Hanthana Mountain Range

Hanthana mountain in Kandy is popular among those who like to go hiking, camping, bird watching and being close to nature in every way. The country's singers have also written about the beauty and tranquility of these mountains.

Located at 1240 meters above sea level, the mountain of Hanthana reaches all the way from the city of Kandy to the city of Galaha, 20 kilometers south. The springs at the western end of Hanthana feed the waters of the Mahaweli river, and the rivers of the river separate each mountain of the range.

In total, there are seven peaks each, the highest of which is the Ura kanda. The peaks offer spectacular views of the city of Kandy, the Knuckles, the dolosbage range of Aranayake, and the mountains of the Sabaragamuwa region, which can also be seen from the height of these mountains.

The mountains have the power to lift your spirits; a reason the mountains are the most sought after destinations for all types of tourists. One such place in the heart of the island, Sri Lanka is Hanthana mountain. The spectacular view you get of the entire city of Kandy from Hanthana hill will amaze you for the rest of your trip.

Certified in 2010 as a protected area of ​​the environment, the Hanthana mountains are located in the center of the province of Sri Lanka and southwest of the main city of Kandy. An ideal place for nature lovers and hikers, the Uuru Kanda peak, the highest peak of Hanthana, is the most visited peak with six other peaks in the same range. . The flora and fauna, be it grasses, flowers, birds or the many butterflies found on the way to Hanthana, are heartwarming.

Apart from the beautiful scenery and a spectacular view from its peaks, Hanthana is a favorite travel destination for many people because it is easy to explore. The foot of the mountain can be reached by the Peradeniya-Galaha road or the Kandy-Udawela road.

The mountain, which is often hidden by fog, is popular with university students who are better known by the name adara kanda (mountain of love). Every year, university students from across the country come to visit this mountain.

The University of Peradeniya itself is located at the foot of the Hanthana mountain, on 1,080 acres of land.

One of the best places to visit while trekking in the Hanthana hills is the Hanthana viharaya, which dates back to the days of the Kandyan Kingdom. It is 10 kilometers away from Kandy City, the temple is on the highest point in Kandy.

The 500 acre plantation of pine trees of the Department of Wildlife Conservation, and the many forests near the peak of Ura Kanda, are some of the sights that can be seen. right to a trip to these mountains.

Threads

Unfortunately, with the fall of the Kingdom in 1815, the forest and nature reserves in the kingdom were slowly destroyed.

At first, the Hanthana forest was cleared to make way for coffee and tea plantations, and later houses and huts were built. British tea plantations, which replaced some parts of the Hanthana forest, can be seen even today.

On the other hand, parts of the mountains that have already been cleared for coffee and tea plantations - but only to become wasteland - can also be seen.

Even today, due to illegal human activities—such as deliberately setting forest fires to chase rabbits and wild pigs—the Hanthana forest is slowly being destroyed. The increase in the establishment of hotels and rest houses, which causes pollution, has also become a bad effect on the natural environment of the mountains.

Timings for Hanthana Mountain Range

The Hanthana Mountain Range provides one with a beautiful experience when the journey starts early in the morning. Spend 3-4 hours a day just looking at beautiful pictures of the environment. If someone wants to go hiking, a whole day is more useful. However, Hanthana mountain is open for hiking from 09:00 in the morning to 03:00 in the evening because after that it may be difficult in terms of the safety of hikers, tourists and locals. country.

Safety First

Due to its popularity among young people, the Office of the Chancellor at the University of Peradeniya has taken measures to give instructions to groups of students who want to visit the public.

In fact, visitors are advised to make their visit at a certain time, start their walk before 9.00 in the morning and go down to the mountains at 3.00 in the evening, the reason is that darkness can fall quickly and without much warning, and many incidents of university students have gone missing. their way in the dark on the way back down has been reported recently.

However, by paying close attention to the instructions and climbing up and back down within the allotted time, one is sure to enjoy the peace, quiet, and beauty on offer. from the mountains of Hanthana.

The next time you visit Kandy, why not spend a day hiking in the hills to see the beautiful flora and fauna that make the Hanthana their home and yes, yes , don't forget to enjoy the beautiful view.

Best Time to Visit Hanthana Mountain Range

Although Hanthana Mountain Range is open to all at any time of the year, the best time to travel around the paths of this range is from December to February. The weather might accompany you with a little bit of mist, clouds and breezy winds, adding to the beauty of the backdrop.

Things To Do in Hanthana Mountain Range

1. Hiking

Hanthana is a major spot for hiking in Sri Lanka’s central province. There is not just one route to the top, but depending on the hiker’s capabilities, roads and routes are chosen. No doubt, every route is exciting to explore.

2. Bird Watching

You can go bird watching in Hanthana Mountain Range. You can see many birds and raptors flying above your heads. Along with this, the chirping of birds is equally interesting to listen to.

3. Power Plant

The view of Mana grass is another very interesting part of Hanthana mountain. Whenever you reach a peak, you will first encounter a thick bush. These are powerful herbs. The view is beautiful and attractive to babies in all directions.

The trek to Hanthana mountain

Hanthana mountain is generally considered as one of the best places for trekking for beginners. These trails make even advanced hikers difficult and more challenging. If you like hiking, here are the routes:

One of the most popular and researched hiking trails is the trail that starts from the top of the Hanthana circuit bungalow of the University of Peradeniya and Udawela. You can use the Kandy-Udaperadeniya bus, which will drop you on the road above Hanthana.Then you can start walking on the summit by following the route that is set because the road is used frequently.

One can trek from Sarasavigama to Udawala, the starting and ending point of the line. This is one way that is quite difficult and long. You can reach Sarasavigama from Kandy city by bus, ride 12.5 KM, then start the trek. There is no well-defined trail throughout the trek. You will sometimes be exposed to the forests that surround you with mist, mystery and excitement.

Another way you can try to come from the hotel 'Amaya Hills'. There are direct Kandy-Dangolla buses that drop you off near Amaya Hills. From there you can start hiking in the line. There is a structured way to prevent you from getting lost. The path also follows a beautiful waterfall.

Environment of Hanthana Mountain Range

Declared an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2010, the Hanthana Mountains are rich in biodiversity. The conservation of flora and fauna in this region is being monitored with good management plans. Sitting next to the University of Peradeniya, the view from the top of Hanthana is both comforting and awe-inspiring. Being the mother of seven peaks, this range is also a great hiking destination.

While walking on the hill of Hanthana, it can sometimes be observed that the channel of the river Mahaweli is on the line. Note, this 3800ft. the heights are decorated with colorful flowers and birds. When you look around, you can get a clear and wide view of the whole city of Kandy with small city lights and traffic lights, flashing from time to time.

Tips for Visiting Hanthana Mountains

During the visit to Hanthana Mountain Range and hiking in the mountains, few important things one should keep in mind:

• Always wear good hiking clothes.
• Don't forget to take clothes for warm, windy, cold and rainy conditions.
• Take hiking gear as per your need.
• Walking shoes and boots should also be carried.
• Take insect repellent and sun lotion, if necessary.
• Bottled water, food and snacks must be taken by yourself as there are no shops nearby.
• If you are a photography enthusiast and love to capture moments, take your camera with you comfortably.

Way to reach Hanthana mountain

You can reach Hanthana mountains in different ways. Located in the southwest of Kandy city, you should be in Kandy first for easy travel. The nearest airport to Kandy city is Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo city. And the nearest railway station is Kandy in Kandy city. From there you can use buses or tuk tuk or you can rent a car to reach Hanthana mountain. You can arrive at the University of Peradeniya or near Amaya Hills hotel or Sarasavigama.