Joanna James
The Riverston Peak in Matale is one of those off-the-beaten-path treasures you stumble upon. The path is touched with a bit of mist, foliage, secret wildlife and breathtaking views. The hike itself is somewhere in between easy and difficult in terms of stamina required. In this article, we give you an insider view of the hike to Riverston Peak.
Riverston is located in the beautiful Matale district. You can get there via Kandy or from Colombo. It may not come up in your research for Sri Lanka wildlife safari, but the area is enchantingly wild yet accessible. You can reach the starting point from Kandy within 3 hours. While there are several routes to reach the starting point, the safest option for the uninitiated is to contact a tour operator like Ceylon Tours to organize your hike to the summit. This beautiful peak nestles higher than the cloud line.
Throughout the year you can expect mist to hover above the road as you make your ascent. You can also expect a bit of drizzle anytime during the year. If you visit during the dry season between March to April, the mist tends to be thinner. Riverston remains alluring and magical throughout the year. Hence, it is difficult to pinpoint the best time to visit. The area gets extra windy from May to September (which is rather fun on the hike). However, prepare to pass through two wind gaps during the windy season. However, ask your tour operator to organize the hike on a dry day to avoid leeches and muddy puddles. March is generally the driest month.
You can reach the hike start point in a vehicle and walk the rest of the way. The hiking trail is clear and well-constructed. If you’re travelling with a guide, he or she can show you some enchanting shortcuts through the woods. But, if you wish to avoid leeches, it is best to stick to the main path. The hike itself is not difficult. You’ll spend about one hour and a half along the trail. Expect to meet blue, brown, yellow and multi-hued butterflies along the way. The wind will be your friend, and you’ll come across meandering brooks of fresh water. Those with a keen eye observe freshwater crabs in the waters.
As you ascend the trail, mist and breeze will be your constant companions. There are no designated rest spots along the way. But you’ll find peaceful rocky corners and freshwater springs to rest and catch your breath. Sometimes, enterprising young kids sell fresh fruit or pickled fruit along the trail. No one has ever reported animal attacks along the hiking trail to Riverston. However, it is better to always take a hiking partner or go with a guide.
Riverston is a highland evergreen region. The forest is multi-layered with short-trunk trees adorned with moss. You’ll find bamboo plants, types of grass, moss, ferns and blossoming flowering shrubs. The streams are home to freshwater fish, frogs and crabs (as aforementioned). As for wildlife, leaf-nosed lizards, barking deer, adorable purple-faced leaf monkeys and barking deer call Riverston home.
Since occasional drizzles are the norm in the area, take an umbrella and a cap. A lightweight sweater might come in handy when the weather turns chilly. The safest footwear for this hike would be sturdy hiking boots. You can pack a snack and a bottle of water for the trip.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
