With most parts of the country experiencing rain continuously for 4 months, an amount of rain that has never been experienced for the past 40 years or so started to ease by end of July, the moment I’ve been waiting for. After experiencing 3 days of sunshine without rain I thought the moment has arrived for me to go on another waterfall hunt and decided to do it the very next day making use of the week-end.
Having called my usual companions who has been part of my previous escapades, two cousins joined me on the hunt.

Day 1
We left Delgoda at around 11am with the intention of visiting 3 waterfalls around kuruwita and if possible to cover a couple more at palabaddala.

Arambe Ella
After about 1 ½ hours of driving we turned towards erathna from kuruwita and after about 3km we turned right and took the batadombalena road for about 5km more where we saw the first waterfall which I presumed it to be “Arambe Falls” according to the information I had.

panoramic view towards kuruwita from Batadombalena road

Arambe ella

Arambe ella

upper part

Pannama Ella

Next on our list was “soodagala ella” but when we inquired from locals they didn’t know a waterfall by that name but directed us to what the locals call “pannama ella”.
To get to this waterfall one should travel about 7-10km along the erathna road and take a left downward sloping road just after a bus halt.
Pannama ella reminded me of “katugas ella” as these two waterfalls looked alike in appearance with plenty of lower cascades and finally the main waterfall plunging into a deep gorge in two parts. (P.S: read tips, notes & special remarks)

lower cascade of pannama ella

Pannama ella

Pannama ella

After spending some time admiring the beauty of pannama ella we turned back towards kuruwita looking for the 3rd waterfall being ‘gerandi ella’ that was supposed to be in the same area. We couldn’t find any credible information with regard to this waterfall and after about 1 ½ hours of trying, finally aborted our attempt of looking for it. We had our lunch from kuruwita and headed along the palabaddala road hoping to cover at least a couple more before we called it a day.

Dumpus Ella

The first waterfall along this road was “dumpus ella”. We travelled past gilimale and up to the induruwa bridge. The footpath to the waterfall is located to the left side right after the bridge. First we came across a lower cascade which can be seen from the bridge as well. To get to dumpus ella we proceeded upstream along the right side of the river and crossed to the left side from the top of the lower cascade. By this time the weather changed and started to drizzle. After travelling for about 500m further upstream we came across the main waterfall. By the time we arrived at dumpus ella the rain started to get heavy.

lower cascade of dumpus ella

Dumpus ella

Side view of dumpus ella

chasers @ induruwa bridge, gilimale

After dumpus ella we headed back to ratnapura intending to find a place for us to spend the night.

Day 2

Kalu ganga as seen from the room @ Elnara

not so gentle flow of kalu ganga

We left ratnapura for palabaddala at around 7.45am. Within another 30 minutes or so it started to rain again and it continued for the rest of our journey.

misty road towards palabaddala

here comes the rain again

top part of Mapalana ella seen through the mist from the road

Mapalana Ella
Situated amongst medicinal herbs, the 114m fall consists of three sections and is served by the Ella Oya (river). During the rainy season the simultaneous flows can be heard from up to 6km away. According to legend, the fall is named after a local noble man who used to bathe here. When drought sets in, local villages hold ceremonies in the middle of the dry fall and hang lighted lanterns and palm leaves from its upper reaches, asking the Saman god to provide rain.

The Mapanana Falls is located in the Siripadda Mountain (1868m), 22km from Ratnapura, at a point known as Kondagala. Take the road from Ratnapura via Gillmale for 8km to Asoka Karniya. It is another 20km along the bank of the Kaluganga River to a road that leads up to the colonies, where the fall can be found. (srilankanwaterfalls.net)

Mapalana ella

upper part of mapalana ella

base of mapalana ella

mapalana ella

Halmehi Ella
This 9m-high fall originates from a stream in Lihinigala, which is joined by another small brook. As with Hal Falls, local villagers claim to hear the sound of clothes being washed coming from the water. (lankawaterfalls.net)

The path to halmehi ella is located to the left a small distance before mapalana ella.

Halmehi ella

base of halmehi ella

top part of halmehi ella

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Minee/Pankandura/Galpoththawa Ella

Next on our list was pankandura and galpoththawa ella. So we headed towards palabaddala and travelled about 6km towards udapawanella. At udapawanella we got to know that both pankandura and galpoththawa are actually cascades created by the same river which the locals call “minee ella”. Also we met a guide who agreed to take us to the falls warning beforehand that it’s going to be a dangerous one. After coming so close we weren’t in the mood to give up. The final 1 1/2km trek to “minee ella” is on foot where one has to climb up the footpath through a tea estate until you come across some line homes.

Keep to the right side of the line homes and walk further along until you descend to a stream. Galpoththawa ella will be visible upstream to the left when you come across the river. To get to minee/ pankandura ella we had to cross the stream to the other side and get down along the stream further down for 4 levels. Now this was the scary part. It has been raining since morning so the threat of flash floods was looming. Also one misstep and you’ll be in the water swept away giving you hardly any chance of surviving. At the second level one stayed back while two of us along with our guide proceeded further down to the 3rd level. From the 3rd level we couldn’t find a way to get down to the 4th as the risk was too high. To simply put, we didn’t want to add up to the countless number of “minee” that have flown down the river as the locals say.

The description of lankawaterfalls.net for minee/pankandura falls

The fall is created by the Galpothawa River and is divided into three main segments. The lowest is 9m in height and cascades downwards over a series of steps in a spiral motion. It is also known as the ‘Mini Falls’ (Corpses Falls) owing to the fact that the bodies of people who drown in the river above are swept down by the torrent of water.In the surrounding woodland, kaduru (Strychnos nux-vomica), palu (Manilkara hexandra), breadfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), liyan, badulla (Semicarpus obscura), milla (Viterx altissima) and goraka are present.

For galpoththawa falls :
Galpottawa Falls is 06m high and in rainy season the entire rock ledge is shrouded in mist from the spray. During Sri Pada pilgrimage season, devotees come to bathe in the shallow pool at its base. The water eventually flows into the Kaluganga River.

Galpoththawa ella

Galpoththawa ella close-up

getting down to the 2nd level

cascade of minee ella

Lihinihela ella to the right

Lihinihela ella

Having covered all the waterfalls at palabaddala we headed towards wewelwatta to start the final leg of our journey.

Aanda ella

The fall is 15m high and only exists during the rainy season. There are two theories as to how it got its name. Some say it is so named after an eel was purportedly sighted slithering down the fall. The alternative explanation is the corksrew flow of the fall as it tumbles down over rocks and weeds.Anda Falls is situated in Galaboda village, in the Ratnapura District. (lankawaterfalls.net)

Aanda ella

Aanda ella

roadside cascade

roadside cascade

Hal ella
This twin-streamed fall flows over a protruding rock face and resembles an upturned receptacle used for carrying water. It is 7m high and 12m wide. Upstream, the woodland contains several hal (Vateria copellifera) trees, the fruits of which fall into the stream and drift over the fall, hence its name. Superstitious villagers claim they hear the sound of clothes being washed in the water.

Hal ella

Hal ella

Dehena ella
Dehena Falls is an impressive 74m in height and its source is a small spring called Gaslabu Falls. The stream, known as Dehena Dola, flows from Perya Udagama on Dehena Mountain and cascades in twin chutes from the plain of Udaamunatenna. Afterwards the water flows via Pandola to the Bambarakotuwa River.
A small opening in the stone at the base of the pool near the fall is called ‘Gathula’, meaning ‘inside of the stone’. It is said that during heavy rain, the caves surrounding the fall are totally submerged and the road becomes obscured by mist. However, during dry spells the flow is languid. The land towards the top of the fall has been denuded for timber and tea plantations, which has caused the depletion of aquifers.

Dehena ella

Dehena ella

Wewel ella
Wewel ella is situated at diyabibila along the wewelwatta road. From the diyabibila junction take road that branches to the right.

wewel ella

waterfall along alupola road

waterfall along alupola road

Beruwatta ella

Can be seen from the alupola road itself.

Beruwatta ella

Beruwatta ella

Alupola Ella

Alupola ella

Alupola ella

unknown waterfall along balagoda road

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roadside cascade

Dodamgallena Ella
This waterfall is situated close to balangoda at medakanda village

dodamgallena Ella

Mandanagiri ella, Pandioya ella , Katukithul ella and Goksin ella are also along the wewelwatta road which I missed this time. We were back home by 10pm after an unforgettable journey vowing to come back to catch up on the missed beauties.

Thanks for reading.

It was late July when my gang started moaning about our monthly trip and we came up with 04 Aug Wewelwatte Journey which turned out to be wet, cold and chilling.

However, there was a side story to that journey. The monsoon rains had come in full force and the waterfalls all around the country were smiling down on us revealing their hidden beauty.It was as if the Waterfall Festival had come to Sri Lanka.

Being frantic waterfall lovers we all decided to see as many waterfalls on Wewelwatte as possible but Athula had something else up his sleeve. He quietly mentioned about the water levels of Lakshapana and Aberdeen being at an all-time high and wondering if we could go there.I wasn’t to be hesitated at any rate and suggested we take a day off and do it after the Wewelwatte.

I managed to take a leave on Tue 06 Aug and Atha readily agreed to do it on the same day. When I put it forward during our Wewelwatte journey on 04 Aug, everybody looked aghast as if we had decided to throw the government.

“You guys are going on another journey day after tomorrow? What do you guys think you are doing? We’re gonna miss that. You know we can’t go on like that.” Was all that managed to mumble amid my suggestion. What to do? We couldn’t wait any longer as the water levels won’t wait for us. So Athula and I decided to get on no matter what happened. On the 04th night, Tony called and said he’d love to join but needed permission from the higher authority (you know who by now). On the following morning he realized that he needed to take his daughter for ALs and that put a stop to his whining I suppose. Fortunately, our new employee, Harinda, wanted to join as he’d been missing all the fun. Prasanna too was coming and Athula said he might be able to fix us a vehicle and we were all hoping for that coz the rains had got on our nerves during Wewelwatte journey.

We all waited anxiously and finally he came through with a van (just the front and one back seat for max 5 passengers) and it lifted our morals a helluva lot. I tried luring Danushka into joining us as he missed our trip but couldn’t get leave. It was a blessing coz the two Sumo Players (Hari and Prasanna) took up the whole of the back seat leaving no space anyone else, which meant Atha and I had to squeeze tightly into the front with the driver.

We left Colombo around 6.00am and picked Prasanna from Kaluaggala, having had to wait a long time as usual. Along the Hatton road we went and suddenly around Karawanella, Atha stopped at a place for breakfast. Hot, hot egg hoppers came and evaporated while string hoppers and bread were vanished at a ferocious rate mixed with a delicious sprats curry. All in all, it was a grand breakfast and we enjoyed it so much and got back on the road.

 Tour Highlights:

1.  Lakshapana Falls – 129m
2. Dutch Memorial
3. Aberdeen Falls – 98m
4. Gerandi Ella at Morahenagama

We reached Kithulgala and passing Beli Lena (we initially planned to visit this as well but simply ran out of time) we came to the Kalugala Junction where there was a board saying “Lakshapana 12km” and we took the road onto our right. This is also another road that leads to Adam’s Peak but not in good condition.

Lakshapana Falls & Dutch Memorial

The road took us passing the Kehelgamu Oya which was in over flowing condition forming creamy white foams and running mischievously passing rocks. We had to stop for a pic. The sky looked gloomy and threatened to rain at any moment but we were not swayed by that. Another 1km or so we reached the Bodhigira Junction where the road folk into two. The left hand side one goes directly to Norton Bridge (in between there’s the road to Adam’s Peak) which is in a slightly better condition. The one on the right or rather straight goes passing Polpitiya and Hangarapitya to Maskeliya.

When inquired with the villagers, they advised us to take the upper road saying it was in good condition but longer than the below one. However, Athula wanted to tackle the right hand path which goes to Maskeliya via Hangarapitiya. The road is not in very good condition but we didn’t come across any major obstacles. We soon saw the Polpitiya power house and the Kehelgamu Oya was on her way as if there was no tomorrow. The river under the bridge was flowing on a rocky bed which had dug a clean canal and the water was gushing down making a huge roar.

From then onwards we went further and reached Hangarapitiya. Athula suddenly asked me to listen to the villager he was talking to as he was explaining how the name “Hangarapitiya” came by. This road used to be the one the old-time kings use to visit Adam’s Peak and this particular village had been where the Kings and their entourage were treated with food and accommodation. In Sinhala we say “Sangraha Karanawa” which means treat and the village had got the name as a result “Sangrahapitiya” and later had become “Hangarapitiya”. What a fabulous folklore to come across. We saw a waterfall on the other side of the mountains (the upper road) but I couldn’t find her name but Atha later confirmed her to be Gerandi Ella. She may well be a seasonal falls for all I know.

