Meemure Village,Sri Lanka
Meemure is one of Sri Lanka's most remote and traditional villages, located in the Knuckles Mountain Range. It preserves ancient hill-country farming practices and a Sinhala-speaking, rural lifestyle largely unchanged for generations. The village and surrounding landscape are important for biodiversity and traditional ecological knowledge; residents practice shifting cultivation, grow mountain rice, spices and vegetables, and maintain close ties to ancestral land. The Knuckles Range nearby is a UNESCO-recognized biodiversity hotspot with endemic flora and fauna, and Meemure serves as an access point for treks into this unique environment.
Places to visit
- The village itself: traditional thatched and tiled houses, village life
- Hiking trails into the Knuckles Range
- Auto-Chaplin's Pool and local waterfalls and streams
- Panoramic viewpoint over the Knuckles valleys and ridges
- Agricultural terraces and mountain rice fields
- Cultural interactions with local families and homestays
Unique Aspects
- Remote, off-grid village atmosphere — no mobile reception in many spots
- Traditional subsistence farming and organic produce
- Pristine mountain streams and rich birdlife
- Steep terraced landscapes and unique microclimates
Things to do
- Guided treks and day hikes (ridges, waterfalls, viewpoints)
- Homestay stays with local families to experience daily life and cuisine
- Birdwatching and nature photography
- Village walks and meeting local artisans/farmers
- Short cultural exchanges: cooking, farming, and folklore sessions
Festivals & Events
- Local Sinhala village festivals and seasonal agricultural celebrations (dates vary and are often informal)
- Religious observances at nearby temples and shrines
- Occasional guided community events organized by homestay hosts
Best Time to Visit
December to April for drier weather and clearer trekking conditions; however, short visits are possible year-round—expect more rain and muddy trails during the southwest and inter-monsoon seasons.
Weather Conditions
Cooler than lowland Sri Lanka due to elevation (around 900–1,000 m). Daytime temperatures often 18–25°C; nights can drop to 10–15°C. Frequent mist and sudden showers are common in wet months.
Accessibility
Meemure is accessible by a rough 14–20 km mountain road from Riverston / Madulsima depending on the route (4–6 hours drive from Kandy or Colombo areas including transfers). Road is unpaved and may require a 4WD vehicle; public transport does not reach the village—arrange private transport or a guided tour. The final stretch can be steep and narrow; many visitors combine the trip with a stay in Riverston or a guided trek.
Recommended Duration
1–2 nights to experience village life and do at least one trek comfortably; day trips are possible but feel rushed.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Sturdy walking shoes/boots, light waterproof jacket, layers for cool evenings, hat and sunscreen, insect repellent, basic first-aid kit, reusable water bottle, flashlight/headlamp (power may be limited after dark).
Local Food & Souvenirs
Try home-cooked hill-country meals featuring rice, fresh vegetables, mountain-grown spices, and herbal teas. Souvenirs are usually handmade such as woven goods, spice packets, and simple handcrafted items—buy directly from residents as a responsible-tourism gesture.
