Nature & Hiking
Known as Dumbara Kanduvetiya — the Mist-laden Mountain Range — by the Sinhalese, the Knuckles Range is one of Sri Lanka's most extraordinary natural treasures, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010.
The Knuckles Conservation Forest covers over 155 sq km of central Sri Lanka, straddling the Districts of Matale and Kandy. Early British surveyors gave the range its English name from the series of recumbent peaks in the west which, when viewed from Kandy, resemble the knuckles of a clenched fist.
At higher elevations the peaks are draped in thick cloud forest — isolated pockets of ancient vegetation harbouring extraordinary biodiversity. Although the range constitutes just 0.03% of the island's total area, it is home to a disproportionately high share of Sri Lanka's flora and fauna, including many endemic species found nowhere else on earth.
Popular hiking trails range from gentle valley walks to challenging ridge treks. The most accessible entry point from Coffee Bungalow is via the A26 Matale road to Hunnasgiriya. Our concierge can arrange a private guide and transport for a full-day excursion.
Everything you need to know before planning your excursion to Knuckles Mountain Range.
Start early — by midday clouds often roll in and obscure the views. Wear sturdy shoes and bring a light waterproof jacket.