Then following the road and avoiding pot holes full of muddy water we went further up. On our left was the world famous “Seven Virgins Mountain” which was the cause for “Martin Air Flight 138” tragedy. I’ve given the story in brief below but I’m sure many of you know this as it remains the worst in Sri Lankan Aviation history and 3rd deadliest involving a McDonnell Douglas DC-8 aircraft in the whole world after Arrow Air Flight 1285 and Nigeria Airways Flight 2120.

 — Martinair Flight 138 was a chartered flight from Surabaya, Indonesia to Colombo, Sri Lanka. The aircraft was operated on behalf of Garuda Indonesia. On December 4, 1974, the aircraft, a McDonnell Douglas DC-8-55F, crashed into Seven Virgins Mountain shortly before landing, killing all 191 people aboard – 182 Indonesian hajj pilgrims bound for Mecca, and 9 crew members.

The flight is said to have departed Surabaya, Indonesia at approximately 12.03 UTC heading to Jeddah planning a stop at Bandaranayake airport, Colombo, Sri Lanka. At around 16.30 UTC Colombo control cleared the flight. At 16.38 UTC another air traffic controller is said to have intervened and cleared the flight down to 5000 feet and reported clearing to 8000 feet. Colombo approach then cleared the flight down to 2000 feet at 16.44 and told the flight to expect a runway 04 approach.

The crew aboard the flight was then asked to report when the airfield was in sight. The crew then continued their descent until the aircraft crashed into “Saptha Kanya Mountain” at an altitude of approximately 4,355 feet and at around 40 nm east of Colombo. All 191 passengers and crew were killed. The aircraft crashed on the fifth mountain of a range of hills known as “Saptha Kanya” at Therberton estate, Maskeliya. —

Passing this we all of a sudden saw a notice on our right hand side saying “Aulanda Sohona – Dutch Memorial” and I wanted to have a look. They had built a memorial about 200m away from the road in the tea estate and several diplomats from Indonesia and Maldives had unveiled it on 22 July 1979. We were lucky to have come across this coz I hadn’t seen any evidence of a memorial anywhere before.

Athula then went onto say one of the tires of the aircraft is at display at Norton Bridge Police Station. Apparently the original memorial is located at the Police Station along with the tire. We had seen the second one built very close to the crash site by those family members of the passengers and crew. Anyhow, we couldn’t forget the local singer Anton Jones who sang this very famous song as a tribute to this crash “Kande Hapuna Waha Wananthare – DC8 Guwan Yanthare”.

Just passing that I decided to walk a bit as the path was really scenic and for some reason rain had decided to leave us alone. Further up, I came across this grand looking bungalow on my right hand side and over it the Seven Virgins Mountain full of mist. It looked like a palace in heaven. How lucky those people who live there. I was feeling very jealous then and still do.

We reached Kiriwan Eliya where they have a few shops and a small restaurant-cum-guest house. We asked the road from two boys and they asked us to go further up. Apparently they had given us the path to the top of Lakshapana Falls. We had to turn back after about 1km and came back to the shops to find a board saying it’s only 300m to the falls downhill. Yucky yuck those boys. We got off and walked downhill and they’ve done a nice path with steps right down to the waterfall which made going very easy and hardly any attack from those horrible leeches.

There were houses along this path and it could be one other reason why the path is so well maintained. In fact those villagers were repairing a part of the track when we went. About 200m down, we could here this huge roar as if a 100-carriage train coming down Kadugannawa slope without breaks and it really was very frightening. It even reminded me of Tsunami.

The whole area was so noisy to see it’s the Lakshapana falls that was making all that uproar. She was celebrating something which we couldn’t put our fingers on. It was deafening and soon we got glimpses of this milky water falling through trees. Then came the moment, Eureka…. There she was falling down full length without stopping for a breather like twin towers of New York.

It was a sight that I’ll treasure forever. One villager who was repairing the road told Athula that they witnessed the most of in 2 decades on 04 Aug. (In vain we were getting soaked in Wewelwatte, I felt for a moment but soon perished the thought). It was a sight to marvel at and we took plenty of pics and got down to the base of the falls. It was as if raining at the bottom due to vapor coming from the water hitting the rocks. We thankfully had taken two umbrellas with us (learnt our lesson at Wewelwatte) and had to unfold them in order to shield from the water droplets. Taking pics was Mission Impossible-3 coz our lenses kept getting hit by those tiny water droplets. It was the same method as two days ago. Shoot and wipe and shoot again which was a pain in the neck.

I was savoring this unprecedented beauty (maybe once in a lifetime chance) and felt like hugging her. There was so much water and all around the vapor was dancing. You had to see it to believe. We waited as long as we could and having perilously exposed our cameras for the second time in 3 days, decided to head back. I simply couldn’t make up my mind to leave this gorgeous princess. It was as if she was so alive and trying to talk to us.

We came back to the shop and had some plain tea which reinvigorated our bodies and minds. Then it was time to go looking for the other beauty – Aberdeen Falls.

Two videos of Lakshapana Falls is here:

Video 01

Video 02

The Kehelgamu Oya full of water

White water rafting, anyone?

Flowing somewhat calmly under the bridge

The Team: Hari / Prasanna / Atha / Me and our Driver

This is the junction where the road splits into two. We took the right hand one which was scenic but not in good condition. If you take this, you can come around the upper road from Norton Bridge making it a circular path

The sign at the Bodhigira Junction

Polpitiya Power Staion

The bridge at Polpitiya

Two snake-like pipes carrying water to the power plant

The network

Water gushing down the narrow rocky canal

And comes out the other side ferociously

Possibly put it up during the terror attacks

Morahenagama… Gerandi Ella seen from Hangarapitiya

Up close

It was at this place we heard how the name “Hangarapitiya” was originated

She was constantly looking for something to eat.

Defa… If it’s not us, then who will?

Scenic views were endless

The Dutch Cemetery

Atha, Prasanna getting up to the cemetery while Hari bringing the rear

Those trees are only at this place so easy to find the place

Just entering in

The plaque placed on the outer wall – Click Image to Enlarge

The memorial but not visited or cared for recently

Up close

This is not English but I could figure out something about Indonesia – Click Image to Enlarge

The trio next to the memorial

Hari had to drag me into the vehicle coz I kept getting out due to these pics

Water was everywhere creating beautiful cascades in all sizes

The Palace in Heaven

This is the place where the entrance to the falls is

Oh yeah, maybe a bit more than 300m

They are showing the path. Be warned not up the stairs though. That’s the rest house

Camera and the tripod carrying, Athula was getting down

Houses were bordered along the path…

Thankfully it was a relief to have these steps

Edible? Not sure and the house owners were not nearby to check

The path being repaired

What a structure… They must’ve had a lot of work building this in the first place

Pooooh… first glimpse

Oh my goodness… such beauty is unheard of

Close

Closer

Seen in a different angle… See the color on the rock wall

That’s the last house at the bottom but more to go to the base of the falls

Trees obscuring our view on the way to the bottom

Glamorous, isn’t she?

I don’t know what to compare

It was like a dream and the vapor was enveloping the surrounding

Finally at the bottom

Water going down and can see a dam like structure

Protein buster

Cool

Aberdeen Falls & Morahenagama Falls

We went further up the road towards Maskeliya and soon came across the path to the top of Lakshapana but decided not to venture into that. The river looked ferocious and we wanted to save as much time as possible for the afternoon coz we still had in our minds to visit Beli Lena.

Soon we entered a massive bridge and the water was flowing like the Niagara Falls underneath it. We even saw someone trying to catch fish. I was surprised to see the bridge was still standing tall coz that water had the power to take it clean off its base in seconds. We saw the remains of the old suspension bridge now only the supporting pillars on either side of the river.

We stopped for quick snaps which turned out to be long ones for Harinda’s dismay coz he kept saying that he needed to get home soon. We soon came to a junction where the road on the right went towards Maskeliya and the left one took us back towards Lakshapana which we took. It again forked into two after a few kilometers; the left one taking us to back Lakshapana village and to the Bodhigira Junction (making it a more like a circular road) while the right one taking us towards Norton Bridge 2km away and further away Ginigathhena.

We turned right and less than 1km into the road came to a by road on the left but went passing and Harinda however wanted to check where it went. He proved right coz it was the one that leads to Aberdeen falls. Took a U-turn and came back and it’s the road to Kalaweldeniya Village about 6-8km away. There even was a hotel about 1.2km away according to the sign board.

Taking the path which was in dire need of repairing wasn’t an easy task. There’s also a bus service from Norton Bridge to Kalaweldeniya and the road is barely enough in width to pass two tuk-tuks let alone other vehicles. We asked for the directions about 4km away and a person said it’s only about 1km away. We went more than 2km before Harinda got his sixth sense and said we must have passed it. We had reached the Kalaweldeniya School by that time. There was this grandma who said that we had come it passing (Hariya should’ve been at the wheel) and there’s board pointing the direction.

“A board?” We were shocked to have missed it and there was no way a board was erected on that road. But we turned around and after sometime reached a place with a few houses and the path was just there. Unfortunately the big sign board had fallen face down and nobody had apparently bothered to put it up again. To make matters more humorous, there was this tiny notice stuck on a jack tree saying “Aberdeen Ella” both in Sinhala and English.

So much for directions and we got down along the nicely built steps. Again, we felt very grateful for whoever built this path and it’s longer than the Lakshapana and there was no village or house along it. So the path was meant for the waterfall only. There were a few leeches that bothered us then and there and two dogs were on our tail sensing some food is sure to be given. The last bit of the path had been built on 1 Dec 2012. There were tiny waterways going down along with the steps and at certain places there were rocks popping up and the builders had very wisely built the steps on either side.

We suddenly reached a barrier where a tree had fallen right across the path but tackling it was no problem. All of a sudden, we saw the whole area below is covered in white mist which turned out to be the water vapor just like at Lakshapana.

We reached the bottom and there she was.

All I managed to say was “Holy, Moly, and Guacamole…” What a magnificent girl she was dancing like a ballerina showing off her beauty without hiding it at all.

This giant waterfall was in full flow (couldn’t have been any bigger) and she looked as if she alone could feed the whole country with that amount of water. We couldn’t see any rock but water completely covered the whole surface and the vapor was travelling in all directions obscuring our view. There was this viewing platform they had built but we had to stay right at the edge coz we could’ve got wet so much. It was frightening to get any closer but Harinda wanted to get closer and take pic with his signature pose getting drenched in the process.

Taking pics was crazy and it took about 5mins to take one then hide it under the umbrella or keep our driver or Prasanna as a shield then wipe it completely before taking the next one. I managed to shoot a short video and you’ll be able to see the level of water clearly.

I’d never seen a waterfall carrying so much water in real life and what a treat this was. I was mesmerized and lost in a different world. She was simply spectacular and breath-taking and I’m speechless and can’t find any words to describe her any better. If I thought I’d seen water, I felt ashamed of myself when I saw this one.

However, I suddenly felt this heartache coz there are plans to build a hydro power plant near her probably killing her altogether. I’m sure you know what happened to St. Claire and many other waterfalls and it seems the same fate is gonna come upon her. What a tragedy? These darn hydro power plants are spreading like a cancer and soon we gonna have nothing but a dead body. My country will be devoid of any eco-friendly things like this in the near future at this rate.

Having seen her, we came back to Lakshapana Village using the upper road and suddenly Athula asked the driver to stop the van got down. We too came down to see the waterfall we could see from Hangarapitiya is here and the village is Morahenagama. I couldn’t find a name at the time but Atha confirmed it’s also called Gerandi Ella.

After that we went further and followed the road to the Kalugala Junction all the time listening to Harinda’s whining about being hungry. We reached Kithulagala and had rice and curry and during the meal Athula was screaming holding his chest and I thought he was having a heart attack. He put his hand through the shirt buttons and took out a big leech having fed on his blood all the time probably from Aberdeen. If it was Prince, we’d had to take him to the hospital.

Video of Aberdeen is here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLDogxsm9c0

We however had gone passed the Beli Lena turning point and decided to skip it as Hariya was wanting to get home soon.

It was a memorable day coz we saw two beautiful waterfalls in full flow and worth every bit. I do hope there’ll be a stop to these stupid ways of building hydro power plant here and there killing our country and her nature.

Here my fairy tale comes to an end and actually I wasn’t meaning to write this but Hariya was very busy and Atha wouldn’t hear of doing it for me.

