The Forgotten Village Trekking Trail

The foothills of Knuckles Mountain Range have many folktales and mysteries that linger around, creating a sense of curiosity amongst the villagers and travellers alike.

As the frequented footpaths and the enormous forests have silent stories to share, a visit to the Forgotten Village is certainly…  unforgettable.

This trekking trail consists of two sections:  Village Trekking Trail and the Forest Trekking Trail. We start the journey from Explorer by Mahoora Knuckles Campsite and go through the Illukkumbura village. At a turnoff, we take a forest trail in an ascending 2.5 km small motorable road.

Our forest trekking trail up to the Forgotten Village is 3 kilometres one way on an easy, flat terrain trek. In the past, many people lived in this area for a number of decades, yet due to difficulties in accessibility and the presence of wild elephants, many chose to relocate - leaving a very small number of inhabitants who continue to live in the area.     

Although it is hard to be absolutely precise about how hard a walk may be, we have developed a guideline that is likely to help you in understanding the level of intensity of the trekking trail. Trail Grading Guidelines

Variation 1 - Grading of the trail - B (Moderate)

• Timing: approximately 7 hours - Full Day

• Total Distance of the Trail: 11km

• Recommended for guests who stay at Explorer by Mahoora - Knuckles for 3 nights

Variation 2 - Grading of the trail - A (Easy)

What makes this Trail different from Variation  1

Vehicle transfer to the beginning of the forest trek, thereafter continue on the forest trek.

• Timing: approximately 4 hours - Half  Day

• Total Distance of the Trail: 6 km

• Recommended for guests who stay at Explorer by Mahoora - Knuckles for 3 nights

What's Included In These Fully Guided Trekking Trails

• An expert local guide from the area who has roamed in this region for decades.

• Professional Naturalist who will explain and interpret social life, nature encounters and sightings.

• Snacks & Water.

• First-Aid and required backup for any emergency.   

• Lunch based on the programme.