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Dhanigala / Kandegama the Alien Mountain

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Year and Month  June, 2016
Number of Days  First day of a 3day trip
Crew  2 (Amila & My self)
Guide  Herath Appu of Daminna
Accommodation  Known place at Dehiaththakandiya
Transport  Pajero
Activities  Archeology, Photography & Trekking
Weather  Hot and humid
Route  Chilaw -> Digana -> Mahiyanganaya -> Dehiaththakandiya -> Aralaganvila -> Kandegama -> returned back to Dehiaththakandiya

[Download Google Earth Trail Map From this link]

Tips, Notes and Special remark
  • Take 2L’s of water
  • Do not carry Plastic items (Minimize), Make sure you bring back everything you took.
  • Get permission from the head priest
  • Need a guide
  • Behave accordingly at hermitages
  • Explain your intentions clearly
  • If you need more information I can email you few images taken from Ellawala Medananda thero’s book.
Related Resources  Documentary : Travel with Chatura @ Maduru Oya

Book : Pacheena passa Uttara passa , Sinhala Buddhist heritage by Ven. Ellawala Medhananda Thero

Author Ashan
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

It was few months back when I saw a lovely documentary on Derana TV which was done by Chatura Alwis. The documentary featured a mountain called Dhanigala and its temple. Though I had been to the temple in 2013 I couldn’t explore the region much and this documentary made me recall a forgotten expedition. In recent years there has been some news about some UFO sightings in Aralaganwila area but who knows if these were true or not. But one thing is for sure the vegetation found on this semicircular mountain looks suspicious and the Arial views provided by the documentary brought up some question marks too.

The map - click to enlarge

The map – click to enlarge

As seen from Pimburuththawa

As seen from Pimburuththawa

as seen from the temple

as seen from the temple

as seen from google earth - click to enlarge

as seen from google earth – click to enlarge

copyrights Derana 7°40'50.69"N 81°12'49.02"E

copyrights Derana 7°40’50.69″N 81°12’49.02″E

copyrights Derana

copyrights Derana

News paper article - click to enlarge

News paper article – click to enlarge

I was so tempted that I decided to go ahead and explore the area with Amila. We were able to find the same person who took Chatura to the top and his name was Herath appu. At around 10am we met the head chief and granted permission. Afterwards we started climbing up towards the left of the pagoda. We did come across few caves out of 70 plus which could found in this reserve and after about 30 minutes we reached our main target which was the cave with the reclined Buddha statue. It was a huge statue which was similar to Pidurangala & other statues built during a similar era. Unfortunately the statue had been vandalized by treasure hunters in post war era.

Quote from Kishanie Fernando , Daily mirror.

The caves here have been dated earliest to the 2nd century. The monk informed us that wild elephants also took this precipitous path and it was only recently that one such lone pachyderm had made its way down the rock passing the present temple.

The cave houses a large recumbent Buddha image said to measure 38.9 feet in length done in brick and stucco and placed on a platform. The image has been sadly vandalised by treasure hunters. The image is thought to have been like the one at Pidurangala near Sigiriya.

At the foot of the image a brick wall separates a little room where there is evidence of the existence of another image. However, today only the brick platform where this image was placed remains. Ven . Ellawela Medananda writing on the Kandegama Kanda Lena Vihara, gives the dimensions of this cave as 80 feet in length and about 25 feet in width.

Many inscriptions carved on the rock have been found here. An inscription referring to King Saddhatissa and his son is of importance. Names of donors of these caves have also been found cut into the caves.

One of the caves have been inscribed with the name of an ancient port of India. This is a very interesting finding, says Ven. Ellawela Medhananda ,which indicates that the ancients residing here were aware of this Indian port. At the bottom of the rocky cliff are the foundation remains of an ancient building.

The modern cave temple of Dananjaya Raja Maha Viharaya is tucked into the large boulders forming the base of the outcrop and shelters huge images of the Buddha. These statues and the few murals on the wall were incomplete due to lack of funds. The rock cave formations at the bottom have been fully utilised to home the present day temple where the chief priest and some young priest lived.

 the cave image house with pagoda

the cave image house with pagoda

Herath appu leading the way

Herath appu leading the way

one out of 70 odd caves

one out of 70 odd caves

a star mark

a star mark

 capturing

capturing

 piece of pottery

piece of pottery

 archeology survey department has recorded the inscription

archeology survey department has recorded the inscription

shelter

shelter

under another cave

under another cave

 sheer cliff

sheer cliff

image house of Kandegama

image house of Kandegama

vandalized

vandalized

 a window

a window

note the adjoining shrine

note the adjoining shrine

been reconstructed by many kings

been reconstructed by many kings

one last look

one last look

After hanging around a bit we started heading left and then started to climb along a stream until we reached an open area. It was a continuous climb up to this point and there after it was a walk in the park. This circular part of the mountain is actually a small part of a massive range which forms the northern pillar of Maduru oya dam. In this mountain range there are 7 ponds and a mysterious cave with paintings which we left behind for another day. Herath Appu guided us towards the bare circular area where we walked along just like walking along a highway. The drop towards the east was the most astonishing scenery for us and I wished we had camped on top of the hill to experience a superb sun rise over the eastern shore of Sri Lanka. One could easily appreciate reaches of North central, Eastern & Uva provinces clearly from this point (For detailed landmarks check the images). We did have some biscuits and rested for a half an hour on the rock before deciding to descend back towards the temple. There were no water springs on top of the hill because it was the dry season and during the North – East monsoons there may be few elephants roaming around who enjoy munching newly sprouting grass. This was one satisfying hike to a hardly explored region is Sri Lanka and credit should be given to Derana crew for introducing it.

 having a break

having a break

last ascend

last ascend

 on the top

on the top

view points

view points

dry zone

dry zone

 barons cap on the left and narakamulla on the right

barons cap on the left and narakamulla on the right

last of the mountains before the eastern shore

last of the mountains before the eastern shore

nearby tank

nearby tank

Pimburuththawa reservoir & Dimbulagala

Pimburuththawa reservoir & Dimbulagala

Kandegama

Kandegama

 showing us landmarks

showing us landmarks

the east

the east

NDK tank

NDK tank

along the mana circle

along the mana circle

mighty dimbulagala

mighty dimbulagala

walking along the circular trail

walking along the circular trail

what a place to spend the night

what a place to spend the night

 wow

wow

 NDK = Nagolle Dee Kodiunne tank

NDK = Nagolle Dee Kodiunne tank

Omnugala the giant

Omnugala the giant

Hennannegala rock seen

Hennannegala rock seen

lovely

lovely

 the temple seen below

the temple seen below

 more scenery

more scenery

 the drop

the drop

 breathtaking

breathtaking

 Maha oya side

Maha oya side

Gala pita gala the funny looking peak

Gala pita gala the funny looking peak

maha oya road

maha oya road

Maduru oya reservoir dammed by these two mountains

Maduru oya reservoir dammed by these two mountains

 lovely

lovely

 savana

savanna

a pano

a pano

Aralaganvila - Maha oya rd seen

Aralaganvila – Maha oya rd seen

 good bye

good bye

Thank you for reading


Alagalla – My First Hike

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Year and Month  7th March 2016
Number of Days  One day trip
Crew  4 (aged 19, 19, 18 and 53) and Guide
Accommodation  N/A
Transport  Train (Podi Menike)
Activities  Hiking, Photography, Adventure, Rock Climbing
Weather  Excellent – No rain at all (February, March the weather is favorable)
Route  Colombo Fort -> Ihalakotte -> Alagalla -> Gangoda

->Ihalakotte -> Colombo Fort

Tips, Notes and Special remark  
  • The hike is somewhat strenuous and the final part is very risky so all hikers need to be physically fit.
  • Although the path is clear it is better to go with a guide (Alagalla Guide Info.) as he will help with the final tricky part.
  • Reading these trip reports on Alagalla will help.
  • Watch this video to get an idea of the climb.
  • Leech protection is not required if you are going in the dry season.
  • Clean drinking water is the most important thing to carry take at least 2 – 3L of water per person.
  • Jeewani or any other ORS will also help.
  • Take some salt with you in case someone gets a muscle cramp.
  • Please ensure that you clean up and leave nothing behind specially if you intend to camp.
  • Please behave respectfully on top of Poojagala since it is a place of worship
Author  SupunCF
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

We started our journey to Alagalla from the Colombo Fort railway station and got on the “Podi Menike” train which left Colombo Fort at 5:55 and we were able to reach the Ihalakotte station by 7:55.

The peak as seen from below.

The peak as seen from below.

We started the hike from Ihalakotte station and one of the railway officers who was going to his home in Ihalakotte village after finishing a shift was kind enough to set us up with a guide who then lead us to the top.

There was an initial part of climbing to reach the Ihalakotte village and from there on up until some distance the road did not have that much of a gradient. After strolling through the Ihalakotte village we came across a tea estate which we had to climb through. The tea was planted in terraces and and each one was at least 2 – 3 feet tall along which we climbed, after going through the tea estates for some time we came across a forest patch through which the climb was pretty steep, but the roots of the trees embedded in the soil provided good footing. After the climbing through the forest patch we came to the penultimate part of the climb, the “Mana” (Cymbopogan nardus) patch along which also the climb was steep the footing was not as good in the part before but the climb was fairly easy.

Climbing through the forest

Climbing through the forest

Climbing through the “Mana Patch”

Climbing through the “Mana Patch”

After climbing the “Mana” patch we came to the very foot of the rocky part of the Alagalla peak. From there we had to climb through the “Sinha Kata” to reach the peak. Ajith got  our heavy backpacks to the top by himself so we were able to climb this part with much ease. However climbing the “Sinha Kata” was a very risky task where we had to basically climb a rock wall one by one with great care. Looking down from the middle of the “Sinha Kata” I can remember all I could see was blue sky and no ground below which would have meant that a single misstep could have been fatal. However, the climb there is short so we were able to do it without  much difficulty thanks to Sisira, our guide. The risk and adventure is what makes this climb so joyous and exhilarating, having reached the peak we felt like we were on top of the world.

Reaching the base of the final rocky part.

Reaching the base of the final rocky part.

Sisira at the base of the “Sinha Kata”

Sisira at the base of the “Sinha Kata”

Climbing the “Sinha Kata”

Climbing the “Sinha Kata”

Only the three of us made it to the peak.

Only the three of us made it to the peak.

Only the three of us made it to the peak.

Only the three of us made it to the peak.

Only the three of us made it to the peak.

Only the three of us made it to the peak.

View from the peak.

View from the peak.

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After taking a few quick snaps on the peak we decided to move on to Poojagala but first we had to descend the dangerous “Katusu Kondha”, fortunately for us a rope was already in place and we descended safely with the help of this rope and Sisira helped too. We basically slid down this rock face with our buttocks 😛

We had to move along the forest patch along the mountain top to reacj poojagala from alagalla peak.

We had to move along the forest patch along the mountain top to reacj poojagala from alagalla peak.

At the top of “Katusu Kondha”.

At the top of “Katusu Kondha”.

At the base of “Katusu Kondha”.

At the base of “Katusu Kondha”.

After that we moved through the forest on top of the Alagalla range to reach Poojagala which was on the other side of the range. On our way we had lunch in the middle of the forest. We could see many places where people had camped in the forest and we were very sad to see that many had left behind polythene bags, food wrappers etc.. thus harming the beauty and serenity of this magnificent range. So, I urge anyone and everyone who intends to travel to Alagalla to be a responsible traveler and as they say “Leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but photographs”. PLEASE HELP SAVE THE BEAUTY OF OUR MOTHERLAND FOR MANY GENERATIONS TO COME.

Having lunch in the middle of the forest

Having lunch in the middle of the forest

The place where we stopped to have lunch.

The place where we stopped to have lunch.

After a short while we were able to reach Poojagala and after spending some time there and taking a few quick snaps we decided to descend towards Gangoda station. Concrete steps were laid for most part of this descend and the descend was quite easy except in some areas where there were no steps and no proper foothold so we had slide on our buttocks to get down safely.

Sacred footprint on Poojagala.

Sacred footprint on Poojagala.

Cheitya on top of Poojagala.

Cheitya on top of Poojagala.

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image20

On our way down we came across a very small shop which offered free water and since we had run out of water already we were glad to accept this gift. We also bought a few bottles of soft drinks from there and continued to descend and reached the Gangoda station at about 16:30 and then we walked along the railway line towards the Ihalakotte station and along our way we had to move through the second longest railway tunnel in Sri Lanka. We got to the Ihalakotte station just in time to catch the “Podi Menike” train returning from Badulla which got there by 16:55 and we reached Colombo Fort station by 18:55.

image21

On our way down

Inside the 2nd longest railway tunnel in Sri Lanka.

Inside the 2nd longest railway tunnel in Sri Lanka.

This was my first hike and without a hint of doubt I can honestly say that the journey has made me fall in love with the mountains, the trees, the wind and the views. This journey therefore, I hope will be the first of many more to come.

Please be a responsible traveler “leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but photographs”

Please be a responsible traveler “leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but photographs”

Please be a responsible traveler “leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but photographs”

Please be a responsible traveler “leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but photographs”

PLEASE IF YOU VISIT THIS AREA OR ANYWHERE FOR THAT MATTER DO NOT LITTER AND DESTROY THE PRICELESS BEAUTY THAT THESE MOUNTAINS HOLD. YOU WENT THERE BECAUSE OF ITS BEAUTY, SO MAKE SURE THAT THE FUTURE GENERATIONS WILL ALSO HAVE A REASON TO GO THERE, DON’T RUIN IT FOR THEM.

Thank you very much for reading.

Mini hike to the top of PAHIYANGALA

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Year and Month  11th April 2016
Number of Days  One day trip
Crew  2 (aged 19 to 54)
Accommodation  N/A
Transport  Public Transport (Bus)
Activities  Hiking, Trekking, Cave exploring, Archaeological site exploring, Bird watching, Photography etc….
Weather  Excellent – No rain
Route  Colombo -> Horana -> Bulathsinghala -> Pahiyangala and back via the same route.
Tips, Notes and Special remark
  • The hike is short can be managed by anyone
  • Wear proper hiking attire and shoes.
  • The trail can be done without the help of a guide.
  • The climb however is steep at some points and there is no clear trail to be seen.
  • If interested ample room is available for camping at the top.
  • As always “Leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but photographs”
Author  SupunCF
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

I had been travelling all around the country this year chasing adventure and thrill, in an effort to make most of the free time I have ahead of what may be some challenging years ahead. My travelling partner on most occasions has been my father since he is always willing and up for any adventure at any time. In March we hiked Alagalla, Pujagala and Sinhagala and earlier in April the five Knuckles’ peaks. My father having been brought up in the bulathsinghala area had been suggesting a trip to Pahiyangala and we finally got on our way on the 11th of April 2016.

We got onto a Horana bus from Maharagama at about 05:00 and the bus usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Horana and from there took the Horana – Mathugama bus and got down at Bulathsinghala, that journey took about half an hour. My Grandmother’s place was only a short walk away from the bus halt and she had prepared breakfast for us when we arrived. My sister was also with us but she wasn’t interested in climbing Pahiyangala, she just wanted to see Achchi.

After having a nourishing breakfast we called a three wheeler and got on our way to Pahiyangala monastery where the climb starts. If you plan on visiting Pahiyangala (a.k.a. Pahiyanlena) you can take a three wheeler from the Bulathsinghala town, take a bus (busses are not that frequent) or if you are coming by your own vehicle you can ask for directions from the locals and the local government has also put up many sign boards along the way indicating the directions, distance and other information about Pahiyangala (There are such information boards from the Bulathsinghala junction itself). Coming back to my story, the three wheel ride took maybe half an hour or twenty minutes.

From near the monastery there was a set of steps laid to reach Pahiyanlena which is famous as the place where the bhikku Faxian used for meditation and also as a site inhabited by man during the prehistoric period. There were only a few steps to reach Pahiyanlena and there was a large new reclining Buddha statue erected there and one could see the cave and the excavations that had been done around Pahiyanlena. From near the cave there was a small fence like structure and that was where the trail to the top of Pahiyangala started and this pathway was a little steep and you will have to crawl in most places. The path is not used that frequently and can be little overgrown but finding the way should not be that hard.

View of Pahiyangala rock from below .

View of Pahiyangala rock from below .

The steps leading to PAHIYANLENA.

The steps leading to PAHIYANLENA.

The PAHIAYANLENA cave.

The PAHIAYANLENA cave.

The excavated place at PAHIYANLENA.

The excavated place at PAHIYANLENA.

The Buddha statue near PAHIYANLENA.

The Buddha statue near PAHIYANLENA.

The start of the trail to the top.

The start of the trail to the top.

The trail was a little steep and tough.

The trail was a little steep and tough.

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After climbing for about 30 – 45 minutes we got to the top most point of the rock where a small abandoned shrine could be seen. We stayed there for some time taking in the views. Several small peaks could be seen in the vicinity and the landscape was a typical lowland one. Although the hike was short it was an interesting one. After spending about 30 minutes at the top we came on our way back down and obviously the descent took less time than the ascent. The whole hike took about 2 hours.

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View of the surrounding landscape from the peak.

View of the surrounding landscape from the peak.

We then came back to the monastery and from there took a three wheel ride back Achchi’s place and had lunch and left to get back home shortly after.

The journey was an interesting one and since it is situated only a short way away from Colombo and the hike takes only a short time it should provide for nice quick escape in a busy schedule of monotony. Many hotels and resorts are also located in the area and most are of excellent standards and situated in amazing locations surrounded by the lush green tea estates or paddy fields of the Bulathsinghala area. So don’t forget to check out this interesting short rendezvous in the future.

THANK YOU FOR READING.

 

Off season by Mukkuwatte route with 72 people

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Year and Month  6th and 7th August 2016
Number of Days  2
Crew  72 people (between 19-48 years of age)
Accommodation  For 56 people at Andiyamalathanna Ambalama

For 16 people near the Baththuluoya rocky plain

Transport  Motor bikes and Public bus
Activities  Trekking, jungle hiking, Forest exploring, Wildlife, photography and worship of Adam’s Peak
Weather  Clear sky and very good
Route  Colombo -> Avissawella -> Ratnapura -> Malwala Junction -> Galabada -> Nugepola Junction -> Hapugasthanna Estate -> Dehenakanda -> Mukkuwatte
Tips, Notes and Special remark
  • Try to go through this route with a minimum crowd. Since this is an open invited group trip we all helped each other.
  • Do not go heart patients, or people having any kind of healthy problems
  • This route is not good for chubby people
  • Use leech protection. Alum or mix Detol with coconut oil and use as a leech protection. Or else wear Leech socks.
  • No need to carry water, just take an empty bottle
  • Do not ever think to throw garbage to this unpolluted forest.
  • Do not have a large backpack; maximum weight of the backpack should be less than 3Kg.
  • Take short eats, biscuits and bread with seeni sambal
  • Carry important medicines such as Panadol, Sidhdhalepa, Iodex, Vintagino, Bandage, Crape Bandage, Jeewani and Glucose. Glucose is the best for these kinds of treks.
  • This trek is about 12 hour journey; hence start your journey at Mukkuwatte trial head by 7.00am.
  • However carry Torches, LED lights as they will be more and more important to you
  • Do not have rests at always, try to passed the Rathkanda and enter to the Paradise.
  • If anyone go in off season, take a good knife it will be more helpful for your journey
  • Wear shoes and trousers as there are many thrones.
  • Behave yourself as you are in a holy wilderness.

**SPECIAL THANKS TO** Ashan & Harinda for explaining about the route.

Related Resources Trip reports : on Mukkuwatta trail
Author MSRF
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

Off season by Mukkuwatte route with 72 people

We as the Travel in Sri Lanka-Sobasiri team in facebbok has organized an event in July about off season hike to Adam’s Peak. We just published the details by inviting people to join with our journey, and then there were 72 people have confirmed their participation for the journey. We told them to come to the Ratnapura town or Erathna town and we arranged we all get into a bus where it goes to Dehenakanda.

However when we take a count of the crowd at Mukkuwatte trail head, there were 72 people for this journey. We were surprised and I address the crowd and told them about the journey and the time duration for the journey. Time is 10.30am at that point and I gave them a target as we all should go to the Andiyamalathanna Ambalama by maximum 10.30pm. Then one of our team member started the trail at the leader and two of our members stayed at the end of the crowd and another 3 of our members were stayed in the middle as help for the people to go ahead of the journey.

So we all were on the track for about 2-3 hours and the crowd was divided to 3 parts with the relevant team members. However the first team was able to go ahead with only one girl by cleaning the road and the middle team had 4 girls and they were also fit with the trek. But there was a big problem for the last team where there were 2 ladies and 2 boys who were not able to continue the hike faster. They got very slow and one of the little fat boy got cramped and he had some healthy issues as well. Fortunately there was a doctor with that team and he carried some medicines and he did some treatments for that boy. After that the crowd took him into their arms.

It is not easy to write here about the experiences we had in this journey, it is really a life time experience for all. Especially there were 7 people who were having their first visit to the Adam’s Peak and about 30 people below the age of 23. And there were 07 girls and two men age over 45 years. We all got unforgettable experience s about this journey and the most important note is that all the 72 people weren’t heard about the “Mukkuwatte Route” earlier. And about 15 people had their first travel/ adventure as this trail. Further 55 of people had their first Off Season hike to the Holy Adam’s Peak.

By 6.30pm 2nd team came to the Paradise and waited for the rest of the team. At that time the first team was passed this place and started to climb Mahagiridamba. However the first team was able to reach to the Andiyamalathanna ambalama by 9.30pm. But we waited for the last team but unfortunately we decided to have our trek in the night without waiting for the last team. There were about 30 people in the second team and they were able to reach to the Andiyamalathanna ambalama by 1.00-2.30am in the morning. However as our members in the last team said, they were decided to spend an unexpected night at the rocky plain at the Baththulu oya. Because there were about 4 people like patients and they were not able to do the final trek since they lost their strength.

However we all waked up in the next day morning and we instructed to the rest of the people to get down from Erathna route and for some from Palabaddala route. They were started their final hike at 8.00am in the morning. So, there were only 9 people stayed at Andiyamalathanna for the lost team. Lost team contacted us and informed us as they are at the Mahagiridamba. So we waited for 2-3 hours and finally we decided to go and check them at 12.00pm. Fortunately we just had about 1km hike and found them. They were very tired and like half dead. But they have successfully completed the journey as it is an unforgettable landmark in their heart. So we direct them to get down from the Hatton road as it is the easiest route for them.

After they left from us that two of our members were joined to our team and we 11 people started to getting down from Erathna route by 2.00pm.However we didn’t stopped at many places hence we were able to come at the temple/ power house by 6.30pm. And the rest of 2km we got down at the dark and our torches are not with enough lights. However we all got really tired. But we came to the Adavi Kanda Ranaweera Mama’s home by 8.30pm and had along rest and left to our home towns by 10pm.

When we came to adavikanda I contacted all other people who get down from the other routes and all of them confirmed as they get into the public bus and on the way to their hometown in safe. Finally we as a nonprofit team successfully conducted a massive journey through Mukkuwatte route as this is the highest participants from that route. We all lost at the Samanala forest for 2 days and we helped each other and we found new friends and new people. We all stayed those days as a one family.

සිරිපා අවාරේ මුක්කුවත්ත පාර දිගේ

මේ තියෙන්නේ අපි ගිය “අවාරේ සිරිපාදේ” ගමන ගැන. සෙනසුරාදා උදේ කට්ටියව කතා කරගත් පරිදි පොඩ්ඩක් Late උනත් කුරුවිටෙන් සහ රත්නපුරෙන් බස් එකට ගත්තා. නිකන් දුවන පාරේ බස් එකකටත් වඩා Foot Board පිරෙන්න සෙනගක් හිටියා දැක්කම අපිටත් පුදුමයි.මොකද කලින් නොදන්වපු පිරිසකුත් ඇවිත් හිටිය නිසා. කොහොමහරි අපේ ගමනේ ආරම්භක ක්‍රියාදාමය දුන්නු බස් එකේ රියදුරු අයියාව නම් අමතක වෙන්නේ නැ. පුංචි වැලමිට වංගුවකින් ආසන 42 බස් එකක් හරවන්නේ කොහොමද කියල ඇහුවොතින් ඒ අයියාව කියන්න, කරලා පෙන්නවයි, ඇග සිතල වෙලා යන වංගු වගේම හෙල් පිරුන කන්ද සුපිරියටම නැගලා අපිව දෙහෙනකන්ද කෝවිල ලගින් බැස්සුවා.
පස්සේ අපි ටවත් කිලෝමීටර් 2ක් විතර පයින් ගියා මුක්කුවට්ටේ Estate එක කෙලවරින් මේ ගමන හරියටම පටන් ගන්න ඕන තැනට.එතනට ගිහින් ආපු කට්ටිය කීයක්ද කියල බැලුවම කෙල්ලෝ කොල්ලෝ 72ක් ඇවිත් මේ ගමනට. ලංකා ඉතිහාසයේ මුක්කුවත්තෙන් එකවර නැගපු වැඩිම කණ්ඩායම අපි.කොහොමහරි අපි ගමනට අවශ්‍ය විස්තර සවිස්තරව කියල හා හා පුරා කියල
සමන් දෙවියන්ගේ අඩවියට ගොඩ උනේ උදේ 10.30ට. අපි Sobasiri Team එක විදිහට ගමන මුල මැද අග හිටියා.කොහොමහරි චලන මල්ලයි සහ චිත්ති මල්ලි මාන්න පිහි අරන් පෙරමුණ ගත්තේ කැලේ වෙලා අපි යන පාරේ වැවිල තිබ්බ ගස් අතු කපාගෙන සුද්ද කරගෙනයි.උන් දෙන්නට බොහොම ස්තුතියි කරපු වැඩේට. කාන්තාවන් 7 දෙනෙකුත් ආපු නිසා අපි ටිකක් කල්පනාවෙන් ගියේ ගමන් විදව ගැනීම ගැන.කොහොමහරි පෙය 4ක් 5ක් යද්දී මුළු සෙට් එකම කොටස් තුනකට කැඩුනා.මුලින් ගිය සෙට් එක මදුසන්කගෙනුත් මද සෙට් එක අපෙනුත් අන්තිම සෙට් එක මලික් සහ ලහිරුගෙනුත් සෙට් උන. මුලින් ගිය සෙට් එක අපි ගමන ආරම්බහයේදී කිව්වා වගේම රෑ 9.30 වෙද්දී අඩියාමලතන්නට ලගා උන.එත් මදසෙට් එක අතර මද කොටස් කීපයක් විදිහට ආපු නිසා අපි ගඟ ලගට ඇවිත් පයක් විතර හිටිය ඒ සෙට් එක එකතු වෙනකන්. කොහොම හරි අපි 30ක විතර සෙට් එක රෑ 7.30 වෙද්දී ඒ ගඟ ලගින් පිටත් උනේ කෙලින්ම සිරිප කන්ද නගින්න.කොහොමහරි නගිනවා නගිනවා කට්ට කළුවරේ පුංචි ටෝර්ච් එළියෙන් හොදටෝම මහන්සියි.උදේ රත් කන්ද කඳු වැටිය පැය 4ක් විතර නැගල පස්සේ ෆ්ලැට් ප්‍රදේශයත් නැගල පස්සේ ලොකු පැල්ලමක් බැහැල ගඟ ලගට එද්දී හොද පන ගිහින්. එත් ඉතින් අපේ ගමන නතර කරන්න බැහැනේ.