Hope you like it. Take care…

The Kelani Valley

Couldn’t blow them away due to dew

Seven Virgins Mountain, somewhere up is where the Martin Air Flight 138 crashed into

Harinda wanted to elope and live in a place like this

Up close…

Dancing water

Endless cascades kept me walking along the road

Getting down the steps

Posing for the pic

Mother and son was busily collecting firewood

Camera was roughly treated putting it down on hard surfaces and exposing it to water

White Water rafting would’ve been interesting in this

Hand like rock

Remains of the suspension bridge

The replacement bridge for the suspension one

Icing on the cake

St. Claire?

What a marvelous place

Out of a dream

Making numerous shapes

Tea flower

Scenic views everywhere

The road towards Maskeliya

A huge layer of mist covering the Seven Virgins

Upstream and there’s tiny fall right at the top

This is the one

Our faithful vehicle

It’s not a giant cake

Here’s the junction I mentioned. The road to right goes to Maskeliya and we took the left… The waterfall is the Lakshapana where we came from

Umbrella like flower

Another hidden cascade

The bottom part of it

Plenty of wood was piled along the road

The Lakshapana falls – Darn those cables

Gorgeous one, isn’t she?

Ok, here’s the other junction where the road goes along the upper road towards Lakshapana

We took the right hand side towards Norton Bridge

A tiny cascade where we turned around as we had passed the turning point

Here’s the Kalaweldeniya road on the right hand side

The house where the path to the falls is close by

I don’t miss any of these

Here we are… they’re showing the path entrance

The board but the big one had fallen off

Many of those were everywhere

They are coming down… Hariya trying to get into a decent pose

It’s built through this forest patch

The two companions

Even hand railings were built

One would feel like taking these and planting at their houses but please don’t

Kind of a snail I guess

The supporting wood plank had been a home for these mushrooms

Water was following us

Missing all the obstacles

The last bit built date. Thank you folks….

Artistic fern

Atha trying to negotiate the fallen tree

Oh ho….

Fiercely getting down

It’s not the rain but the water vapor

Not a leaf on it but an artistic touch

Just getting the first glance… yahooooooooooo

The platform is drenched in water and slippery while the vapor is spreading like a smoked bomb

It was crazy trying to point your camera at

Holy Moly Guacamole…

You can see the water on the lens

She alone could’ve watered the whole country

Finally some sunlight getting through the cloud cover

She even made us a rainbow to welcome us

Time to go girlie

Tend to fall down any minute

Those two couldn’t leave Harinda… but were rewarded with plenty of biccies by him

Prasanna…. Exhausted beyond words

Along the upper road towards Lakshapana Village, we saw her smiling from afar

Oh ho, it’s Lakshapana falls…

Closer… time to go

The one we saw from Hangarapitiya – Gerandi Ella

The path lies to the left

The lower part

Compare the shapes of both of them… What a coincidence… Either Banana imitated her or she imitated the Banana

Clear view… not much water so probably a season fall. Pretty high though.

Upper bit

Fed by Atha… This one was nestling on his ribs when he found

We started from Colombo around 5.30Am on 31st August. And there were 11 persons with our team. We reach Kadugannawa around 8.45 and had breakfast.

On our first day our plan was to visit Bambara kiri ella, Riverston peak , Pitawala pathana, Thelagamu oya and Sera ella. We met with heavy rain on the way of Riverston peak and we all got wet. We couldn’t reach Riverston summit because of it was not safe to visit summit while thundering. We couldn’t visit Sera ella and Thelagamu oya because we haven’t enough time.

We have enough space to have our lunch in Pitawala pathana ticketing center and it was around 3.00 pm.
It was around 7.30 pm to reach ‘Ashane holiday bungalow’ in Dunuwila wasgamuwa. It was very nice place to stay and reasonable prices. Bungalow can be booked by contacting with its owner (0714725593).

Our second day plan was Wasgamuwa safari and safari jeep has been already arranged before trip started. We took jeep from Aberathna (0724084546) and jeep was in good condition

We started safari around 11.30 in next day and Aberathna came to the bungalow to pick us with his jeep.

Kadugannawa road. Nice morning.

On the way of Riverston

On the way of riverston

On the way of riverston

On the way of riverston

Bambatakiri ella

On the way of Bambarakiri ella. Green whip snake

On the way of Riverson peak

Having deep breath on the way of Riverston peak.

Having deep breath on the way of Riverston peak.

Mini worlds end pitawala pathana.

Mini worlds end pitawala pathana.

Mini worlds end pitawala pathana.

Pitawala pathana road.

Pitawala pathana.

Riverston peak transmission tower seen from pitawala pathana.

Pitawala lpathana

Pitawala lpathana

Rural Hena/Pala seen from mini worlds end pitawala pathana.

Pitawala pathana

Traditional wee-bissa in Dunuwila village wasgamuwa.

Bird nest near Dunuwila lake wasgamuwa

Safari jeep (Aberathna – 072-4084546)

Near dunuwila lake wasgamuwa

The place we stay.(Ashane holiday bangalow).Very nice place and reasonable price. It was 10000 for 13-14 peoples per night

Eagle Ready for breakfast

Wild Elephants in wasgamuwa.

Sri lankan jungle-fowl in wasgamuwa

Having a bath in mahawali river wasgamuwa

Wild crocodile inside wasgamuwa park

Whole team together

Hanguranketha and Walapane (Electorate areas) cover a large area of central hills. There are a number of unfamiliar waterfalls in this area. During my journey I wanted to visit at these waterfalls. Although I visited them haphazardly for your convenience I will note down them in an order.

Let’s start from the Kandy.

You can reach Rikillagaskada from Kandy via Hanguranketha (B39 road). The first waterfall I planned to visit was Katugashinna Ella/Mapala Ella (කටුගස් හින්න ඇල්ල/ මාපල ඇල්ල).

Katugashinna Ella/Mapala Ella-12m (කටුගස් හින්න ඇල්ල/ මාපල ඇල්ල)

It is situated in Madanwala (මාදoවෙල) area which is situated in between Hanguranketha and Rikillagaskada. Unfortunately it has no water during these days as water is diverted for irrigation purpose. Now it has become a seasonal waterfall. You can watch it at Madanwala behind the Ranga reception hall.

I was lucky to watch it in full flow during my second visit.

Katugashinna Ella in full flow

We missed this beautiful waterfall

There are few waterfalls closer to Rikillagaskada.

• Heeran Ella/ Uda Heeran Ella හීරo ඇල්ල/උඩ හීරo ඇල්ල
• Pahala Heeran Ella/? Galpihilla Ella පහල හීරo ඇල්ල /?ගල් පිහිල්ල ඇල්ල
• Penapusnawa Ella/ Beeri Ella/ Dunhinda Ella පෙණපුස්නාව ඇල්ල /බීරි ඇල්ල /දුන්හිද ඇල්ල

The water stream called Mul Oya/ Ma oya (මුල් ඔය/ මා ඔය) starts form Rahathungoda (රහතුන්ගොඩ) and flows through Wagama (වෑගම), Diggapitiya (දිග්ගපිටිය) and Kithulpe (කිතුල්පේ) to join with the Mahaweli River. It forms Heeran Ella cascades at Wagama and Diggapitiya.

You can reach Wagama from Rikillagaskada via Hewahata by bus. But we walked to Wagama by a foot pathway from Ekiriya (ඇකිරිය) (After visiting at Limestone cave) through beautiful paddy fields. You can watch Heeran Ella cascades on your way to Wagama ancient temple.

Heeran Ella cascades… Upper arrow shows Uda Heeran Ella Lower arrow shows Pahala Heeran Ella

These waterfalls will become seasonal in near future. It will happen most probably within next 3-4months after finishing construction of hydropower electric project.

To reach the upper Heeran Ella follow the footsteps and cross under the giant water tube. Go further down till you meet the water canal. Then follow the water canal towards the waterfall till you meet it.

Uda Heeran Ella උඩ හීරo ඇල්ල
Actually this waterfall has two parts. You can only reach upper part and lower part can be only viewed. It has a height of 20m.

Upper part of Uda Heeran Ella waterfall

Closer view

Flow following the cascade. Nice place to bath

Can imagine the beauty of it during rainy season

White arrow shows the lower part. Both parts of the waterfall can be viewed from the place showing by star.

On our way back I got down to a private land captured the full waterfall

Giant tube extending down parallel to the water stream.

To reach Pahala Heeran Ella we followed our way back along the concrete road towards the Heenpitiya (හීන්පිටිය) temple. There is another water canal near the temple and followed it towards the waterfall. Locals say this as Pahala Heeran Ella or both waterfalls as Heeran Ella. But literature mentions about a waterfall called Galpihilla Ella at this area. This may be the Galpihilla Ella.

Pahala Heeran Ella/? Galpihilla Ella පහල හීරo ඇල්ල /?ගල් පිහිල්ල ඇල්ල

Pahala Heeran Ella-Distance view

Pahala Heeran Ella closer view

Flow following the waterfall

It is height is about 10m

The beauty

Landscaping at Diggapitiya

Showing his colors

After visiting at Pahala Heeran Ella we walked back towards the Heenpitiya temple and went to Kithulpe. Mul Oya/Ma Oya flows in the Kithulpe and forms Penapusnawa Ella. Some locals call it Beeri Ella or Dunhinda Ella.

There are two ways to approach this waterfall. One foot pathway is extending before the Kithulpe Bridge. Follow it and cross the anicut and then go down through the small forest patch to reach the base of the waterfall. You may come across construction of another hydropower project.

Next road is after the Kithulpe Bridge. If you follow this road you can come to the top of the waterfall.

Penapusnawa Ella/ Beeri Ella/ Dunhinda Ella-15m පෙණපුස්නාව ඇල්ල /බීරි ඇල්ල /දුන්හිද ඇල්ල

Penapusnawa Ella

Closer view. Now less mist due to low water.

Another beauty

On top of the waterfall. They have diverted water from the waterfall.

View from the top.

Next set of waterfalls I hunted at Padiyapelalla. Padiyapelalla is a small town you will come across on your way to Walapane from Rikillagaskada.

I have visited the misty town called Mandaram Nuwara from Padiyapelalla. You will come across following cascades on your way to Mandaram Nuwara.

1. Kabaragala cascades (කබරගල ඇලි)
2. Seethalakanda Waterfall (සීතලකන්ද ඇල්ල)
3. Ethinawala Ella (ඇතිනාවල ඇල්ල)
4. Okandagala Ella/ Gerandi Ella (ඔකදගල ඇල්ල/ගැරඩි ඇල්ල) is a seasonal waterfall in most of the time
5. Mahakandura Ella (මහකදුර ඇල්ල) -most probably
6. Three unnamed waterfalls

Mandaram Nuwara is a small town situated closer to the north border of the Piduruthalagala mountain range. I traveled from Padiyapelalla to Good wood (ගුඩ් වුඩ්) (another small village is situated beyond Mandaram Nuwara).

Belihuk Oya (බෙලිහුක් ඔය) started from North West region of Piduruthalagala range. This forms Kabaragala cascades.

Another hydropower project planned on Belihuk oya

Piduruthalagala mountain range

Piduruthalagala mountain range covering with mist

Another landscaping

.

Mandaram Nuwara and Piduruthalagala range-Taken at Good wood

Misty covering above Mandaram Nuwara

Another snap

Kabaragala cascades කබරගල ඇලි 

Kabaragala cascades are situated at Elamulla (එළමුල්ල) area. Locals are used to call Kabaragala waterfalls for all the waterfalls found in this area. But correct Kabaragala waterfall is situated behind the Elamulla hydropower house.

Take the road from Elamulla towards the hydropower house.

Kabaragala waterfall is situated right behind the power house. Although it is mention, need written permission to visit at powerhouse, actually no need. Just talk to plant officer or plant operator to go through the powerhouse area to visit at waterfall. If you need they may show the Hydropower plant as well.

Kabaragala waterfall

Closer view of the waterfall

This waterfall has water throughout the year due to its origin in high attitude.

Kabaragala in monochrome

Following Kabaragala waterfall we needed to visit at Seethalakanda waterfall which is situated above Kabaragala waterfall. Kabaragala hydropower house is operated by water from this waterfall. Although literature tells it as Seethalakanda waterfall, locals use Kabaragala waterfall for this as well.

Seethalakanda Waterfall සීතලකන්ද ඇල්ල

This is one of a beautiful waterfall I have visited. You have to climb about 1-1.5km from Kabaragala waterfall to reach Seethalakanda waterfall. The trail starts from the left side of the pathway towards the Kabaragala waterfall. It follows the giant tube which carries water towards the hydropower plant. Climbing of this trail is also a wonderful experience.

The foot pathway goes parallel to the giant tube.

