The Knuckles Mountain Range, situated in the heart of Sri Lanka across the Districts of Matale and Kandy, derives its name from a distinctive series of folds and peaks resembling clenched knuckles when observed from certain vantage points in the Kandy District. While early British surveyors coined this moniker, local Sinhalese inhabitants traditionally know the area as Dumbara Kanduvetiya, signifying the mist-laden mountain range. Adorned with captivating landscapes often veiled in dense layers of cloud, the range not only captivates with its visual charm but also holds significant scientific importance. Serving as a climatic microcosm of Sri Lanka, the range showcases the diverse climatic conditions present across the island, featuring a spectrum of ecosystems from its base to higher elevations.

Elevated regions within the Knuckles Mountain Range host isolated cloud forests, nurturing a rich variety of flora and fauna, including endemic species not found elsewhere in the world. Despite occupying a mere 0.03% of the island’s total area, the range boasts a disproportionately high share of Sri Lanka’s biodiversity, highlighting its ecological significance. From its mist-shrouded peaks to its verdant valleys, the Knuckles Mountain Range stands as a testament to the country’s natural splendor and serves as a vital sanctuary for countless plant and animal species, contributing to the island’s ecological richness and scientific exploration.