How to Find Kandy's Hidden Trails

People commonly think of Kandy as having a lake, the Temple of the Tooth, and city markets. Many people don't know that there are mountain trails and wooded roads just outside of town that present a different picture of central Sri Lanka. These paths aren't busy, so you can take your time and enjoy the fresh air and lush hills. Let us show you how to find these hidden trails in Kandy.

First, Go To the Knuckles Range

After checking into a hotel in Kandy, such as Kandy Myst by Cinnamon, you can drive to the Knuckles mountains from Kandy in a short time. The name comes from the fact that the peaks seem like a hand from a distance. At the bottom of the village, there are walkways where you can take a short walk. They walk through rice fields, cardamom gardens, and small homes where families live. Kids usually wave when you walk by.

If you want something harder, you can climb Mini World's End and see across valleys. On clear days, you can see all the way to the dry zone. Once you leave the road, there are no stores, so carry food and water, or get a small lunch packed for you to take with you from any of the 4 Star Hotels in Kandy, Sri Lanka, if you have chosen to stay with one.

Follow the Leopard Trail

The Leopard Trail in Rangala isn't particularly well known, so it's not very busy. The path winds through tea, bamboo, and thick woodland. The trail is long enough that you feel like you're far away from towns, but not so far that you need a lot of supplies.

There are leopards nearby, but most hikers only observe monkeys, deer, or wild boar. There are birds around, and their calls regularly break the silence. A guide can explain to you about the flora and show you where it's safe to sit.

Walk along the Pekoe Trail

The Pekoe Trail is a new long-distance path that runs through the heart of Sri Lanka and connects tea estates. Hanthana is a great place to start the trail. From the ridges of the Hanthana hills, you can see the city below. In the mornings, workers choose tea while talking in small groups. There are still houses on the hills where previous planters lived. Leave early if you want to walk here to avoid the heat of the day and the clouds that appear out of nowhere and hide your view.

Pack Smart, Not Too Much

Having shoes with grip is really important, especially after it rains. There are a lot of leeches in shaded areas, and trails might be muddy. A small packet of salt can help if one sticks to your leg. A light jacket is useful because the weather in the highlands can change quickly.

It's better to have a bottle that you can refill than to buy plastic ones along the way. If you bring fruit, don't throw away the peels until you get back to town. People who live along the paths don't want trash left behind.

Be Nice to Other People on the Trails

There are a lot of paths that go through fields. Farmers often stop to talk, and a simple smile or greeting them with a "ayubowan" can mean a lot. If you want to take pictures of them at work, always ask first. Some people will be happy to agree, but others will want to be left alone.

Use Guides from Your Area

Some of the trails in this part of Sri Lanka don't have signs. A guide makes the walk safer and easier. Many of them come from the villages near the trailheads. They know the weather, the plants, and the best methods to move around. You also help the community by giving them jobs.

Make Each Walk Unique

Each hike around Kandy is different. One day, you might wander by people harvesting tea, and the next day, you might be in the middle of a wilderness with just birds chirping to keep you company. If it rains, you may have to change your plans, or a villager might welcome you over for tea.

That's what makes these trails worth looking for: you never know what will happen. Take your time and look around. Each walkway will show you a portion of Kandy that most tourists don't see.