Have to climb this and go through the narrow pathway through the rock

My friend is squeezing through the narrow pathway

Another part of foot pathway

They have released water for Kabaragala waterfall

Landscape once you come out

Nice place to have a house

Lime houses in Kabaragala estate

Thick mountain forest

The place where water is controlled. Get the right hand side road to reach the waterfall. Remember the left hand side road for return journey.

Piduruthalagala mountain range

Piduruthalagala mountain range

Road to follow

.

First glance of Seethalakanda waterfall. Note no water down to the waterfall. Because they have diverted water for hydro power generation.

Closer view of the waterfall

This is how water is taken away

Another picture of this beauty.

We had a safe bath at Seethalakanda waterfall. Then we followed the same road till that small house is met. Next we continued the road by passing that house and then went down by a small foot pathway. Better clarify your way if farmers are there.

On our return journey

Unnamed waterfall we met on our way. It was around 10-15m height.

It was difficult to walk without capturing beautiful landscapes.

The way through abounded lands following cultivation of tea.

Another unnamed waterfall I have noticed on our way back

The top of waterfall can be reached from Kabaragala estate.

Another waterfall. This waterfall also named as Kabaragala Ella. You may notice this on your way towards Ellamulla hydro power plantation.

Just before sun set

Ethinawala Ella (ඇතිනාවල ඇල්ල)
This is another beautiful waterfall you may come across on your way to Mandaram Nuwara from Padiyapalla. It is situated just before Deegalahinna Maha Vidyalaya (දීගල්හින්න මහා විද්යාලය). You have to follow the foot pathway on right hand side of the road to reach this waterfall.

It is height is about 15m-20m.

Ethinawala Ella-you have to cross the water stream to reach the waterfall. Avoid in heavy rainy days as water level may be fluctuated.

Pollution started

Closer view of the waterfall.

Garandi Ella/Okandagala Ella ඔකදගල ඇල්ල/ගැරඩි ඇල්ල

The name Garandi Ella is used by locals. But literature says Okandagala Ella which starts from Okandagala Mountain. This is a cascade with 4-5 parts. In my first visit it was a dry fall. But during my second visit I could see a significant waterfall. To get a full view of this waterfall you have to travel from Padiyapelalla to Walapane. Just after passing Padiyapelalla town full view of this cascade can be captured.

It’s last part can be captured on Padiyapelalla-Kandy road just before Mandaram Nuwara road.

Note-Dry waterfall-Garandi Ella/Okandagala Ella. Captured from Matiyambe area

Almost full cascade of Garandi Ella/ Okandagala Ella height is about 63m.

Middle parts of Okandagala falls/ Garandi Ella. Captured on my way to Walapane.

Middle parts of Okandagala falls/ Garand Ella.

Lower parts of this cascade. Captured at Padiyapelalla-Kandy road.

Lower parts of this cascade. People are used to bath here.

? Mahakandura Ella ?මහකදුර ඇල්ල

This is one of my retrospective imaginations. Literature says about a waterfall which has a height of 102m (13th highest waterfall of Sri Lanka) and it is situated close to Elamulla as Mahakandura Ella. This waterfall is also a seasonal waterfall. It actively appears during rainy season. During my first visit to Mandaram Nuwara I couldn’t notice such a high waterfall. But during my second visit to Padiyapelalla I have seen a waterfall somewhat closer to Garandi Ella/ Okandagala fall. According to the description in the book and it’s height, can be identified as the Mahakandura Ella. I might be wrong.

? Mahakandura Ella. According to it’s appearance, height and situation most probably Mahakandura Ella.

On my way back to Padiyapelalla from Elamulla, I have noticed another unnamed waterfall at Nugayaya (නුගයාය) area. It flows under the bridge. If you need a full view, you have to under the bridge. But I didn’t try it.

Bridge at Nugayaya. Waterfall flows under this bridge.

It is difficult to capture the whole waterfall. But it has a height about 10-15m.

Another view

Atupola falls 1 and 2
These two waterfalls are situated closer to Padiyapelalla. But we were unable to reach bases of these waterfalls. Therefore couldn’t take full view of them.

Atupola falls 1 අටුපොල ඇල්ල 1
You have to travel to Ukuthale (උකුතලේ) village from Padiyapelalla. The road is motorable to some extent. Here after you have to climb stairs of the foot pathway through houses of villagers. They will direct you to Atupola fall 1. On our way we could capture both Garandi Ella/ Okandagala falls and ?Mahakandura Ella in one view.

On our way to Atupola Ella 1

Atupola Ella 1. Ukuthale oya flows and make this waterfall. Lower part can’t be seen here.

Closer view. It’s height is about 15m.

I went down through vegetable plots and tried to capture it. This is the maximum length I captured.

To get a full view of this waterfall you have to go along the water stream which is in right angle to the waterfall. But two villagers advised us to not to go along it as it is slippery due to rain.
Therefore we had to give up the idea of get a full view.

Then we crossed the Ukuthale Oya and walked through paddy fields to reach Mathurata (මතුරට) town.

Ukuthale Oya, just before make the waterfall

Ukuthale oya

Landscapes at Ukuthale village

The same Ukuthale Oya flows along the Padiyapelalla town and makes Atupola Falls 2.

Atupola falls 2 අටුපොල ඇල්ල 2

This waterfall can be seen from above over the bridge closer to petrol shed in Padiyapelalla town along Walapane road. To get a side view, you have to go through the road towards Navodya School Padiyapelalla (නවෝදා පාසල පදියපැලැල්ල) . Even in that road also you can’t get a full view. We tried to go to the base of the waterfall. But it was unsuccessful.

Atupola falls 2. Height is about 12m. Black arrow shows the bridge.

The circle shows Atupola falls 2. Ukuthale oya joins with Belihuk Oya.

The last cascade in this journey was Andawala falls.

Andawala falls අදාවල ඇල්ල
This waterfall is situated in between Padiyapelalla and Walapane closer to the main road at Andathota (අදාතොට) area. It’s height is about 40m. It also acts as a seasonal waterfall and sometimes disappears during dry season.

Andawala falls. Less in water.

Upper part of Andawala falls.

People were used to bath here. It is a famous bathing point.

Thank you for reading.

The map – Click to enlarge

Few months ago Kokagala came across my visual path while I was on top of Olagangala hermitage. Never knew what this rock was until I noted it close up at Padiyathalawa. During my first visit to Padiyathalawa I requested from my trishaw driver to find me a guide and let me know and within few months I was all ready to conquer it. Though Amila planned to join me in this venture he couldn’t make it and as usual I was left alone. I was determined and having a local guide I was not going to postpone this hike for any reason. You might be wondering what’s so special about this rock. Let me say few words about this gigantic beauty. It is a 640m tall monad-knock bordering Maduru oya reservoir and been an isolated mountain range with plenty of room to wonder about was very tempting indeed. On the road map even this mount could be found marked as a prominent peak by suddas and I was about to find some very interesting facts about it too. During the period of English rule this was used as a gunning practice rock just like Dimbulagala which we found evidence of it scattered around the mountain.

Kokagala as seen from olagangala, uraniya

kokagala as seen from madulsima worlds end

The mountain consisted of two main separated parts and the part which we didn’t climb was called Kudagala. This time I was planning to spend the night on top of this giant and witness the sun rise from the eastern coastal line. I met Sumanarathne at Padiyathalawa and bought some stuff which we thought would be helpful in this quest. Next we proceeded towards Sumanarathners home at Maunnawela and waited till it was 2.30pm to start on our venture. We were marching towards the last house close to the forest boundary and continued along a foot path which led towards the forest. From the beginning onwards it was slippery uphill climb thanks to the layers of dried out leaves. This part was the most difficult and at some points the knees were even touching our chins. Next landmark was a flat area where a stream could be found and we had to follow it towards the east. But we decided to have a break at a rocky edge which was close by and enjoy some stunning scenery towards Padiyathalawa and Maha oya. After having a mini break we continued upstream and reached the only natural water spring where we refilled our bottles. This is the only place where one could find drinking water while hiking Kokagala.

Kokagala as seen from Mahiyangana rd

the drop

walking towards the rock

a very very steep climb

natural cave

Malaboda just like sadikka

Padiyathalawa town

Damanugala as seen from the view point

towards maha oya and uhana

Madulsima range

Madiyagala at Ekiriyankumbura

Panorama of Padiyathalawa

the only natural spring

relatively flat area

10 to 15 minutes from the above mentioned stream we reached the edge of the mountain where we had to crawl along the rock to get on top of it. A huge thunder storm was waiting to treat us in an unexpected way so we did hurry a bit and reached the endless plateau of Kokagala. At that moment we witnessed Maduru oya reservoir been blessed with pouring showers and we were next in line. Though we reached a plateau area the summit was about 1Km away. We set foot towards the forest patch which was so spooky at that moment and reemerged at another side where we had to wait hiding under the forest cover until the thunder shower passed us.

After about an hour we reached the wet rock with two rock ponds and Sumane suggested that camping here would be ideal. One rock pond had greenish water and the nearby min rock hole had clear water. We started a fire with uttermost difficulty and started cooking some noodles. At around 7.30pm we had a nice warm dinner before deciding to wrap a sheet around and sleep with the aid of the warmth of our camp fire. At 2pm I suddenly woke up because the cool breeze was creeping through my bed sheet and I noted the whole sky had cleared off. Lit up Padiyathalawa and Thundering lighting seen in the direction of central hills produced some unforgettable sightings during my sudden wake up which I still wonder if it was a dream or so.

naw wal used to tie things

before the rain

had to crawl from here onwards

HDR

the maduru oya reservoir receiving a shower

the forest patch on top of the hill

the rain thinned out

the rain was a blessing to the mountain

macro

towards Omanugala

water source at the camping site

boiling some water

cooking noodles for dinner

yummy

Padiyathalawa town at night

Just before the sun rise

Next day at around 5am we woke up and started preparing some tea before keeping the rice pan on fire. The smoke fragrance which we were wrapped with was unbearable but yet we were in acceptance. I was denied of a lovely sun rise from the eastern oceans because the coastal area was too cloudy and the Tempered dhal with rice made me forget about it. At around 7 we started walking towards the summit and after a small climb through the bushes we reached the top most part where a rocky pagoda could be found with a fallen flag post. At the summit point there were two engravings found and both of these were names of Englishman which we assumed to be of Survey engineers. Here is an interesting link about a similar engraving by C. Erskine.

i was denied a sun rise

tea time

where are you mighty sun

camp site

lovely

part of maduru oya reservoir

next target friars hood

eeyam

towards Akuloba and beyond

Gal oya and namal oya mountains

the eastern ocean can be seen faintly

time to move on

nuwaragala

welimba hela

danigala, rathugala mountains

yummy

camp site cleaned

more to climb

beauty

it had an awesome smell

bin nelli

hatu

dried out

striving

finally the summit of kokagala

wonder who they were

may be a survey officer

the endless plain

From here onwards it was all about wondering about enjoying the breath taking scenery. It was bit windy but that was a blessing to us. We reached a point where a sheer drop could be appreciated. And once one looks down Maduru oya could be seen bordered by Chena’s and a forest patch. It was a fascinating sight to see how the river meets the reservoir at a far end. From the top Ekiriyankumbura mountains, Madulsima range, Loggal oya reservoir, Padiyathalawa town, Mawaragala, Mahiyanganaya and the sthupa, Central hills, whole of knuckles range , Sora bora lake, Mahaweli river, Ulhitiya lake, Dehiaththakandiya, Maduru oya reservoir and sanctuary, Dimbulagala, Omanugala, Narakamulla range, Maha oya, Nuwaragala, Friars hood, Gal oya mountains and the eastern ocean could be seen. There were plenty more landmarks but I could not recall at this moment. There is an adjoining Rocky plateau called Kobothalagala and elephants are frequently seen on it.

towards Ulhitiya

note the whole of knuckles range

madulsima range

beauty

cant remember the name

Narangala

Ulhitiya reservoir

colourful

far away welimada , nuwara eliya regions seen

towards loggal oya reservoir

mahiyanganaya

the shadow

note maduru oya river

knuckles range with hunnasgiriya peak

plenty of chena

maduru oya

pano towards mahiyangana

Dehiaththakandiya

mawaragala and soro bora wewa

knuckles range

Maduru oya reservoir

the river meeting the reservoir

kuda hela

the lonely tree

kahata

more to walk

towards maha oya

Since the surrounding was warming up quickly than we thought and the heat was getting unbearable we decided to start our return journey. On the way back through the forest patch on top of the mountain we collected 2Kg’s of Goraka for Sumanarathna. We also did not forget to have a stop at the fresh water stream which we found on the previous day to observe how the insects, serpents and other animals fulfilled their water need at that point. While descending we also tasted few Atamba fruits which were miniature Mangos of the wild. After reaching the base we rushed towards a well and had a bath to wash away the tiredness before having our lunch. It was time for me to thank Sumane and his family for their great hospitality and cherish with some lovely memories to be added to my life line. At Padiyathalawa I took a trishaw and reached a lake close to the main road of Mahiyanganaya to have a good picture of the mountain which I just climbed and headed back to Monaragala

some one has been hunting wild boars

goraka

lovely forest patch on top of kokagala

towards ekiriyankumbura just before descending

rahaiyo

giant trees

bambara at the stream

wewal

kubala

directions

yum yum atamba

getting down

last house

phew what a place

local hospitality

waiting to be planted during the next monsoons

Thanks for reading!

