Leeches in the Knuckles (Sri Lanka)

Hi there, We’d planned a hike in the Knuckles at the end of February, but everything I’m reading about leeches is freaking me out—I know I wouldn’t handle having one on me (call me a wimp if you want 😅). Is it really that bad? Plus, it sounds like a lot of tiring road just for a day trip. What do you recommend? Thanks so much! 😊

hi yeah, there are leeches in Sri Lanka. So, plan on leech-proof socks if they freak you out

Thanks 😅

Hello,

You might indeed come across leeches in the Knuckles, but don’t worry—I had them in my garden in Kandy too 🤪

While they’re a bit gross, they’re not mean or dangerous. There’s no real miracle solution to avoid them, but you can wear gaiters, which you’ll find in sports stores in France. Another trick: before and during your hike, wet your shoes a little and sprinkle some coarse salt on them. Leeches hate that. You’ll need to reapply it a few times, but it works.

Last tip: don’t skip the Knuckles—it’s really awesome.

Happy preparations and have a great day!

Fab

Hi Sigrid,

Here are my tips to avoid them:

* There are anti-leech gaiters you can bring—they look like tall socks, * If you don’t have any, tuck your pants into your socks, * Avoid sitting down, * Bring some salt or a lighter to detach them if one latches on :-)

And here’s a great guide from a traveler for the Knuckles: https://www.tongsetsrilanka.com/randonnee-au-sri-lanka-knuckles-range

Have a great trip! Caroline

Thanks so much for your reply, but in the end, we’ve decided not to hike in the Knuckles because of the current weather and the number of leeches that’ll bring

Have a great day!

Hi Caroline,

Thanks so much for your reply, but in the end, we’ve decided not to hike in the Knuckles because of the current weather and the number of leeches that’ll bring 🤪. That’ll give us time to visit Ambuluwawa and do some shopping 😇

Have a great day!

I loved Ambuluwawa last year—it was such a lovely surprise! :-) https://www.tongsetsrilanka.com/tour-ambuluwawa