The Knuckles mountain range is a major eco tourism venue of Sri Lanka and has been declared a conservation area, now known as the Knuckles National heritage and Wilderness Area. The region stretches an impressive 155 sq km that contains five major forest formations, a wide variety of rare and endemic flora and fauna and some breathtaking mountain scenery of Sri Lanka.

Originally called the Dumbara Kanduvetiya (Misty Mountains) the Knuckles were named by British surveyors who saw that the five peaks resembled a clenched fist. Since it is situated in the Intermediate Climatic Zone, the largely untouched and rugged terrain, 1,864m at its highest point, enjoys varied rainfall and temperature. This combination has fostered a diverse range of habitats from lowland semi-evergreen forest and patana to montane wet evergreen forest that haour a great degree of wildlife all vying for your attention as you journey through.

Mammals sighted include leopard, sambur, mouse deer, monkeys and the rarely-seen otter while the endemic Kirtisinghe's rock frog and leaf nosed lizard are only found in the Knuckles and are highlights to see. Over 120 bird species may be observed on any one of many exciting treks, including the yellow-fronted barbet and the dusky blue flycatcher, on your way up to Corbett's Gap to be rewarded with breathtaking views.