Water is life .Value of it cannot be measured in rupees or dollars. Not only for our basic needs but also for our pleasure, Leisure it’s the most commonly used thing. And for me if there is no water source it’s not a trip. I’d like to swim in swiftly flowing rivers and am desperate to dip in natural pools filled with Crystal clear water. When I jump in to water I forget everything other than dipping and swimming. Cool H2O molecules kisses my head and entire body so as to wash over mental and physical stress. And colour combination of the rocks around and stones under the pool make me forget about past and future. One can call it as present mind consciousness or meditation. Somehow rather it’s Holly thing for me. Last month I was able to visit a place where you could find plenty of water wherever you go. That’s KITULGALA where you see Crystal clear water where ever. So here is the story our memorable trip to Kitulgala

Sri and me, met at Kotawa around 7.00a.m and Tony was coming on a Embilipitiya bus. We got in to the bus around 7.45 and three of us had a nice chat till we got off at Avissawella .We had breakfast there and purchased some food stuff and other goods and got in to a kitulgala bus . We reached Kitulgala by 11.30 a.m. where we met our three wheel driver and guide Sumudu.

After discussing with sumudu we decided to visit Beli Lena and Handun Ella first and then come to Makandawa early as possible to explore somewhat in the jungle and camp before dark. We preserved next day to explore the rest of the forest and see Mannakethi Ella and Kataram oya.

Nearby mountain

On the way to beli lena. There is a small ascend

Cave

First we headed towards Belilena after turning left from Butukiththa Junktion where the name board called BeliLena clearly visible. As Beli Lena is a famous and well known destination I am not going to describe the path one by one. Just confirm the path from locals. Since road conditions were terrible you have to use a vehicle with high ground clearance. We stopped at a junction in In Oya estate where further driving was not possible and walked nearly 750m to reach beli Lena

Surrounding

Searching for shells but yet to find them

BeliLena Falls

Inside the upper cave

Dripping

Our Group with the caretaker of the BeliLena

QUOTE FROM unknownsrilanka
Beli Lena cave at Kithulgala was excavated and researched between the years 1978-1983 by the Sri
Lankan archaeological department. The cultural deposits at the site after 25 radiometric tests were
determined to be from 30,000 – 900 years before the present day.

A diverse range of cultural, faunal and human remains were excavated. Amongst the things
discovered were some geometric microlithic stone tools which at 30,000 years are among the oldest
found to date in the world. There have also been some bone tools along with evidence of fire having
been used from 30,000 years ago onwards. The site also brought to light numerous animal remains
that had quite obviously been used for consumption. Some of the animal remains found were to
name a few sambhur, pig, barking deer, monkeys, porcupines, giant squirrels, and an assortment of
reptiles and fish. There is also evidence that the primitive human species that lived here referred to
as the Balangoda man had a diet that was primarily comprised of mammals, tree and aquatic snails
and food plants such as breadfruit and canarium (kekuna) nuts.

There is evidence that some sort of exchange network had also been established 30,000 years ago
onwards with the coastal lagoons which were some 80kms away.

The earliest evidence to date of substantial structures has been discovered at this site owing to the
rubble foundations dated to 16,000 years before present day. Skeletal remains found here in the
levels dating back 16,000 years have been intensively analysed by an international team of
anthropologists as these remains are invaluable to help us understand the physical anthropology of
the Balangoda man. Beli-Lena awaits further excavation and investigation by future generations of
Sri Lankan archaeologists with progressively sharper analytical skills.
Directions and location
The drive to the Kitulagala Beli Lena is a short but winding picturesque route thorough many rubber
estates and little water falls which are dotted along the pathway. Belilena Cave is close to the Ing
Oya rubber estate which is about 8 kilometers from the Kitulgala town. To reach Beli Lena turn at
Kitulgala Temple on Iyanwatta road to reach the school. You need to trek by foot for about 1
kilometre up a pathway that has been partly paved to reach the cave. From Colombo the journey is
about 1.5 hours.

Care taker explained lots of things about beli Lena. According to him this had been a temple before it was researched by Archaeological department. According to him ancient people were exchanging goods with people came from sea side and they have exchanged Salt with them (don’t know which form )and with that they have got this shells called BELLO .But that idea is little hard to believe as i guess.

Then we moved on to see Handun Ella.We had to go upwards In Oya estate. We parked three-wheeler in a small house and took a road to the right hand side. We had to walk upwards through a tea estate and met another house and took the footpath towards right hand side. After 15minutes trekking we reached the base of the fall. After spending some time there we reached the top of the fall.

Road to Handun Ella

Where we parked the vehicle ……..Tony is Showing the direction

Last house we met and took the path to right hand side

Some cascades we met

obstacles

Handun Ella

Fall with the deep base pool

Side by falls

Young Man PHOTO : SRI

of fall ……..See the damn Dam???????????????

View from the Top

Surrounding mountains

After spending some time we came back to Kitulgala and had our lunch .Then we rushed to Makandawa which was close to Kitulgala Rest house

We said good bye tour SUMUDU and came to the river Bank (Thotupola) and waited for our boat. That is a famous bathing place too…….

A Notice board Photo ……….Sri

Here comes the Paruwa

Hi Hi ……………..fake Rowing………………………………………… Photo …………….Sri……..

We reached the other bank and walked 500 + meters to reach the ticketing office

Distance is nearly 3 times than the board mentioned

.

We reached the office and bought tickets. As I had informed about our arrival to Adavi Wan Niladari(Mr. Bandara) and Mr. hettiarachchi , the ticketing officer (Mr. UPALI) gave us the permission for camping near ATHA WETUNA WALA and gave us the directions to reach there.

office

Map – Click Image to Enlarge

Turned left from here

Katussa Photo Sri

Mushrooms

One of the streams we met

HA Ha…..Although notice board informs like that Mr.Tony had to put something rather than foot prints In The forest. So we named that place as TONBOOK DOLA………………..Ask Tony for more details

There is was a notice board indicating the directions to Lenkiriella .That was the easy access to the top of the fall. But Tony and Sri wanted some adventure so that we took another path to reach the bottom of the falls. We were ascending and descending for a while and finally after a steep descend we reached the base of Lenthiri ella

Lanthiriella

Adding to our toughness the path was not continuing after this .So we contacted Mr.Upali again and got instructions to reach the top of the falls somehow rather and to walk upstream to reach the camping site. So after tiring journey by creeping through bushes we reached the top of the falls. Then we walked upstream.

We took the difficult route (marked by arrows) to reach the top

Stream

Few cascades

Further walking upstream

Finally we reached the camping site

Let me explain about the camping site. It is well built and was enough to pitch two small tents. It’s bordered by the steam and the jungle. In between the camping site and the stream there was a huge rock surface where we could do cooking and putting campfire even for lay down and relax. There was a toilet with tap line. Also there was a summer hut mainly built for bird watching as I guess. And close to the summer hut there was a natural pool for bathing where the middle part is somewhat deep. That was one of the perfect camping places according to my knowledge as you get almost everything for a camper. Adding to that people who camped earlier had left nothing and kept the place very clean. What else you Want????

First we just kept our bags on the rock surface and rested few minutes. Then we pitched the tent. Then collected some firewood and kept in a separate place. Then came my favourite activity. BATHING….. The pool consisted of two mini waterfalls. Sri and Tony picked a safe place for bathing and I was swimming everywhere. It was a rewarding experience.

Stream was very closer

My Tent

Toilet is clean and There was a tap line

Summer hut

Etha WetunuWala……. I was at a small waterfall .This area was somewhat deep…..just above 2m Photo : Sri

Newly married couple picked a safe place to bathe Photo : Sri

Then we prepared some Nescafe and started the camp fire. Then we prepared noodles for our dinner. After the dinner we sat around the fire and started our talent show. We were singing and chatting and dancing under shade of the moon and shining stars till midnight. Poor Tony had to prepare Nescafe for the second time as Ordered and Pleaded by SRI. Then we went our tent for sleep refreshing the beautiful memories of the day

Camp Fire Photo : Sri

Tony and Me were cooking and Sri was Supervising as usual Photo : Sri

Enjoying the moment Photo : Sri

Next day we walked up around 6.00 and got ready after having morning tea and Bread sandwich paste for breakfast. We cleaned the place and left around 7.30.Thistime we picked the clear path through the jungle

At this junction we turned and walked nearly 1 km.

Trek

Some land marks

Vegetation was little different……..

As we didn’t find any interesting places we returned back through the same path and turned the other direction to reach the ticketing office. Meantime we found several other camping places but they were not well maintained as the place we camped.

More water streams

Another natural pool .Safe for bathing

We came to the junction where we took the wrong path lat evening. Sri is showing the easy access to the Lanthiri Ella. Tony is showing the path we took last day. But if you want some adventure never mind of trying it even…….

We traveled again in the path tony was indicating and after few meters we took the right path lead to abounded paddy field

Yellow–Easy path to the top of the Lanthiri Ella Red- Difficult path base of lenthiri ella Green- Paddy field

Paddy field

Hut Made for bird watching

Mountain covered with mist

At This place we met a Mother and her kids walking towards a nearby village as I remember it’s Pallebage .We talked with them for while and Sri Managed to get a nice picture of kid and the mother

So Natural BYE.. SIRI MAME……. Photo :Sri

Then we spent some time in the hut and came back to the previous junction. After traveling further down me met another junction and turned left to see Makulu Ella. Remember if you are coming from ticketing office Makulu ella is to your right hand side left path will take you to other places mentioned in the sign boards

Guide Tony is showing the path to Makuluella to a person who is coming from the ticketing office

After 200 m we had to turn right ( Name board was there) and took the foot path down ward. But to reach the Makul ella easily one should carefully turn right at a junction instead of going straight to meet visible stream. We Went straight????. So we had to come down stream and took another difficult path to reach the fall. After enjoying the view of we came through the original Path. Sri was annoyed and said “Why we took wrong and two difficult paths to meet the Lentiri and Makulu Falls “. I laughed and replied “Hey Man God has just given us a training prior to our next adventure “ELI HATHA – MALIBODA”

Tricky junction Don’t follow Tony…………………………………… Follow me Photo SRI

Makulu Ella

Base pool with crystal clear water … I wanted to jump in again But Cruel SIRI Stopped me

Close by By cascade………………….

Then we reached the office. Thanked Mr. Upali and came back to Kitulgala . We phoned and asked Sumudu to pick us near Kitulgala Rest House.

Good bye Makandawa…………..(Mr. Upali Is in the Middle) Photo- Sri

Coming back…………..Genuine Rowing ……….Egodaha Yanno ….Megodaha enno….Thawa Kawruda inne………Photo :SRI

Then We moved towards Manna Kethi Ella. When you are coming from Colombo There is a road to left ( very close to Kitulgala Bridge) called Malwatta Road. After Passing Malwatta and the temple and going for another 1km driver took us to a junction where road divided in to two parts. We took the downward path and parked the vehicle at a house. Then we took left uphill Road. After few hundred meters we reached another junction with a Tree trunk. We knew from previous articles Right path would take us to Base and left path would take us to the top. As there was no clear footpath towards down, we followed left path and reached the top of the fall. Then we came back to the previous junction and went down wards searching the base pool. That was some tiring journey. Noticeable land mark is after few hundred meters you find huge rock which is in the left hand side. Descend was so steep and after passing lots of obstacles such as fallen trees, bushes etc we reached the base of the fall. View was so splendid. Although her name is Mannakethi she was very beautiful .But the base pool was so deep.

