If you're looking for hiking mixed with some thrilling adventure, there are no better options for you than Hanthana. It is a beautifully located mountain range southwest of Kandy city, adjacent to the University of Peradeniya. The mountain range consists of seven peaks, out of which the highest is "Ura Kanda," and it rises to an elevation of 1,158 m (3,800 ft). This mountain range is typically cloudy and frosty. However, there are times when there is no mist, exposing the entire region in front of your eyes. The summit of the peak offers breathtaking views of Kandy city. The panorama at the top also included the Knuckles Mountain range, the hills of Sabaragamuwa, and the Dolosbage range of Aranayake.
Besides being an excellent place for hiking, the Hanthana mountain range is also well known for bird watching and adventure camping. If you want to enjoy the picturesque views of beautiful Kandy city in one day, without a doubt, trekking up the Hanthana mountain range is the best way that you have. The Hanthana mountain range was designated as an environmental protection area under the National Environment Act in 2010 due to its high biodiversity.
Best time to visit Hanthana Mountain Range
It is best to visit the Hanthana mountain range during the months from December to February. The weather may follow you with a light mist, adding to the splendor of the scenery. Since the rainy season begins in September, it is good to avoid the months of September to December. In this season you can climb the mountain range, but slippery roads make it difficult to hike and may cause heavy injuries.
How to get to Hanthana Mountain Range
Most travelers take the train to Kandy and then a bus or tuk-tuk to Dalhousie, but you can also rent a cab. You can arrive at the University of Peradeniya, the Amaya Hills hotel, or Sarasavigama. Since there are about 4 routes to climb the mountains, get advice from the villagers and choose the correct path for the hike.
The route that many people use is to start the hike from the University side and get to the Uda Peradeniya village, and then there is a road leading to the University Lodge. After about 3 hour's hike from the end of the road, you can reach the top of the mountains. Then start the climb to the other side of the mountain and get down to the Hanthana village which is 8 km away from Kandy.
Hiking in Hanthana Mountain Range
If you are planning to climb Hanthana, it would be better to start the hike early morning before the Sunlight becomes trouble for you. It will take approximately 4/5 hours to reach the summit and another 3/4 hours to climb down. There is no fixed route up to the mountain. You can make your way to the top and even make the hike more challenging if you want. But it is recommended to take a guide with you. If not, you will get lost as some paths are hard to find during the mist.
Although there is a small natural waterway at the foot of the mountains, it is recommended to bring some water with you. Also do not forget to bring other necessary items. On the way, you can see occasional bushes, wildflowers, chirping birds or dozens of butterflies, etc. Be careful when you take photos at the summit of the mountain.
Tips for Hiking Hanthana Mountain Range
- Since this is famous mountains range in Sri Lanka, many university students hike this mountain as a batch. Thus, sometimes it is crowded and you can't even move at those times. So avoid those days, especially Saturdays.
- If you hiking in the rainy season, bring your jacket with you. Because in the evening, the top of the mountains gets much colder. Also If you hiking in the dry season, bring your caps with you.
- The night view is very beautiful at the top of the mountain. You can see the beauty of Kandy town at night. If you can Wait for at least until 6 PM to watch it.
- The slope of the mountain range is low and there are footpaths at the top. Thus anyone can easily climb Hanthana and it is a safer hike. But you have to walk at least 10 km from the beginning till the end.
