sport and Adventure

Additional Information

Walking in the Knuckles is immensely satisfying for this is some of Sri Lanka’s finest walking country. Trek through dense forests, along rivers and waterfalls, past tea plantations and terraced paddy fields and visit some of the small rural village communities. Panoramic views of misty mountains, stunning valleys, ancient rock formations, lush forests, crystal clear streams, beautiful animal and plant life, paddy fields, traditional villages and hospitable people make the Knuckles an unmissable experience.

A wide variety of rare and endemic flora and fauna also makes this World Heritage Conservation area a storehouse of rich biodiversity.

The Knuckles can be approached via the A26 from Kandy to Hunnas Giriya, where a rough minor road leads to Corbett’s Gap which reveals magnificent views of the Knuckles range. From Corbett’s Gap the road that leads to the village of Meemure can also be travelled by an appropriate vehicle. The Knuckles can also be reached from Matale via Rattota and Riversten, and from Wattegama via Panwila.

Weather in the Knuckles mountain range is unpredictable and can change within a few minutes. December to February has a moderate possibility of rain but still attracts trekkers; March to September has lower rainfall; September to November is best avoided. Temperatures range from 6 to 35C. Inexperienced walkers in the Knuckles should take a guide. Take careful note of weather forecasts and follow all sensible trekker precautions.

The Knuckles mountain range is also home to traditional villagers who live in 37 ancient villages, some of which only received electricity in the 21st century. The existence of theses indigenous community depends upon cultivation of rice, spices and Chena.

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