Knuckles Mountain Hikes: Trails and Tour Guides

Named because its peaks resemble the knuckles of a clenched fist, the Knuckles Mountain Range is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a paradise for hikers. It offers cloud forests, cascading waterfalls, and rural villages untouched by time.

Why Hike Knuckles?

Unlike the touristy Ella Rock or Adam's Peak, Knuckles is wild. You might hike all day and see no other tourists, just nature and stunning biodiversity.

Popular Trails

• Mini World's End: Not to be confused with the one in Horton Plains. This offers a sheer drop and panoramic views.
• Dumbara Falls Trek: A trek leading to beautiful waterfalls where you can swim.
• Manigala (The Rabbit Rock): A challenging hike with rewarding terraced paddy field views.
• Meemure Village: Trek to this isolated village to see traditional life. Access is difficult, often requiring a serious 4x4 or hiking.

Do You Need a Guide?

Yes. Entering the conservation forest usually requires a ticket and a guide is highly recommended (and often mandatory for deep treks) because trails are not well-marked, and leech protection/local knowledge is essential.

Best Time to Visit

March to September is generally best. The monsoon months (October-January) bring heavy rain and leeches, making trekking difficult.

Access

The range is accessible from Kandy or Matale. The roads getting to the trailheads can be rough. A 4WD taxi or van is often necessary for the final leg.