Central Province
The Knuckles Mountain Range, north-east of Kandy, is part of Sri Lanka's UNESCO-listed Central Highlands. It's the place for real hiking: cloud forests, grassland ridges, waterfalls and remote villages such as Meemure. Treks range from half-day walks to multi-day routes. Hike with a local guide, and go in the drier months.
Check current details before travelling: prices, opening hours, access and seasonal conditions change.
It's strongly recommended. Trails can be unclear, and some areas need permits.
About 1.5–2.5 hours by car, depending on the trailhead.
Yes, on shorter trails like Mini World's End. Longer treks need good fitness.
In the drier months. Avoid periods of heavy rain.
Kandy was the capital of the last Sri Lankan kingdom and is still the island's cultural heart. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, beside a lake ringed by green hills, makes the city a sacred site for Buddhists and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sembuwatta Lake lies in the hills near Elkaduwa, north-east of Kandy, surrounded by tea estates, pine and forest. Its calm green-blue water, natural-style pool and quiet walking paths make it a popular half-day escape from the city.
The Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya, just outside Kandy, are Sri Lanka's best-known botanical gardens. Highlights include the orchid house, grand palm avenues, a giant Java fig tree and riverside lawns. Allow 1.5–3 hours, and go in the morning when it's cooler.
Sigiriya is the rock fortress most travellers picture when they think of Sri Lanka. A royal citadel was built on and around this granite outcrop in the fifth century, and its gardens, painted ladies and lion-paw gateway still make it the highlight of the Cultural Triangle.
Tell us when you'd like to travel and what you love, and we'll suggest a route that fits. There's no obligation.