අපි කලුවරේම නැග්ගේ කියට හරි අපි ඔක්කොම රෑ නවතින්න සැලසුම් කරපු අඩියමලතන්නට යන්න ඕන නිසා.කොහොමහරි Sobasiri Team එකේ දෙන්නෙක් රෑ 12.30 වෙද්දී මහගිරිදඹට ආව, පස්සේ මද ආපු කොටසේ ඉතුරු අයත් පාන්දර 2.30 වගේ වෙද්දී අඩියමලතන්නට ආව. මුලු අම්බලමේම කට්ටිය bed sheet පොරවාගෙන හිටියේ හරියට ආඩියෝ වගේ තමයි. එහෙන් මිදුම හෝ ගාල ගලනවා අම්බලමට, සමහරු කට කට ගාල්ල වෙව්ලනවා, සමහරු sheet 2,3 පොරවාගෙන හරියට හොල්මන් වගේ.කොහොමහරි අපේ අන්තිමට ආපු සෙට් එක එදා රෑ අඩියමලතන්නට ලග උනේ නෑ.එතන 16ක් හිටිය, ඒ කට්ටියගෙන් 4 දෙනෙක්ට ගොඩක් අමාරු වෙලා,cramps වෙලා උස්සගෙන ඇවිත් ටිකක් case වෙලා.ඒ හින්ද එයාල අර ගඟ ලගට රෑ 10ට විතර ඇවිල්ල නැවතිලා.පට්ටම පට්ට සීතලේ මිදුම හුලග ගඟේ වතුරේ සිතල එක්ක මුලු පැත්තම ගල් වෙන ලෝකෙක උන් නැවතුනා.කොහොමහරි උදේ 7 ට වගේ ඒ සෙට් එක අන්තිම ටික නගින්න අරන් අර අමාරු වෙච්ච අයවත් වත්තන් කරගෙන,ලොකු කට්ටක් කාල ලොකු ගේමක් දීල ඒ 16 මහගිරිඹට එද්දී වෙලාව දවල් 12.30යි.ඒ සෙට් එකෙන් 14ක් ම හැටන් පාරෙන් බැස්සා,මොකද එක තමයි එයාලට හොදම විසදුම හින්ද.කොහොමහරි උදේ 8ට සෙට් එකක් එරත්නෙන් බහින්න ගත්තා වගේම දවල් 11 වෙද්දී තව සෙට් එකක් පලාබද්දලින් බැස්ස. අන්තිමට ගමනේ වගකීම අපේ නිසා අපි අන්තිම සෙට්‌ එකත් ආවට පස්සේ එතනින් අපේ දෙන්නෙක් උද මළුවට ගිහින් එනකන් අපි හිටිය. පස්සේ දවල් 2ට අපි 11ක් ගමන අවසන් කරන්න පටන් ගත්ත සැලසුමේ අනුව එරත්න පාරෙන්.ආයේ කකුල් රිදිම්ද ගල්මුල් ද අලිද කියල බැලුවේ න අපි බැස්ස බහිල්ලක් කියන්නේ රෑ 8 විතර වෙද්දී අපි අඩවිකන්දට ආව.පස්සේ අපි බයික් වලින් ගේවල් බල යන්න පිටත් උනේ අර අනිත් පාරවල් වලින් බැහැපු අය ගැනත් බැලුවට පස්සේ, කොහොමහරි අපි හැරෙන්න අනිත් ඔක්කොම 6ට කලින් ඒ ඒ පති වලින් බැහැල තිබ්බා.පස්සේ හොද රෙස්ට් එකක් අරන් අපි එහෙන් පිටත් උනේ රෑ 10ට කිට්ටු වෙද්දී.

සමස්තයක් ලෙස අපි සිරිපා නගින ප්‍රසිද්ද පාරවල් වලිනුත් තියෙන අමාරු දුරම පාරයි අප්ප්‍රසිද්ද පාරවල් වලින් තියෙන අමාරු දුරම පාරයි තරණය කලා.මේ ගමනට සහබාගි උන 72 ගේ හිතේ
තියෙනවා වචන වලට පෙරලන්න බැරි මහා ලොකු වගේම ජිවිත කාලෙට අමතක නොවන අත්දැකීම් සහ මතකයන් ගොඩක්.මේ ගමනට කෝඩු 8ක් විතර ආව, පලවෙනි වතාවට ජිවිතේ ට්‍රිප් එකක් ගිය
කොල්ලෝ ආව,කෙල්ලෝ ආව වගේම 40 වගේ වයස අයත් ආව.මේ කව්රුත් මිට කලින් මුක්කුවත්ත පාර ගැන අහල තිබ්බේ නෑ. මුක්කුවත්ත පාර කියන්නේ සම්පුර්ණයෙන්ම කැලේ පාරක්, ආදී පාර
හොදට තියෙනවා උනාට නගින්න තියෙන කඳු ගැන නම් කියන්න වචන න, ඒවා ගැන හොදට දන්නේ අපෙ කකුල් දෙක තමයි, කැලේ තියෙන වතුර පාරවල් වලින් වතුර බිල මුණ හොද හොද ගල් තල
උද වැතිරිලා විවේක අරන් මහා රෑ මීදුමෙන් වැහුණු අඳුරු කැලැවේ ඇත කකුල් 4ම පාවිච්චි අරන් ගිය ගමන් ජිවිතේට සිහිවටනයක්.කුඩල්ලන්ගෙන් හිතුව තරම් ලොකු කරදරයක් තිබ්බේ නැත්තේ දවස්
දෙකම උදේ ඉදන් හවස 6 වෙනකන් හොදට අව්ව පායලා තිබ්බ නිසා.කොහොමහරි සමස්ත ගමනේ අන්තිමට ආපු සෙට් එක තමයි හොදම අත්දැකීම ගත්තේ, මොකද එයාල අනපේක්ෂිත විදිහට
ගඟක් ලග ගල්තලාවක් උඩ සිතල මිදුම මැද ලයිට් එලියක්වත් නැතිව රැය පහන් කල හින්දා.එයාලට මේ ගමන පැය 24ක විතර අකන්ඩ තරඟයක් උනාට කැලේ රැය පහන් කරපු අත්දැකීමම ඇති
මහන්සිය මග හරින්න.කොහොමහරි කාටවත් කිසි කරදරයක් නොවී මේ ගමන හොදින් ඉවර කරන්න පුළුවන් උනා. අපිව විශ්වාස කරලා ආපු අයව අපි අතහැරියේ නැ,ඔයාලට හිතාගන්නවත් බැරි අත්දැකීමක් අපි ලබා දුන්න එකට අපිටත් සතුටුයි.කණ්ඩායම් හැගීම, අලුත් යහළු යෙහෙලියන් මුණ ගැසීම, කැලේකදී ඉන්න විදිහ වගේම සිරිපා අඩවියේ මෙතෙක් ඔයාල නොහිතපු පැත්තක් ගැන දැන ගන්න ලැබීම වගේ දේවල් හොද අත්දැකීමක් උනා.

Videos of the journey –

Video 01Video 02

මේ ගමනට ආපු හැමෝටම ස්තුතියි.

Sobasiri Team

The Event published in our FB page

The Event published in our FB page

We came to Dehenakanda

We came to Dehenakanda

 Landmarks at Dehenakada

Landmarks at Dehenakada

Directions to the Mukkuwatte Trail head

Directions to the Mukkuwatte Trail head

On the way to Mukkuwatte

On the way to Mukkuwatte

On the way to Mukkuwatte

On the way to Mukkuwatte

On the way to Mukkuwatte

On the way to Mukkuwatte

On the way to Mukkuwatte

On the way to Mukkuwatte

 We are going

We are going

Blue and Green

Blue and Green

Blue Mountains

Blue Mountains

5 Mountains that we should climed 5 Rathkanda Mountain Range
6 Through the rural villages

Pada Yathra

Pada Yathra

Pada Yathra

Pada Yathra

Awaiting for the Trek

Awaiting for the Trek

We, the Sobasiri Team

We, the Sobasiri Team

The bridge

The bridge

Beautiful Mountains

Beautiful Mountains

 The crowd

The crowd

 The crowd

The crowd

 The crowd

The crowd

Real Girls

Real Girls

Giving an introduction about the trail and the time duration

Giving an introduction about the trail and the time duration

Here we started the trek

Here we started the trek

HEre we go

HEre we go

Broken Somarathna Ambalama

Broken Somarathna Ambalama

Crossing the first stream

Crossing the first stream

 They are still on the track

They are still on the track

After passing few meters from the Ambalama

After passing few meters from the Ambalama

 Removing Leeches

Removing Leeches

Girls are on the track

Girls are on the track

Another stream

Another stream

Giant trees protected us

Giant trees protected us

 The jungle path

The jungle path

Welkara Galgeya

Welkara Galgeya

idiotic people destroyed there also

idiotic people destroyed there also

the path

the path

Giants at the forest

Giants at the forest

Crowd is getting tired and dividing to small crowds

Crowd is getting tired and dividing to small crowds

Beautiful path

Beautiful path

Facing to the challenges

Facing to the challenges

Tired face at the jungle

Tired face at the jungle

Rama Kallu cave

Rama Kallu cave

Rama Kallu cave

Rama Kallu cave

Resting

Resting

Climbing and Climbing over the Mountains

Climbing and Climbing over the Mountains

Another Stream

Another Stream

We didn't brought water becasue its free here

We didn’t brought water becasue its free here

Usual obstacles on the path

Usual obstacles on the path

However they climbed the Rathkanda

However they climbed the Rathkanda

Resting

Resting

The only animal we have seen

The only animal we have seen

Thuru Viyan

Thuru Viyan

The flat area

The flat area

Nature is like HP

Nature is like HP

Another stream at the flat area

Another stream at the flat area

 Mana bushy area

Mana bushy area

These guys clear the road

These guys clear the road

On the way

On the way

On the way

On the way

Stream at the road

Stream at the road

We also got tired

We also got tired

.

.

These girls are brilliant

These girls are brilliant

We have to go more

We have to go more

Resting at the beautiful nature

Resting at the beautiful nature

Green vs Darkness

Green vs Darkness

Passing the usual places

Passing the usual places

Came to the only huge river on this trail, Baththulu oya

Came to the only huge river on this trail, Baththulu oya

Bathing at Deep Freezer

Bathing at Deep Freezer

Bathing at Paradise

Bathing at Paradise

Baththulu oya fall

Baththulu oya fall

Baththulu oya fall

Baththulu oya fall

Getting dark

Getting dark

Starting the trek at Baththulu oya at 7.30pm

Starting the trek at Baththulu oya at 7.30pm

So tired

So tired

Only the Darkness

Only the Darkness

Mist with darkness

Mist with darkness

Combing with the darkness

Combing with the darkness

 More to go

More to go

Climbing at the dark

Climbing at the dark

Night Hike part 2

Night Hike part 2

Night Hike part 2

Night Hike part 2

The most tired girl in the 2nd team

The most tired girl in the 2nd team

The lost team member sleeping at the rocky plain

The lost team member sleeping at the rocky plain

The lost team getting ready to have their first night at a jungle without any tent. Unexpectd open camping at the paradise

The lost team getting ready to have their first night at a jungle without any tent. Unexpectd open camping at the paradise

A member in the first team

A member in the first team

We came to the Andiyamalathanna at 1.30am. The first team was sleep at the cold and misty ambalama

We came to the Andiyamalathanna at 1.30am. The first team was sleep at the cold and misty ambalama

Early morning at Paradise

Early morning at Paradise

The lost team at Early Morning

The lost team at Early Morning

 Checking the mahagiridamba point for the lost team

Checking the mahagiridamba point for the lost team

Checking the mahagiridamba point for the lost team

Checking the mahagiridamba point for the lost team

Happy faces. The lost team came here at 1.30pm on sunday

Happy faces. The lost team came here at 1.30pm on sunday

First team ready getting down from Erathna

First team ready getting down from Erathna

All are guests for each and building relationships

All are guests for each and building relationships

Heating at Andiyamalathanna

Heating at Andiyamalathanna

Heating at Andiyamalathanna

Heating at Andiyamalathanna

The Lost Team

The Lost Team

 At Paradise

At Paradise

Uda Maluwa

Uda Maluwa

Closed

Closed

View

View

Through the Hulan Kapolla

Through the Hulan Kapolla

The Gantaraya

The Gantaraya

Hulan Kapolla

Hulan Kapolla

The only foreigner who participated to the journey

The only foreigner who participated to the journey

 View at Andiyamalathanna

View at Andiyamalathanna

Misty staircase

Misty staircase

The place where Raja Mawatha and Mukkuwatte trail meet

The place where Raja Mawatha and Mukkuwatte trail meet

At Andiyamalathanna

At Andiyamalathanna

The lost team leaving us to getting down from Hatton route

The lost team leaving us to getting down from Hatton route

The last team, we ready to start Erathna trek

The last team, we ready to start Erathna trek

Where Erathna and Raja Mawatha meets

Where Erathna and Raja Mawatha meets

The first team on the way to Erathna

The first team on the way to Erathna

 Erathna route

Erathna route

Having a small rest

Having a small rest

 Elephant Dung

Elephant Dung

 Another team went through Raja Mawatha, they are having a rest at Geththmpana

Another team went through Raja Mawatha, they are having a rest at Geththmpana

Erathna route is so beautiful

Erathna route is so beautiful

Erathna route is so beautiful

Erathna route is so beautiful

Kuru Ganga at Erathna route

Kuru Ganga at Erathna route

 Kuru ganga

Kuru ganga

Crossing the Stream at Erathna route

Crossing the Stream at Erathna route

A break

A break

the final set of 11 people

the final set of 11 people

Ready to the rest of the trek

Ready to the rest of the trek

Erathna route

Erathna route

Close to Warnagala

Close to Warnagala

Near to Warnagala

Near to Warnagala

2nd day also we had Night hike for 2.5 hours at Erathna route

2nd day also we had Night hike for 2.5 hours at Erathna route

 Beauty at Erathna route

Beauty at Erathna route

The Sobasiri Team

The Sobasiri Team

 

Four peaks in one line-Wangedigala, Wangedi kanda, Balathoduwa and Gommolli Kanda

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Year and Month  2016 September 16th and 17th
Number of Days  Two
Crew  6-Chamara, Prabath, Kasun, Vinod, Prakash and my self
Accommodation  Camping at Wangedi kanda
Transport  By bus and climbing
Activities  Climbing, Photography and Camping
Weather  Excellent
Route Colombo->Kalupahana (කළුපහන)->Wangedigala (වoගෙඩිගල)->Wangedikanda (වoගෙඩිකන්ද)->Balathoduwa (බලතුඩුව)->Gommolli Kanda (ගොම්මොල්ලි කන්ද)->Back along same route
Tips, Notes and Special remark
  1. Dry season is the best to do this climb due to slippery pines leaves and leeches in rainy days.
  2. Better have a guide but can do alone as well.
  3. Can try for a one day hike if you are energetic. Overnight camping will add extra fun for the trip.
  4. Water is the main problem in this hiking in dry season. Because all the water sources are dry after initial water stream at village.
    We could find only a small spring at the foot pathway from Brampton estate. The local guy said there is a water source closer to camping site of Balathuduwa. But it is bit difficult to find without having an idea of the route.
    Water requirement is more and more if you do night camping.
    We carried 3l+ per person and filled 5-6l from the water spring at Brampton estate foot pathway.
  5. Leech protection methods to be followed in rainy days.
  6. There are few camp sites could be seen:
    At the base of Wangedi Kanda-Flat, uneven surface. Can reach to the nearby water spring.
    Along the foot pathway from Brampton estate-Closer to the water source
    Side of Wangedi Kanda-Spacious and scenic. But easily get into the wind. We stayed there.
    Camp side at base of Balathoduwa-Nicely covered with bushes therefore less trouble with wind. But not provide a good view.
    On top of Balathuduwa-We have noticed some have camped there.
  7. Though a lot people mention about a foot pathway from Balathoduwa to Adara Kanda nobody has been there. If you have lack of time better follow the same route.
Related Resources
  1. Trip report on My dream ” Gommolliya”
  2. Trip report on scenic hike to Wangedigala

Special thanks to Amal Madawa for your valuable information.

Author  Niroshan
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

This was an awaiting trip for a long time and successfully completed due to rewarding weather and good team.
Balathuduwa-බලතුඩුව (2012m) and Gommolli Kanda-ගොම්මොල්ලි කන්ද (2034m) are 14th and 13th highest peaks of the Sri Lanka. These peaks can be nicely seen if you travel along Colombo-Badulla road at Pambahinna and Belihuloya area. Then Gommolli Kanda is seen beautifully in front of Great World’s end.
Wangedigala and Wangedi Kanda are situated at same line of previously mentioned giants. These two peaks provide beautiful surrounding view. Therefore it is popular among mountain climbers of Sri Lanka.
My initial plan was to do a day hike to these peaks but changed it at last moment as Saturday was free for me. Unfortunately we had a late start at 11.30am due to traffic jam at the beginning of long week end.
Five of us came from Colombo and Prabath joined with us at Kalupahana.
Our plan was to first climb Wangedigala from Bambarakanda side and then move to Wangedi Kanda and camp at base of Balathoduwa. Chamara has climbed from Bambarakanda side and I have been at Wangedi Kanda twice from Brampton estate side.
After completing the necessary stuff from Kalupahana we hired two three wheels to the entry point of the trail to Wangedigala. It is about 1km before Bambarakanda entry point. We had our late breakfast at the water stream and filled our bottles and bellies with water.
According to Chamara we have to get into pines plot to reach Wangedigala but there was no foot pathway to reach the pines plot from water stream and iron bridge. Therefore we creped through bushes about one hour to reach clear forest and then moved to Pines patch.
Someone has fired dry pines leaves on ground and it made the climb easier. It was a continuous ascend through Pines trees and we found the foot pathway later. We reached Wangedigala around 2pm.

Wangedigala and Wangedi Kanda

Wangedigala and Wangedi Kanda

Three peaks in line: Wangedi Kanda, Balathoduwa and Gommolli Kanda

Three peaks in line: Wangedi Kanda, Balathoduwa and Gommolli Kanda

Black arrow shows our trail head and yellow star shows Balathoduwa peak. Red star shows Gommolli Kanda.

Black arrow shows our trail head and yellow star shows Balathoduwa peak. Red star shows Gommolli Kanda. Click map to enlarge.

Team except me

Team except me

Reaching the water stream where we had our late breakfast.

Reaching the water stream where we had our late breakfast.

Famous suspension bridge...

Famous suspension bridge…

Our first target...Wangedigala

Our first target…Wangedigala

Having a rest after creeping through bushes

Having a rest after creeping through bushes

Entering to Pines plot

Entering to Pines plot

Climb up through Pines patch

Climb up through Pines patch

Having a break

Having a break

Smiley face of Chamara

Smiley face of Chamara

It was a continuous ascend till we reach Wangedigala

It was a continuous ascend till we reach Wangedigala

Second break where we had a windows view of Lanka Ella

Second break where we had a windows view of Lanka Ella

Enjoying the journey

Enjoying the journey

Foot pathway

Foot pathway

Pinus plot

Pinus plot

Tired face

Tired face

At back drop of Bambarakanda area

At back drop of Bambarakanda area

At the base of Wangedigala

At the base of Wangedigala

Final ascent

Final ascent

On top of Wangedigala

On top of Wangedigala

On top of Wangedigala

On top of Wangedigala

The flag....

The flag….

Wangedigala provides nice panoramic view towards Bambarakanda falls and Lanka Ella, Udaweriya, Hortain plains, Idalgashinna Mountain, Beragala and Haputhale area, Pambahinna, Samanala Wewa reservoir, Kuragala, southern plains, Adarakanda, Wangedi Kanda, Balathoduwa and Gommolli Kanda.
We had a quite long break there and moved towards next target-Wangedi Kanda.

Colombo-Badulla road

Colombo-Badulla road

Beragala Mountain

Beragala Mountain

Idalgashinna Mountain-Most right peak

Idalgashinna Mountain-Most right peak

Kuragala and southern plains

Kuragala and southern plains

Lanka Ella

Lanka Ella

View towards Bambarakanda, Idalgashinna, Beragala and Haputhale

View towards Bambarakanda, Idalgashinna, Beragala and Haputhale

Udaweriya tea factory

Udaweriya tea factory

Wangedi Kanda in middle of Balathoduwa and Gommolli Kanda

Wangedi Kanda in middle of Balathoduwa and Gommolli Kanda

Foot pathway and burned Mana

Foot pathway and burned Mana

Coming from Wangedi Kanda

Coming from Wangedi Kanda

We got the message about water source from a local guide. It is situated about 500m down along the foot pathway to Brampton estate. The mana in between Wangedi Gala and Wangedi Kanda has been fired. On our way we went there and filled some empty bottles with water. As it was around 6pm when we reached Wangedi Kanda, we decided to camp at side of it.

Moving towards Wangedi Kanda

Moving towards Wangedi Kanda

On the way to Wangedi Kanda

On the way to Wangedi Kanda

On the way to Wangedi Kanda

On the way to Wangedi Kanda

On the way to Wangedi Kanda

On the way to Wangedi Kanda

Moon set

Moon set

Moon set

Moon set

Evening sky over Wangedi Kanda

Evening sky over Wangedi Kanda

On the way to Wangedi Kanda

On the way to Wangedi Kanda

Peak of Wangedi Kanda

Peak of Wangedi Kanda

It is Balathoduwa and Gommolli Kanda

It is Balathoduwa and Gommolli Kanda

The camp site at Wangedi Kanada was a nice place. There were scattered fire wood to set the camp fire but we cut a small pines tree as well. As this place is at the edge of Wangedi Kanda it is easily exposed to wind. We didn’t feel that much hungry as we had some snacks following the tea. Our tents were waved with wind on and off in the night making thoughts of to be in the valley somewhere down.
Chamara woke up us in early morning and we walked to the peak of Wangedi Kanda to enjoy sun rice. View from Wangedi Kanda was same as Wangedigala but higher level.

Camp fire

Camp fire

Around the camp fire

Around the camp fire

Sun rise over Beragala and Haputhale side

Sun rise over Beragala and Haputhale side

Awaiting for sun rise

Awaiting for sun rise

Towards Wangedigala

Towards Wangedigala

Enjoying the Sun rise

Enjoying the Sun rise

Samanala Wewa reservoir

Samanala Wewa reservoir

Main targets of the day

Main targets of the day

On top of Wangedi kanda

On top of Wangedi kanda

Day 02
This is the day of dreams come true. We prepared our breakfast and cleaned the camp site well. The weather was excellent and our main targets were slightly covered with mist. We started the journey around 8.15am.
The foot pathway continued away from Wangedi Kanda and it entered into bamboo forest. Initially the foot pathway was not much clear later it was remarkable. We always followed the cut marks on trees and bushes. After a sharp ascend through Pines patch we reached the camp site at base of Balathoduwa.

It was like a heaven

It was like a heaven

Further continuation of Wangedi Kanda and our camp site

Further continuation of Wangedi Kanda and our camp site

Closely placed our two tents

Closely placed our two tents

Preparing breakfast

Preparing breakfast

Camp site

Camp site

Chef and breakfast

Chef and breakfast

Cleaning the camp site is very important

Cleaning the camp site is very important

Cleaning the camp site

Cleaning the camp site

Direction after Wangedi Kanda

Direction after Wangedi Kanda

Snaps before leave Wangedi Gala

Snaps before leave Wangedi Gala

The team before enter the forest

The team before enter the forest

Survey department mark along the foot pathway

Survey department mark along the foot pathway

Walking through Bamboo....

Walking through Bamboo….

Having a rest...

Having a rest…

Coming to a Pines patch

Coming to a Pines patch

View of Balathoduwa and Gommolli Kanda through Pines patch

View of Balathoduwa and Gommolli Kanda through Pines patch

Enjoying the surrounding view

Enjoying the surrounding view

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Camp site at Balathoduwa base

Camp site at Balathoduwa base

Discussing where to turn....

Discussing where to turn….

Next stretch of climbing was again along the Bamboo forest. There was a clear foot pathway from here to Balathoduwa peak and it was around 1hour journey. After Bamboo forest it was an easy climb towards the peak with keeping an eye on the peak. On the way we have noticed a foot pathway to left hand side assumed it towards Adarakanda. We reached the peak around 11am.
The view from Balathoduwa peak was amazing. It provides 3600 view towards Gommolli Kanda, Hortain plains and World’s end (behind Gommolli Kanda), Bambarakanda, Haldummulla, Haputhale, Idalgashinna, Beragala, Southern plain, Kuragala, Samanala Wewa reservoir, Adarakanda, Hagala, Non perial region, Dethanagala and Pettigala. The wind was roaring over the peak and mist was covering the view intermittently.