So we did a short documentary about the falls too.After spending considerable time we retuned back

Junction…….We took the right path Photo :SRI

We parked the three wheel here and took the left upward path Photo :SRI

Now the last junction With The tree Trunk …………Tony is resembling the path to top of the fall and me to the bottom of the fall Which is in the shape of MANNAYA/ KETHTHA Photo :SRI

Base pool On the Top Photo : Sri

View from the Top

Here we see the MANNA KETHI Ella

Blade Of the Keththa

Handle (Kethi Mita)

Getting back also not easy. Tony got a cramp Photo Sri

Then We came back to Kitulagla and headed towards Beautiful Kataram Oya .To reach it you have to go towards Hatton .After about 1 km passing Beli Lena Junction we turned right and crossed a bridge and reached village on the other bank. From this village also there is an access to Makandawa. Then we moved up wards in the terrible road and reached a house and parked the three wheeler then descend to the Kataram Oya

It’s a collection of 6-7 natural water basins with mini waterfalls on most of them. It’s one of the places you must visit in Kitulgala . There was a foreign couple and a gang of local boys doing some adventurous sports .Only difference was local people did these without safety equipments

First part of Kataram Oya . You could see three basins. There were 4 more Photo Sri

Crystal clear water Photo Sri

Deep natural pools Photo Sri

We did not come here for bathing and didn’t bring extra suitor towels. But I couldn’t wait for more jumped in to water having only the same dressing as local boys wore. Oh my god that was so rewarding .I was looking for these kinds of natural pools for a long time as it’s thousand times better than chlorine water in artificial swimming pools. So I asked Sri whether he want to see some adventure like Navaratne Mama’s(Meemure) and requested him to take some pics of my adventure + stunt action ( Not to publish in the forum… but to keep as a souvenir in my computer)………………………………….…………………But this cruel evil photographer had some other intentions as he was busy on shooting foreign couple how they engaged in the sport. What to do…No Pics. of Me . But that experience is stored deep in my brain and when I ever close my eye I remember that holly experience .I Love Water…………. .

There were some other deep pools downstream with higher cascades. But we couldn’t reach those without safety equipments as there was no other way to reach them other than jumping in to the water. But those brave local boys approached with no safety kits and enjoyed best of it. So we finished our all shooting, bathing etc and came back.

Adventurous sports …Here they go…………… PHOTO SRI

Beauty is coming down PHOTO : SRI

They are safe with safety equipments PHOTO SRI

Cruel Photographer Photo Sri

On our way we visited the place where a Scene of “Bridge on the river Kwai “was shooted. According to our guide the depth of the river is more than 60ft at this point.

Around 3.30 p.m. we came back to Kitulgala, had a hearty lunch and got on to a Colombo bus. We all went our homes

Before 10.00 p.m. memorizing the wonderful journey we had.

Near the Wakkalama where Bridge on the river Kwai was filmed Photo Sri

Rafting Photo Sri

Good bye Kitulgala ………We are coming Back Soon Probably for Rafting Photo Sri

THANK YOU FOR READING.

The map – Click to enlarge

Arangala is a mountain I came across while browsing through Chalitha’s profile on Facebook and since then I also wanted to be there and enjoy the magical scenery around Mathale and Dambulla! This gigantic rock is also called Nalanda rock since it is located close to Nalanda village. And also been at the center of the island it holds a special place compared to other peaks. Arangala also has a past history related to Weera Keppetipola and Gongale goda banda who formed troops at this mountain.

As usual this time also Amila was available even though it was a very short notice. He had fully geared up and arrived at Arangala where we met each other. The dazzling rocky mountain could be appreciated even from the main road and after having some breakfast we marched towards the youth corps center (as I remember). From there onwards we traveled along a concrete road and reached its end at the base of the mountain. A close by resident was kind enough to let us leave some unnecessary weight behind. He also mentioned that they have climbed it last week and that the path was marked with arrows, so we decided to give it a try without any guides.

The path ran through a typical dry zone forest and the fallen leaves were going to be a major problem especially at steep points. Gradually the ascent begun and the occasional green arrows seemed to be getting less frequent. After a while there were only arrows scribbled on rocks and faintly seen, nevertheless we enjoyed hunting arrows. We were slowly climbing through a gap between Arangala and another mountain while winding around the rocky slope of Arangala. Some pit stops were taken for chatting and resting; somehow with some difficulties we followed the path and arrived at a place where an arrow was drawn right up towards the blue sky on a rocky slope. From here onwards it was a miniature rock climbing session and at the end of it we met few guys who were resting after collecting a bag full of “Beheth nelli”. After having a chat with them and tasting few Nelli’s we headed towards a perfect resting point with a grand view towards Ambokka peak. From here onwards it was a walk through mana with continuous breeze dehydrating us.

Knuckles range as seen from Nalanda

Arangala

Arangala as seen from the road

off we go

a cave

an arrow on a tree trunk

crossing a dry stream

must keep an eye for these

these were difficult to locate

aiding our crawl

Bowatenna

we were offered a hand full of nelli from some villagers

beautiful scenery

Wiltshire and etipola

correctly named

on the way scenery

bowatenna reservoir

last bit

After tackling the short mana we reached the top where we found some shelter between few bushes where we rehydrated ourselves. The scenery seemed so stunning but we had to rest a bit so we could regenerate our lost energy. At the southern end of the rock there is a constructed pagoda which had been vandalized by visitors and from this point Matale, Bowatenna reservoir and Nalanda reservoir could be seen easily. Next we marched towards the second peak and climbing it with challenging windy conditions was not easy at all. After descending from the second peak it was a walk along mana towards the main peak of Arangala where one could enjoy a 360 degree view. Plenty of Panoramas were taken even before having a proper look around.

almost there

dolukanda seen far away

ruined pagoda

what a view

Nalanda town

Bowatenna dam

Bowatenna reservoir

Karagahatenna and reverston

galagiriya side

nalanda reservoir

naula town

part of nalanda lake

pano towards Bowatenna

pano towards kurunegala and ambokka

plenty of paddy

towards the second peak

second peak

the wind was too strong

wow	the main peak

Galkiriyagama

what a path

contrast

looking down

From the top we did see Matale region, Kandy region, Wiltshire, Etipola and Brandy rock, Ambokka, whole of Knuckles range with Reverston peak, Karagahatenna peak, Bowatenna reservoir, Nalanda reservoir, Dolukanda, Galgamuwa peaks, Galgiriyawa, Hakwetuna oya, Ibbagamuwa, Wemedilla lake, Len dora range(Menikdeniya), Gedaragala pathana, Dambulla wewa, Kandalama wewa, Kandalama peak, Naula and Nalanda towns and many more landmarks that I couldn’t identify. Since it was 12noon the skies were all blue providing perfect scenery for us.

summit

wallpapers

manikdeniya and kandalama peaks

Marutuluwa

gedaragalapathana

two man team

marutulawa and dambulu wewa

kala wewa side

what a place

naula

dambulu wewa

wemedilla reservoir

etipola and matale

the drop

ibbagamuwa side

pano from the summit

Dambulla side pano

ambokka peak

marutuluwa

After hanging around for an hour or so we started descending along the path we came. Again it was a hunt for arrows and yet again we enjoyed every bit of it! Tired and exhausted were we at the end of the trail and a nearby natural spring well was a blessing for us. After thanking the local who helped us we took off slowly towards a “bath kade” to have some lunch before hiring a trishaw to get to Nalanda gedige.

returning back

lonely beauty

galewela

the second peak

dried out

on the way back

where we were

found some beauties along the road

I have been to Nalanda gedige on many occasions but didn’t have any photographs, so since Amila also insisted on visiting it we headed towards Gedige to enjoy some stunning architecture and carvings. After a brief session at Nalanda gedige we returned back to Nalanda town to head towards Kandy and then in the direction of our end destination Colombo. Let me say good bye to you readers, by singing a chorus part of an old song about Arangala

Ranpota thelambuwa maniketa waram labunu da

Arangale di maniketa warada labunuda //

towards gedige

pagoda at gedige

nalanda gedige

beautiful creation

elephants

a face

sharply carved

interesting carving

budhdha carving

beautiful nalanda gedige a mixture of sri lanka and indian architecture

the statue

the path to gedige

Quote

Estimates of its date of construction vary from the 8th to 10th centuries AD. This was a period of great turmoil on the island, with South Indian kings establishing themselves in the wake of the decline of the Sinhalese monarchy. It is possible that Nalanda Gedige was a bold attempt at a fusion of Tamil and Sinhalese cultures.

History of Nalanda Gedige as an archaeological site began in 1893, when, according to then Archaeological Commissioner, H. C. P. Bell, “land was acquired round this little-known and solitary shrine of granite construction, popularly styled gedige. It is situated on raised ground in paddy fields, picturesquely surrounded by low hills and wooded hamlets. In 1911 a small gang was detached from the labor force at Sigiriya to thoroughly root out all the jungle growth upon and around the ruin besides cutting still further back the earth silt hiding the bold stylites upon which the fane stands. Very special importance attaches to this unique temple, as it is the sole example yet discovered in Ceylon of composite styles of architecture judiciously blended to form a delightfully homogeneous edifice.”

Bell had significant plans for the restoration of the Nalanda Gedige – involving its dismantlement and relocation – as is apparent from his report of 1912: “It will be necessary to gradually extend the open space to the north and east of the gedige ruin, so far as practicable, in reasonable expectation of discovering other buried members of the structure, before it is partially dismantled with a view to correct reconstruction. For this fine edifice cannot be allowed to remain in its present semi-deceptive elevation, when all stones on the ground have been recovered from the earth.”

However, nothing transpired until much later, in the 1980s, when the shrine was threatened with inundation by the waters of the newly created Bowatenne Tank. The opportunity was taken to dismantle the ruin and rebuild it on the bund(retaining wall) of the tank, high above the waters. It stands now reconstructed beside the tank, and is approached by a flower-edged causeway with a magnificent backdrop of tree-clad hills.

Nalanda Gedige is a curious hybrid of Buddhist and Hindu architecture. Some of the design elements are distinctly Hindu, such as the mandapam or hall of waiting. Yet there is no sign of Hindu gods. There are erotic but eroded Tantric Buddhist carvings, much like the famous ones at Khajuraho in India. The richly decorated façade sections are in the 7th century style which flourished at Madras, South India. However, the southern section has a semi-circular niche containing in high relief a squat figure of Kuvera, the god of wealth, seated on a lotus plinth – an image that is only found in Sri Lanka.

Roland Raven-Hart, writing in Ceylon: History in Stone (1964) describes this hybridisation: “Elsewhere there are plenty of Hindu buildings, and plenty of Buddhist ones, and some muddled mongrels; but here the styles are interwoven. The ground-plan is Buddhist, the vestibule pure Hindu and so is the little windowless shrine: the plain moonstone and crocodile balustrade and rivers of dwarfs and architrave of the doorway are Sinhalese, and jambs Tamilian; even the sculptures are fairly shared. The whole effect is charming and for me unexpectedly classical, nor did I find the exterior “over-richly decorated” as did Bell, though it is crowded with pilasters and horseshoe false windows and more jolly dwarfs. And the dome must have been a worthy climax when all its four faces were present, each with horseshoe niche and statue, instead of the one only which was found.

We got off the train from Badulla in the morning after a long 12 hour journey. The list of “must do” in Uva province was getting longer ever since Ashan started roaming in Uva and his reports started flooding into the Lakdasun forum. We were hoping to cover a few of those places and 5 of us were on a hiking trip, hoping to do 3 trails in 3 days. Our accommodation was close to Passara so we quickly did shopping and got into a Passara bus.

The dawn

Namunukula seen under the dawn from close to Idalgashinna

View from Idalgashinna

Bandarawela

Day 1

After dropping our baggages and stuff, we were off for our 1st mission, to climb the Lunugala peak. We went to Passara town and tried to find a bus going in that direction. Since it was Saturday afternoon we could not find a bus going in that direction from Passara, so had to hire a 3 wheeler to reach to the place where the trail started. It was past noon when we started the lunugala hike. It was not a difficult hike. There’s no path but neither a chance of getting lost. It is an isolated hill with no tree cover, so we could see where we were going.

Lunugala peak seen from 9th mile post

Towards Monaragala

Landmark of the trail head

Medawelagama junction where the trail head is

The trail

here we go

But the lack of tree canopy meant we had to walk directly under the sun. Humidity was also high as some dark clouds were gathering. So we were sweating a lot. But a staggering view was unveiling in front of us making us to forget all the tiredness. From one side we could see the endless view towards Monaragala and from another side the beautiful Loggal Oya valley was seen.

Pinkc quartz

no tree cover at all

Loggal oya valley

Loggal oya reservoir and Randenigala range

.	Massive plains towards Wellawaya

.	What a view

Towards Monaragala

Gal Oya Reservoir

Gal Oya range and Wadinagala peak

When we got to the top we were simple stunned by the view. It was full 360 degree view from there. One side was towards Buttala, Monaragala and beyond all the way up to the coastline over the south eastern plains. Majestic Namunukula range was seen from another side. The never tiring lovely valley of Loggal Oya and the Knuckles range in the far corner were straight ahead. Madulsima range was standing like a huge wall from the other side.

