Sri Lanka, 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean', is well-known for its beautiful golden beaches, tropical forests, and rich history with many ancient temples. However, there is so much more to Sri Lanka than its coasts and culture. The amazing mountains that affect climate of the island, its wildlife and scenery – those are the real treasures of Sri Lanka.
Central Highlands – Heart of the Island
Central Highlands are the mountainous region of Sri Lanka, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Central Highlands include three sites: Horton Plains, Knuckles Mountain Range, and Peak Wilderness Sanctuary. Central Highlands play an important role in precipitation capture and water supply of the main rivers of the island – Mahaweli River, Kelani River, and Kalu River. Due to cool climate and hills, Central Highlands can be considered one of the most scenic areas of Sri Lanka.
The mountains of Central Highlands originated millions of years ago, they consist of ancient metamorphic rocks. Through the process of time, the valleys, cliffs, and plateaus emerged where today the visitors can find an amazing diversity of plant and animal species.
1. Pidurutalagala – The Highest Peak
Pidurutalagala, known as Mountain Pedro, which rises up to 2,524 meters (8,281 feet), is believed to be the highest peak of the island nation of Sri Lanka. The mountain is situated close to the town of Nuwara Eliya, which is known as “ Little England ” This site is protected as the headquarters of communications for the army and nobody can reach the summit of the mountain.
The area around the Pidurutalagala mountain has some orchids, ferns, and peculiar kinds of birds. Since Pidurutalagala is the highest mountain in this region, it is the major source of water in this area.
2. Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada) – The Sacred Mountain
Without any doubt, one of the most popular mountains in Sri Lanka is Adam's Peak, also known as Sri Pada, which means "Sacred Footprint." The height of this 2,243-meter mountain is a holy place for the followers of all main religions in Sri Lanka. In particular, according to Buddhist beliefs, the footprint located at the top of the mountain belongs to Lord Buddha, while Hindus believe it belongs to Lord Shiva. Muslims and Christians identify the footprint of Adam or St. Thomas as the one belonging to the mountain top.
Ascending to the top of Adam's Peak is both religious pilgrimage and physical activity. People of the whole country visit the top of the mountain to see an amazing sunrise there between December and May. At the very time of sunrise, the shadow of the mountain forms a wonderful triangle shape, making it look really magic. The route to the top is 5,000 steps long and lighted at night time.
3. Knuckles Mountain Range – The Misty Mountains
One of the most bio-diverse regions of Sri Lanka is Knuckles Mountain Range which is situated close to the cities of Kandy and Matale. This mountain range has its name due to its unusual look that reminds of knuckles of a hand clenching into a fist. The mountain height reaches 1,800 meters and is covered with cloud forests, grasslands, and waterfalls.
This place will be of interest for trekkers and those who like nature. There are many trekking trails through the tea plantations, rural villages and mysterious forests with rare animals and birds. Such endemic species of Knuckles include the Sri Lankan purple faced langur, the Knuckles Pygmy Lizard, and many kinds of birds. The weather in this place is changeable and sometimes it changes in seconds from bright sunshine to dense fog.
4. Kirigalpotta and Totapola Kanda – Horton Plains Giants
There are two prominent peaks in the Horton Plains National Park. These are Kirigalpotta (2,388 meters), which is the second tallest peak in the entire country of Sri Lanka, and Totapola Kanda (2,357 meters). Climbing Kirigalpotta can be done through the Horton Plains trail, passing through grasslands and clouds forests of the area.
The Horton Plains National Park itself is an exceptional ecosystem, hosting deer, leopards, and unique plant species. There is one well-known observation point on the park, known as the World’s End. It is a steep slope of around 900 meters, giving a magnificent view of the valley below.
5. Namunukula – The Mountain of Nine Peaks
Namunukula is a Sinhalese name which means "Nine Peaks." The mountain can be found in the vicinity of Badulla and Ella. Its height reaches 2,036 meters. Namunukula mountain is situated in the Uva Province. This mountain boasts many forests and tea estates covering its slopes. One can enjoy an amazing view of the whole area, even of the coastline of the eastern coast.
Climbing Namunukula is hard, yet quite enjoyable. When hiking up Namunukula mountain, one gets an opportunity to admire picturesque views which pass through villages, tea estates, and forests where birds and butterflies can be heard singing their songs.
6. Bible Rock (Bathalegala) – The Miniature Sigiriya
The mountain of Bathalegala is found in the district of Kegalle. The mountain is known as the Bible Rock Mountain, which is similar to the world-famous rock fortress called Sigiriya. The Bible Rock Mountain has a height of about 798 meters. With its flat top and steep sides, this mountain can be easily recognized.
A moderately difficult hike is rewarded by an amazing view on reaching the top of the mountain. For a photographer, the presence of clouds at sunrise or sunset in the vicinity of the mountain provides a good view of the mountain.
7. Thunhisgala Mountain (Knuckles Range)
Thunhisgala Mountain, which is also referred to as Knuckles Mountain, is one of the most beautiful and mystifying mountains of Sri Lanka. Situated close to Kandy and Matale, Thunhisgala Mountain is 1,864 meters high from sea level. "Thunhisgala" translates into "Three Peaks" in Sinhala language, due to the unique appearance of this mountain range. Thunhisgala Mountain belongs to the Knuckles Range, which is listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to its mist-covered forests, cascading waterfalls, and unique wildlife.
The mountain range is not only a source of attraction but acts as the lifeblood of Sri Lanka. The mountains capture the monsoon rains and feed the rivers with waters to irrigate agricultural lands and hydroelectric projects. Besides, the mountain highlands are well known for the cultivation of Ceylon Tea plantations that do well in these cool and fertile conditions.
The forest cover in the mountains acts as a protective cover for the mountain range from soil erosion and provides habitat for many species. It is also a major tourist destination.
Conclusion
The mountains of Sri Lanka are high not only in physical terms but also in spiritual terms. They can either be the spiritual pathways of Adam’s Peak or the mist-covered mountains of Knuckles or the planes of Horton. There are stories of their own for each and every one of them.
They are icons of resilience, spirituality and natural beauty. Climbing them up is not just about appreciating nature but Sri Lanka as well.
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