North of Kandy, the Knuckles Mountain Range is a lesser-visited pocket of central Sri Lanka with extraordinary biodiversity and deep cultural roots.
Traditionally known as the “misty mountains,” this 155 sq km conservation area rises to over 1,800 metres and features stunning trails, rivers, rock-strewn outcrops and countless waterfalls. It’s a haven for hikers and nature lovers, offering not only vast wilderness but also five major forest types and an astonishing mix of flora and fauna. Rare species such as the slender loris, mouse deer and giant squirrel call it home, and 17 of Sri Lanka’s 23 endemic bird species reside here too.
The region is also home to an ambitious conservation effort. Experience Travel Group works with Eagles Crest mountain lodge, a unique project offering rare insight into a disappearing way of life and the natural ecosystem that supports it. Staying among the forest’s indigenous communities, visitors learn about traditional farming methods and the challenges of maintaining an agrarian lifestyle in the face of urban migration. This collaboration provides an entirely different perspective of the Knuckles, one that’s not just about the trails and views but about the lives entwined with them. A visit here is both a scenic adventure and a powerful cultural encounter.