Entering to Bamboo Forest

Entering to Bamboo Forest

Most of the time it was a continuous ascend. Chamara was leading us….

Most of the time it was a continuous ascend. Chamara was leading us….

Entering to the forest patch

Entering to the forest patch

Enjoying the hiking....

Enjoying the hiking….

Enjoying the hiking....

Enjoying the hiking….

A place of tea making

A place of tea making

Last bit of climbing to Balathoduwa

Last bit of climbing to Balathoduwa

Scenery captured on our way up...

Scenery captured on our way up…

Balathoduwa peak with 360 degree view

Balathoduwa peak with 360 degree view

Balathoduwa peak with 360 degree view

Balathoduwa peak with 360 degree view

මහ රත් මල්

මහ රත් මල්

Other one of twin peaks...Gommolli Kanda. World’s end is behind of it.

Other one of twin peaks…Gommolli Kanda. World’s end is behind of it.

Mini world's end and Great world’s end

Mini world’s end and Great world’s end

Raising the flag...

Raising the flag…

The way we came....

The way we came….

Peaks we have passed-Wangedigala and Wangedi kanda

Peaks we have passed-Wangedigala and Wangedi kanda

Towards Bambarakanda area and Haldummulla

Towards Bambarakanda area and Haldummulla

View of the winding road from Kalupahana to Ohiya

View of the winding road from Kalupahana to Ohiya

Adara Kanda side

Adara Kanda side

Adaptation for wind.....

Adaptation for wind…..

Next and final target was Gommolli Kanda. As we kept our stuff at the base of Gommolli Kanda the journey was fast. We had to descend first and climb over the edge of the mountain. The foot pathway was not that much clear as Balathoduwa. Someone has gone to the peak recently and therefore cut marks over bushes were there to guide us. After about 1hour journey we reached Gommolli Kanda peak which was bit higher than Balathoduwa.
Gommolli Kanda has only 270 degree view and Balathoduwa peak can’t be seen from top of Gommolli Kanda. We were just in front of World’s end and could hear the screams of viewers at World’s end. It was a good view point towards Non perial estate, tea factory and Nagrak bungalow.

Heading towards Gommolli Kanda

Heading towards Gommolli Kanda

Misty view of Gommolli Kanda

Misty view of Gommolli Kanda

View of Balathoduwa on our way to Gommolli Kanda

View of Balathoduwa on our way to Gommolli Kanda

Heading towards Gommolli Kanda

Heading towards Gommolli Kanda

The peak of Gommolli Kanda

The peak of Gommolli Kanda

View of Nagrak Bungalow, Non perial tea factory and Vantage point of Nagrak

View of Nagrak Bungalow, Non perial tea factory and Vantage point of Nagrak

Vantage point of Nagrak and Hagala is behind it. This is Hirikatu Oya valley

Vantage point of Nagrak and Hagala is behind it. This is Hirikatu Oya valley

Zoomed view of Non perial tea factory

Zoomed view of Non perial tea factory

View of Great World's end

View of Great World’s end

View of Mini World's end

View of Mini World’s end

On top of Gommolli Kanda

On top of Gommolli Kanda

On top of Gommolli Kanda

On top of Gommolli Kanda

On top of Gommolli Kanda

On top of Gommolli Kanda

After enjoying our time on Gommolli Kanda we started to get down quickly. Our initial plan was to come down along Adarakanda side. But the local guy Ranjith told he also has not been at that road. Then we decided to get back from the same side. Last stretch of the return journey had some extra adventures as we missed the trail from Pinus forest to village. It was dark when we reached the iron bridge but had to cross a marshy land unexpectedly. After having a wash from the water stream we called two three wheelers to reach double bridge and got the bus to Colombo.

At Balathoduwa again

At Balathoduwa again

In return journey

In return journey

Return journey

Return journey

Guys coming over Wangedi Kanda

Guys coming over Wangedi Kanda

Thanks for reading

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lesser known peak in upper border of Knuckles massif-Sandamadala-සදමඩල (800m)

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Year and Month Successful attempt- 13th August 2016
Initial visit- 28th February 2016
Number of Days  Two separate days
Crew  3-Eshan, Anupama and myself
Accommodation  Not applicable
Transport Bus and Hiking
Activities  Hiking and Photography
Weather  Excellent
Route 1st visit: Polonnaruwa->Naula->Ambana junction (අඹ්න හoදිය) in Elahara road->Opalgala (ඔපල්ගල) Road->Galboda (ගල්බොඩ) village->Sandamadala->Back along same route to Polonnaruwa
2nd visit: Opalgala road->Kotagala (කොටගල) village->Sandamadala->Back along same route to Polonnaruwa
Tips, Notes and Special remark
  1. Start the journey in early morning.
  2. Carry a water bottle of 1l per person.
  3. This less strenuous-moderate strenuous hike. We spent about 2hours to reach the peak from Kotagala side.
  4. Wear an attire to protect your upper limbs from Mana.
  5. There is a bus operating from Naula to Opalgala round 7am and 11am. If you get this bus you can get down at the foot pathway to Kotagala village. Otherwise get a bus to reach Ambana junction and heir a three wheeler.
  6. I don’t encourage climbing from Galboda side as Kotagala side is easier and time saving.
  7. Better mention villagers of Kotagala that you are climbing the peak. They may show directions.
  8. Can predict leeches after rain. Leech protection methods to be followed.
  9. No risk of trap guns.
  10. Don’t pollute the area with plastic items.
Author Niroshan
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

Sandamadala is a lesser known peak situated at upper border of Knuckles massif. I have never know about such a peak till Eshan mentioned about it. He has been at beautiful Galboda village to visit Galboda waterfall (not famous Galabada waterfall in Watawala) and noticed this beautiful peak.

Map reading: The approximate place of Sandamadala is marked by black star. Approach from Galboda side is shown by black arrow and approach from Kotagala side is shown by red arrow. Closer peak Karagahathenna is shown by red star. Click image to enlarge.

Map reading: The approximate place of Sandamadala is marked by black star. Approach from Galboda side is shown by black arrow and approach from Kotagala side is shown by red arrow. Closer peak Karagahathenna is shown by red star. Click image to enlarge.

This journey was special as we tried to climb this mountain in two sides and only second attempt was successful. After first visit I have done map review and found this Galboda area is situated closer to Karagahathenna. But I couldn’t locate where this peak is situated when I was on Karagahathenna. It is very prominent and beautiful in Galboda side and less prominent in Kotagala side. (Not the famous Kotagala in Nuweraeliya).

 

First visit to Sandamadala from Galboda side
It was a bright sunny day and I travelled from Polonnaruwa to Naula and got a bus to Opalgala. Then I got down at Ambana junction till Anupama and Eshan come by bike. Ambana junction was familiar to me due to my previous visit to Opalgala cascades. It was a three way junction and we drove towards Galaboda village. Galboda is a beautiful but kind of an isolated village situated proximity to Knuckles forest reserve.
We parked our bike at Eshan’s known house at village. Then we followed the foot pathway at edge of Galboda Oya. Galbada oya joins with Amban Ganga at Ambana junction. It was not difficult to trace the foot pathway as the pipe line was laid there.
At one point we entered into the forest towards Sandamadala peak.
From there onwards it was a continuous ascend under the shades of trees with no proper foot pathway. We targeted the peak. The forest joined with a mana patch which was uttered difficult to creep. Then we were at the base of the mountain. The steepness was more to climb and fewer bushes were there to hold. Then we moved to side of the mountain and climbed for some height with assistance of bushes. At one point we decided to give up the climbing as steepness was more and more.

Return journey was also bit difficult but we reached the village in 2hours time compared to 3-3.30 hours we spent for climbing up. It was bit disappointed time as we couldn’t reach the peak even after tough climb. But we assumed the peak can be reached via easier way and said bye to the challenging mountain.

Entering to Galboda village

Entering to Galboda village

Beautiful Galboda village

Beautiful Galboda village

It was a nice sunny day

It was a nice sunny day

Still it has some signs of an old village

Still it has some signs of an old village

First glimpse of Sandamadala peak (most left one)

First glimpse of Sandamadala peak (most left one)

Sandamadala Peak is shown in arrow

Sandamadala Peak is shown in arrow

Last house of the village

Last house of the village

Upper border of Knuckles massif

Upper border of Knuckles massif

Wind Chan

Wind Chan

The pipe line was our land mark and we followed it’s route

The pipe line was our land mark and we followed it’s route

Water stream at Galboda

Water stream at Galboda

Clear foot pathway up to some extent

Clear foot pathway up to some extent

Entering to the forest

Entering to the forest

Ascend through the forest patch

Ascend through the forest patch

Ascend through the forest patch

Ascend through the forest patch

Surrounding view-Towards Bakamuna side

Surrounding view-Towards Bakamuna side

Paddies at Galboda village

Paddies at Galboda village

Surrounding view.....

Surrounding view…..

At the end of Mana patch we are at base of the mountain

At the end of Mana patch we are at base of the mountain

Gedaragalapathana Mountain

Gedaragalapathana Mountain

Hawarimana peak

Hawarimana peak

Forest patch and mana we have passed

Forest patch and mana we have passed

After the Mana patch. I didn't try to click inside Mana.

After the Mana patch. I didn’t try to click inside Mana.

Smiled after a hectic climb through Mana

Smiled after a hectic climb through Mana

More and more close to the base....

More and more close to the base….

It is difficult to climb straightway along the rock

It is difficult to climb straightway along the rock

Move to the side of the peak. But we had to step down as steepness was more.

Move to the side of the peak. But we had to step down as steepness was more.

Coming down....

Coming down….

Coming down....

Coming down….

Coming down....

Coming down….

Under the shades of giant tree

Under the shades of giant tree

Myself and Eshan

Myself and Eshan

Mini cascade found at Galboda Oya

Mini cascade found at Galboda Oya

Deep pond comes across at Galboda Oya

Deep pond comes across at Galboda Oya

Along the pipe line

Along the pipe line

Back to village

Back to village

Good bye till I back to you

Good bye till I back to you

Successful visit to Sandamadala from Kotagala side
This was the day luck was with us. As usual I came from Polonnaruwa and I got a lift till Ambana junction. I was able to view Sandamadala with the nearby giant-Hawarimana range above reserved Moragahakanda area. I met Eshan at Ambana junction (who came by motor bike) and had our breakfast. Then we drove along Opalgala road and got left hand side turn to reach Kotagala Tamil village. After about 500m drive road ended and we parked the bike at nearby house. They said it’s about 30-45minutes walk to Kotagala village.
It was a scenic walk under the shadows of trees at the edge of a water stream. We met few villagers coming down to buy their daily needs from Opalgala on our way. It was an ascend to Kotagala village and Sandamadala with it’s nearby similar peak were viewed just before the destination.

Kotagala Tamil village shelters for about 25-30families. They were asked to leave the area due to the threat of landslides. This isolated village doesn’t have a road and connected to Opalgala and Andawala side by foot pathways.

We inquired about Sandamadala peak but they are not using such a name for the peak. It is just another mountain for them but can be reached. After getting directions from locals we started the journey. First we came to the end of the village and then entered the forest through village border. Then we creped through bushes till meet Mana patch. From here onwards till the peak it was full length of Mana. There were foot pathways through Mana area but it misled us sometimes. We targeted the peak and reached their in 1-1.5 hours time. This was considerably an easy hike compared to our 1st attempt in other side of the peak.
The neck of the mountain has blow of wind. It was the place where Hawarimana range is connected. After reaching the peak we got down somewhere down to other side to work out our previous attempt. Steepness was more in that side but possible to get down to Galboda village.

We could view Arangala, Bowathenna reservior, Manikdena, Lenadora, Gedaragalapathana, construction area of Moragahathenna and Galaboda village from top of Sandamadala mountain.

View of northern edge of Knuckles massif in red arrow. Sandamadala is situated at this line. Black arrow shows the borderline mountain of Moragahakanda. The area in front of that would be submerged with water.

View of northern edge of Knuckles massif in red arrow. Sandamadala is situated at this line. Black arrow shows the borderline mountain of Moragahakanda. The area in front of that would be submerged with water.

Closer view and Sandamadala peak is shown by black star. Our unsuccessful attempt is shown by black arrow. Red arrow shows the direction from Kotagala side.

Closer view and Sandamadala peak is shown by black star. Our unsuccessful attempt is shown by black arrow. Red arrow shows the direction from Kotagala side.

Road starts to Kotagala Tamil village

Road starts to Kotagala Tamil village

Starting the journey....Entered into forest.

Starting the journey….Entered into forest.

Walking towards Kotagala village

Walking towards Kotagala village

Foot pathway to Kotagala village

Foot pathway to Kotagala village

Foot pathway to Kotagala village

Foot pathway to Kotagala village

Foot pathway to Kotagala village

Foot pathway to Kotagala village

Foot pathway to Kotagala village

Foot pathway to Kotagala village

First view of Sandamadala peak

First view of Sandamadala peak

Crossing the water stream. This might have a fast flow in rainy days.

Crossing the water stream. This might have a fast flow in rainy days.

Reaching Kotagala Tamil Village

Reaching Kotagala Tamil Village

Get directions from locals...They were positive minded

Get directions from locals…They were positive minded

Blessings from God

Blessings from God

Entering to the forest through a private land.

Entering to the forest through a private land.

Walking up in the forest.....

Walking up in the forest…..

Entering to Mana area. After this whole mountain was covered with Mana.

Entering to Mana area. After this whole mountain was covered with Mana.

View of Lenadora is seen as pointed peak.

View of Lenadora is seen as pointed peak.

There were foot pathways made by wild animals

There were foot pathways made by wild animals

Surrounding view on our way up....

Surrounding view on our way up….

Walking through Mana bushes.....

Walking through Mana bushes…..

Good place for camp site....

Good place for camp site….

On our way to the peak....

On our way to the peak….

Surrounding view....

Surrounding view….

Nearby other peak

Nearby other peak

Surrounding view

Surrounding view

Delicate

Delicate

Sometimes Mana was high up to half of our body

Sometimes Mana was high up to half of our body

Reaching the neck of the mountain. White arrow towards Hawarimana peak. According to our observation it can be climbed from this direction. Yellow arrow towards Sandamadala peak.

Reaching the neck of the mountain. White arrow towards Hawarimana peak. According to our observation it can be climbed from this direction. Yellow arrow towards Sandamadala peak.

Towards the peak..

Towards the peak..

Looked back....Neck of Sandamadala Mountain

Looked back….Neck of Sandamadala Mountain

The side we previously attempted

The side we previously attempted

Sandamadala Peak

Sandamadala Peak

Reaching the peak...

Reaching the peak…

Eshan is on top of Sandamadala peak

Eshan is on top of Sandamadala peak

I am on the peak

I am on the peak

Surrounding view from the peak

Surrounding view from the peak

Surrounding view from the peak towards Gedaragalapathana

Surrounding view from the peak towards Gedaragalapathana

Arangala and Bowathenna reservoir

Arangala and Bowathenna reservoir

Arangala peak in left hand side and Manikdena on right hand side

Arangala peak in left hand side and Manikdena on right hand side

After reaching the peak we descended somewhere down towards Galboda side to see what happened us in last time. The steepness was more but to get down from that side was possible. It took around one and half hour for return journey. It was kind of early finished one day trip.

Hawarimana peak with it’s surrounding range

Hawarimana peak with it’s surrounding range

Towards Galboda side

Towards Galboda side

To be our next target

To be our next target

Towards Galboda side....

Towards Galboda side….

Two men team was successful

Two men team was successful

Towards Opalgala side

Towards Opalgala side

Coming down

Coming down

Coming down

Coming down

Temporary shelter made by wild bores

Temporary shelter made by wild bores

Coming down....

Coming down….

Coming down....

Coming down….

Not to be eaten.

Not to be eaten.

Something for their lunch

Something for their lunch

Passing Kotagala Village

Passing Kotagala Village

Passing Kotagala Village

Passing Kotagala Village

It was bit earlier to finish a trip....

It was bit earlier to finish a trip….

Last section of Foot pathway between Kotagala and Opalgala

Last section of Foot pathway between Kotagala and Opalgala

Elephants in Opalgala

Elephants in Opalgala

Thanks for reading

Final lesson of the Campus Rag, The Hagala

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Year and Month  23th July 2016
Number of Days  One
Crew  Three
Accommodation  N/A
Transport  Motor Bicyceles
Activities  Mountaineering, Photography and Nature Exploring
Weather Dry
Route Colombo -> Avissawella -> Ratnapura -> Balangoda -> Belihuloya -> Ihalagalagama/ Landuyaya road -> Hagala -> Back in same toute to Colombo
Tips, Notes and Special remark
  • Take enough water
  • Do not start the trek without any main meal
  • Difficult to find the Foot pathway in Pains area
  • Do not throw garbage
  • Protect the Nature
Related Resources Trip reports on Havagala
Author  MSRF
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

Haagala/ Havagala is a famous mountain situated at Sabaragamuwa province near to the Sabaragamuwa University. This mountain is the final lesson of their Rag but this is some kind of a good experience to them to have an adventure in this beautiful area.
Haagala was situated on the way of famous “Pahanthudawa Waterfaall”. And you have to go about 8km from the Badulla road. Vehicles can park near to the starting point and the nearby village house is very friendly and helpful to keep our extra bags and helmets too.

Nameboard at the Main road

Nameboard at the Main road

School Nameboard at the Main road

School Nameboard at the Main road

Hotel Nameboard at the Main road

Hotel Nameboard at the Main road

Hotel Nameboard at the Main road

Hotel Nameboard at the Main road

Another Hotel

Another Hotel

Another Hotel

Another Hotel

Another Hotel Nameboard at the Main road

Another Hotel Nameboard at the Main road

Hotel Nameboard at the Main road

Hotel Nameboard at the Main road

After you start the journey the path will continue to a tea estate via a small jungle by crossing below mentioned two bridges. After you entered to the tea estate, walk along the tea plot about 30m to the jungle side. And then you will entered to the jungle, please remember that do not go to the right hand side foot path way which is go to the top of the area beside the tea estate. Just go down to the left side foot pathway which is directly goes to the stream. Cross the stream and walk about 100m via the small jungle patch and then you will enter to the Pines area. The same foot path way will continue to the top of the mountain but it is difficult to find at the Pines area since there some paths created by animals too.
However you have to walk to the end of the Pines area about 1-1.5Km and on that way you will find about 3 main long rocky plains which are situated from the top to the bottom of the Pines area. We stopped at a one big rocky plain which is having a dead end and that place is like a dried stream. There are some stone cuts in that area likes small squares. This Pines area was fully covered with “Mana” bushes.

Begining of the hike

Begining of the hike

Crossing the 1st Bridge

Crossing the 1st Bridge

Crossing the 2nd Bridge

Crossing the 2nd Bridge

Water Stream at the 2nd Bridge

Water Stream at the 2nd Bridge

Path to the Tea Estate

Path to the Tea Estate

Entering to the Jungle

Entering to the Jungle

Don't follow this path, this is just going to the upper tea estates

Don’t follow this path, this is just going to the upper tea estates

Just entered to the Pains area

Just entered to the Pains area

Finally we came to the end of the Pines area where we met the Jungle and the 1st Camping site. After the camp site the path will continue via the jungle and from that point till the end you will find the Red flags where it shows the correct path to the summit level.
After you entered again to the final Mana bushy area menas to top of the Haagala, you can camp at anywhere of the mountain area since the ground is flat and suitable to accommodate about 200-300 people. There is a flag at the top of the mountain which was fitted by the University students. When we go there it was fallen to the ground since the high wind in this season. We fixed it again and spend about 1 hour at the top.

We have to go beyond this Pains area

We have to go beyond this Pains area

Having a rest

Having a rest

We came across the 1st Pains area

We came across the 1st Pains area

Different type of a Pains tree

Different type of a Pains tree

Red arrow shows the destination

Red arrow shows the destination

Amazing environment

Amazing environment

Ihala Galagama and Horton Plains side

Ihala Galagama and Horton Plains side

Beautiful Nature

Beautiful Nature

The main rocky plain on the way to the summit

The main rocky plain on the way to the summit

Dead end of the Rocky Plain

Dead end of the Rocky Plain

Some stone styles, Dont know who create these or any relation with Rawana Legend

Some stone styles, Dont know who create these or any relation with Rawana Legend

Ihala Galagama area

Ihala Galagama area

Adara Kanda seen

Adara Kanda seen

Another rest at the Rocky Plain

Another rest at the Rocky Plain

Close to the summit

Close to the summit

Having a rest

Having a rest

Camp site 1

Camp site 1

Camp site 1, just before meet the Flag area

Camp site 1, just before meet the Flag area

The directions to the final 1km

The directions to the final 1km

campus students such did a useful work

campus students such did a useful work

DWC land marks

DWC land marks

Path through the jungle

Path through the jungle

After this flag the path will continue to the Mana patch

After this flag the path will continue to the Mana patch

Beautiful Mana area

Beautiful Mana area

We are so close to the summit level

We are so close to the summit level

Another Camping side at the top of Havagala

Another Camping side at the top of Havagala

 We at the Top, this flag was made by the Campus Students

We at the Top, this flag was made by the Campus Students

Adara Kanda side

Adara Kanda side

At the Summit Level

At the Summit Level

Lonley Planet

Lonley Planet

Another land mark

Another land mark

beautiful nature

beautiful nature

The bottom of Havagala

The bottom of Havagala

Adara Kanda and Non Pariel side

Adara Kanda and Non Pariel side

Samanala Wewa

Samanala Wewa

Havagala seen at near the Landu Yaya road

Havagala seen at near the Landu Yaya road

Another view

Another view

Time to Leave the Havagala

Time to Leave the Havagala

 Havagala seen at Pambahinna

Havagala seen at Pambahinna

Havagala Mountain

Havagala Mountain

Facebook – Travel in Sri Lanka-Sobasiri

 

Peacock Hills (1518m) and Kotmale

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Year and Month 2016 April 17th
2016 March 15th
Number of Days Two seperate days
Crew Three-Indranatha, Nuwan and My self
Accommodation Not applicable
Transport Bus, Three wheel, Motor bike and climbing
Activities Hiking, Sightseeing, Photography and Archeology
Weather Excellent but ended up with heavy rain
Route Polonnaruwa->Peradeniya->Paradeka junction (පාර දෙක හoදිය) in A5 road-> Doraboda (දොරබොද) Tea Factory-> Peacock Hills->Back to same route to Doraboda Tea Factory->Kadadora (කඩදොර) ->Kotmale (කොත්මලේ)
Tips, Notes and Special remark
  1. Start the journey in early morning.
  2. Carry a water bottle of 500ml. Major part of the climb can be mortable.
  3. Wear an attire and hand gloves
  4. It is wise to park your bike or vehicle at the premises of last house, not at the trail head.
  5. Visiting of Kadadora Priyabimbaramaya (කඩදොර ප්රි යබිම්බාරාමය) is a rare chance. Be careful in visiting here as all these structures may be collapsible. No need to get permission to visit there.
  6. Ranamune Pihilla (රණමුණේ පිහිල්ල) is situated near to main road of Kotmale to Thawalanthenna at Mawela (මාවෙල). An information board can be seen there.
  7. You have to get directions from villagers to Ambagaha Pihilla and Nagaha Pihilla.
  8. Public transport system to Kotmale is operated from Thawalanthanna and Ulapane both. But there are no much frequent buses.
  9. There were no Buddhist monks at Pusulpitiya temple in or visit. But care taker was very helpful.
Related Resources 1. Trip report on Scenic Peacock Hills (1518m)+ Kadiyalena and Galboda Falls
2. Travel with Chathura-Kotmale-For Historical information
3. Travel with Chathura-Mahaweli Maha Seya– For Historical information
4. “Kotmale Purawurtha” (කොත්මලේ පුරාව්රtත) -P.B.Kehelgamuwa-පී.බී. කෙහෙල්ගමුව
Author  Niroshan
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

Peacock hills/Moneragala-මොණරාගල (1518m)
Moneragala (Not Moneragala in Uva province) is clearly visible in your right hand side when you travel from Peradeniya to Nuweraeliya at Pussallawa area. It’s the northern margin of the area called Kotmale which has cultural differences compared to other Upcountry population. This mountain has a historical value as Prince Gamunu-ගැමුණු කුමාරයා (later king Dutugamunu) has lived in Kotmale for 12 years in his life. He lived as a herdsman in this area and has gone to Moneragala Mountain with his poultry.
I have been there 3 years ago and this was kind of a revisit.
We started journey from Peradeniya around 7am. The mode of transportation was motor bike and had breakfast on our way from a Rotti stall. At Paradeka junction we turned to right hand side and drove towards Dorabada. The road towards Doraboda was bumpy over large area and Moneragala peak was visible with transmission towers in left hand side.
There was a Museum of tea pluckers but it was closed on Sundays. We reached Dorabada tea factory and got the road next to tea factory. Just before the end of the road we found the actual trail head which goes through Pinus patch.
Climbing of Moneragala Kanda is nothing. As you can drive up to great extent and rest of the hiking is about 20-30minutes uphill through Pinus plot.
Summit is occupied with transmission towers.
They have planned to build a stupa on the summit but it was not successful yet.

View of Peacock Hills from Paradeka

View of Peacock Hills from Paradeka

View of Peacock Hills from Rajathala Wela (රජතලා වෙල)

View of Peacock Hills from Rajathala Wela (රජතලා වෙල)

Another view of Peacock Hills

Another view of Peacock Hills

Doraboda tea factory where you have to turn left

Doraboda tea factory where you have to turn left

Landscaping seen on the way....

Landscaping seen on the way….

More closer....

More closer….

More and more landscaping....

More and more landscaping….

More and more landscaping....

More and more landscaping….

At the trail head after parking the bike. Note the trail head is just next to the bike.

At the trail head after parking the bike. Note the trail head is just next to the bike.