The summit

There was this large whole at teh summit. wonder what was teh purpose

Maragala kanda peak – what a place it was…!

Senanayake Samudraya

Passara town

Wow

Towards Buttala

Beautiful Loggal Oya valley

Namunukual gets the blessings from the gods

After some time we started descending and came to the road. As it turned out there were no buses, so we decided to walk until we met a bus or a 3 wheeler. But unfortunately there were no buses and all the 3 wheelers we met had people onboard. So we kept walking along the beautiful road stretch and after some distance we met an old person and we inquired how far it was to the Aradunu falls from there and got the answer “not more than 1km”. We were energized by the answer and did not even bother to get into the bus we eventually met. It was too late when we realizes that we were misguided and were very tired, had no water left in our bottles.

We had walked more than 4km when we reached the turn off to the falls and found we had to go another 2km along a tea estate. None of the 3 wheeler guys agreed to go saying the road is too bad, but luckily one guy who felt sorry for us agreed to go as far as he could. That guy was so genuine; he went all the way down and gave us directions to the top of the fall and down, as well as a route to return to Passara. He even waited to make sure we got onto the correct path.

Aradunu falls was an absolute beauty formed from the Loggal Oya. There is a water diversion to a mini hydro project, so the fall should be not so great to see when the water level is low. But fortunately it had enough water to make us happy. We had little dip to wash away our tiredness

Top of Aradunu falls

top view

WOW	Water level is low but My God it’s a beauty..!

Aradunu Falls

WOW

Day 2

We had reserved the whole day 2 for visiting the World’s End in Pitamaruwa. The one and only bus is scheduled to reach Passara at 9.00 am so we did not have to be in a rush. But what we hear on the previous day regarding the availability of bus created a doubt in our minds, so we left early to Passara.

Namunukula

WOW

Like a painitng

The Pitamaruwa bus – a rusty, little, had battered CTB bus – reached Passara on time and started the journey at around 9.30. It was pretty crowded and the journey was slow and long along the spectacular road with a magnificent view. The view kept getting better and better as we closed in to Madulsima. The mighty Piduruthalagala range was standing like a huge wall across the hill country. We were enjoying the endless view of the summit of Sri Lanka, Thotupola Kanda, and the Haggala peak. The Namunukula range was in between standing alone majestically.

On the way to Madulsima – Piduruthalagala covered

Hakgala peak

It was a spectacular view

The scenic road to Madulsima

The one and only bus

After a 2 hours journey, 1st part along a good tarmac and then on a stretch which hardly can be described as a road, we got off at the turn off to the world’s end. Prior to getting down we inquired about the return of the bus and the driver and the conductor said we have about 2 hour until they return and promised not to leave us.

The turnoff

Directions

It was about 1 km more on the washed away estate roads to reach the abyss. The Elamanne World’s end drop is situated at a very unique place. It is one boundary of the central hill of Sri Lanka and the highlands ends suddenly creating a huge wall like slope. The abyss is somewhere in the middle of that, a dead drop of more than 1200 feet. It is a very scary looking drop but staggeringly beautiful and unique.

WOW	Hardly a road

Warning

The drop

Oh My God..!

The view

Bibile town

That is scary

Almost all of the eastern Sri Lanka can be seen from there. It is said during clear mornings it can be seen all the way up to the eastern coast. But we were there around the noon and there was a bit of haziness in the air. But still we could see from one side up to Ulhitiya reservoir over Mahiyanganaya, directly upto Senanayake reservoir and mount Inginiyagala over Gal Oya range, from another side upto Siyambalanduwa and from behind up to the Mount PIduruthalagala. The knuckle range also was seen faintly in the far corner.

Though it is called the “Mini World’s End” and little known, for me, the very famous World’s end in Horton plains is nothing compared to this. It was such a mesmerizing place.

Ulgala, Berawahela and Senanayake Samudraya

What a view

South Eastern plains

WOW

At the view point

The drop

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Kokagala of Padiyathalawa

Govinda Hela of Siyambalanduwa

Narangala

After enjoying the view there we walked towards the mini abyss close by. That was not deep as the greater one, but still was as beautiful as its big brother.

The mini abyss

the drop

.	Paddy fields

Below the drop

The bus returned 1.45 pm and we sadly had to say good bye to the endless view of eastern plains and return.

DS Rock

Madulsima range seen from the 9th mile post. Note Elamanna peak with telecom towers

Day 3

It was the last day of our trip and the most anticipated climb, the Namunukula hike was planned for that day. While others were preparing our breakfast and getting ready to leave, I grabbed the camera and went down a bit to vitness a spectacular sun rise over the Lunugala peak.

The dawn

Vibrant sky

Namunukula under the first rays of teh day

Wow. the first rays hits Passara

The light and the shadow

Sun is rising over the Lunugala peak

Here it comes

WOW

After the breakfast we packed our bags and left towards 3rd mile post. Priyanjan gave a contact of 3 wheel driver who agreed to take us to the trail head. After getting off the bus at the 3rd mile post we kept our bags in a nearby shop and started our 12 km long torturous, bone scattering but scenic journey towards the trail head. The first half of the journey was not bad but the second part was a nightmare because the road hasn’t been repaired for ages.

On our way to Deyanagal division

Hakgala

Piduruthalagala

WOW

The 3 wheeler went up all the way it could go and dropped us. From there to the trails head was about another 1km or so, which we had to go along the foot paths through the tea bushes. With the help of a local we reached the trail head.

our target

Uva basin and Piduruthalagala range

mist is gathering

From there to the top of Namunukula has a clear path which runs along the neck of the mountain. After about 1 hour we reached the summit which was a heavenly place. The view point towards Passara was covered by a thick mist, the view towards Wellawaya also partly covered and the view towards Nuwara Eliya was clear. Once again we were quite ecstatic by the beautiful views. The whole Uva basin was seen beautifully from there.

the path

the path

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camp site 1

The summit

the view

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Colors of the jungle

Camp site 2. what a place….

After spending some time there we began to descend and called the 3 wheeler guy to come and pick us up. We reached the 3rd mile post and took a bus to Badulla where we paid a short visit to the Muthiyanganaya RMV and headed Colombo.

.	Tea pluckers

.	Nalini falls

Muthiyanganaya

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This was kind of an accidental visit to archaeological sites in this area as my objective was to conquer the Waddakanda-an isolated mountain range which is situated in between Medawachchiya and Horowpathana (Refer trip report Weddakanda Climb). As we were unable to find a guide to climb Waddakanda, had to visit at these places. I decided to write down them because a lot of travelers are not aware of them.

Handagalakanda/Handagala cave Temple

Handagalakanda is a rock situated in Rathmalgahawewa. It occupies caves and some other ruins belong to Anuradhapura era. On top of Handagala rock you can have a panoramic surrounding view.

Rathmalgahawewa is situated 21km away from Medawachchiya in Horowpathana road. Handagala is situated in about 5km from Rathmalgahawewa. You have to get a three wheeler from Rathmalgahawewa to Handagala.

The height of Handagalakanda temple is about 300feet from surrounding plain and 648ft above mean sea level. They have excavated about 45 drip ledged caves in this area. The name Handagala (meaning moon-rock) may have been coined because of the prominently located circular boulder on the hill crest that could be seen from a considerable distance over the surrounding forest cover resembling the full-moon. Handagalakanda was one of first excavations done by H C P Bell after establishment of archeology department in Sri Lanka in 1890. Dr Senarath Paranawithana had mentioned in his work “inscriptions of Ceylon” published in 1970 reproduced the 30cave inscriptions that have been identified in Handagala. These inscriptions are belonging to different time periods. The information recorded in them are limited to particulars regarding the donation of caves owned by different persons for the benefit of the priesthood as was generally characteristic of inscriptions of that era. Bell’s report for the year 1892 is accompanied by a photograph of a vihara building and a line drawing done to scale by the Survey Department of what was available of a fresco painting on a cave roof at Handagala. The reproduction of the pieces of the painting shows two figures – a male and female. While the male whose face is missing appears to be sturdily built, the portions of the other human figure show a female face, and a pair of graceful hands. A temple drum is also to be prominently seen. The costumes of the two figures as seen from the fresco fragment indicate them to be a pair of dancers. This fresco which appears belong to a later era, may have been one of several that may have covered much of this particular cave roof which is the largest at Handagala.

Summarized and quoted from- amazinglanka.com/heritage/handagala/handagala.php

Entrance of the temple.

When you climb along stone footsteps, first you will meet an ancient Pohoya House (පොහොය ගෙය) which has been renovated. Behind this building there is a cave which had ancient paintings now we can’t see. Ancient Dewalaya is situated in front of these structures. Close to the Dewalaya a stone inscription can be noticed and it has been documented. Get down by the foot pathway on right hand side of Dewalaya to come across 3-4 drip ledged caves with stone inscriptions.

Ancient Pohoya House with “Seema Malakaya” සීමා මාලකය

The cave which had ancient paintings

Ancient Dewalaya.

Documented stone inscriptions

Above mentioned stone inscription.

The cave with drip ledge.

Stone inscription with Brahami letters

Another stone inscription.

The first stupa you will come across close to Dewalaya is a new construction. Ancient image house is situated few steps above this stupa. It has been renovated recently. A “Hulang Kapolla” (හුලo කපොල්ල) can be viewed on right hand side of the image house. Go upwards by passing the image house to reach the summit of this rock.

Ancient image house.

“Hulang Kapolla”. White arrow shows the hole through which wind passes.

Paintings of the image house.

The ceiling.

Footsteps upwards.

We had a panoramic view on top of the summit. Two stupas can be seen here. Newly made seated Buddha statue adds a beauty to this temple. Waddakanda, Mihinthale and main pagoda’s of Anuradhapura can be viewed from here.

View of Waddakanda from Handagala. Waddakanda is the highest point of this area.

Mihinthale.

Nearby another rock temple called “Kuda Dambulu Wehera”-කුඩා දබුලු වෙහෙර.

Newly built stupa on top of Handagala.

Ancient stupa.

Buddha statue.

There is a small foot pathway in between two rocks in front of Dewalaya. It brings you to some other caves and a stupa. These caves are larger than previous ones and have some evidences of wall paintings. Stone inscriptions can be seen there. This stupa is also fairly large and has been preserved well by the archeology department. At the moment it has three basal rings only.

Narrow foot pathway and direction is shown here.

Drip ledge and stone inscriptions.

Another stone inscription.

Evidences of paintings.

A Buddha statue has been there.

This must be the largest cave.

Ancient stupa.

A part of stone pillar…these ruins can be seen around the stupa.

Another ruin.

ආදා ලකුණ-Evidences of treasurer

Kiralagala/Weherabandigala (කිරලා ගල/වෙහෙරබැදි ගල)

This archaeology site is situated in Medawachchiya-Horowpathana road close to Horowpathana. It’s old name is Weherabandigala and this name is still used in maps as well. But the name used by villagers and archaeology department is Kiralagala.
Kiralagala archaeology site has features of old Buddhist monastery belongs to Anuradhapura era. This site has been well preserved by archaeology department. It occupies ruins of a hospital, an image house, a large pond, a stupa and few residencies of bikku.

Upper part of umbrella stone.

A moon stone without engravings.

The path inside the archeology site.

A basement of a structure.

Most probably the basement of a residency of bikku (ආවාස ගෙය)

“Bodhigaraya” බෝධි ඝරය

Steps to the image house.

Small pond situated close to the image house. Picture was taken 3years ago.

Ruins of a hospital /”Ganthagaraya” ජන්තාගාරය.

Urinal stone.

The pond. This is the most significant structure found in this site. It is a massive construction.

When it fills with water. This picture was taken 3years ago.

Steps to getting down.

How water came into the pond.

Stone inscription found close to the stupa.

Stupa

When you travel from Kiralagala to Rathmalgahawewa you will come across an isolated archaeology site on left hand side. It carries ruin of a stupa situated in a paddy field. According to the care taker of Kiralagala this stupa also belong to Kiralagala site. This area is called Kulumeemakada (කුලුමීමාකඩ). The special feature I have noticed at this stupa is arches on either side of staircase. There is a slab inscription as well.

Kulumeemakada stupa.

Note the arches on either side of staircase.

“Siri Pathul Gala”

Slab inscription.

Content of slab inscription.

Vevalkatiya (වේවැල්කැටිය) Archeological site.

This site is situated about 1km from the road of Medawachchiya-Horowpathana. It will come across after Rathmalgahawewa when you travel from Horowpathana. It has two pillar inscriptions.

Direction.

Pillar inscription 1.

