Knuckles Range National Park

Five of its 34 peaks resemble a clenched fist – this somewhat menacing gesture has given the Knuckles Range National Park its name. However, the park is by no means scary, on the contrary, hikers can expect a fantastic UNESCO World Heritage landscape here.

This impressive mountain range is located in the north of the central highlands of Sri Lanka, east of the city of Kandy, and offers hiking tourists waterfalls, rivers, picturesque hidden mountain villages and green rice terraced fields in front of a mystical summit panorama along the way. We have compiled tours, excursion destinations, travel time and accommodation tips below.

Hiking tours through the Knuckles Range National Park

The Knuckles Range National Park is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts and ornithologists; some rare animals also live here. All the natural beauty can be experienced in 34 hiking trails between one hour and four days. Some trekking experience and a guide are generally recommended for the trails, as the Knuckels Range is one of the most challenging trekking terrains in Sri Lanka. Starting points for the trails are Corbett ́s Gap east of the mountain massif (approx. 2 hours from Kandy) or the accommodations near Hunas Falls to the west (approx. 1 hour from Kandy).

The following are excursion destinations:

• The small village of Meemure : A 14 km long hiking trail from Loolwatte leads to one of the most remote villages in Sri Lanka through a varied, lush green natural landscape
• Nitro Cave : This gigantic, bat-inhabited cave can be reached via the 11 km long hiking trail of about 5 hours from Corbett ́s Gap
• Mini World's End : This 1,192 m high rocky outcrop with fantastic views of the mountain panorama can be reached via a 1.1 km long, easy hiking trail in about an hour's walk. The starting point is the Knuckles Conservation Centre.
• Duwili Ella Trail : Named after the 40 m high waterfall Duwili Ella Trail in the middle of the jungle, the path leads not only to the impressive waterfall, but also to the cave, which is located behind it, is also accessible and thus allows a view of the falls from behind. For the trail you should plan an overnight stay.

Best time to visit Knuckles Range National Park

The best time for trekking tours is the dry season from February/March to September. Leech protective clothing, especially socks, is also mandatory in Knuckles Range National Park.