Land of mountainous charms and natural wonders.

It is called Riverston and is located in the Matale District, Central Province of Sri Lanka, sheltered by surroundings of the UNESCO-listed Knuckles Mountain Range. Lying as high as 1,424 meters above sea level and about 176 kilometres northeast of Colombo, this is a tranquil retreat to the highlands-a sort of refreshing contrast to more crowded spots on the island like Ella or Sigiriya. Covered with misty cloud forests, vibrant flowers endemic to Sri Lanka, and diverse fauna, the cool climate, crisscrossed with crisp winds that cool the tropical air, is an inviting haven where natural beauty shines unspoiled in its raw state.

Here, adventure and tranquillity really mix. Think hikes through bamboo groves, leech-lined paths to Mini World's End with secret waterfalls, and rare birds flying by; or rise with misty sunrises, picnic with wild flowers, refreshing mountain breezes rejuvenating the soul. To serious hikers, this trail up to Riverston Tower is the stuff of legends-a moderate 30-minute climb from Pitawala village up a narrow ridge to a solitary TV tower. At the summit, 360° panoramas unfold: mist-shrouded valleys, the Dumbara Plains, and on clear days, distant Adam's Peak-leaving you breathless.

Other more surreal pleasures await along the Misty Trail. Mist-shrouded forests hide purple-faced langurs, swinging through the canopies above while colourful jungle fowl peck around on the ground below. Birdwatchers are in heaven with sightings such as yellow-eared bulbuls or the rather more elusive whistling thrush of Sri Lanka. Meditate in a sun-dappled nook or practice yoga beside the cascading Sera Ella waterfall, its rumble washing away worldly concerns.

Throughout the year, temperatures stay between 15-20°C (59-68°F), while the clearest skies and vibrancy in bloom persist from December to April. Bring some local snacks like kottu roti or fruits for elevated picnics against rhododendrons and ancient trees. For photographers, it is these golden-hour hues that you need for picture-postcard scenery. Getting here is part of the fun: it's a scenic 4–5-hour drive from Colombo via Kandy, through tea plantations. Cheaper buses commence in Matale. Organic home-cooked meals are served in cozy guest houses and eco-lodges. To the ecologically minded, this means sleeping under starry skies and waking up to birdsong with a whiff of pine-scented air.

In times past, the Knuckles Range nourished rivers sacred to many of Sri Lanka's indigenous communities and vital to its farming. Now it is a symbol of conservation-a cause protecting more than 200 tree species and other threatened wildlife from deforestation. When visiting, be responsible: stay on the trails, avoid single-use plastics, and support local guides. This is an era of overtourism, and Riverston offers just the right antidote-accessible seclusion, thrilling peace, endless inspiration.

Take your solace solo or in bonding with family and let the magic of the mountains create lifetime memories. The time to plan one's getaway and rediscover heaven anew-in the mist-is now.