Through Pinus plot

Through Pinus plot

Through Pinus plot

Through Pinus plot

Pinus everywhere....

Pinus everywhere….

Reaching the top

Reaching the top

Peak of Peacock hills occupied by towers

Peak of Peacock hills occupied by towers

Peak of Peacock hills occupied by towers

Peak of Peacock hills occupied by towers

You can have panoramic view from top of Peacock hills: Ambuluwawa with Nawalapitiya town in a clear day, Dolosbage range with Kabaragala, Pussallawa town, A-5 road, Ramboda Falls, Garandi Falls, Kotmale reservoir, Piduruthalagala range etc.

A5 road between Pussallawa-පුස්සැල්ලාව and Thawalanthanna-තවලන්තැන්න

A5 road between Pussallawa-පුස්සැල්ලාව and Thawalanthanna-තවලන්තැන්න

A5 road and Piduruthalagala range

A5 road and Piduruthalagala range

View towards Kotmale reservoir

View towards Kotmale reservoir

Zoomed view of Kotmale reservoir

Zoomed view of Kotmale reservoir

Pussallawa town

Pussallawa town

The head of the peacock with it's quill

The head of the peacock with it’s quill

The head of the peacock

The head of the peacock

Ramboda falls is circled...I can't exactly tell whether it is 1st or 3rd part

Ramboda falls is circled…I can’t exactly tell whether it is 1st or 3rd part

Peacock on peacock...

Peacock on peacock…

Two man team

Two man team

Bamboo

Bamboo

Found on top...

Found on top…

Coming down...

Coming down…

Peak is marked by star...

Peak is marked by star…

After enjoying the view from Peacock Hills we drove back to Doraboda tea factory. Then turned to left hand side. Our next target was Mahaweli Maha Seya which was visited by me in two times before.

Mahaweli Maha Seya (මහවැලි මහා සෑය)
Kotmale project was initiated in 1976 and this stupa was made to commemorate all temples and stupa submerged by Kotmale project. (Around 18 temples were drowned under the project). They started constructions of this massive stupa in 1983 March 23rd but stopped in 1992. Again it restarted in 2000 and unveiled on 20th June 2016.
Kotmale Mahaweli Maha Seya is 289.5feet tall (4.5feet lesser than Ruwanweli Maha Seya) and second largest stupa of Sri Lanka.
This was built with the idea of former Mahaweli Minister Hon. Gamini Dissanayaka and chief engineer was Dr. Kulasingha. Mahaweli Maha Seya is built on 32 concrete bars and special feature of this stupa is the cavity inside it.

View of Mahaweli Maha Saya from Kotmale reservoir

View of Mahaweli Maha Saya from Kotmale reservoir

Mahaweli Maha Seya in 2011

Mahaweli Maha Seya in 2011

Inside the Stupa in 2011

Inside the Stupa in 2011

Mahaweli Maha Seya in 2016

Mahaweli Maha Seya in 2016

Pinnacle of Stupa

Pinnacle of Stupa

Inside the Stupa

Inside the Stupa

View of Kabaragala-highest of Dolosbage from Mahaweli Maha Seya

View of Kabaragala-highest of Dolosbage from Mahaweli Maha Seya

Scenic road towards Kotmale Dam

Scenic road towards Kotmale Dam

Then we went down towards Kotmale dam and view point and on the way we visited Dehadu Kadulla as well.

Dehadu Kadulla (දෙහදු කඩුල්ල)
Ancient Kotmale had four entrances: Kadadora-කඩදොර, Watadora-වටදොර, Niyangandora (නියන්ගන්දොර) and Galdora-ගල්දොර. Kadadora was the entrance from Ruhunu Rata and Prince Gamini also entered Kotmale via this gate. He hid his royal sword in the giant Nuga tree of Dehadu Kadulla.
Nowadays renovated Dehadu Kadulla can be seen there.

Historical information about Dehadu Kadulla

Historical information about Dehadu Kadulla

Renovated Dehadu Kadulla

Renovated Dehadu Kadulla

Renovated Dehadu Kadulla

Renovated Dehadu Kadulla

Renovated Dehadu Kadulla

Renovated Dehadu Kadulla

After viewing Dehadu Kadulla we entered the road between Ulapane and Thawalanthanna via Kotmale. The view point of Kotmale dam was just in front of there.

Kotmale dam and view point
The Kotmale project is one of five major head works projects undertaken under the accelerated Mahaweli River scheme. The rock fill dam created a reservoir having an effective storage capacity of about 174 m.cm. (141,000 acre feet) enabling regulation of a large proportion of the recorded mean annual flow of the Kotmale oya at the dam site. About 3000 families lost their homes and lands due to the construction of the reservoir. The Dam Crest Length is 520 m and the dam height 87m.
There are few reservoirs of Sri Lanka which have view points for public. Kotmale reservoir is one of it. Apart from view point there is a small museum to display the progress of Kotmale project. You have to get a ticket from here and walk/drive another 1km to reach the dam along the main road towards Ulapane (උලපනේ).
I have visited thrice at Kotmale dam when reservoir has less water as well as filled with water.

Kotmale museum

Kotmale museum

Information about Kotmale Dam

Information about Kotmale Dam

Area map of Kotmale

Area map of Kotmale

Kotmale Dam and reservoir

Kotmale Dam and reservoir

Boats are parked at bank

Boats are parked at bank

Kotmale reservoir

Kotmale reservoir

View of Mahaweli Maha Seya from Kotmale reservoir

View of Mahaweli Maha Seya from Kotmale reservoir

The entrance of the dam is situated about 1km down to the view point. Same ticket is valid to enter there and you can walk over the dam.

Kotmale reservoir is named as Gamini Dissanayaka reservoir as well.

Kotmale reservoir is named as Gamini Dissanayaka reservoir as well.

Over the dam

Over the dam

Sliced door

Sliced door

View of reservoir over the dam

View of reservoir over the dam

Moneragala/ Peacock hills and Mahaweli Maha Seya

Moneragala/ Peacock hills and Mahaweli Maha Seya

After visiting Kotmale reservoir view point we have moved along Pussallawa road to visit Kadadora Priyabimbaramaya temple.
Kadadora Priyabimbaramaya temple (කඩදොර ප්රිaයබිම්බාරාමය)
Kadadora ancient temple was submerged by water of Kotmale reservoir and reappeared in 2016 March. This was kind of major tourist attraction among locals. I also visited there in early part of the session (Luckily didn’t have much crowd).
They started to build this temple in 1897 and finished 1st temple in 1905. This image house was finished in 1934. Paintings of image house belong to Kandyan style. It was merged under the water in 1979 and new temple was established at Brooke side area.

Image house of Kadadora ancient temple. Only walls with Buddha statue can be seen.

Image house of Kadadora ancient temple. Only walls with Buddha statue can be seen.

Image house of Kadadora ancient temple

Image house of Kadadora ancient temple

Buddha statue of Kadadora Temple

Buddha statue of Kadadora Temple

Buddha statue of Kadadora Temple. There are 4 feet layer of sand around this statue.

Buddha statue of Kadadora Temple. There are 4 feet layer of sand around this statue.

Makara Thorana of Kadadora Temple

Makara Thorana of Kadadora Temple

The place where Bo tree found

The place where Bo tree found

Constructions of steps...now giving ancient appearance

Constructions of steps…now giving ancient appearance

Stupa found on other side of the bank

Stupa found on other side of the bank

After passing Kadadora, next area is Morape.

Morape Katharagama Dewalaya (මොරපේ කතරගම දේවාලය)
This place is not directly related the stories of Prince Gamunu but historically important and situated at Kotmale-Thawalanthanna road. You can see two Dewalaya for God Katharagama and God Vishnu. Annual Perahara is held on July month.

“Kattaha Maduwa-කට්ටාහ මඩුව

“Kattaha Maduwa-කට්ටාහ මඩුව

“Wishnu Dewalaya” -විෂ්ණු දේවාලය

“Wishnu Dewalaya” -විෂ්ණු දේවාලය

“Katharagama dewalaya”-කතරගම දේවාලය

“Katharagama dewalaya”-කතරගම දේවාලය

Kitchen

Kitchen

Ambagaha Pihilla (අඹ්ගහ පිහිල්ල)
Few bends after passing Morape Dewalaya we were able to visit at Ambagaha Pihilla. This is situated closer to the main road. This is also an ancient water spring where Prince Gamunu has bathed and number of Mango trees can be seen closer to it. This is at the bank of Kotmale reservoir.

Directions to go down to view Ambagaha Pihilla

Directions to go down to view Ambagaha Pihilla

Ambagaha Pihilla

Ambagaha Pihilla

Ambagaha Pihilla and surrounding Mango trees

Ambagaha Pihilla and surrounding Mango trees

Kotmale reservoir

Kotmale reservoir

Kotmale reservoir

Kotmale reservoir

We turned at Mawela to reach Mawela RMW and Na Gaha Pihilla.

Mawela Yathurugahuliyadda RMW (යතුරුගැහූලියද්ද රජමහා විහාරය)
Prince Gamunu has put the winnowing fan-“Kulla”-කුල්ල from Galapitagala (ගලපිටගල) to find out a good place for Kamatha (කමත). This is the place where winnowing fan has fallen and later a temple was built to commemorate this incidence. “Yathura” (යතුර) is another name for winnowing fan. The image house of Mawela temple belongs to Kandyan era and a branch of sacred Bo tree also can be seen there.

Mawela Yathurugahuliyadda RMW

Mawela Yathurugahuliyadda RMW

Ancient image house of Mawela RMW

Ancient image house of Mawela RMW

Makara Thorana

Makara Thorana

Entrance of image house

Entrance of image house

Paintings.....

Paintings…..

Stupa.....not an old one

Stupa…..not an old one

Bo tree....Origin from Sri Maha Bodhiya

Bo tree….Origin from Sri Maha Bodhiya

Entrance with Swastika mark

Entrance with Swastika mark

Nagaha Pihilla (නා ගහ පීල්ල)
This water spring is situated closer to Yathurugahuliyadda RMW. We passed the temple and followed the road in front of the temple. This is also a water spring where Prince Gamunu has bathed.

Nagaha Pihilla

Nagaha Pihilla

Nagaha Pihilla

Nagaha Pihilla

After visiting Nagaha Pihilla and Yathurugahuliyadda RMW we came to main road and reached next place: Ranamune Pihilla and Rajathala Wela.

Ranamune Pihilla and Rajathala Wela (රණමුනේ පිහිල්ල හා රජතලා වෙල)
Rajathala Wela is the paddy field cultivated by Princes Gamunu. This small paddy field is situated closer to Moneragala. Ranamune Pihilla is a water spring situated at this paddy field used by Prince Gamunu for bathing.
Still this water spring can be seen there and it is kind of a tourist attraction at Kotmale. If you walk about 100m above Ranamure Pihilla you can visit it’s origin under a rock slab.

Ranamune Pihilla and changing room for bath

Ranamune Pihilla and changing room for bath

Ranamune Pihilla

Ranamune Pihilla

Origin of Ranamune Pihilla

Origin of Ranamune Pihilla

The foot pathway laid at Rajathala Wela Ranamune Pihilla

The foot pathway laid at Rajathala Wela Ranamune Pihilla

Rajathala Wela

Rajathala Wela

We wanted to visit Pusulpitiya RMV next and got directions from villagers.

Pusulpitiya RMV (පුසුල්පිටිය රජමහා විහාරය)
This is kind of a major tourist attraction in Kotmale. Pusulpitiya RMW is situated at other bank of the reservoir. There is a nice story behind the name Pusulpitiya but not related to Prince Gamunu folks. (Refer the book). Prince Gamunu has visited at Pusulpitiya RMV during his life at Kotmale. He was identified as the new king by royal tusker when King Kawanthissa has passed away at Pusulpitiya RMW.
The last Arahath Thero of Sri Lanka-Maliyadewa Thero has brought four golden Buddha statues from his mother land-Yonaka country and distributed to four temples including Pusulpitiya RMW. The image house with two stories where Buddha statue is placed called Maliya Maha Paya.

Other interesting places are ancient Bo tree (branch of sacred Bo tree), Dalada Hapuwa (දළදා හපුව), Slab inscription, small stupa and sacred foot print.

Steps to temple

Steps to temple

“Maliya Maha Paya”-මලිය මහා පාය

“Maliya Maha Paya”-මලිය මහා පාය

The golden Buddha statue brought by Maliya Dewa Arahath Thero. This might be it’s model. Makara Thorana around this Buddha statue was offered by King Buwenakabahu who ruled in Gampola.

The golden Buddha statue brought by Maliya Dewa Arahath Thero. This might be it’s model. Makara Thorana around this Buddha statue was offered by King Buwenakabahu who ruled in Gampola.

Ceiling of image house. Paintings belongs Kandyan era.

Ceiling of image house. Paintings belongs Kandyan era.

Wall paintings of the image house.

Wall paintings of the image house.

Ancient Porcelain

Ancient Porcelain

Wooden piles of Tampiti Wiharaya

Wooden piles of Tampiti Wiharaya

View of Moneragala through the window of image house

View of Moneragala through the window of image house

Information about “Dalada Hapuwa”

Information about “Dalada Hapuwa”

Ancient Hapu Tree-Dalada Hapuwa

Ancient Hapu Tree-Dalada Hapuwa

Ancient image house and new Damma House

Ancient image house and new Damma House

A branch came from sacred Bo tree

A branch came from sacred Bo tree

Slab inscription written hundred years ago.

Slab inscription written hundred years ago.

Second image house was built in later stages but might be belong to Kandyan era.

Second image house was built in later stages but might be belong to Kandyan era.

Seated Buddha statue seen in second image house

Seated Buddha statue seen in second image house

Ancient Stupa made on the rock where Prince Gamunu was identified as new king of the country by royal tusker.

Ancient Stupa made on the rock where Prince Gamunu was identified as new king of the country by royal tusker.

Ancient Stupa made on the rock where Prince Gamunu was identified as new king of the country by royal tusker.

Ancient Stupa made on the rock where Prince Gamunu was identified as new king of the country by royal tusker.

 

After visiting Pusulpitiya RMW we connected the road which goes over Kotmale dam and reached the road to Ulapane. Ulapane Fool’s bridge was our last place of visit of the day.

Ulapane Fool’s Bridge (උලපනේ මොඩයගේ පාලම)
The bridge built over Mahaweli River at Ulapane has a special feature. It’s iron frame was constructed upside down. This was built in British colonial period and it happened as a mistake. They said the British Engineer has committed suicide following this. Later another iron bridge was built parallel to this. The new bridge can be seen in between two iron bridges.
Nowadays there are three bridges at Ulapane.

Ulapane Fool's Bridge

Ulapane Fool’s Bridge

Ulapane Fool's Bridge in monochrome

Ulapane Fool’s Bridge in monochrome

Ulapane Fool's Bridge

Ulapane Fool’s Bridge

New bridge over Mahaweli River

New bridge over Mahaweli River

Second old bridge

Second old bridge

Second old bridge

Second old bridge

Old vs. new

Old vs. new

This map shows red star: Peacock Hills, Green star: Mahaweli Maha Seya, Black arrow: Kotmale Dam, Purple arrow: Kadadora temple (approximate place), Blue star: Morape Dewalaya, Purple star: Pusulpitiya temple

This map shows red star: Peacock Hills, Green star: Mahaweli Maha Seya, Black arrow: Kotmale Dam, Purple arrow: Kadadora temple (approximate place), Blue star: Morape Dewalaya, Purple star: Pusulpitiya temple. Click map to enlarge

Thanks for reading

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Almighty Lakegala Conquered

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Year and Month 24th September 2016
Number of Days  One
Crew 5 (Kasun Priyashantha & wife, Uditha, Shashika & myself)

1 guidePrimary Contact person: Navarathna mama081 3804191

Guide: Kalu malli

Accommodation  N/A
Transport Private vehicle (Toyota Pickup)
Activities Hiking, photography & mountain climbing
Weather Excellent weather, not a single drop of rain

April to May & September – October is the recommended period to visit

Route Piliyandala -> Kandy -> Hunnasgiriya -> Meemure and return on the same route.

My advice: Don’t trust Google map for shortest path, we had a very bad experience. Always take the main roads, coz, Google doesn’t know the Sri Lankan road conditions J.

Tips, Notes and Special remark  

Lakegala. requires great amount of mental & body preparation. Do not try to do this hike if you don’t have self-confidence and you are ready to take risk & it’s life threatening.

Tips & tricks are nicely written by Sri Abeywickrema, so I am going to copy and paste with my additions to the last. 

  • Lakegala was the most difficult hike so far in my life. Be prepared to tackle this with the instructions from Nava Mama. He’s the most experience person when it comes to Meemure and Lakegala so highly recommend him as the perfect guide. I’d trust him with my life to take you up and down safely.
  • Don’t go in large numbers and make sure there’s an equal number of helping hands from the village too. E.g. If there are 4 of you, you need at least 3 villagers to accompany you to the top. As far as I’m concerned, I wouldn’t recommend a group larger than 4 people + 3 villagers.
  • You needn’t worry about ropes or tents or food so long as you go with Nava Mama. However, if you have any climbing equipment, do take with you by all means.
  • Make sure the backpacks are light and stay closer to your body without wavering about. Take only the essential items with you.
  • Carry plenty of water, at least 3 liters per person for drinking alone. If you intend to cook, take more water accordingly.
  • Climbing Lakegala is like a religious ritual for Meemure People. Similar to climbing the Sri Pada. So guard your tongue and follow Nava Mama’s instructions to the letter.
  • No one can say if you can climb this or not. You have to understand your capabilities and decide for yourself whether you can do it or not. Remember, at the end of the day, safety comes first. You’ve gotta live to tell your story. Don’t try to be heroic unnecessarily and put yours and others’ live in danger. You don’t have to be ashamed of yourselves not being able to climb each and everything. Just gauge carefully and decide what’s best for you.
  • Watch your step all the way. Don’t let your guard down. Take frequent breaks; remember it’s not a race to the top. Drink water in sips not in gulps. Don’t overeat as going up will be difficult with an overflowing tummy.
  • The path to the base of the rock is full of lose stones due to the march of cattle searching for food. There might even be snakes underneath them. Use a stick and keep it in front of you.
  • Wear long sleeved T-shirts and if possible cargo pants coz the path is full of prickly bushes and you’re bound to get bruised. However, make sure your arms and limbs not stuck by your clothing.
  • When climbing the rocky surface, you will have to remove your shoes and stay barefoot as it’ll get a proper foothold. However, if you have special climbing shoes, it would also be ideal.
  • Don’t eat anything salty, especially salty and spicy biscuits as it will make you wanna have more and more water.
  • Please don’t attempt this during windy and rainy season. Even a slight wind or a drizzle can make climbing very dangerous. (Ideal time period would be from February to April).
  • Don’t disturb the silence in the jungle. Don’t shout or hoot. Take the minimum amount of polythene but make sure to bring them back with you.
  • There are no water sources on top of Lakegala. So be ready for it.
  • Take Powerful but lightweight torches if you plan to stay overnight. Even if you don’t, take all the same as you might get late to get out of the jungle.
  • Remember, you can’t afford to go to the toilet when you’re on top. Prepare for that by either taking more water (very hard) or take paper tissues or take something like Imodium. However, the hike along the rocky surface might make you wanna do it on the spot.
  • Help protect the environment.
  • Do ask if there’s anything else you want to know as I might’ve missed something.
  • Nava Mama thinks of getting a document signed for the people trying this hike regarding the safety of them. I think it’s a good one coz if someone meets an accident, it’ll put the whole village in trouble while newspapers making headlines accusing this and that. So be prepared to do this if he asks.
  • Kasun Priyashantha            – Photo Album
  • Ganesh                             – Photo Album
Related Resources Trip Report: Hiking Lakegala – Knuckles Mountains

Trip Report: The Ultimate Glory – My Beloved Lakegala….

Author Ganesh
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

The day I heard about Lakegala, I started collecting information about this incredible rocky mountain. I was dreaming about this for very long time. When I did the ‘Nil Diya Pokuna’ cave expedition, I decided my next big thing is Lakegala. Me and my friends went to Lakegala during April 2016. Weather was perfect, but the night we stayed, Meemure had a heavy shower. Nava mama told that not do the hike. I was heartbroken L. But I made up my mind that something bad would have happened if we have hiked. From that day I was my clock started ticking……

Every time when I told my friends that I want to do the Lakegala, they said that it’s very hard and too risky. And to think twice before you attempt. But My mind was already set to do this hike this year. After my first attempt I tried several times, but planning screwed me up.

At last, I got an invitation from Kasun Priyashantha, I was walking on the moon. The plan was to climb Lakegala and camp at river bank. We planned to leave on 23rd September, I informed Nava mama that we are coming on 24th morning. We (Kasun & his wife, Shashika, Uditha) assembled at Kasun’s house on 23rd at 6 pm. We have packed all the food, tent and other necessary items for camping and started our journey on Uditha’s Toyota pickup. We left Piliyandala at around 6:30 PM and guided by Google navigation to get the shortest path to Kandy. Our plan is to reach Kandy by 10 PM. For some reason, whole plan got collapsed and came to Nittambuwa at 9:30m PM ha ha ha…. Nothing to do we have to go on. We continued our journey and reached Nava mama’s house at around 4 am. According to Nava mama, we should start climbing around 5 am, we were very tired and exhausted. This worried me a lot, because the hike is very tough. Not only that, wind was blowing like hell, this worried me too much. Especially when you climb the rock surface, if the wind speed it too much, it’s very risky. I checked with Nava mama, he said that wind started only today…… not again L. But my mind said that you will do it today. So we continued.

We had a good cup of tea at Nava mama’s place. We packed with bread & spicy seeni sombol (thanks to Hasini) and started the hike. Before the hike, went to a devalaya to get blessings for a safe journey. I lighted 3 oil lamps and prayed. Now we are ready to rock. We were accompanied with Kalu malli (the guide).

During September, it was very dry, no water in the river and remaining water is contaminated with bugs and dried leaves. Therefore, make sure you carry enough water.

Our transporter……

Our transporter……

WOW…… what a view…..

WOW…… what a view…..

Walked through the jungle and passed dried streams for an hour. We took time-to-time short break and had jeewani & glucose. We all were tired and exhausted due to long journey, this continued to worry me. But inner mind said that we are going to achieve this goal today, and I trusted my inner mind. After hour and half walk, we came to small water fall (a stream), where we had our breakfast. Comparing to last time visit, this time stream was dried big time. We had search for clean water for drinking.

It’s breakfast time….

It’s breakfast time….

Contaminated water…. 

Contaminated water…. 

After the breakfast and a small rest, we started the journey. From this point onwards there was no big trees for shade, it’s like an open area; small thorny bushes, slippery rock surface and lose stones. You have to be bit careful, that now you are climbing at the edge of the Lakegala. On your right side, it’s a 90 degree drop, single wrong step; you know where it will lead you J.

On April 2016…..

On April 2016…..

On September 2016…..

On September 2016…..

Before and after………. Dried big time….

Edge of Lakegala.

Edge of Lakegala.

At this point I could see the summit; first I thought it’s not too far. But it’s not true, it’s the illusion coz of the rock’s angle. The climbing angle has made us little more difficult to climb. Step-by-step, steep is increasing. Suddenly, we were hit by an another hurdle; very strong winds. Don’t know the wind speed, but it was very strong. I have to grasp the bushes coz of the strong wind; it was pushing me aside. The guide told us that, if this wind continues, we cannot reach the summit.

It’s just ‘WOW’ nothing beyond this……

It’s just ‘WOW’ nothing beyond this……

What a creative mind of ‘Mother nature’

What a creative mind of ‘Mother nature’

Not again……it troubled me too much, I came that much closer and returning for the second time also; not acceptable by me. I have made up my mind that I AM DOING THIS SOMEHOW. We decided to go as much we can, and see the, if it’s safe to reach the summit, we will, otherwise we will return. Even though my mind said to go, I cannot take stupid risky decision. As mentioned by Sri, in his report, “You have to understand your capabilities and decide for yourself whether you can do it or not. Remember, at the end of the day, safety comes first. You’ve gotta live to tell your story. Don’t try to be heroic unnecessarily and put yours and others’ live in danger. You don’t have to be ashamed of yourselves not being able to climb each and everything.

These words MUST be followed to the letter, whoever tries this hike.

On the way to the top.

On the way to the top.

Walking through the thorny bushes…..

Walking through the thorny bushes…..

Finally reached the rock bottom of the surface….

Finally reached the rock bottom of the surface…..

After few hours of steep climb through the thorny bushes, we reached the 80-degree angle rock surface. Simply ‘WOW’…. Now mind asked me ‘Are you really want to climb this?” …. Yes, of course…….

WOW…… the path-way to the haven……

WOW…… the path-way to the haven……

The only way to the summit….

The only way to the summit….

On the way to the top.

On the way to the top.

This is not a hike; this is 100% rock climbing, so be prepared for this.

When we came the rocky surface, the strong wind was almost gone, and the Kalu Malli said that we can continue to the summit. And not to waste time, coz don’t know when the strong wind starts again. And he said that we should climb down, before noon, coz if the rock surface get hot, we will suffer, where we did J. So we kept our backpack and took only water. I took my DSLR bag and a water bottle.

First step……

First step……

Shashika in action….

Shashika in action….

The rock surface is about 700-800 feet high. You should have a good body balance and strength to bare your body weight. Train yourself you planning for Lakegala.

This is how you will be on the rock surface Ha ha ha ……….

This is how you will be on the rock surface Ha ha ha ……….

second step……

second step……

Hasini in action….

Hasini in action….

It’s recommended be on bare foot when u climb the rock, unless you have the full control. It was almost near to noon, and coz of the slight wind blow we didn’t feel the heat. But the rock surface was getting hotter and hotter.

While you are climbing take you time, be relaxed and don’t rush. If you are thirsty, drink a sip of water, don’t drink too much.  Carry a gloves, this will help you while you are on the rope.

Kalu malli….atha arinnam epa putho….

