7. Exploring Knuckles: Hiking the Hidden Gem of Sri Lanka
Join us on an unforgettable Knuckles Hike, beginning with a morning pick-up from Kandy around 6.00 am. We'll transport you to the hike head, a remote village named Tangappuwa, situated near the majestic forest range. The adventure commences as we meander through lush and green tea fields, immersing ourselves in the serene beauty of the surroundings. At the culmination of the tea fields, you arrive at the gateway to this pristine (UNESCO) world heritage conservation forest. As we venture deeper into the enchanting forest, nature's wonders unfold at every turn. Trekking along forest trails, we embrace the tranquility and harmony of this untouched wilderness. Traverse through captivating cloud forests, encountering endemic wildlife like the Hone Lizard, Samba deer, Leopard, Crestless Lizard, Pigmy Lizard, Kangaroo Lizard, and the elusive Leaf Nose Lizard found exclusively in this forest. The Knuckles range is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, home to over 200 avian species, including 15 endemic to Sri Lanka. Keep your binoculars handy to spot magnificent creatures like the Spot Wing Thrush, Sri Lankan Blue Magpie, Jungle Fowl, Yellow-fronted Barbet, Dusk Blue Flycatcher, Brown-capped Babbler, and Layard's Parakeet. As we progress, the symphony of nature guides us until we reach a gentle stream, its crystal-clear waters inviting us to follow its course. Traversing the stream, we find ourselves at the pinnacle—the top of a captivating waterfall. Here, we witness nature's power and grace, as water cascades down, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Take your time to savor the awe-inspiring views, capturing the moment in your memory. Descending from the side of the waterfall, we venture to the base, immersing ourselves in the cool mist and experiencing the exhilaration of being so close to this natural wonder. Spend precious moments soaking in the beauty and serenity of the surroundings, creating lasting memories of this magical spot. Our journey continues as we ascend from the other side, gradually making our way to a mountainous grassland that reveals breathtaking vistas of the Knuckles range. Surrounded by towering peaks, we bask in the panoramic views, feeling a sense of awe and admiration for the majestic landscape before us. As we begin our descent, we retrace our steps, reaching the point where we initially encountered the stream. From here, we follow the same path, relishing the familiarity of the route as we make our way back to the hike head. As the day draws to a close, we bid farewell to this remarkable journey and embark on our return to Kandy in the late afternoon. Reflect on the awe-inspiring landscapes, the magical encounters, and the sense of accomplishment gained from this unforgettable Knuckles Hike. Book your spot now and experience the beauty and tranquility of the Knuckles range, a haven of natural splendor tucked away in the heart of Sri Lanka.