Joanna James
Sri Lanka, the island nation situated in the Indian Ocean offers a variety of destinations and trails when it comes to hiking. Among them, the Hanthana mountain range ranks above many others. Located in Kandy, this mountain range is a haven for both novice and qualified hikers. The lush nature and various flora and fauna, provide a relaxing trip to anyone exploring the Hanthana range. This guide attempts to uncover the essentials of hiking this great mountain.
The trip to Hanthana, with its undulating peaks and overgrown greenery, offers a sneak peek into the untamed world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The mountain range is cluttered with tea plantations and beautiful flora, unique to colder climates on the island. Hanthana also offers some of the best panoramic views of Kandy and its surroundings.
Before embarking on your hike in Hanthana, being prepared is key. The following essentials are required to make the hike as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.
Comfortable Footwear
Proper footwear is of utmost importance on a hike. Sturdy hiking boots are the best choice for this trip, in terms of safety as well as long-term comfort.
Water and Snacks
The hike,(depending on the trail you decide to take) can take hours to complete. While the temperature remains cool for the most of the trip, dehydration can set in if you aren't careful. Staying hydrated and carrying energy bars and other light snacks can help in these situations.
Sun Protection and Navigation
The Sri Lankan sun can be intense; don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Familiarizing yourself with the trail map provided on the official website or through reliable sources can also be very beneficial, especially on long hikes into the unknown.
Hiking on the right trail
The Hanthana mountain range boasts of several trails depending on the experience level of the hiker. There are 3 popular trails to choose from.
The "Uda Maluwa Trail" is ideal for beginners and offers a relatively stress-free and easy hike through tea estates and dense foliage. The more skilled hikers choose the "Katusu Konda Trail", which is set through dense forests and rocky terrains. Your effort is handomely rewarded with breathtaking views at the end.
The Saddle Trail is the hardest of the lot and is reserved for the experts to trek through. The trail leads you to the highest point, the Hanthana Peak, which has a beautiful view and stunning terrains.
After a full day of hiking and adventure, it is time to unwind at one of the local resorts like Cinnamon Citadel Kandy, which is a stylish hotel with luxurious amenities and world-class dining. Enjoy a soothing spa session or be amazed by the scenic river views. While hiking is the main attraction in Hanthana, there are plenty of things to do in Kandy that are beyond hiking. The city has a rich culture and ancestry that is waiting to be explored by visitors. The Temple of the Tooth Relic is an important Sri Lankan landmark that is full of artefacts and culture that can be observed by any visitor. The Kandy Lake and even the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens are great places to unwind have picnics and be close to nature.
While venturing into the heart of Hanthana, it is paramount to respect nature and adhere to local guidelines. Be a responsible hiker and make sure to never litter and to always safeguard nature. While protecting wildlife, make sure you are always gathering memories of the trip. The Hanthana landscape is ever-changing and mesmerising and a smartphone or camera will always come in handy when trying to preserve the memories of this enchanting journey.
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.