Kalu malli….atha arinnam epa putho….

Still more to go…..very steep climb.

Still more to go…..very steep climb.

Uditha is in action…..trying his best.

Uditha is in action…..trying his best.

Uditha, couldn’t make it to the summit, coz he was too tired and exhausted; so we don’t want to force him. He decided to climb down to the steam where we had our breakfast. Good decision, I would say. Climbing this rock surface will take very long time, therefore it’s highly recommended to have 5 or lesser members.

Kalu malli….resting

Kalu malli….resting

The iron rod where the rope is tide to.

The iron rod where the rope is tide to.

After few hours of hard rock climbing, we all reached the summit. WOW, what an achievement, I felt, I am top of the world. From the summit, Kalu malli informed Nava mama, that we have reached the summit. This is the only place where u have Mobitel signal.

Lakegala Summit…..

Lakegala Summit…..

Now the hard time begins, climbing down, don’t look down. Always face the rock and climb down like abseiling. By the time we started to climb down, if I am right it was around 3 pm, the rock was soo hot. Anyhow we have to go home; this trip shouldn’t be a history. Keeping this mind started the climb down approach.

I had left with less than 100ML of water. I have to reserve this till I reach down. I was thirsty, to drink 3 chilled Coca-Cola bottles; but only left with less than 100ml water J. This situation was deadly. Can’t explain in words, have to experience it. And we have climb down one by one, that is going to take another couple of hours.

At around 5pm were able to climb down from the rock surface. Now we have an another worry, Uditha. He climbed down to the water stream where we had breakfast and went alone. If he has gone in a wrong path or lost, that would be another disaster. All were worried and climb down faster we can before the night fall. At last we found Uditha near the water stream.

When we found him it was almost dark & he was worried about us, coz. He has thought that something has happened to us. So he got some dried logs and put up a camp fire, so that he can reach help from the villages. Very good thinking, and appreciate his effort. In this kind of a hike we must be ready anything.

We decided to rest for a while, but Kalu malli said that we should move on. Coz, usually the hike will take around 10-11 hours, and if we don’t reach the village ASAP, the villagers will get panic.

So we continued the journey. Kalu malli was right, Nava mama has sent few villagers with rope, drinks, water and with some biscuits; they thought something has happened coz we were so late.

At last we came to village around 8:45 PM. I immediately went to Nava mama’s home. When he saw me, he came running and hugged me said that ‘I was so worried that we didn’t return.’ That time I realized how much these village people are rich in their heart, money is nothing. Very emotional moment. We all thanked Nava mama, Kalu malli and said good bye to Meemure and returned on the same day.

We reached Colombo, next day around 9 am (home sweet home). I should thank Nava mama for this successful trip.

I will meet you soon once again for a cave expedition on Lakegala J.

Most important tips and some guidance.

  • Don’t go in large numbers
  • Make sure the backpacks are light and stay closer to your body.
  • Carry plenty of water
  • Climbing Lakegala is like a religious ritual, so guard your tongues
  • You have to understand your capabilities and decide for yourself.
  • You’ve gotta live to tell your story. Don’t try to be heroic unnecessarily and put yours and others’ live in danger.
  • You don’t have to be ashamed of yourselves not being able to climb each and everything. Just gauge carefully and decide what’s best for you.
  • Take frequent breaks; remember it’s not a race to the top
  • Please don’t attempt this during windy and rainy season
  • There are no water sources on top of Lakegala.
  • This is not a hike, this 100% rock climbing.

 

 

Lakegala is the not yet polluted, my kind request; don’t pollute the mother nature. Even ‘Nil Diya Pokuna’ is polluted with Arak bottles and Red bull cans.

 

Thank you for reading, see you soon with an another adventure trip report.

Ambalam Hopping – Sri Pada Off Season (Hatton-Palabaddala)…

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Year and Month 29-30 Sep, 2016
Number of Days 2
Crew Atha and Me
Accommodation Heramitipana Ambalama
Transport By Tuk, Bus & On Foot.
Activities Hiking, Trekking, Photography, Sightseeing, Bird Watching, Waterfalls, etc…
Weather Mostly gloomy, rainy and misty. Extremely heavy rains in the night.
Route Day 01

Fort->Hatton->Maskeliya->Nallathanniya aka Delhousie->Sri Pada->Heramitipana.

Day 02

Heramitipana->Sri Palabaddala->Mapalana->Ratnapura->Colombo.

Tips, Notes and Special remark  
  • Check the weather beforehand if you want to avoid running into thunderstorms. As usual I found AccuWeather and FallingRain are very reliable sites but none can predict the weather at Sri Pada hundred percent correctly.
  • Hatton Bus leaves Pettah CTB Stand at 4.15am but you have to be there at least an hour before as it gets pretty crowded. Of course these timings could change in the season. There were no direct buses to Maskeliya that early however I heard that there are direct Maskeliya buses from Avissawella quite frequently.
  • Be prepared if there’s any chance of rain with adequate raingear such as lightweight raincoats (remember every ounce matters), waterproof backpacks or covers, shoes and umbrellas. However the umbrellas can be tricky when you’re out in the open and if there’s a wind.
  • Ambalams are in very bad shape during the off season, especially if it rains. Only the Gangulthenna Ambalama seemed to be in decent conditions on Hatton Trail and the Heramitipana at the fork between Erathna and Palabaddala. Andiya Mala Thenna was simply uninhabitable due to the water leaks and garbage.
  • Carry as much rations as you can but not too much it’d take a heavy toll on your baggage weight. We found things such as Cashew, Peanuts and Jujubs are more effective than biscuits. Chocolate is also a good source of energy. Don’t forget to take a couple of packets of Jeewani as you can get dehydrated even in cold conditions.
  • No need to carry so many water bottles as the water is found rather easily. Just one bottle per person would do more than sufficiently.
  • Don’t venture off the main path into the forest as it’d be an invitation for the leeches. Not to forget the risk of slipping off into the crevices. So watch out at all times.
  • Carry warm clothes, change of underwear and socks as they are essential to keep you nice and fresh. If you’re going to stay overnight, try to take a tent and pitch it inside one of the Ambalama. If not, thick ground sheets with sleeping bags or blankets would also do the job but it’s prone to difficulties.
  • Flashlights are an essential tool and make sure they are working properly and fully charged or you have spare batteries. If you have to light a fire for cooking, try to do so at a corner of the Ambalama and use a tin sheet you can find abandoned at most of the places. It’d save the Ambalama for the future travelers and you can easily clean it afterwards. Please do take measures to leave the place clean after you.
  • There are so many wild boars roaming around the Ambalam so be careful not to go out in the night. If you must, do take a flashlight and go with someone else. Also, don’t throw food leftovers nearby as they attract more of them. Try to eat every morsel and not waste.
  •  I’m not sure about you being able to stay at the summit overnight. However if you’re doing some rituals like a Pooja, you might be able to depending on the permission from the residing monk.
  • Leech Protection is recommended but not a must.
  • Bring back only the pictures and memories.
Related Resources Here are my previous trip reports to Sri Pada. Hatton Trail, Erathna Trail, Palabaddala Trail, Maliboda Trail & Rajamale Trail.

Check the Video Journey here.

Author Sri Abeywickrema
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

Hi folks, it’s been a long time since I brought something for you. I was actually enjoying the marvels of the Mother Nature but in a different territory. After dreaming for so long I managed to make another of my dreams come true when I got the chance to visit Ladakh (I know it might sound like Greek to many) with Ana and D in late Aug 2016.

Ladakh is one of the three main areas of Jammu & Kashmir in Northern India bordering Pakistan and Tibet. Usually J&K is a very volatile area due to the never ending battle to eliminate the terrorism. However Ladakh is relatively calm as it’s further away from the troublesome Srinagar and Kargil. Anyway, I’m not gonna tell you about my Ladakh Journey but if you’re interested in seeing some breath-taking sceneries, do click on the link to view the videos I shot.

After a fairly long time of being idle, I decided to break the shackle and restart the travelling frenzy. Well I couldn’t think of a better place than Sri Pada to do so. As usual I tried to get my gang together only to find that some of them couldn’t make it. To make matters worse, even I had to change the dates making Hari to miss out but he made full use of the break and went onto climb Sri Pada and Bogawanthalawa in two consecutive days.

I was left with only Atha and we decided to give it a crack all the same. So hiring a tuk-tuk, we left Kolonnawa around 2.30am and reached Pettah private bus stand before 3am. Apart from Badulla and Airport buses, there was nothing. So we decided to try our luck at CTB, good old reliable transport method since independence despite having more workers than the number of seats combined in the whole fleet. We got lucky but the bus was due at 4.15am so we joined the queue which already had around 6 people. It showed how popular this bus is and you have to get quite early to the bus stand to get a seat. Those who’re planning to get on after Pettah will have very little chance of finding a seat.

Tour Highlights:

  1. Sri Pada Ella
  2. Sri Pada Cascades
  3. Peace Pagoda
  4. Yaka Andu Ella
  5. Mapalana Ella

Day 01

It was a wet morning as the rains kept up with us all the way and I was worried and it didn’t help get much needed sleep. When we reached Hatton, it was still gloomy and we decided to have a quick breakfast which turned out to be disastrous as the hotel just off the bus stand looked no better than a slum. For some strange reason, I didn’t feel like a slum dog millionaire. While we waited for our coffee, I got a glimpse of a Maskeliya bus and ran out of the hotel to find out the departure time. Well it was in fact departing but I managed to convince the conductor to hold on for 2 mins and came back and paid the bill, including the untouched coffee.

Just under Olympic record we made it back to the bus and managed to get seats. Well if you miss a Maskeliya bus (remember no direct Nallathanniya (නල්ලතන්නිය) buses just like in the season and there’s one or two that run at very odd times), it means waiting for almost another hour for the next bus. We were glad to be able to get into this and it was just before 9am when we left Hatton.

After a snail-like journey, we reached Maskeliya and bought a couple of essential things like instant noodles. We were planning to take a tuk-tuk from here but our luck held coz there was a Nallathanniya bus leaving at 10am. So having breathed a sigh of relief we got into the bus and settled. The sun was back and my hopes soared like an eagle. However as we got closer to Nallathanniya aka Dalhousie (remember it’s Dalhousie not Delhouse or Delhousie), those hopes came down and down like a deflated balloon.

It was very gloomy and there were a couple of passing showers as well. “This is going to be one heck of a hike” I told Atha and we both regretted not having brought the umbrellas. Well we shouldn’t have worried coz the usage of umbrella becomes next to zero after Geththampana due to the open area and strong winds. We had our long overdue coffee from the shop just before the bridge. Already there was a group of people getting ready to climb for a Pooja and we started our hike around 11am, after 8.5hr journey, well literally.

The hike was ok and the rains stayed away from us, but only until we reached the Sri Pada Ella. The drought which had plagued the whole upcountry area was coming to an end. The water levels were better in the falls but we had to cut short our stay due to the rain. We ran to the shelter near the Makara Thorana and contemplated our options. It was too cumbersome to walk with raincoats on and taking pictures was mission impossible. So I decided to back to the trail head shop looking for umbrellas. I practically ran all the way coz we were pressed for time as well but it was to no avail coz they didn’t have umbrellas for sale but for rent. Well it was no help coz we were going to climb down to Palabaddala.

Yaka Andu Ella extreme top left

Yaka Andu Ella extreme top left

Abandoned?

Abandoned?

Not really

Not really

Sri Pada Ella looking gorgeous

Sri Pada Ella looking gorgeous

Closer

Closer

And some more

And some more

Kissing the rock

Kissing the rock

Like a thin veil

Like a thin veil

Time to go lady

Time to go lady

However, I bought couple of polythene sheets which have been improvised with hoods and they were Rs. 50/- each. It was no use for taking pictures but at least they’d keep our backpacks safe from the water. I ran back to the Makara Thorana (මකර තොරණ) where Atha was waiting. The rain had eased a bit and we had to have a plan. We then decided to use one of the techniques used by the Special Forces’ called hopping. Well there are many animals like rabbits that hop but the SFs use this to cover a long distance by moving from one designated point to another. Thanks to the frequent shelters found at Hatton Trail, we called this Ambalam Hopping.

We decided to hop to Gangulthenna where we could see the Yaka Andu Ella and Peace Pagoda. We started and found our array of cascades to the right. They were not quite prominent like our Previous Journey and coincidentally it was Atha and me who did that waterfall tour which paid dividends. As we got closer to the peace pagoda, all hell broke loose and the sky opened up its double front doors. We managed to run to the shelter adjacent to the peace pagoda where a dog was already seeking refuge.

This gave a good vantage point to enjoy both Peace Pagoda and Yaka Andu Ella but the thickness of the raid made it next to impossible to take clear pictures. Anyway, here are some of them for you.

There they are

There they are

Not as many as we saw last time

Not as many as we saw last time

Just amazing

Just amazing

Red Bridge and we missed the falls to the right of this even this time

Red Bridge and we missed the falls to the right of this even this time

Mist coming thick and fast

Mist coming thick and fast

Peace Pagoda badly in need of a lick of paint

Peace Pagoda badly in need of a lick of paint

Through heavy rains

Through heavy rains

Water levels kept rising

Water levels kept rising

Time to get a move on

Time to get a move on

He was fast asleep

He was fast asleep

But a leech kept crawling towards it

But a leech kept crawling towards it

After more than half an hour wait, the rain eased a bit and we put on our raincoats once again. We were stuck between a rock and a hard place, well very much like. When you put on the rain coat, you begin to sweat like a pig and it’s really uncomfortable. When you take it off, either you’re getting soaked by the rain or being blown out by cold winds. So the Ambalam Hopping somewhat helped manage this dilemma. As we reached the Gangulthenna Ambalama (ගඟුල්තැන්න අම්බලම) the rain completely stopped and the misty veil lifted off the Yaka Andu Ella (‍යකා ඇඬූ ඇල්ල).

Well this sort of helped wipe our tears as I was practically crying over the inability to take a decent picture of this beautiful lady. As we kept watching the water level seemed to increase every passing minute but the window of the opening didn’t last long so we only managed a handful of pictures. On the other hand, we couldn’t take the break in the rain for granted so after a hasty run of photos, we decided to make the next hop to the Seetha Gangula Ambalama. Until then, here are some more pictures.

Better view and no rain

Better view and no rain

Portrait

Portrait

Closer

Closer

Water levels rose within minutes

Water levels rose within minutes

Just amazing

Just amazing

Getting darker

Getting darker

One more before the mist covered

One more before the mist covered

And this too

And this too

Full of water

Full of water

Seetha Gangula fattened up

Seetha Gangula fattened up

The rain had eased by the time we reached the Seetha Gangula Ambalama (සීත ගඟුල අම්බලම). However we decided to take a break and munch on some cashew as the energy requirements of the body wouldn’t stop rain or shine. However little did we know that the worst was yet to come. Even the breaks we took were not helping much as they didn’t help rest our minds even though our limbs took the much needed break.

We were not sure whether to stay for 5 minutes or 15 minutes and it was a constant battle in our mind. The rains had increased the water levels of Seetha Gangula and we heard a massive waterfall just off the Ambalama. This was visited by Niroshan recently but we didn’t even think about it due to the ferocity of the water. It was as if an M6 Engine was falling off the Kadugannawa rock.

Well, till we reach our next stop which is Rathu Ambalama, here are some pics. Oh don’t expect anything more afterwards for a while coz the rain and mist forced me to stow the camera safely away in the backpack.

Please follow

Please follow

Slippery steps

Slippery steps

Laden with water

Laden with water

The steps helped quite a lot and kept the leeches away

The steps helped quite a lot and kept the leeches away

Peace Pagoda, Yaka Andu Ella and other cascades

Peace Pagoda, Yaka Andu Ella and other cascades

Peace Pagoda zoomed

Peace Pagoda zoomed

Further zoomed

Further zoomed

Rare find. The top of Yaka Andu Ella which is not visible from the front.

Rare find. The top of Yaka Andu Ella which is not visible from the front.

Age is no barrier for the hard-willed

Age is no barrier for the hard-willed

We reached the Rathu Ambalama (රතු අම්බලම) as the rain was starting once again. It was good timing but the Ambalama was leaking big time and there was nowhere to sit either. So we rested the backpacks on what little dry ground we could find and leaned on the crumbling walls for a breather. We stayed for about another 20 minutes until the worst bit of the rain eased. Afterwards, we decided to let the camera go into the backpack and start the hike. The time was already 3pm and we were quite a distance from our destination.

As I feared from the very beginning, we weren’t going to make it to the summit in this weather. Because it’d certainly be pitch black by the time we started our descent towards Heramitipana (හැරමිටිපාන) and we’d be faced with strong winds, heavier rains and slippery steps which were not so inviting factors. Therefore we had to cut short our journey and take the by route where it merges with the Ratnapura Trail closer to Andiyamala Thenna (ආඬියාමළ තැන්න). In this way, we’d not only save time but also reduce the distance and the worst part of Mahagiridamba on both sides.

It was a very sad decision to leave without worshipping the sacred footprint but hiking and travelling are all about staying safe and taking the safe way and making the right decision no matter how hard it is. Remember, you can always come back when the things are better if you decide to leave something half-done coz you’re saving yourselves from injury or even death. If you make that call, you can almost always come back to complete the journey from where you stopped.

So folks, my advice to you is, stop and turn back if you know that you’re not up to it. Don’t force yourself or others to carry on doing something they’re not comfortable with. Sometimes you might feel it’s a dent in your reputation or ego to turn around but none of them will matter or come to your help if you’re met with mortal danger. Remember, staying safe is the most important thing, nothing else matters. I’ve heard that people who’d climbed to within 300ft of the summit of Everest had decided to turn around as the weather got worse coz they valued their lives more than the achievement itself. And most of them lived to complete their journeys at a later date as a result. Most of the deaths are occurred as many travelers don’t have the temperament to make that call. Well, no matter what I or anyone says, it’s ultimately your call and staying safe and looking after yourself is your responsibility.

After what felt like an eternity we arrived at the Geththampana (ගෙත්තම්පාන). There were 3 people waiting by a shop which looked dilapidated. They spoke to us in English “Where are you from?” thinking we were some foreigners as not many Sri Lankans are this crazy to make this journey under such severe weather. When I replied in Sinhala, they got a shock. We went and sat with them and apparently the shop owner and his helper were preparing the shop for the upcoming season. A bit too early one would think but considering the damage done to the building, they’d need a quite a lot of time to repair it.

Well this shop which is called “Hime Kade” (හිමේ කඩේ) has a 117-year-old history behind it. This had been started in 1898 and is one of the 2-3 shops which don’t have to pay a rent to the urban council as they’re owned by them. The old uncle (gosh I forgot to get his name) was very proud about this and kept on telling us stories while his helper served tea for the other three people. They were from a larger group who were going to the Pooja and said that they’d be staying overnight at the summit. Well my heart leaped and wanted to ask if we could tag along with them as a part of their group but decided against it.

They left after their tea and we too ordered some coffee while the old uncles rattled off the history behind the shop and how people used to travel to the Sri Pada in the old days. Before they built the Maussakelle Reservoir, the road to the Sri Pada had been paved only up to Maskeliya. From there people had to walk all the way to the summit, good 10+km more than what they do now thanks to the road up to Delhousie. Bullock carts had been the primary source of transportation and many people had come from all over the country despite travelling difficulties.

We were hungry and the helper gave us the last roti remaining for us to have. This was probably their lunch but seeing how ravenous we were, they must’ve felt very sad about us. After the roti and hot coffee, we bid our farewell and turn right at the Buddha Statue at Geththampana. This was my first time using this path and Atha had used it years ago. It’s relatively flat but there are ups and downs. The distance from Geththampana to the summit is 1.8km (it’s 4.2km to Geththampana from Trail Head). The by road is around 500m and we walked that under 15 mins. It was a clear footpath despite the off season and even though we were warned about leeches, we weren’t disturbed except for maybe one or two.

It led to the Rathnapura Trail between the Andiyamala Thenna and newly built drainage. The weather was still very bad and we walked down to the Andiyamala Thenna Ambalama hoping to settle down there for the night but the condition of it made us want to puke. The construction workers had left it full of building materials scattered here and there and cement dust had turned into a clay mixture after the rains. Garbage left behind by the previous residents was all over and simply it was no good even for a wild boar. We were undecided whether to get down to the Heramitipana fearing it’d be the same condition.

While we were contemplating, there was someone very beautiful who’d come to welcome us. Here are some pics of him.

Look at that red beak

Look at that red beak

Constant watch out for food

Constant watch out for food

Managed to get this after many shots

Managed to get this after many shots

Very observant

Very observant

It’d gone 4.30pm and we decided to take our chances and go down coz the Heramitipana Ambalama is very large and well protected compared to all the others. So our chances of finding a tiny place to sleep on were very high so we went down merrily. We reached there under 1hr and to our joy found it in better condition. So we cleared a corner and heated our dinner in one of the abandoned sections of the old Ambalama behind this. Always try to light a fire for cooking out of the Ambalama and if it’s raining, at a corner on a tin sheet (can find many in and around) as we must do our best to protect these shelters for others’ usage.

There was water in the tap off the Ambalama so we had no trouble cleaning up and preparing dinner. However it was very difficult to make it but we managed to have a warm meal inside us and turn in early. All I remember was getting inside the sleeping bag and turning to my left. However I woke up with a start to find a Boeing 747 is getting ready to land on the roof. Well, it felt just like that but in reality it was the rain pelting down so hard on the tin roof. I thought it was the wind but it was only the rain pouring in heavily and both Atha and I stayed up for a while to be sure the roof wouldn’t fall on us. The water started leaking in at a few places but we had no problem from them. So we went back to sleep and didn’t stir till the following morning.

Day 02

As we woke up, the rains had eased but the mist and the gloominess still hovered about. It was an effort to get out of the sleeping bag but we had to coz we were thinking of going to the summit before getting down. Unfortunately the visibility was so poor we abandoned that thought. Instead made some coffee and decided to wait for some time for the fog to clear. While we were roaming around the Ambalama, we came across a few visitors here and there. I’m sure you’d love them but a squirrel, eating a moth wouldn’t be a pleasant sight, would it? Well that’s exactly what the fellow was doing after catching a yellow moth. Probably they’re so hard up for fruits and decided to improvise or adapt to the harsh environment. So don’t feel disgusted at those cutie ones. Here you go:

Amazing, ain't he?

Amazing, ain’t he?

Same fella

Same fella

This fellow is a bit common

This fellow is a bit common

Gosh, what's this?

Gosh, what’s this?

There were shiny blue feathers underneath those black ones

There were shiny blue feathers underneath those black ones

Very blackish

Very blackish

Caught in the act

Caught in the act

Not so innocent fellow

Not so innocent fellow

After quick breakfast of instant noodles, we were ready to go but the thick fog kept us guessing and we just cleared the area we stayed and made sure the fire was put out properly. Just sitting on the steps, we sort of reminisced our previous journeys to this wonderful place. Around 9.45am, we could no longer put this off so decided to take a chance and start the descent.

The rain had stopped and as we went down the mist cleared. I was worried about crossing the Seetha Gangula due to the heavy rains but as we got there, there was no problem. A doggy followed us from the Heramitipana and we shared our snacks with him. However the camera had to be kept inside the bag until we arrived at the Lihinihela Ambalama where we found a massive wasps’ nest. It was built on a mango tree quite close to the path and we warned a group of pilgrims coming up not to make any noise. Here are some pics of them and surrounding views. We even captured a distant seasonal cascade.

Seasonal cascade

Seasonal cascade

Close up view

Close up view

Here they are

Here they are

Busy bees

Busy bees

Close up

Close up

Closer. Just don't know how they move about on top of each other

Closer. Just don’t know how they move about on top of each other

Afterwards, we slowly came down and the sun too decided to poke his lazy head through the clouds. We managed to get down in 4 hours well ahead my estimated 5-6hrs. We washed our faces and walked towards the Palabaddala bus stop but on the way I got this wild idea of visiting Mapalana Ella coz of the sudden rains. Atha hadn’t been to her before so we decided to find a tuk and pay a quick visit to her. More about it after these pictures:

Looking back

Looking back

More shady compared to Hatton

More shady compared to Hatton

Ants' nest

Ants’ nest

Not so fluffy due to rain

Not so fluffy due to rain

Our friend who ate anything from cashew to biscuits

Our friend who ate anything from cashew to biscuits

Colors were bright after the rains

Colors were bright after the rains

Nice and compact

Nice and compact

Such grand colors

Such grand colors

Macro at its best

Macro at its best

Coffee time

Coffee time

Nothing in sight

Nothing in sight

Not ready yet

Not ready yet

Trying to camouflage

Trying to camouflage

Many beautiful flowers

Many beautiful flowers

Like a yacht

Like a yacht

Emerald Dove

Emerald Dove

No mistake, these were very much natural

No mistake, these were very much natural

The temple at the trail head and we used the water overflowing to wash our faces

The temple at the trail head and we used the water overflowing to wash our faces

The clouds were gathering towards Rakwana Mountains and slowly on their way towards us. We spoke to one of the tuk-tuk fellows and he agreed to take us back and forth for just Rs. 200/- to visit the falls. Well it was very cheap coz there’s around 2-3km from the Palabaddala Junction to the falls on a somewhat bad road and he even waited for us. So away we went and as we got closer we could get glimpses of this mighty lady’s top parts.

She was looking grandeur and if you remember My Previous Visit to this beautiful lady with Uncle Tony, she was even richer this time around. So our decision to go pay a visit to this lady really was worthwhile. We stopped at the house just before the falls and then took to the path bordering the stream and the tea estate. House owners warned us of slippery rocks and leeches but the huge roar of the waterfall made my heart beat faster and my legs wouldn’t wait another second as they started their brisk walk towards one of the most beautiful ladies in the whole wide world.

Remember, she’s the 4th highest in the whole of Sri Lanka and what a sight it really was. There was this massive body of virgin white water falling from the sky all the way to a rugged base pool of rocky boulders sending millions of droplets bathing the whole surrounding area. I was just speechless and even the leeches crawling up my shins and sucking blood from my veins couldn’t deviate my attention from her.

