Hill country

The Knuckles Mountain Range lies in central Sri Lanka. The range takes its name from a series of recumbent folds and peaks in the west of the massif which resemble the knuckles of clenched fist.

The entire area is characterised by its striking landscapes. In addition to its aesthetic value the range is of great scientific interest as it is a climatic microcosm of the rest of Sri Lanka.

Nuwara Eliya is a town in the central highlands of Sri Lanka with a picturesque landscape and temperate climate. It is located at an altitude of 1868 m (6,128 ft) and is considered to be the most important location for tea production.

Nuwara Eliya, called Little England then, was also the ideal hill country retreat where the British colonialists could immerse in their pastimes such as fox hunting, deer hunting, elephant hunting, polo, golf and cricket.

Ella is a beautiful small village in the hill country. It has an almost perfect climate and occupies a very scenic vantage point, with views on a fine day stretching right across the south coast of Sri Lanka. It is the ideal place to walk and admire waterfalls.

Haputale is 1431 m (4695 ft) above the sea level. The area has a rich bio-diversity dense with numerous varieties of flora and fauna. The town has a cooler climate than its surroundings, due to its elevation. The Haputale Pass allows views across the southern plains of Sri Lanka.

Horton Plains National Park is a protected area in the central highlands of Sri Lanka and is covered by grassland and cloud forest. This plateau at an altitude of 2200 metres (7,200 ft) is rich in biodiversity and many species found here are endemic to the region. The Horton Plains are the headwaters of three major Sri Lankan rivers.