Manigala

Manigala is a popular hill station located in the Knuckles Range. The Manigala Climb Road runs from the Knuckles Conservation Center to Illukkumbura through mountains, plains and parks. The Managala Range in the Dumbara or Knuckles Range in the Kandy and Matale Districts is an ecosystem with high biodiversity. The Dumbara Range in Manigala is called 'Batadadukanda' due to the fact that its western slope is heavily covered with reeds. Climbers can start their journey from the beautiful Rathinda village and going through the village to the starting point will be priceless. Adjacent to Rathinda's real rural life, you can see paddy fields, plantations and all the rural beauty.

The height of the top of Manigala hill is 1104 meters. To cross it you have to walk along a difficult road about 3 km from the village of Atenwala. It usually takes two to three hours to reach the top of the mountain. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful landmarks in the world as it is surrounded by foggy mountains.

History of Manigala The ancient villagers, who did not have clocks to watch the time, climbed a rock and determined the time through the sunlight falling on it. 'Money' in Tamil means time. The rock was named as Manigala because of the time it took to climb the rock or later it became Manigala according to the folklore. This majestic Manigala mountain range and its surroundings is an ecosystem with a breathtaking natural beauty.

There is a legend among the villagers that during the battle of Rama Ravana, Ravana's soldiers were the bow and arrow. This mountain. Due to the strong winds at the top of the hill, all the trees here have become stunted.

Getting to Manigala From Matale take the Rattota road, cross Pitawala via Rivaston, take the road to the south, enter the village of Atenwala, cross the Thelgamu Oya and proceed to Manigala.

Hiking Manigala The Manigala hike begins from the Knuckles Mountain Range and runs through forests, mountains and terrains. The hike gives amazing views of the surrounding area including paddy fields and cultivation lands. It is a hike suitable for the average hiker and is best started early in the morning. Hikers get to pass and view the scenic villages of Atanwala, Pitawala Pathana, Thelgamu Valley, Riverston and beautiful waterfalls including Wedda Peni Ella and Duwili Ella.

Traveling Time:Distance from Matale – 38.7 km (1 hour 46 minutes)

Located in:The Knuckles Mountain Range

Height (m):1,080

District: Matale (Sri Lanka)

Famous for:

• Hiking
• Nature Exploring
• Photography
• Sightseeing
• Trekking
• Weather

Best time to visit: On some sunny days it is best to start the journey in the morning as the environment is quite warm by noon.

Special remark:

• If you do not know the route, it is advisable to go with a guide, who can easily find a villager as your guide.
• Do not try on rainy days
• Keep only footprints
• Remember to be prepared for heavy fog and strong winds