Ok, here we go with the pictures coz I know how impatient you are to get on with them.

Sexy lady

Sexy lady

Getting closer

Getting closer

Top part

Top part

Extreme top up close

Extreme top up close

Centre and towards the bottom

Centre and towards the bottom

Falling in

Falling in

Little lower segment

Little lower segment

Full package

Full package

Just look at the posture

Just look at the posture

Colorful

Colorful

From the road

From the road

One before we left

One before we left

Well guys, hope you liked those views as much as we did. It was simply unbelievable and we just didn’t feel like returning. However we had a bus to catch to Ratnapura so hurried back to Palabaddala around 2.40pm. The next bus was due at 3pm so had a rushed lunch of bread and dhal from a nearby shop and waited for it.

As promised, the bus left Palabaddala on time and we reached Ratnapura by 4.15pm and got lucky to find a Colombo-bound one at 4.30pm. In the end, we were home before 8pm which was more than we could’ve hoped for.

There ends yet another of my Sri Pada journeys and I hope you all enjoyed it despite the lack of pics throughout the journey. Looking back, I feel very happy we decided to go ahead despite the foul weather conditions and the decision we made to bypass the summit was also a very wise thing. It’s true that every journey we make teaches us something very important and this was no exception.

Well this is Sri signing off for now and will see you again with yet another tour.

Lakegala (1494m)-Mountain of two peaks

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Year and Month Lakegala (Meemure)-2014 September 25th
Lakegala (Narangamuwa)-2016 September 25th
Number of Days Two seperate days
Crew Lakegala (Meemure)- Anupama, Eshan, Tharaka, Milindu and My self
Lakegala (Narangamuwa)- Eshan, Shantha and Shantha-Two local guides, My self
Accommodation Narangamuwa-At Kapila Banda Mama’s place-0712271812 (At the moment he is not at Narangamuwa. He is the brother of Nawa Mama)
Meemure-At Nawa Mama’s place-0813804191
Transport Bus, Three Wheel and Hiking
Activities Hiking and Photography
Weather Excellent
Route Polonnaruwa->Dambulla->Pallegama (පල්ලේගම) ->Narangamuwa (නාරoගමුව) ->Lakegala (Narangamuwa) and Lakegala (Meemure)->Meemure (මීමුරේ) ->Hunnasgiriya (හුන්නස්ගිරිය) ->Kandy->Colombo
Tips, Notes and Special remark
  • Climbing Lakegala-Narangamuwa
  1. Start the journey in early morning to avoid extreme heat in afternoon over the rock.
  2. Carry a water bottle of 1l per person. There are three water streams you will cross. But we came across only the first one with water.
  3. Wear an attire to protect your upper limbs from Mana.
  4. Must have a known person/ guide.Shantha is well known person of Narangamuwa area.Shantha-0712249760
  5. Avoid in rainy days as rock is slippery.
  6. There is a section to be climbed over the rock. We selected the gulley in between Meeriyagolla mountain and Lakegala. No need ropes.
  7. Last part of climbing is kind of walking over knife blade. Be careful about wind.
  8. Buses from Dambulla to Pallegama start/ come via Dambulla bus stand. Buses are not frequent. From Pallegama to Narangamuwa you have to hire a three wheeler. Road condition is not good in last part.
  9. Better carry only necessary items when you climb over the rock. Other stuff can be kept at base of the mountain.
  • Climbing Lakegala-Meemure
  • As a rule better start the journey early and it takes more time than Lakegala-Narangamuwa.
  • Lakegala base pool is the last water resort and can be seen even in dry season. It needs more water requirement than Lakegala-Narangamuwa.
  • Wear an attire to protect your upper limbs from Mana.
  • It is essential to have a known person/guide. (Though we didn’t use). Though I didn’t go with Nawa mama I can say he is a responsible guide. Nawa Mama-0813804191
  • Avoid in rainy days. Even though it rains only in evenings the rock may be slightly wet in morning hours.
  • The basic principle is climbing along the vertical gulley. It needs some rock climbing skill. Avoid this if you are afraid. This needs a good rope and rope binding skill. Therefore needs a guide or a known person.
  • The distance to Lakegala-base pool is less from Meemure side.
    Some pictures are not in quality as I have photographed by phone camera. Please bear it.
Related Resources 1.Trip report on Hiking Lakegala-Knuckles Mountains

2. Trip report on The Ultimate Glory-My beloved Lakegala

Author  Niroshan
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

Lakegala is a well known mountain situated in Knuckles massif with height of about 1494m. But only few people know it has two peaks. The peak is seen to Meemure is identified as Lakegala and it is known as one of a difficult mountain in Sri Lanka to be climbed. Only few people know it has another peak which is seen from Narangamuwa side. There is gap between two peaks. In between there is a small rock, therefore “Gal Thuna”-ගල්තුන (Three rocks) is another name for Lakegala. Narangamuwa is a village situated closer to Meemure. Interesting thing is Lakegala (Meemure) belongs to Kandy district and Lakegala (Narangamuwa) belongs to Matale district.

Pilot view of Lakegala to show it's dual peaks. This photo was taken when I was at Kehelpothdoruwegala (කෙහෙල්පොත්දොරුවේගල).

Pilot view of Lakegala to show it’s dual peaks. This photo was taken when I was at Kehelpothdoruwegala (කෙහෙල්පොත්දොරුවේගල).

View of Lakegala from Corbet's Gap

View of Lakegala from Corbet’s Gap

I have climbed these two peaks separately on a same day of the year but with a gap of two years.
Meemure village and knuckles area is directly related to Rawana legend. Lakegala has drawn a special attention in Rawana legend and it says king Rawana (රාවණා රජතුමා) has lifted his aero plane- “Dandu Monaraya”-දඪු මොණරය from there.

The name Lakegala is having several meanings:
1. It is the highest mountain can be seen from eastern coast of Sri Lanka. Therefore ancient sailors have sailed their ships by aiming Lakegala to eastern ports of Sri Lanka. “Illakkagala”-ඉලක්කගල has become Lakegala.

2. The word Lankagala has become Lakegala.

I climbed both peaks starting from Narangamuwa village and after climbing ended up at Meemure village. Apart from that I have been at Rahassa (රැහැස්ස) and Meeriyagolla Mountain (මීරියගොල්ල කන්ද) which are in the same line of Lakegala. (Will come in another report).

Climbing Lakegala-Narangamuwa peak
Here onwards I mention Lakegala-Narangamuwa as Lakegala.
It was my fourth visit to beautiful Narangamuwa village which is under threatens of Moragahakanda reservoir. (Though it is not submerged they will lose the road to the village).
Eshan and myself reached Narangamuwa village on previous day night. We have given alms to the Buddhist monk who stays at “Kuti” at Narangamuwa before start the climb. This Kuti is situated on different foot pathway from Lakegala pathway. There is a foot pathway staring from Narangamuwa to Meemure. Soon after this foot pathway divided into two: Left hand side one goes to Meemure bypassing the base of Lakegala. Right hand side foot pathway goes to Meemure close to base of Lakegala. We followed right hand side foot pathway and on our way we were able to enjoy the view of Uyangomuwa Lake. (I will write in next report)

So there are two foot pathways connecting Narangamuwa and Meemure. One goes at the base of Lakegala range (which is steeper and time consuming but more scenic) and other one by passes Lakegala. After passing Uyangomuwa Lake it ascends and reached a point where another foot pathway goes to left hand side. This is the one to Rahassa, Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala. It initially has a descend with crossing two water streams (Was dry in my both visits) and then it ascends till the base of the mountain.

We kept our bags at base of the mountain and only carried water bottles and necessary food items. As we have been at Meeriyagolla Mountain one month ago we knew the path and difficulties. But we have selected the small gulley in between Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala. Angle is about 60/70 degrees in most of the time. There were enough bushes at side of the gulley to hold. After about 30-45minutes climb we reached the area between Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala peak.

The foot pathway to Rahassa, Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala.

The foot pathway to Rahassa, Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala.

View of Lakegala

View of Lakegala

Back drop of Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala

Back drop of Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala

View of Meeriyagolla Mountain from Rahassa

View of Meeriyagolla Mountain from Rahassa

Towards the base of the mountain

Towards the base of the mountain

Start the climbing...Initial first 10meters were on the rock

Start the climbing…Initial first 10meters were on the rock

View of Lakegala from it's base

View of Lakegala from it’s base

Shantha and Eshan

Shantha and Eshan

Eshan at the base of the mountain. The gulley at his left side.

Eshan at the base of the mountain. The gulley at his left side.

Our local guide Shantha. It was nothing for them to walk on the rock.

Our local guide Shantha. It was nothing for them to walk on the rock.

Reached the area between Meeriyagolla peak and Lakegala. Meeriyagolla Mountain is behind.

Reached the area between Meeriyagolla peak and Lakegala. Meeriyagolla Mountain is behind.

We spent about an hour to reach the area between Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala. After having a small break there, we started second part of hiking. It was not steeper as previous one. Surrounding view was superb and last part of climbing like walking on a knife ridge. It takes another 45minutes to 1 hour to reach the peak of Lakegala. The peak of Narangamuwa-Lakegala provides nice panoramic view compared to Meemure Lakegala where view gets obstructed with bushes and trees.
Land marks were: Other mountains of Knuckles massif: Kehelpothdoruwegala, Yahangala (යහන්ගල), Dumbanagala (දුම්බානාගල), Thunhisgala (තුන්හිස්ගල), Knuckles, Karagahathenna (කරගහතැන්න), Riverstone and Maningala (මානින්ගල). Mahaweli River, Sorabora Lake, Rathkinda and Ulhitiya reservoirs, Meemure village, Narangamuwa were also seen. Most significant thing is the closer view of Lakegala-Meemure. There is a gap between these two peaks and unable conquer Lakegala-Meemure from this side.
After enjoying the surrounding view we started to get down along the same pathway. We satisfied with Rotti for lunch and said good bye to two guides at junction where main foot pathway meets. Eshan and myself walked down to Meemure in one and half hours.
I have been at this foot pathway for several times and it basically a descend towards Meemure. We were able to see the point where we started to climb Lakegala-Meemure in 2014.

Ultimate peak of Lakegala-Narangamuwa

Ultimate peak of Lakegala-Narangamuwa

Second part of hiking to be started

Second part of hiking to be started

In between Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala

In between Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala

Lakegala

Lakegala

Eshan is leading now.....

Eshan is leading now…..

Karagahathenna and Maningala are seen far behind….

Karagahathenna and Maningala are seen far behind….

View of Thunhisgala

View of Thunhisgala

Some more to go.....

Some more to go…..

View of Meeriyagolla Mountain

View of Meeriyagolla Mountain

It is easy to walk over there with Mana bushes

It is easy to walk over there with Mana bushes

Weather was excellent....

Weather was excellent….

The peak of Meemure Lakegala

The peak of Meemure Lakegala

Note the peak of Lakegala-Meemure and the gap between both peaks.

Note the peak of Lakegala-Meemure and the gap between both peaks.

Walking over the knife blade to reach the peak.

Walking over the knife blade to reach the peak.

Peak of Lakegala-Meemure. The arrow shows the angle we climbed Lakegala-Meemure.

Peak of Lakegala-Meemure. The arrow shows the angle we climbed Lakegala-Meemure.

We are at the peak of Lakegala-Narangamuwa. Lakegala-Meemure is bit higher than this.

We are at the peak of Lakegala-Narangamuwa. Lakegala-Meemure is bit higher than this.

Eastern edge of Knuckles massif

Eastern edge of Knuckles massif

Coming down

Coming down

Getting a help from guide

Getting a help from guide

Cross section of Lakegala-Taken on our way to Meemure from Narangamuwa.

Cross section of Lakegala-Taken on our way to Meemure from Narangamuwa.

Climbing Lakegala-Meemure peak
This is the classic Lakegala and kind of a difficult climbing. We stayed the previous day night at same place at Narangamuwa and started the journey early morning. The foot pathway was same I mentioned above but we went further down towards Meemure and got the turn to right hand side towards base pool. Kapila Banda Mama came to that junction and rest of the climbing we did without a guide.

View of Lakegala from Corbet's Gap

View of Lakegala from Corbet’s Gap

View of Lakegala from Kosgolla (කොස්ගොල්ල) estate.

View of Lakegala from Kosgolla (කොස්ගොල්ල) estate.

Classic appearance of Lakegala at Meemure.

Classic appearance of Lakegala at Meemure.

View of Lakegala at Dandenikumbura (දන්දෙනිකුඹුර). Here you can again notice it’s dual peaks.

View of Lakegala at Dandenikumbura (දන්දෙනිකුඹුර). Here you can again notice it’s dual peaks.

Starting the journey.

Starting the journey.

Where two foot pathways started. Black arrow shows the foot pathway bypassing Lakegala. We followed the red one.

Where two foot pathways started. Black arrow shows the foot pathway bypassing Lakegala. We followed the red one.

Crossing the water stream

Crossing the water stream

Climbing up

Climbing up

Lakegala (Left hand side) and Meeriyagolla Mountain (Right hand side)

Lakegala (Left hand side) and Meeriyagolla Mountain (Right hand side)

Forest department boundary

Forest department boundary

Narrow foot pathway towards Uyangomuwa (උයන්ගොමුව) Lake side.

Narrow foot pathway towards Uyangomuwa (උයන්ගොමුව) Lake side.

Filtering....

Filtering….

This place seemed to be the entrance from village to forest. We also followed rituals.

This place seemed to be the entrance from village to forest. We also followed rituals.

I can’t avoid of snaps of early morning sun rays.

I can’t avoid of snaps of early morning sun rays.

Crossing another water stream.

Crossing another water stream.

Happy faces of the team.

Happy faces of the team.

Kissing the ground.

Kissing the ground.

Environment was fresh....

Environment was fresh….

Must be the highest point of foot pathway. We had a rest there.

Must be the highest point of foot pathway. We had a rest there.

Red arrow shows the direction towards Lakegala base pool and black arrow continues towards Meemure.

Red arrow shows the direction towards Lakegala base pool and black arrow continues towards Meemure.

We started the actual climbing from Lakegala base pool sharp at 9am. According to Sri’s report  climbing has three define sections.
First one is the section of bushes up to main rock. Second part is the most difficult part of conquering main rock, which needs climbing skills as well. Last bit is another steep forest patch till you step on the narrow summit.
We crossed the water stream above the base pool and walked up towards right hand side and made our way up along the edge of the mountain. This section is moderately strenuous climbing which took about 2hours to reach base of main rock.

Rest at Lakegala base pool before start the climb. Though it is called “base pool” it doesn’t show any features of a pool.

Rest at Lakegala base pool before start the climb. Though it is called “base pool” it doesn’t show any features of a pool.

Climbing up..... Most of the time this section has bushes.

Climbing up….. Most of the time this section has bushes.

When you go further up few large trees can be seen. Main rock was waiting for us.

When you go further up few large trees can be seen. Main rock was waiting for us.

The mountain right opposite to Lakegala-Katukithula

The mountain right opposite to Lakegala.

Making our pathway along the edge of the mountain.

Making our pathway along the edge of the mountain.

Seasonal waterfall of Lakegala following last night rain.

Seasonal waterfall of Lakegala following last night rain.

View of paddy fields of Meemure.

View of paddy fields of Meemure.

Approximate directions from Lakegala base pool.

Approximate directions from Lakegala base pool.

Snapped.....

Snapped…..

We are close to the main rock.

We are close to the main rock.

At base of main rock

At base of main rock

Two members are lagging behind.

Two members are lagging behind.

Lakegala main rock is about 100m tall and has 80-90 degree angle. There is a vertical gulley at the surface of it where you have to do initial climbing till end of the gulley. You can safely climb along this gulley and there is high possibility you are getting stucked if you slipped down as it is narrow.
At the end of the gulley an iron rod can be found where you can attach a rope. If someone come across climbing up along the gulley is difficult, can get the assistance of a rope.
After 1st iron rod second one can be seen about 20-30m above the second one. This section has 50-60 degree angle and have to walk on a rock surface to reach the second rod for roping.

Getting into the gulley is also bit diff cult. Anupama was able to walk on rock surface and get into the gulley first. Then with the assistance of the rope others could do it.

Getting into the gulley is also bit diff cult. Anupama was able to walk on rock surface and get into the gulley first. Then with the assistance of the rope others could do it.

Milindu coming to the gulley

Milindu coming to the gulley

This is what I described as gulley. Though we expected the first iron rod at it’s end, it was situated further above.

This is what I described as gulley. Though we expected the first iron rod at it’s end, it was situated further above.

Anuruddha used his climbing skills.

Anuruddha used his climbing skills.

Anuruddha used his climbing skills.

Anuruddha used his climbing skills.

Another hard section.

Another hard section.

Reaching first iron rod. This is embedded to the rock. It was done by villagers 7 years ago when they have a Pirith festival on top of Lakegala.

Reaching first iron rod. This is embedded to the rock. It was done by villagers 7 years ago when they have a Pirith festival on top of Lakegala.

Roping from iron rod

Roping from iron rod

Milindu is trying to reach the iron rod.

Milindu is trying to reach the iron rod.

Now I have attached the rope to second iron rod and others still at 1st iron rod.

Now I have attached the rope to second iron rod and others still at 1st iron rod.

Coming to second iron rod

Coming to second iron rod

Another difficult part was come across after 2nd iron rod. A rock part has been popped out to obstruct the climbing path. No option to overcome this other than climbing over it. Anuruddha has climbed it and with assistance of the rope others also could climb it. It ended most difficult part of climbing and latter part was creeping up through the forest patch till the summit.

The view from Lakegala-Meemure was same as what we seen from other peak. But it didn’t provide 360 degree view due to bushes covering the peak. The time we summited few rain clouds were gathering around the peak and surrounding view was not beautiful as we expected.

Had to climb over this rocky part.

Had to climb over this rocky part.

Anupama (blue shirt) is coming up with assistance of rope.

Anupama (blue shirt) is coming up with assistance of rope.

Last section of climbing –forest patch

Last section of climbing –forest patch

Filling water

Filling water

Milindu is climbing the forest patch

Milindu is climbing the forest patch

Another wall. But no need to climb over it. Can go by it’s side.

Another wall. But no need to climb over it. Can go by it’s side.

On the way to summit

On the way to summit

Might be a seasonal waterfall.

Might be a seasonal waterfall.

Reaching the top. Lakegala-Narangamuwa (R) and middle part (M)

Reaching the top. Lakegala-Narangamuwa (R) and middle part (M)

This is the summit of Lakegala. Note it is full of shrubs.

This is the summit of Lakegala. Note it is full of shrubs.

Towards Mahiyangana side

Towards Mahiyangana side

The place where villagers used to have Pirith festival.

The place where villagers used to have Pirith festival.

Thunhisgala is seen far away. Mist starts to spread.

Thunhisgala is seen far away. Mist starts to spread.

Another view from Lakegala

Another view from Lakegala

Smiley faces after victory.

Smiley faces after victory.

Thanks for reading. Have a safe journey

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lakegala – The Ultimate Rock Climbing Adventure in the Heartland of Ravana’s Kingdom

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Year and Month September, 2016
Number of Days 3
Crew 4 (between 25-30 years of age) + Dhammika maama as guide
Accommodation Nava Maama’s home
Transport Van and Public Transport
Activities Hiking, Rock Climbing & Photography
Weather Warm but excellent
Route Kandy->Hunnasgiriya->Meemure-> Lakegala and return on the same route
Tips, Notes and Special remark
  • Nava maama can be contacted on 081-3804191
  • Dhammika maama, a villager from Meemure accompanied us during this journey. Never try this without an experienced guide.
  • Lakegala is by far the toughest rock climbing adventure of our lives. Please have the utmost respect to the area and its local traditions because not everything is within your control after you begin the climbing.
  • This is not an everyday hike. It is advised to climb this peak only during March-April or August-September seasons when the probability of rain is minimal and winds are moderate.
  • Never ever try to step beyond the base of rocky surface during a rainy day or if there is a possibility of rain, later that day.
  • If it rains when you are on the top, stay there until the rock surface is completely dried up, no matter how long it is. Phones can receive signals up there – however this can only be helpful as a last resort.
  • There are no water sources beyond the pool at the base of Lakegala. You need to carry at least 3L of water per person if you are climbing on a bright, sunny day. If you are camping on the top, water requirement could be greater.
  • Good to wear long sleeved T-shirts to avoid bruises due to thorny bushes.
  • Good to wear gloves since you have to grab maana bushes and rocky edges during the climb up.
  • 4-5 is the ideal team size for the journey. Larger teams make the ascending and descending times longer.
  • Lakegala is not a place for any fancy moves or action. Don’t try to be extra-adventurous. The journey itself is adventurous to the brink.
  • Keep an emergency first aid kit with you. Better to drink jeevani during the journey, time to time. Keeping yourself hydrated is the key to success.
  • Guard your tongue at all times when you are on the course.
  • Never ever drink and climb! You need to maintain 100% concentration at all times, on where you keep your foot to what you are going to holding on.
  • Don’t try this if you have acrophobia – the fear of heights. Be realistic about your physical and psychological ability, as Lakegala is going to test both of these to the limit.
  • A knife would be useful to chop the trees to clear the path when you are on the top.
  • Beware of forest-fires if you are climbing in a dry season. Forest-fires here can be deadly, as you’ve got no place to run.
  • Double check the grip of your shoes if you plan to keep them during the climb. Otherwise, going barefoot is safer.
  • Hiking in the Knuckles range requires permission from Department of Wildlife Conservation. Having said that, it is unlikely that you will receive an official permission to climb Lakegala, considering the previous incidents there.
  • Last but not least, don’t forget the flag! 😉
Related Resources Trip reports on : Lakegala
Author Chamitha
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

Summiting Lakegala was one of my dreams since 2010, when I first camped in the beautiful village of Meemure. After nearly a 6 year wait, this dream was finally realized in September 2016, thanks to some remarkable guidance and teamwork of a dedicated crew. During the last two years, I have been on a number of hikes of varying difficulty and complexity – some of them planned with the help of Lakdasun trip archive. But never previously I had the time to write down those experiences like this. However I thought of keeping a record of this journey due to sheer lack of literature on the matter. In fact, even by the accounts Nava maama – a seasoned hiker and villager in Meemure, less than 100 outsiders have been to the top of Lakegala in his 50+ year span of life. First climb on record was in 1943 by E.T. Dyson, who was the then Colonial Government Agent of Kandy. Sri Abeywickrema’s legendary report on his ascent in April 2014 [http://trips.lakdasun.org/the-ultimate-glory-my-beloved-lakegala.htm] was my only reference when I started planning the trip way back in February 2016.

Soon I got to know that due to an unfortunate incident occurred in September 2014, killing 1 person and seriously injuring 2, climbing Lakegala has come to a halt. Not even the villagers of nearby villages – Meemure, Ranamure, Narangamuwa etc. – were willing to take up this task. I called Nava maama for the first time in February 2016 to discuss on a possible journey in March or April, but he kept on discouraging me from doing this, recalling the accident and difficulty of the climb due to wind and rains. Knuckles range is notorious for its unpredictable weather – mist and sporadic rains in this case. So timing was absolutely critical for our success. Usually March-May is considered the best time for climbing due to lack of rains and wind. However it was March and this time, the rains have not yet departed. Towards the end of March, Nava maama finally agreed to take up the task of guiding us to Lakegala. He suggested to do it in between New Year festival in April and Vesak full moon poya day in May. Considering our work commitments and holiday arrangements, we decided to do it on 21st April, exactly 2 years from Sri’s attempt. First week since the New Year festival was calm without serious showers to the area, raising our hopes.

First Attempt

So me, with 3 of my friends – Ashan, Chinthaka and Dinuka – packed our bags and departed to Nava maama’s place in Meemure on 20th April with cheerful minds. Much to our dismay, a heavy shower started in the evening of 20th, shattering all our dreams of making it to the summit. Nava maama casted a totally negative outlook of tomorrow’s proceedings, as it could be observed that streams of water sliding down the Western face of Lakegala, from where we are supposed to climb. Nevertheless we insisted on going as far as we could, and Nava maama had no other option but to agree J Next day we started the journey from Meemure with the guide introduced by him, Chanaka, and reached the base of the rocky surface after nearly a 5 hour struggle. It was clear to us that any attempt to proceed further would be suicidal. Such a venture would only result in consolidation of the already established opinion that Lakegala is a deadly peak. I am not going to further elaborate on our first attempt to climb Lakegala, since our second and the successful attempt also covers the same details up to this point. Only difference here was that the climb required extra energy due to forest patch being infested with leeches and rocky surface being extra slippery.

The captivating view of Lakegala. We were glued to view of this majestic peak every time we saw it. After the initial failure, this remained the wallpaper of my laptop until we finally made it to the summit in September 2016.

The captivating view of Lakegala. We were glued to view of this majestic peak every time we saw it. After the initial failure, this remained the wallpaper of my laptop until we finally made it to the summit in September 2016.

The lush greenery of the paddy fields of Meemure, as seen from the village Bo tree. However the greenery was nowhere to be seen when we came there again in September.

The lush greenery of the paddy fields of Meemure, as seen from the village Bo tree. However the greenery was nowhere to be seen when we came there again in September.

More of the enchanting beauty of the village. Did you know that Meemure is located at a lower elevation than Kandy? Elevation of these paddy fields is around 370m MSL while Kandy is at an elevation around 500m MSL.

More of the enchanting beauty of the village. Did you know that Meemure is located at a lower elevation than Kandy? Elevation of these paddy fields is around 370m MSL while Kandy is at an elevation around 500m MSL.

Through the forest patch starting from Meemure towards the base pool of Lakegala.

Through the forest patch starting from Meemure towards the base pool of Lakegala.

First sight of the mighty peak. We were desperately hoping that these streams of water would be dried off before we reach the base of the rocky surface.

First sight of the mighty peak. We were desperately hoping that these streams of water would be dried off before we reach the base of the rocky surface.

Streams of water flowing down the rocky surface.