Isinbassagala (ඉසින් බැස්ස ගල)-“The rock that saga came from”

This is somewhat popular place situated about 1.4km away from Medawachchiya towards Vawuniya. Although it’s history goes back to Anuradhapura era no much archaeological things to be seen there. It is believed Mahinda Arahath Thero first arrived here before Mihinthale. On top of the rock you can have a beautiful panoramic surrounding view. Great stupa of Anuradhapura and Mihinthale can be viewed from here.

This temple complex was built by King Dewanmpiyathissa (250-210BC) right after introduction of Buddhism. Most of the constructions are seen nowadays belonged to early 20th century.

Towards the top of Isinbassagala.

Arrival of Mihindu Arahath Thero with his followers to Isinbassagala.

Sacred foot print is the only archeological thing I could notice.

View of Mihinthale.

Three great stupas of Anuradhapura- Ruwanwelisaya, Jethawanaramaya and Abhayagiriya.

Isinbassagala new temple.

Newly built stupa. This was built at the place of old temple.

Cave temple. This is called “Arahath Guhawa.” අරහත් ගුහාව

Thanks for reading.

This was one of the dream hikes we always wanted to try since we first heard about this trail. Main purposes of this trip was to see the beauty of our mother land, see and be amazed about how they built such a marvelous rail road 150 years ago.

Five of us started the journey from Colombo fort and took the night mail (8 pm from Colombo fort) to Pattipola (4.10 am to Pattipola). The train was fully packed as it was a Friday night and we had to take the space near lavatory and footboard as usual.

We called Mr. Karunadasa (owner of Karunadasa rest rooms in Pattipola) as soon as we got down from Pattipola as discussed with him before starting the journey. He was so kind enough to come to the station at 4.10 am in the freezing cold climate and showed us the way to his place.

Day 1

We had about 2 hours of sleep and had breakfast and packed the lunch packets which prepared by Mr.Karunadasa for us and started our rail road walk.

Our initial plan was to walk from Pattipola to Idalgashinna station (6.71 km from Pattipola to Ohiya and then another 8.92 km from

Ohiya to Idalgashinna) and then take a train to Ella and then walk again from Ella to Demodara (6.12 km) to discover arch bridges, the tunnel and Demodara loop. But the train we were planning to take from idalgashinna got late so we had to change our plans and forget Demodara.

Carrot farm

Starting the walk

Summit level – 1898.1 m

18th tunnel

18th tunnel

Why this tunnel is so important?

One side of the tunnel is Nuwaraeliya District and other side is Badulla District,
One side is wet zone and other side is dry zone,
One side is hot and other side is cool,
Both sides are different, (trees, scenery and even the soil is different)
One side is rainy and other side is sunny
You will be able to feel all of these within 10-15 minutes.

Other side of the 18th tunnel

One of the bridges we walked on

Burned but still living

Ohiya station in 1893

Not much change even after 120 years – Ohiya station in 2013

One of the tunnels

Tea state

Exactly 200 km to Colombo – near Bandarawela station

Day 2

We started day 2 early in the morning and rented a van to go to Horton plains. We bought rotti and lunu miris from the shop next to Horton plains main entrance and got ourselves prepared for the journey. We took Mini world’s end trail to save time which we can use during our main hike.

The path from world’s end to non-Perial bungalow was not so hard to find but it is always better to carry a GPS tracker as from non Perial to Belihuloya could be quite challenging special in the Pines forest.

Welcome to Horton plains

Kill only time, please

View from World’s end

Footpath from world’s end to Nonpareil bungalow

Amazing trees

Amazing trees

Amazing trees

Nonpareil bungalow

View from Nonpareil bungalow’s summer hut – The best location I’ve ever seen for a summer hut, can’t expect more.

View from Nonpareil bungalow’s summer hut – The best location I’ve ever seen for a summer hut, can’t expect more

We couldn’t take many photos due to rain but hope you will enjoy two videos.

Intro

Main video

History behind this holy Hindu ritual (Taken from different sources)
සිංහල ජනතාව අතර “කතරගම දෙවියන්” යන නමින් ද හින්දු ජනතාව අතර “මුරුගන්”, “ස්කන්ධ” යන නමින් ප්රචලිත කතරගම දෙවියන් පිළිබඳ ජනප්රවාද රාශියක් තිබේ. කතරගම දෙවියන්ගේ උපත පිළිබඳව විවිධ මතිමතාන්තර තිබේ. ඉන් එක් මතයක් වන්නේ ඊශ්වර හෙවත් ශිවගේත් පාර්වතියගේත් පුතකු ලෙස ස්කන්ධ කුමරු උපත ලද බවයි.

කතරගම දෙවිඳු මෙරටට වඩින්නේ තනිව නොවේ. ඔහු සමග තම බිරිඳ වන තෙව්වානි අම්මාද මෙරටට පැමිණේ. ඒ බුදු බව පතා චාරිකා කරන ස්කන්ධ කුමරු සමග එකසේ දුක සැප බෙදා ගැනීමටය.

හේනක් කරමින් දිවි ගෙවන ස්කන්ධ කුමරු දිනක් වල්ලි අම්මා දැක ඇය සමග ආලයෙන් බැඳෙයි. ඇයව රැක බලා ගන්නා ඇගේ සහෝදරයන්ගෙන් බලෙන් මෙන් රැගෙන එන වල්ලි අම්මා සමග ස්කන්ධ කුමරු වෙනම දිවි ගෙවයි.

දිනක් තෙව්වානි අම්මා සමග දිය නාමින් සිටින ස්කන්ධ කුමරු වල්ලි අම්මා ඒ දෙසට එනු දකී. ගමෙන් පිට ගිය මොහොතක තමන්ට මැණිකක් ලැබුනු බව තෙව්වානි අම්මාට පවසන ස්කන්ධ කුමරු එය පෙන්වන්නැයි කියූ විට වල්ලි අම්මාව පෙන්වයි. අනෙක් මිනිසුන් වෛර කරද්දි අපි ඔවුන්ට ආදර්ශයක් වෙමුයි පවසන තෙව්වානි අම්මා වල්ලි අම්මා සමග එක්ව විසීමට කැමති වෙයි.

වල්ලි අම්මා මුණ ගැසීමට පෙර අතු පැලක්වත් නොමැතිව ජීවත් වන කල මහ වරුසාවකට තෙමෙමින් සිටියදී වනයේදි මුණ ගැසෙන දෙමළ පිරිසකගෙන් ස්කන්ධ කුමරු – තෙව්වානි අම්මා යුවල අතු පැලක් සාදා ගැනීමට උදව් ඉල්ලයි. උදව් දීම ප්රතික්ෂේප කරන ඔවුනට ස්කන්ධ කුමරු පලි ගසන්නේ කවදා හෝ තොප මා වෙත උදව් ඉල්ලා පැමිණිය යුත්තේද අව්වේ වේලෙමින් වැස්සේ තෙමෙමින් අනේකවිධ දුෂ්කරතා විඳිමින් බව කියමිනි.

ඉන් අනතුරුව සිංහල මිනිසෙකු ඔවුනට උපකාර කර අතු පැලක් සාදා දී තිබේ. ඒ නිසා සිංහල මිනිසුන්ට ඕනෑම මොහොතක තමා වෙත පැමිණ ආශිර්වාද ලබාගැනීමට අවසර ලබා දී තිබේ.

මෙය පාද යාත්රාව ඇරඹීම පිළිබඳ එක් සුප්රසිද්ධ ජන කතාවක් පමණි. මෙවැනි ජන කතා, දේව කතා බොහොමයක් පාද යාත්රාව හා බැඳී පවතී. මේ කුමන ජනකතා ජනප්රවාද තිබුනත් පාද යාත්රාවේ යෙදෙන බැතිමතුන් ඉල්ලන්නේත් අදහන්නේත් ප්රාර්ථනා කරන්නේත් එකම දෙයකි.
එනම්;

උතුම් වූ දෙවිදුනි, අපගේ පව් කමා කර අපට පිහිට වනු මැනවි. හරෝ හරා!!!

Preparation
We were planning this great journey from more than 10 months ago, reading different articles, gathering information, Calling to Kumana NP and inquiring about the staring dates, weather, etc.

I built up a conversation with one of the Park officers at Kumana NP called Mr. Amarasinghe. After several discussions he promised me to inform the starting date in advance. It is not something which is decided by the Wild life department. It’s decided by the Uhana divisional secretariat. Usually it starts 3 weeks prior to the Katharagama Maha perahera which happens on the July Poya day. So we were hoping to start this journey towards early July; but unfortunately for this year it was postponed to August. Most of the Hindu’s were not aware about this and they have already started the journey from Jaffna.

Towards mid July I got a call from Mr. Amarasinghe and he told me that it will start on 1st of August. So it was very happy news for all of us and we were counting fingers and dreaming about this great opportunity. Even at that time a lot of hindu’s have arrived at Okanda devalaya. As they got to know that it will take another 2 weeks to open the gates; some of them have decided to walk through Siyabalanduwa, Monaragala, Buththala and reach Katharagama. But some of them stayed at Okanda devalaya until the gate was open.
Since we had only two weeks to prepare; we had to speed up. More concentration was put to decide the food and medicine which needs to be carried as we were not sure about the availability of food throughout the journey. We bought food for all 5 days. We took only 3 sets of cloths with a towel and a hat. 2 of them for the walk and 1 was a white suit to be worn to the devalaya on last day.

Finally the day arrived.

Day 1
All 5 of us got together at our office and left Colombo at 12.30PM in one of our member’s jeep(Bhanu’s). With a single stop at Rathnapura we reached Katharagama by 5.30 PM. We parked our jeep at one of our office mates’ relation’s place at Katharagama . We kept the additional white suit in the jeep and brought all other stuff and equally shared among us. One person (Senaka) was dedicated to carry the tent and all other stuff shared among the others. For each person it was more than 15kg in their back packs including 2 liters of water for each person. From there to Kumana entrance we had arranged a known safari jeep. We put all our bags to that and left from Katharagama around 6.30PM. For dinner we stopped at Monaragala around 9.00PM and by 11.00PM we reached Kumana safely. When we reached there, there were thousands of Hindu’s at Okanda devalaya. We were shocked by seeing that much of a crowd for the starting date. Then we met Mr. Amarasinghe and he had arranged accommodation for us at his quarters.
The jeep was sent back and we went to sleep by dreaming about the big day ahead.

Day 2
We all got up at 4.30am and were ready by 5.00am. We went to the Okanda devalaya to get blessings before starting this endless journey. We all participated for the morning rituals at the dewalaya. It was a busy place at that time. All were packing their stuff and getting ready for the journey. After the pooja we came back to the quarters to get the back packs. By the time we came to the entrance it was officially opened and a massive crowd was going through the gate. All media persons, Red Cross, representatives from Uhana hospital with an ambulance for emergency were there. Despite all these, the SL army was doing a great job. They got the head count of each group and made an entry on their books and had arranged a Kiribath Dansela also at the entrance.

ඔකඳ දේවාලය was busy in the morning

All set and waiting for gates to be opened

Ready to go

Devotees with their belongings

Massive flow

We also joined the massive flow and started this great journey by 6.00am. After sometime we realized that hindu’s are little slower than us. Later we got know that most of them will stop at Bagure Kalapuwa for the first night, where as our target was මඩමේතොට for the first night. So we were passing most of them and walked a little faster.
Secret behind හරෝ හරා
When we passed each person they used to say “හරෝ හරාහ්”. Then we also got used to say that. We realized that is not just a blessing, it also reduced the tiredness and energized us; I think it’s because you need to get a huge breath to say “හරෝ හරාහ්”. With that you will get more oxygen in to your blood. Hence we also used to say “හරෝ හරාහ්” all the time.
Our first landmark was giant hearth (යෝධ ලිප) and had the first break there for a few minutes. It was not difficult to walk as most parts of the road were covered by trees; and also the energy and the enthusiasm we had was high.

Approaching යෝධ ලිප

යෝධ ලිප

.	හරෝ හරා!!!

After about 2 hours of walk we reached the ‘බාගුරේ කලපුව’. We stopped there for some time to have snacks and water. After that we started the walk again. Almost all the villu’s are fully dried except the Kumana Villuwa. While we were walking we used to talk to other groups. Most of them were very friendly and some of them shared their food with us.

Crossing බාගුරේ ඔය

බාගුරේ පාලම

Starting again; dried බාගුරේ කලපුව

Belief & Dedication

Alone…

.

Steady…

He was alone and very friendly

We passed the Thummulla wild life bungalow (which is under construction) and walked steadily. Then we passed the Itikala Kalapuwa & Yakala kalapuwa. All of them were fully dried. Walk was not easy under the burning sun and on the heated sandy track.

Drought at its worst

It’s their territory

Harsh reality

කතරක තනි වී…