Knuckles Mountain Range
Knuckles Mountain Range
Nestled in central Sri Lanka, the Knuckles Mountain Range is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a dream destination for hikers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. Named after its knuckle-shaped peaks, this misty mountain region is home to lush forests, cascading waterfalls, rare wildlife, and breathtaking viewpoints.
Why Visit the Knuckles Mountain Range?
🥾 1. Best Hiking & Trekking Trails in Sri Lanka
Knuckles offers some of the best trekking routes in the country, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes through dense forests, river crossings, and remote villages. Popular trails include:
Mini World's End Trail – A moderate hike leading to a spectacular 1,192m-high viewpoint.
Duwili Ella Waterfall Trek – A challenging 20km trek through jungles leading to a stunning waterfall cave.
Knuckles Five Peaks Trail – A tough but rewarding hike covering all five peaks of the mountain range.
🌳 2. Untouched Wilderness & Biodiversity
The Knuckles Conservation Forest is home to 35% of Sri Lanka’s endemic flora and fauna.
Rare orchids & medicinal plants 
Endemic birds like the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie 
Wildlife such as purple-faced langurs, giant squirrels & even leopards 
💦 3. Waterfalls & Hidden Streams
The Knuckles region is dotted with breathtaking waterfalls, perfect for refreshing dips after a long hike.
✔ Duwili Ella – One of the most scenic waterfalls, famous for its hidden cave.
✔ Sera Ella – A twin waterfall where you can walk behind the cascading water.
✔ Bambarella Falls – A secluded waterfall surrounded by thick jungle.
🏕️ 4. Camping & Eco-Lodges
✔ Camp under the stars and wake up to the sounds of nature.
✔ Stay in eco-lodges & mountain retreats for an off-the-grid experience.
📸 5. Photography & Birdwatching Paradise
With misty landscapes, rare birds, and dramatic cliffs, the Knuckles Range is a dream location for photographers and birdwatchers.
Best Things to Do
🗺️ Best Things to Do in the Knuckles Mountain Range
✔ Hike through forests, waterfalls & panoramic viewpoints 🥾
✔ Camp under the stars & enjoy the pure mountain air 🏕️
✔ Explore remote villages & experience traditional Sri Lankan life 🏡
✔ Photograph the stunning landscapes & endemic wildlife 📸
✔ Go birdwatching & spot rare species in the jungle 🦜
Best Time to Visit
📅 Best Time to Visit Knuckles Mountain Range
☀️ December – April: Best for hiking, clear skies, and dry trails.
🌧 May – November: Lush greenery & flowing waterfalls, but trails can be slippery.