Streams of water flowing down the rocky surface.

Wannimaana range is seen to the West of Lakegala. Thunhisgala is covered in mist.

Wannimaana range is seen to the West of Lakegala. Thunhisgala is covered in mist.

At the base of the rocky surface – this was the furthest point we could climb in this attempt. It was impossible to walk horizontally cross the slippery rock to reach the rock crevice.

At the base of the rocky surface – this was the furthest point we could climb in this attempt. It was impossible to walk horizontally cross the slippery rock to reach the rock crevice.

A grim reminder – the shoe of the hiker who fell to death in 2014.

A grim reminder – the shoe of the hiker who fell to death in 2014.

The mesmerizing beauty of Thunhisgala after the mist was cleared.

The mesmerizing beauty of Thunhisgala after the mist was cleared.

Though it was a setback for us, this failure could only strengthen our motivation to give another try to conquer this mighty peak under different weather conditions.

Second Attempt

Time passed and we did several other hikes during next 4 months’ time. But the incomplete job at Lakegala was always in our minds. Nava maama mentioned about a brief window of opportunity in September before the start of North Eastern monsoon, prior to our departure from Meemue in April. Keeping that in my mind, I gave him a call in the last week of August to check whether he has new plans. To my great surprise, he said that there will be a team from Colombo on 11th September to climb Lakegala. He asked us to join with this team if possible. I quickly called my friends to check their availability. Both Chinthaka and Dinuka were okay but Ashan had other plans for that date. Considering the difficulty in arranging such a journey, we decided to proceed despite the brief time for the preparation. Fortunately for us, Rajitha joined the team to fill the void left by Ashan.

Nava maama said that he has some good ropes with him. Therefore we decided to take only 2 pieces of 10m ropes with us. Other stuff we took with us include gloves, knee guards, energy drinks, glucose and jeewani. With heavily loaded backpacks, we met in front of Sri Dalada Maligawa in the morning of 10th Saturday. With the experience of the first attempt, we all knew the gravity of the task in front of us. Hence we went inside Dalada Maligawa to get the blessings of the sacred tooth relic despite the heavy crowd. I was sure that only a sudden rain could stop us this time, thus asked all divinity to be kind to these 4 souls until they get back safely. After spending nearly an hour inside Dalada Maligawa, we got into the van of Rajitha – whose father drove us to the township of Hunnasgiriya. It was around 12pm when we reached Hunnasgiriya. We bought ample chocolates and marshmallows on the way. After having short eats for lunch, we got into the van that brings passengers from Hunnasgiriya to Meemure once per day. There’s another van that travels from Hunnasgiriya to Kaikawala, which is located few kilometers before Meemure in the Hunnasgiriya-Meemure road. This van can also be arranged to go to Meemure if the Meemure van is too crowded. These vans usually start journey from Hunnasgiriya around 1-1.30pm, but it’s good to be there at least 1 hour prior to the departure so as to reserve a seat. There is also a possibility that it could leave early if there are many passengers. A bus service exists between Hunnasgiriya and Loolwatte estate, which is located 18km from Meemure. Villagers of Meemure were used to walk all the way to Loolwatte prior to the start of this van service.

After a tiring, 33 kilometer–3 hour journey inside this barely ventilated van, we reached Meemure around 4.00 in the afternoon. On the way we saw some forest fires which we later came to know that has destroyed hundreds of hectares up to Yahangala. Having known the Meemure village with our previous visits, we straight away decided to walk down to the stream that supplies water to the village – ‘Meemura oya’. Unfortunately there was very little water in Meemura oya, and the place where we had a quite refreshing bath during the last visit, barely had any water to take a dip. So we walked further down the stream for another kilometer or two, to the waterfall which comprises three sections. This is the place where the famous ‘Giniyam Rae’ video of Iraj was shot. However the darkness was starting to fall and after taking few snaps, we decided to return. After having an ice cold shower at Nava maama’s place, we sat down to finalize tomorrow’s plan. There was no news from the guys from Colombo with whom we were supposed to climb. So the following day was totally ours. Around 7.30pm, Nava maama arrived with a middle-aged villager, to whom we got introduced as Dhammika. At that time we didn’t know that Dhammika maama would become one of the best guides we’ve met to date. Nava maama seemed to have given up hiking Lakegala, perhaps due to his age. We also didn’t insist on him to join. However he seemed to be somewhat positive about tomorrow’s journey than the previous time. Nevertheless, he clearly warned us of the difficulty of it – ‘Mahaththuru, meka hari awadaanam gamanak. E nisa hama welema thamange parissama gana waga balaganna.’

After finishing a dinner which was totally vegetarian, we started testing the ropes. Nava maama had 2 pieces of good quality marine ropes of about 30m length. He also had another 30m rope which was made of the same material of our ropes, but contained 2 interwoven strings. We tied all three ropes to a tree and started pulling them one by one. What I noted immediately was that the third rope started to elongate gradually as we started to pull. This would’ve been problematic at the peak since a slight elongation per meter would create a dangerous pulsation when pulled from the other end of the rope. Marine ropes, which were much heavier comparatively, seemed quite stable under tension. However there were only the 5 of us there to carry them all the way. We had other essential stuff including food and water that had to be carried as well. Considering all these factors, I decided to take one 30m section of the marine rope. Then Chinthaka proposed that he will also take the two 10m ropes he bought from Kurunegala. At this point, we didn’t know that the success of our journey would critically depend on this decision.

After removing all unnecessary stuff from our backpacks, we split the food, snacks and water between the 4 of us. We took water bottles with a capacity of over 13L. There was no necessity to fill all that from the village itself because we could fill them from the base pool of Lakegala. After re-confirming that everything was in order, we went to sleep by 10pm.

Only a tiny trickle of water in stream this time.

Only a tiny trickle of water in stream this time.

Silhouette of the dusk at Lakegala

Silhouette of the dusk at Lakegala

On the long awaited day, we got up at 5am. After having rotti for breakfast, we left Nava maama’s home at 6am. Dhammika maama joined with us near the Bo tree of Meemure village. While he was preparing his stuff, we went to the Kande Bandara Devalaya in the upper right corner of the paddy field and sought for his permission and blessings. Ultimately it is King Ravana’s adaviya, and we all were under his mercy during the course of this journey. I was watching how my friends were looking at this mighty peak, awestruck by its majesty and the power it disseminates. It was wonderful to see how the morning sun rays kiss the peak of Lakegala, reflecting a mesmerizing orange color and creating a huge dark shadow behind, even concealing a section of the Wannimaana range.

Statue of Kande Bandara Deviyo

Statue of Kande Bandara Deviyo

Rituals at Kande Bandara Devalaya

Rituals at Kande Bandara Devalaya

After completing the rituals, we entered into the forest patch with the guidance of Dhammika maama. As Sri has mentioned in his lengthy report, this journey can be divided into 3 sections.

  1. Path from the village to the base pool of Lakegala – around 4km journey through a forest patch (difficulty – moderate)
  2. From base pool to the bottom of the rocky surface – around 2km uphill climbing through trees and maana bushes (difficulty – moderately strenuous)
  3. Climbing along the rock crevice and through some trees and maana bushes to the summit (difficulty – extremely strenuous)

The hike to the base pool of Lakegala is similar to other hike in the Knuckles range. In the rainy season you find plenty of leeches but this time round we hardly found any. There’s a moderate downward slope until we met the ‘Lake ela’. Just upstream of the point we crossed ‘Lake ela’ there’s a waterfall named ‘Akula ella’. This time it had very little water compared to the previous instance. A key to success of this journey is to complete this 4km stretch without a significant drop in your energy. This is where your previous hiking experience comes in handy. From ‘Lake ela’ onwards it’s a continuous ascent until we reached the base pool. However in a sorry state of affairs, it had very little water compared to the last time. In April it was a full flowing stream from the top of Lakegala, but this time the water was stuck in mere 2 pits. Though there were no nearby habitats, we weren’t sure of the quality of the water. However we didn’t have any other option but to fill our bottles with this water. Altogether we carried 13L of water and 2L of Isotonic with us. Some of the water was mixed with Jeevani to avoid cramps during this strenuous climb. After approximately a half an hour break, we left the base pool at 8.30am.

From here onwards there was no proper footpath. A cattle track beginning from the base pool lead to a rocky surface with was located approximately 300-400m up in the hill. There was water flowing from the top of Lakegala when we did the limb in April, and it was quite slippery. But this time we managed to pass this without much hassle. In another 100m or so we reached an edge of the rock from where we could see the deep ravine of Lakegala as seen from Meemure. This is where we first saw Meemure after leaving the village. A few minutes into the journey from that point, we suddenly remembered that we are still carrying the lunch packets with us. Since we had enough chocolates and other snacks with us, there was no need to carry them further. We quickly collected them and put into a bag which was hung in a tree to prevent the reach of animals.

Dhammika maama looking at the steep uphill climb.

Dhammika maama looking at the steep uphill climb.

Team with Dhammika maama. Here the Gombaniya range is seen behind the Uda Wannimaana range.

Team with Dhammika maama. Here the Gombaniya range is seen behind the Uda Wannimaana range.

Up to this point, there were 2 dogs who followed us from the village itself. However they were in no mood to give up climbing. After another short break for water, we started climbing again. This time through some thick undergrowth. There was a tunnel created by frequent travels of wild boars and hedgehogs, through which we had to crawl to reach an open area. It seemed that this is a resting point of cattle. After another break to gather our energy, we started the uphill journey again. Soon we came out of the jungle and were heading towards the rocky surface through a ‘pathana’ area made of maana bushes and other small trees. It should be noted that these maana bushes are fixed to the ground by a very thin layer of soil; so most of the time the bushes came out easily when we grabbed them to get a support. Every step had to be placed with care because loose rocks tend to come out all the time. Slope of this range was around 50-60 degrees, so we had to take a zigzag route to climb up.

Through the Pathana area in a zigzag route.

Through the Pathana area in a zigzag route.

Team climbing the maana patch, aiming at the rock crevice we are supposed to climb.

Team climbing the maana patch, aiming at the rock crevice we are supposed to climb.

These two dogs followed us from the village.

These two dogs followed us from the village.

Rajitha contemplating about the hard climb ahead.

Rajitha contemplating about the hard climb ahead.

This terrain with maana bushes was unforgiving. Therefore it’s good to wear gloves keep your hands unscratched.

This terrain with maana bushes was unforgiving. Therefore it’s good to wear gloves keep your hands unscratched.

Scenic background all around the place.

Scenic background all around the place.

Climbing the first rocky surface. Still some 100m below the actual base of the last leg.

Climbing the first rocky surface. Still some 100m below the actual base of the last leg.

Chinthaka trying to maintain his balance on a rock surface of 70 degree angle.

Chinthaka trying to maintain his balance on a rock surface of 70 degree angle.

As I have mentioned earlier, the third and the last leg of this climb is through a rocky surface. Dhammika maama related to us that there are 2 routes to do this task. One is the popular route along a crevice in the rock. All recent hikes are done along this route which has a slope of around 70-80 degrees. The other route is along the edge of the front face of Lakegala. The major advantage of this route is that the roping distance would be shorter. However climbing had to be done along the ridge of the mountain, with one step away from a 90 degree, vertical drop. As he mentioned, Lakegala has been climbed by the villagers along this route when he was young. Later it had been abandoned as it was deemed too risky. But in a youthful spirit, he suggested that we should climb along the crevice and come down using this long lost path. At this moment, we did not express any opinion about that. However I was worried that this path had not been used by anybody closer to 3 decades – hence there could be nasty surprises even Dhammika maama was not aware of, if we were to reinvent it.

We aimed at the rock crevice from the point we came out of the jungle. Last time we arrived at the rocky base some 30-40m to the left of the crevice, so had to take a treacherous horizontal path along the rocky surface to arrive at the starting point of it. After arriving at the base of the rock, we had to revisit our backpacks to identify what else we could leave behind. Even an ounce of unnecessary payload could make the journey far more difficult. After preparing our backpacks and having some water, we gathered all our energy for the final push. We had to be mindful of every step, as one wrong step would draw curtains to the entire journey. Dhammika maama took one end of the rope and went into the lead. First target was to reach the rock crevice, which was located some 20-25m to the left. Rope was of no use at this point because it was not attached to something solid on the top and the path was horizontal. I went from the behind of Dhammika maama, carefully avoiding sand and pieces of rock. 3 others also followed me without much trouble.

Team ready to start the ultimate climb. Look at the way Rajitha is staying there – something in between sitting and standing.

Team ready to start the ultimate climb. Look at the way Rajitha is staying there – something in between sitting and standing.

It is essential to use all 4 limbs during this part.

It is essential to use all 4 limbs during this part.

Dhammika maama preparing the 30m rope.

Dhammika maama preparing the 30m rope.

The view behind us was terrifyingly beautiful. It was a scenery we could sit and watch all day if we didn’t have to worry about where we were sitting. In a few meters of climb with all 4 limbs, we could reach the famous rock crevice which we had seen even in our dreams. For me, the crevice was far more accommodating than the bare rock because we could take cover from wind, and also gave something to hold on. As long as I was holding on to an edge of the rock, I felt comfortable even without the rope. This is where the gloves came in handy. Here we strictly advised Chinthaka, who had a slight fear of heights, not to look back no matter what. Making our worst fears come true, the 2 dogs who were following us also came to the place where we were staying. There was no way those 2 could be sent back without hurting them. However it was evident that they will not be able to climb all the way to the top.

By this time, Dhammika maama was free-soloing the rock with one end of the rope attached to his backpack and one hand on a wooden stick we found near the base pool. He used this stick to fix the rope when we required. All 3 of my friends were around 60kg of weight with slim and athletic bodies. I was the heaviest of the team with 80kg body weight. Therefore I was always afraid to give my entire weight to the rope as it was not fixed to something solid above. All this time I used it only as a support. Journey from here onwards was extraordinary – unlike anything I have done before. Crevice was not enough to set my foot most of the time. Therefore had to step on the side walls while holding on to edges. When it was not possible to get any push from the legs, I had to use the power of the arms to push forward. Sometimes my foot got stuck inside the crevice and had to remove the foot first and get the shoe after climbing one step down. Me, Rajitha and Dinuka were wearing shoes while Chinthaka and Dhammika maama were climbing barefoot. If you aren’t sure of the grip of your shoes, it is highly advisable that you remove your shoes. Only downside was that by this time, the sun was rising above the peak of Lakegala and the rock was gradually starting to heat up.

On the rock crevice. Now we are at a point of no return.

On the rock crevice. Now we are at a point of no return.

Dhammika maama has attached the rope to the pole which is fixed in between the rocks.

Dhammika maama has attached the rope to the pole which is fixed in between the rocks.

Chinthaka trying to climb the first (innocent) boulder.

Chinthaka trying to climb the first (innocent) boulder.

The crevice contains 3 places where the climb was purely vertical. While first and third boulders are manageable if you have the height, the second one is quite nasty even for a tall guy. Villagers had placed a piece of wood as a support to climb this earlier, but because of the absence of climbers for 2 years, this piece of wood was nowhere to be seen. It poses a real challenge for the person who’s climbing first. Fortunately, Dhammika maama, with all his experience found a way to circumvent this boulder by climbing on the bare rock surface, holding on to miniature cracks on the rock. This is where something unexpected was occurred. Dhammika maama lost the hold of our prized rope and it fell down the boulder. Therefore the one who was leading the 4 of us – by this time it was Chinthaka – had to climb without the rope, grab it and throw it some 10-15m above his head. Having stuck in a tiny crevice, surrounded by vast granite walls, this task was by no means easy. However Chinthaka took up the challenge and went ahead without any aid to grab the rope. From that point, he grabbed the rest of the rope and threw it at Dhammika maama with all his might. But sadly, it fell short of him and Chinthaka again had to do some risky climbing to get to the rope. This was unnatural for somebody who is known as the best cricketer of our gang. Such was the tension of the situation we were dealing with. In the second attempt however, he was successful and Dhammika maama was able to grab the rope. He went expertly up to the first iron rod which has been placed in the rock by somebody who has climbed Lakegala in 1990s, and tied the rope there. That was the first time we could give full weight to the rope during the climb. And there was no other way to climb the nasty second boulder, which seemed like a piece of rock stuck in the middle of the crevice. Thanks to the heroics of Dhammika maama, we were able to reach the first iron rod with all body parts intact.

Rajitha climbing up to the point where the first iron rod is fixed.

Rajitha climbing up to the point where the first iron rod is fixed.

Dhammika maama – hero of the day. Picturesque Thunhisgala is seen in the background.

Dhammika maama – hero of the day. Picturesque Thunhisgala is seen in the background.

Dinuka – up on the second (nasty) boulder.

Dinuka – up on the second (nasty) boulder.

Second iron rod. People who fixed these rods in the rock should be born as gods in their next lives.

Second iron rod. People who fixed these rods in the rock should be born as gods in their next lives.

Then started the climb up to the second iron rod, which was placed with a slight deviation to the right from the vertical line we were following. So the rope again had to be used only as a support, since it was unwise to give full body weight to the inclined rope. However, soon I figured out that there are no edges that I could take assist from. Thus we had to maintain perfect balance while doing this task. Fortunately, everybody was 100% concentrated on the task they were up to; thus able to reach the second iron rod without any shocks. We have now climbed the up dreaded rock crevice, and were looking at the perfect view of Wannimaana, Udawannimaana and Thunhisgala peaks in front of us. Dhammika maama seemed relieved.

But it didn’t take that long for us to realize that the rock climbing part was far from over. There was no way to climb upwards because path was obstructed by a nasty boulder. Thus the usual path villagers have taken is walking on the rock horizontally, and reaching the maana patch from the botom. Rope was useless since there was no place to fix the leading end of it, not even a tree. As usual, Dhammika maama went ahead, keeping his rock solid balance. Slope was around 60 degrees, not as steep as the rock crevice. But I was shocked to see that the rocky surface was absolutely smooth in most parts. There were scarcely any crack to hold on or set foot in. Rajitha gave me a serious look and asked whether we are really going to do this. Frankly speaking, this was the first time I was scared in this entire uphill journey. Even the rock crevice was somewhat manageable because there was something to hold on to. But I was in no mood to turn back, having come up this far. It was down to the grip of my shoes to take me to the end of this rocky surface. I cannot recall how I managed to do this part which could only be 30m in horizontal distance. I barely remember that I had to jump from one crack to another to set my foot in somewhere solid. Somehow I was able to pass this treacherous surface and all my friends followed without any incident, under the merciful watch of Kande Bandara Deviyo. We were relieved to enter into the final forest patch before the observation point in the summit. However I was psychologically drained after the scary experience we just had to undergo. Walking through the forest patch was by no means easy because there was no footpath or paths taken by any medium sized animal. After another struggle for nearly a half an hour, we were able to reach the pinnacle of Lakegala.

A dream of 6 years and a plan which was in the making for nearly 7 months had just come true!

We were exhilarated at our success which took away all our pains. We were looking over the village exactly the same way how King Ravana was looking at it millennia ago. It was 12.30pm when we reached the summit. We lost no time erecting the flags – the Sri Lankan flag and the flag of our alma mater Dharmaraja College, Kandy. The piece of stick which Nava maama used to erect the flag during Sri’s visit was still there to help us with that task. The breeze on the top of Lakegala was so strong, but it took away our tiredness and pains.

Time for a sip of water after reaching the peak.

Time for a sip of water after reaching the peak.

Dinuka enjoying the unbelievable achievement. Sorabora wewa, Maduru Oya reservoir and some other reservoirs are seen in the background.

Dinuka enjoying the unbelievable achievement. Sorabora wewa, Maduru Oya reservoir and some other reservoirs are seen in the background.

On a clear day, we should be able to see all the way up to the ocean.

On a clear day, we should be able to see all the way up to the ocean.

Paddy fileds of Meemure are seen in brown. Green paddy fields are located in the village of Kaikawala.

Paddy fileds of Meemure are seen in brown. Green paddy fields are located in the village of Kaikawala.

Rajitha preparing to raise the flags.

Rajitha preparing to raise the flags.

Then we sat down to eat some snacks and chocolates. Dhammika maama described the surrounding peaks and notable locations one by one, starting from Riverstone in the right side extreme to Yahangala in the left side extreme. We were facing the dome-like peak of Thunhisgala (Kalupahana peak – 1), and below that were Wannimaana and Uda Wannimaana. Gombaaniya aka Dumbaana Gala, the highest peak in the Knuckles range was covered in thick mist as usual despite the scorching sunlight over the rest of the region. We were witnessing something only a few pair of eyes have seen all this time. Dhammika maama showed the place where they did the legendary pirith chanting on top of Lakegala on 20th September 2002. He and Nava maama were two of the 45 men who climbed Lakegala for the event that day. Later I found this (http://www.asiantribune.com/node/2697) beautiful piece of writing by Dr. Sudath Gunasekara, who had also been one of the people who went to the top that day.

We remained roughly 1 hour there in the heavens. It was freighting to think about the downhill journey. For a brief moment, we contemplated on taking the long lost second path which Dhammika maama mentioned earlier. However it came into my mind that even if how difficult or long the journey along the rock crevice is, now we know every bit of it, and we know what to expect at each point. Wind on top of the peak was also too strong to consider a downhill journey along such an open ridge.

It was close to 1.30 now, and we started re-packing our backpacks. It was only then it occurred to me that we have finished all the water we bought with us. We might have left a 1L bottle down the base of the rocky surface, but until we reach there, we are without a drop of water to drink. We have effectively consumed 12L of water and 2L of Isotonic during these 7 hours!

The moment we envisaged for nearly 6 years!

The moment we envisaged for nearly 6 years!

Breathtaking views towards the east.

Breathtaking views towards the east.

Dinuka was overjoyed.

Dinuka was overjoyed.

Leaving the summit - bidding farewell to the flags we raised.

Leaving the summit – bidding farewell to the flags we raised.

Leaving only the flags behind, we started our return journey. It was bit of a challenge to figure out from where entered into the forest patch. After some deliberation among the teammates, we were finally able to find the location. But now we were confronted with a deadly task.

Rope we left near the end of the rocky surface was still there. Dhammika maama had to stay behind holding on to one end of the rope, while somebody from us had to go horizontally to the second iron rod and tie it there. This was one hell of a task due to absence even tiny cracks in rock. We could only hope that our shoes had enough grip to stick to the surface. Rock was heated up by this time, making a barefoot descent more difficult. Dhammika maama too was wearing an additional pair of socks I had with me. Considering the fact that it was me who brought others on this journey, I took up the task of crossing the horizontal surface and tying the rope to the rod. Total distance was close to 30m, since our rope was barely sufficient to tie to the rod. It took me more than 10 minutes to go that distance, holding one end of the rope in my hand. I was on all 4 limbs, praying that my shoes won’t slip. After a dreadful experience, I was finally able to reach the iron rod. Rope was just enough to tie onto it. My friends also came there one by one. And lastly it was Dhammika maama who came there, maintaining his supreme balance, and holding on to the other end of the rope. We were relieved to finish that part without any incident.

We spend some 10-15 minutes there to gather our concentration. We were surrounded with insanely beautiful sceneries. Dhammika maama was relating to us how he had climbed Uda Wannimaana via the front face of it. At one point a rock he was setting his foot just slipped and he has had to jump out of it in a fraction of a second. He also pointed out a loose rock of about 1m length, at some 20m horizontal distance where we were sitting. It was right above the rock crevice we were about to get into. When we informed this to Nava maama later that day, he said that it should be removed before people start climbing the rock more frequently.

Dinuka accepted the challenge of climbing down to the rock crevice with the aid of the rope. He went down expertly using the rope and disappeared into the crevice in a matter of minutes. The rock had a sharp angle at this point and guys at the top couldn’t see what anybody at the other end of the rope is doing. We screamed asking Dinuka whether he was okay. We did not get an answer immediately. Rope was still tensioned, so we knew he was holding on to it. It took us a little while to understand that answers are not audible due to sharp edge and the wind prevalent at that point. After getting confirmation that Dinuka was at the crevice safely, Chinthaka and Rajitha also went down the same manner. Now it was my turn to disappear into the abyss. I gathered all my concentration and went down using the rope, looking only at the place where I was going to set my foot. After a struggle that lasted few minutes, I too was able to get down to the crevice. Now it was time for Dhammika maama to release the rope and come down without any aid. But at this point, Chinthaka remembered that he brought two 10m sections of rope with him. We tied one end of that rope to the main rope and asked Dhammika maama to pull it. This way, he was able to get some support during the descent. We did not mind that we had to leave behind those pieces of ropes. However the next section of the descent, with the rope tied to the first iron rod was going to be far more challenging. We were sure that the remaining 10m section was not going to be enough, since we had to pass two boulders including the nasty one in the middle. Dhammika maama did not reveal what was his plan when it was going to be his turn. Instead, he tied the rope to the rod and asked us to start the descent. Dinuka took the lead as usual. At this point, something dreadful happened. While Dinuka was holding on to the rope, the knot released. However the rope stuck in the head of the nail (iron rod). Dhammika maama quickly caught the end and strengthened the knot by keeping one foot on it. Our blood literally turned into water!

On the second iron rod. Riskiest descent ahead.

On the second iron rod. Riskiest descent ahead.

The drop! To get to this point, there was some 30m section that we had to walk across horizontally.

The drop! To get to this point, there was some 30m section that we had to walk across horizontally.

Target is to get into the rock crevice without slipping the foot.

Target is to get into the rock crevice without slipping the foot.

Dinuka doing some risky roping. Our hearts stopped for a while.

Dinuka doing some risky roping. Our hearts stopped for a while.

Chinthaka doing conventional roping.

Chinthaka doing conventional roping.

