How to Hike Safely in Kandy Hills

Kandy’s lush hills and cooler weather make trekking much easier and fun. Kandy itself is a hilly region with plenty of waterways and biodiverse forests. If you love hiking and trekking, there are a couple of great trails in Kandy. Let’s talk about trekking safely in the Kandy region.

When is the best time to hike in Kandy?

Rainy weather is not ideal for trekking in tropical climates. Hence, try to plan your trek to Kandy during the dry season. Kandy is usually dry between January to April with March being the hottest month. And, mountain ranges are some of the best places to visit in Kandy during this period. If you’re planning a visit though, book accommodation in advance. Check with hotels like the Amaya Hills Kandy for advance booking deals.

What to do when trekking in Kandy?

Plan your trip well. Don’t take all the advice and guidelines from one source. Check for information online, talk to fellow travellers, hire a guide and tap into your own experience.

Always hike with a group, preferably with some experienced trekkers.

Don’t overpack your bag. And, backpacks are the best option when trekking.

You’ll need a water bottle. And, wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat or cap. 

Take bug spray along and be weary of leeches.

Carry a lightweight first aid kit in your backpack.

 Protein bars are a great source of energy on difficult terrains.

It is always wise to take a trekking pole along with you.

Remember to take sips of water from time to time. You might not notice it, but your body needs to stay hydrated

If you have access to one, take a satellite phone along.

Take on the challenge at your own pace, and take frequent breaks.

Be mindful of weather changes, and don’t hesitate to turn back if you feel uneasy (intuition is your friend).

What not to do when trekking?

Don’t overestimate your own limits. Set realistic trekking goals for yourself.

Don’t walk fast. Take slow and steady steps, and be mindful of the terrain.

Don’t wear regular sneakers on a trek. Invest in proper hiking boots (with spikes).

Don’t let your knees take on too much pressure. Try to walk often on flat surfaces, and use a trekking pole.

Try not to smoke before or during your trek.

 Don’t overpack your bag. Only carry the bare essentials.

What are the best trekking trails in Kandy – Knuckles

The Knuckles mountain range is rich, diverse and soulful. It is a UNESCO world heritage site full of waterways and forests. The Hunasgiriya route is the closest trekking pathway to Knuckles from Kandy. You need to take the A26 road from Kandy towards Knuckles. The mountain range is a magical place of valleys, lakes and waterways. The trek to knuckles leads you to the mini world’s end at about 3 kilometres into the hike. Up to this point, the route is flat, and afterwards, it slopes. The entire trek is about 12 kilometres and takes up to 7 hours. The entire time, you’ll be surrounded by murmuring streams, songbirds and greenery.

What are the best trekking trails in Kandy – Alagalla

Alagalla mountain range is a bit harder to reach, but it is an infinitely worthwhile trek. You can start the trek near the ‘Ihala Kotte’ railway station or use the one from ‘Pilimathalawa’ through ‘Pothupitiyta.’ The latter is the more picturesque trail. You’ll pass by tea plantations, and water supply tanks along the village area. Then onto the wilderness. The trail goes along a concrete pathway through a thick jungle. Overall, your hike will last up to two to three hours. At the summit, there is a miniature pinnacle – where once upon a time local freedom fighters kept watch during conflicts with British colonials.