Despite the mishap, Dinuka started his journey again. He climbed down the first boulder and then the second one by keeping his foot in two side walls. Then he lost in the rock crevice like the first time. This time it took more time to get confirmation from him because the distance was more than 20m. We were waiting for like 20 minutes until he finally gave confirmation for somebody else to start the descent. Chinthaka and Rajitha also went down the same way and took a long time in the process. I wasn’t sure why it took so long until I went there myself. This time I had no option but to give my full weight to the rope because the rock was far more steep – almost 85 degrees – to release one hand. The boulder was almost 90 degrees and around 2m high. There was absolutely no place beneath it even to set my foot. So I was virtually sliding along the rock surface, tightly holding on to the rope with my hands. If not for the gloves and the long sleeve T shirt, skin would’ve been ripped off at this point. After nearly a half an hour struggle, I was finally able to set my foot in somewhere stable. Now it was the turn of Dhammika maama to start his journey. I was frightened to even think of climbing down the boulder without a rope. But we could not leave Nava maama’s rope there, and there was only one 10m section of other rope left. We had no idea what so ever how he was going to do this.

There was no sound from him for a long time and we were waiting desperately for him to appear from the top of the boulder. It was more than 20 minutes past and there was no sign of him. We called him, and got a faint reply amid the breeze. We all were chanting ‘ithipiso’ gaathawa, since his plight was quite obvious.

In another 10 minutes or so, the joyful face of Dhammika maama appeared from the top of the boulder. He was somehow holding on to the other rope brought by Chinthaka. Even that was not adequate to reach the place where we were. But the riskiest part could be done with the aid of the rope. Only after reaching our resting point he narrated what he has done there. His thinking was such that, there was no point of bringing the extra rope if this nasty drop had to be done without the help of it. So he has climbed up to the highest (2nd) iron rod and brought back the rope tied to that. Only after attaching both sections together, he has done this miracle descent. We all were thankful to the divinity looking from above for taking him down safely. Now we were left with only the 30m rope of Nava maama. Dhammika maama fixed it in between rocks and asked us to start the descent again. It was not dreadful, but still the risk was higher compared to the climb up. In another two rounds, we were almost at the bottom of the rocky surface. Still the last part had to be done without the rope and there was no time to ease the concentration.

Dhammika maama looking at the performance of the guys from the 2nd iron rod.

Dhammika maama looking at the performance of the guys from the 2nd iron rod.

Now it’s Rajitha’s turn for the descent. I was getting unnerved, knowing that it’s my turn next.

Now it’s Rajitha’s turn for the descent. I was getting unnerved, knowing that it’s my turn next.

Making the matter more complicated, we found that one of the dogs which followed us from the village was stuck in the rocky surface, unable to climb up or down. We tried to bring it down but it was dangerous to bring the chap with one hand. So yet again, it was up to Dhammika maama to perform the riskiest act. Dog was severely dehydrated by that time. We climb down slowly to reach the place where we started the journey from the base. Everybody was sweating and was in a state of disbelief what we had just done!

Dhammika maama, with all his expertise, was still descending carrying the dog in one hand. It was an amazing sight, but it was unfortunate that I didn’t have my zoom lens to capture the moment. Both of them reached to the safety in another 10 minutes or so. Altogether it had taken nearly 3 hours just to descend the treacherous rock surface. The water bottle we left there was finished in no time. But our thirst wasn’t quenched. I too was getting dehydrated so my only target was to get to the base pool as soon as possible.

This is where I noticed that the sole of both by shoes are going off. However there was no option but to proceed at this moment. I was thankful that they didn’t go off while in the rocky surface – especially in the horizontal section at the top! There were plasters in the bag we hung in a tree some 1km downwards, that was the only hope for getting this fixed. Downhill journey was difficult than I thought, because my foot was hurting and I was getting severely dehydrated. Small rock pieces were making things worse, and we lost the count of times we fell down after stepping on loose pieces. My foot started hurting really bad when it hit on the rock. It was only after reaching the village I noticed that that the nail of my big toe was broken. Rajitha did some patchwork to my shoes with plasters after reaching the tree where we left the backpack containing lunch packets. We decided to take it down to the base pool since we had no water with us. It took nearly one and half hours to get to the base pool, and it was around 5pm when we finally reached it. I straight away drank nearly 3L of water with scant regard to the quality. After having a late lunch and some chocolates, we started the journey through the forest. The forest was hidden in the dark shadow of Wannimaana. Time to time we saw the bright reflection of sunlight by the rocky surface of Lakegala. Our eyes could not believe that we had just climbed this monster peak.

End of the story of my shoes. Glad that they served me well during the riskiest part.

End of the story of my shoes. Glad that they served me well during the riskiest part.

As Dr. Sudath Gunasekara has described in his article, Lakegala could be one of the largest rock masses on the planet which is visible to the eye. The paddy fields of Meemure are located at an elevation of roughly 370m from Mean Sea Level (MSL), while the top is at an altitude of 1310m. Therefore the altitude gain of today’s climb was close to 1km! We were dead tired as we reached the village. Near the village, we saw Nava maama’s campsite on the banks of Meemura oya. We were fortunate to receive a warm cup of tea from the person who was working there. Near his home, we bid farewell to Dhammika maama, to whom we were indebted for taking us up to the heavens. It was around 6.30pm by then, but we did not forget to go to the Kande Bandara Devalaya for the thanksgiving. As we heard, it has been a ritual of everybody who come to the village after climbing Lakegala. We walked along the road of Meemure under the serene moonlight, reviewing the day’s proceedings. Everybody had so much to talk, and those talks didn’t stop even after reaching Nava maama’s home.

Nava maama came to see us with a broad smile in his face. He has seen the flags we have erected on the top, from the village around 2.30pm. Asked whether he truly believed that we could make it, he straight away said ‘no’. He has even said that ‘me mahaththuru kochchara kaiwaaru gahuwath, gal poththa langata gihin aapahu harila enawa’ even to Dhammika maama on the previous day. Not even Dhammika maama believed that we could do it as he said near the base pool during the return journey.

We had one of the most fulfilling dinners that night at Nava maama’s place. We prepared our backpacks and went to sleep around 10.30pm. Then we got up at 4.30am, and went to Hunnasgiriya in the 5.00am van from Meemure. It was around 8.00am when we arrived at Hunnasgiriya. There we had a superb breakfast and got into a bus which was heading to Kandy.

It was the end of the greatest journey of our lives so far!

I have no doubt that we will cherish this adventure until the day we leave this world… J

You can watch the footage of our journey using below links. Sorry for the poor upload quality.

  1. Part 1 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ez74ZmdMzB8
  2. Part 2 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zgmzQ9blWag
  3. Part 3 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZViWALUSsk
  4. Part 4 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WFeYM_9mPIM
  5. Part 5 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TsIfHdvDkPw
  6. Part 6 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o467X07EhyQ
  7. Part 7 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLogmkuQ1sY
  8. Part 8 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zgS_BT_uBuU
  9. Part 9 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYTCIET-DRo
  10. Part 10 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LWHtlPpDsw

Back to Yahangala (1220m)

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Year and Month 2016 Octomber 10th
Number of Days One day
Crew 06-Eshan, Prabath, Kasun, Prakash, Chamara and Myself
Accommodation Previous day night at YMBA-Kandy
T.P: 0812233444
Unable to book over the phone. You can just ask about availability. But this is a kind of cheap accommodation at Kandy closer to bus stand and railway station.
Transport Bus, Three Wheel and Hiking
Activities Hiking and Photography
Weather Excellent
Route Colombo->Kandy->Ududumbara (උඩුදුම්බර)->Kalugala (කලුගල) ->Udailuka(උඩඉලුක) ->Velangolla Pathana (වෙලන්ගොල්ල පතන)-> Yahangala (යහන්ගල)->Back to Kandy along same route->Polonnaruwa
Tips, Notes and Special remark
  1. Start the journey as early as possible.
  2. The first bus from Ududumbara to Kalugala starts around 7.45-8.00am from Ududumbara. Therefore better hire a three wheeler to reach Udailuka. Last bus from Kalugala to Ududumbara is operating at 5.30pm but not on Saturdays. There is a short cut to Kalugala from Uda Iluka which cuts the distance in 1-2km. We used it on our way back.
  3. Threewheel charges might be changed from threewheel to threewheel. We gave Rs 500 for the journey from Dambagahapitiya (දඹගහපිටිය) to Udailuka.
  4. Be prepared with attire and long jeans to avoid get injured by Mana bushes.
  5. Water: There is a water source on your way to Velangolla Pathana. You can refill your bottles. We didn’t see any water sources on our way to Yahangala from pathana. But noticed a water stream shining far at Velangolla Pathana. But it is bit risky to go there as elephants are roaming there. We had only 2l per person for the day hike. If you are camping water requirement is more.
  6. Be aware of wild elephants.
  7. This area is still clean. Please maintain it.
  8. If you are camping there are few options: Velangolla Pathana (Where we camped at 2012.), on top of Yahangala and the cave at base of the rock. (Have noticed some traces of camping there).
  9. Might need use of leech repellents in rainy days.
  10. It is not essential to have a guide here.
Related Resources
Author  Niroshan
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

Yahangala/bed rock is the mountain with unique shape of a bed situated at eastern edge of Knuckles massif. This rock related to Rawana legend. King Rawana’s body was kept here for last respect following he became unconsciousness by arrow flew by Rama’s bow. Therefore it is called Bedrock / Yahangala. According to folk this rock is situated at “Gale Bandara Deviyange Adawiya”-ගලේ බණ්ඩාර දෙවියන්ගේ අඩවිය under his protection. My first experience of Yahangala goes back to 2012. It was a memorable journey of two days and we camped at Velangolla Pathana where elephants were roaming. Next day we climbed the mountain without any pre knowledge of the route. And we didn’t have enough water to fulfill our thirsty.
Year back I visited Velangolla Pathana to visit Kehelpothdoruwegala කෙහෙල්පොත්දොරුවේගල (1529m). Four years after I wanted to visit Yahangala as a one day trip as well as the guide of the team. This trip was successful as I knew the area very well, good preparation and excellent weather.

Different phases of Yahangala from different places

When my visit to Ulpathgama (උල්පත්ගම)...captured early morning

When my visit to Ulpathgama (උල්පත්ගම)…captured early morning

The appearance from Velangolla Pathana

The appearance from Velangolla Pathana

Appearance of other side....Captured on my way to Kehelpothdoruwegala

Appearance of other side….Captured on my way to Kehelpothdoruwegala

Yahangala and Velangolla Pathana together

Yahangala and Velangolla Pathana together

View of Yahangala from Kehelpothdoruwegala

View of Yahangala from Kehelpothdoruwegala

View of Yahangala from Uda Galdebokka-උඩගල්දෙබොක්ක

View of Yahangala from Uda Galdebokka-උඩගල්දෙබොක්ක

View of Yahangala from faraway of Velangolla Pathana

View of Yahangala from faraway of Velangolla Pathana

We stayed previous day night at Kandy and got the bus to Ududumbara. From Ududumbara we got another bus to Dambagahapitiya and hired a threewheel to Uda Iluka where the foot pathway to Velangolla Pathana starts. We didn’t need to wait for the Kalugala bus from Ududumbara as it starts at 8.30am.
Anybody who needs to conquer either Kehelpothdoruwegala or Yahangala needs to reach Velangolla pathana first. There is a clear foot pathway with continuous ascend to Velangolla Pathana. First it goes through the forest patch and then comes to open with Mana bushes on either side.
After I hour of the journey we reached Velangolla pathana. There was a tap line crossing the foot pathway which is a good place to fill bottles.

The trail head

The trail head

Starting the journey

Starting the journey

This nice foot pathway to a house where small foot pathway starts to Velangolla Pathana

This nice foot pathway to a house where small foot pathway starts to Velangolla Pathana

Part of the team

Part of the team

Through the village

Through the village

Entering the forest

Entering the forest

Going through forest patch

Going through forest patch

Finishing the forest patch

Finishing the forest patch

Boys enjoying the journey

Boys enjoying the journey

The place where we stopped to fill water

The place where we stopped to fill water

Filling water. Click credit goes to Chamara.

Filling water. Click credit goes to Chamara.

Surrounding view

Surrounding view

There is a small forest patch after Mana section.

There is a small forest patch after Mana section.

View of Velangolla Pathana. This is the only high point you can see when you walk to Velangolla Pathana.

View of Velangolla Pathana. This is the only high point you can see when you walk to Velangolla Pathana.

View of Velangolla Pathana.

View of Velangolla Pathana.

Nawenagala in most left and Garandi Gala in most right

Nawenagala in most left and Garandi Gala in most right

Velangolla Pathana/ Yahangala pathana is a nice almost flat area. The foot pathway continues as the foot pathway to Udagaldebokka. There is a small Dewalaya-Gale Bandara Dewalaya (ගලේ බණ්ඩාර දේවාලය) as the landmark. Right hand side is for Yahangala and left for Kehelpothdoruwegala.
We had our breakfast there and enjoyed the surrounding view. Yahangala and Kehelpothdoruwegala are seen as giants in Velangolla Pathana. Recently someone has burned Mana of this Pathana but there were fresh Mana at our visit probably due to rain. The welcome view of Yahangala at Pathana is discouraging due to it’s extreme rocky surface. I can remember our first attempt in 2012 we struggled with this rocky surface to reach the top.

This is the junction at Dewalaya.

This is the junction at Dewalaya.

Garandigala and might be the grove for Garandi Ella

Garandigala and might be the grove for Garandi Ella

Our target. This white line was our attempted route in 2012. But it is not possible to climb along this route.

Our target. This white line was our attempted route in 2012. But it is not possible to climb along this route.

Team at Velangolla Pathana. Click credit to Chamara

Team at Velangolla Pathana. Click credit to Chamara

Team at back drop of Kehelpothdoruwegala. Click credit to Chamara

Team at back drop of Kehelpothdoruwegala. Click credit to Chamara

Velangolla Pathana/ Yahangala Pathana

Velangolla Pathana/ Yahangala Pathana

Dreadful rock surface of Yahangala

Dreadful rock surface of Yahangala

It is not possible to go along this surface to reach the top.

It is not possible to go along this surface to reach the top.

The basic of Yahangala climbing is going on right hand side of the mountain along Velangolla Pathana and get on to the mountain along it’s back. When you go around the mountain you can walk closer to the rock but there is large number of boulders situated closer to the mountain. There was an unclear foot pathway as well. Then from back of the mountain you can climb up like stair case and get on to the peak of Yahangala. In 2012 it was kind of a difficult task as we were running out of water and thickly grown Mana bushes. But this time it was fairly easy.
It should be careful in walking at Velangolla Pathana due to roaming elephants. We have noticed one elephant and my next visit to pathana after one week we noticed three elephants.

You have to go on right hand side of the mountain first.

You have to go on right hand side of the mountain first.

Coming down along Velangolla Pathana

Coming down along Velangolla Pathana

Coming down along Velangolla Pathana

Coming down along Velangolla Pathana

Velangolla Pathana

Velangolla Pathana

Fresh Mana

Fresh Mana

Going down. It was bit difficult due boulders situated closer to the rock.

Going down. It was bit difficult due boulders situated closer to the rock.

Posing

Posing

Elephant Dung. Click credit to Chamara.

Elephant Dung. Click credit to Chamara.

Go around the mountain. Click credit to Chamara

Go around the mountain. Click credit to Chamara

The cave we found on our way to Yahangala. This might be a good place for camping.

The cave we found on our way to Yahangala. This might be a good place for camping.

We have reached the tail of the Mountain. Note there is clear foot pathway. Click credit to Chamara.

We have reached the tail of the Mountain. Note there is clear foot pathway. Click credit to Chamara.

View of Velangolla Pathana Click credit to Chamara.

View of Velangolla Pathana Click credit to Chamara.

Jumbos in Pathana Click credit to Chamara.

Jumbos in Pathana Click credit to Chamara.

Climbing started. Click credit to Chamara.

Climbing started. Click credit to Chamara.

Waiting for others. Click credit to Chamara.

Waiting for others. Click credit to Chamara.

Tail of the mountain. Click credit to Chamara.

Tail of the mountain. Click credit to Chamara.

This is the route how you get on to the top. We got this picture of Yahangala in our next week visit to Velangolla Pathana. Click credit to Chamara.

This is the route how you get on to the top. We got this picture of Yahangala in our next week visit to Velangolla Pathana. Click credit to Chamara.

We have reached the peak in around 2hours time. Top of Yahangala is a flat area with no big trees like it’s name bed rock. There are small bushes spread over hundred of acres of the top. It is an ideal place for camping but can except extreme wind during night. We walked over the top and had some clicks. It provides 360 degree view over surroundings from top of Yahangala. One side you can see Velangolla Pathana and it’s peaks. There is a drop from Velangolla pathana towards . Hasalaka and the plain next to eastern border of Knuckles massif could be seen over there. Other structures were Kehelpothdoruwegala, Lakegala, Garandigala, Thelambugala, Hetakatuwegala and Galpadihela. Minipe Lake, Mahaweli River, Hasalaka Lake and Sorabora Wewa were also seen.
After enjoying the view we started return journey. We were able to reach Uda Iluka by 5.30pm but no buses were operating from there to Ududumbara at that time. Luckily we got return bus to Dambagahapitiya and returned to Ududumbara by two three wheelers. It was a nice one day hik

Top of the mountain. Click credit to Chamara.

Top of the mountain. Click credit to Chamara.

Top of the mountain. Click credit to Chamara.

Top of the mountain. Click credit to Chamara.

Top of Yahangala. Click credit to Chamara.

Top of Yahangala. Click credit to Chamara.

Top of Yahangala. Click credit to Chamara.

Top of Yahangala. Click credit to Chamara.

View of Lakegala/ Gal Thuna. Click credit to Chamara.

View of Lakegala/ Gal Thuna. Click credit to Chamara.

The highest point of Yahangala with it's drop. Click credit to Chamara.

The highest point of Yahangala with it’s drop. Click credit to Chamara.

Kehelpothdoruwegala. Click credit to Chamara.

Kehelpothdoruwegala. Click credit to Chamara.

The team on top of the mountain. Click credit to Chamara.

The team on top of the mountain. Click credit to Chamara.

The drop... Click credit to Chamara.

The drop… Click credit to Chamara.

The lake at Ulpathgama. Click credit to Chamara.

The lake at Ulpathgama. Click credit to Chamara.

Coming down. Click credit to Chamara.

Coming down. Click credit to Chamara.

 img_7345

Coming down.

Coming down. Click credit to Chamara.

Fascinating view at the edge of Yahangala

Fascinating view at the edge of Yahangala

Having a rest

Having a rest

Sun set at Velangolla Pathana

Sun set at Velangolla Pathana

Team at the end after successful climb except myself

Team at the end after successful climb except myself

 

Thanks for reading

 

 

 

 

Consecutive hikes to off Season Sri Pada and Bopaththalawa

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Year and Month  2016 September (23,24)
Number of Days  2 days
Crew  2 (Thenuka & Me )
Accommodation  Thanu’s guest ( Tientsin bazzar, Bogawanthalawa )
Transport  Thenuka’s Car & Public Transport
Activities  Pilgrimage , Hiking
Weather  Good, But bit gloomy sometimes
Route   Battaramulla -> Avissawella -> Nallathanni -> Sri pada Summit -> Nallathanni -> Bogawanthalawa -> Bopath thalawa peak -> Bogawanthalawa -> Balangoda via Marathenna -> Avissawella -> Battaramulla
Tips, Notes and Special remark  
  • If You hike Sri Pada off season be prepared for rain
  • Please obey the rituals and do not pollute the holly area
  • In Off season there was a small shop open closer to Gangulathenna. We had rotee with coffee. Don’t know whether it functions every day.
  • Best time to climb Bopaththalawa is on a dry season ( February to April is ideal )
  • Can ask the route from locals who are going to Bapaththalawa farm
  • Take enough water as you can’t rely on the streams on the way to Bopaththalawa peak
  • Better to avoid climbing both peaks , either Sri pada or Bopaththalawa in Dark so as to avoid encounters with wild animals especially leopards .
  • Balangoda Bogawanthalawa route is one of the scenic roads in Sri Lanka

**SPECIAL THANKS TO** Ashan

Related Resources Trip report : In to the unknown bopaththalawa peak 1900mIn to the unknown bopaththalawa peak 1900m
Author Harinda
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

This was my 11th visit to Sri pada and third off season hike. No matter how often I visit this sacred mountain I never get enough as this Sri pada Sanctuary is the best place on earth by means of bio Diversity and uniqueness. If I say one should hike this holly peak to experience the real beauty and the mystery in off season, it would be a controversial statement. Though my statement is 100% true if a brainless, irresponsible person do this hike in off season it would be a disaster for this precious area. Even your breath is a pollutant to this sensitive eco system, then what about polythene, plastic etc.. So my sincere request for the hikers not to harm this beautiful place any means. Remember leave only foot prints and take only photographs

Since our crew was only two I thought of doing this as one day hike. Then problem aroused what we are going to do next day as it was a free day for both of us. Then I remembered the beautiful peak bopaththalawa which I was planning to do from a long time. While Most of the people rest for weeks after a hike to Sri pada, my friend Thenuka accept the challenge to climb Bapaththalawa very next day. So we successfully did both peaks in two consecutive days followed by a scenic drive to Balangoda. So here is the story of our journey.

I left home around 5.00 am and reached Avisawella 7.00 a.m. Thenuka came from his car around 7.15 and we drove towards Nallathanni. Drive was in a slow side as we were not in a hurry. We reached Nallathanni around 10.00 a.m. and parked vehicle at Nagawiharaya (where a tall Buddha Statue stands) we started the hike from Nallathanni Bridge around 10.15 a.m. I‘ll let pictures to tell the remaining story

Thenuka at Nallathanni Bridge

Thenuka at Nallathanni Bridge

Water falls were bit dried

Water falls were bit dried

Makara thorana

Makara thorana

We met this fellow at makara thorana

We met this fellow at makara thorana

Seasonal cascades

Seasonal cascades

Red Bridge

Red Bridge

Steps to Japanese peace pagoda

Steps to Japanese peace pagoda

Japanese peace pagoda

Japanese peace pagoda

Yaka Endu Falls

Yaka Endu Falls

Steps To Heaven

Steps To Heaven

Seetha gangula

Seetha gangula

Seetha gangula

Seetha gangula

There is a resting place / Shop at this point in the season

There is a resting place / Shop at this point in the season

mist

mist

I Love Mist

I Love Mist

At gettham Pahana

At gettham Pahana

By Road to Ratnapura Trail

By Road to Ratnapura Trail

Some rest before the last climb

Some rest before the last climb

Ehala Kanuwa

Ehala Kanuwa

Bhagawa Lena

Bhagawa Lena

Sri pada Summit

Sri pada Summit

We Reached the Summit at 1.145 p.m. Spent nearly a half an hour. Met the Priest in charge of the temple and had few discussions. Then return Back . We were at Nallathanni around 5.00 p.m.

Bells

Bells

Full view of the temple

Full view of the temple

Descending

Descending

Beautiful Flora

Beautiful Flora

He was waiting for us

He was waiting for us

Peace pagoda far away

Peace pagoda far away

Tree shade

Tree shade

Gentleman and the Dog

Gentleman and the Dog

Yaka Hendu Falls

Yaka Hendu Falls

Virgin forests

Virgin forests

Calm and strange

Calm and strange

Reaching the Base

Reaching the Base

Then we drove towards Bogawanthalawa. Reached our Resting place around 7.00 p.m. They could provide us accommodation but no food. So we had to go to a nearby place to have dinner which is nearly 400 m away from our rest. They also provide accommodation. So I recommend that place to stay cos you get both in one place. But remember facilities are very basic so not to recommend for a family stay in both places.

We woke up around 6.30 a.m. and had breakfast from the same place we had dinner. Then we drove towards Bogawanthalawa.

I will give the direction to the Bopaththalawa peak now. Remember some pictures were taken on our way back so don’t be confused with the images . Just follow only the land marks accordingly.

Our Resting place

Our Resting place

Our Transport Mode

Our Transport Mode

Place where we had meals. Delusions meals at affordable rates. And basic accommodation suitable for group of boys. Just call them and check the availability

Place where we had meals. Delusions meals at affordable rates. And basic accommodation suitable for group of boys. Just call them and check the availability

Here we go

First land Mark. Turn Left from this Board. You have to go to Lynsted managers Bungalow which is nearly 3 km away from here

First land Mark. Turn Left from this Board. You have to go to Lynsted managers Bungalow which is nearly 3 km away from here

You will meet this junction.. Choose Right uphill Road ( remember the photo was taken on our way back )

You will meet this junction.. Choose Right uphill Road ( remember the photo was taken on our way back )

Then You will reach this name board. You have to go straight ( remember the photo was taken on our way back )

Then You will reach this name board. You have to go straight ( remember the photo was taken on our way back )

The Map

The Map

Beautiful Estate Roads.. Stick to the main path without turning to by roads

Beautiful Estate Roads.. Stick to the main path without turning to by roads

Beautiful Tea Country

Beautiful Tea Country

Scenic Tea Lands

Scenic Tea Lands

Here is the place we parked the vehicle. You Have to Turn left from this bridge

Here is the place we parked the vehicle. You Have to Turn left from this bridge

Take the foot Path to slanted left. The straight path will take you to bungalow

Take the foot Path to slanted left. The straight path will take you to bungalow

Take left path

Take left path

Walk along the foot path

Walk along the foot path

Jacobbs ladder begins. Climb is much intense now

Jacobbs ladder begins. Climb is much intense now

If you reach here before 8.00 a.m. you can walk with estate workers so that you will not miss the path

If you reach here before 8.00 a.m. you can walk with estate workers so that you will not miss the path

Taking Some rest

Taking Some rest

At one point trail splits. Path to right will lead you to the farm. Thenuka is showing the path to Peak

At one point trail splits. Path to right will lead you to the farm. Thenuka is showing the path to Peak

The Bopaththalawa peak seen. Remember you have to skip this path too and try to make your own path to climb the mountain

The Bopaththalawa peak seen. Remember you have to skip this path too and try to make your own path to climb the mountain

There is no specific path . Use your common sense. We chose this way.

There is no specific path . Use your common sense. We chose this way.

Nearby mountain

Nearby mountain

Starting the hike

Starting the hike

If you meet this then think you are going in the correct direction

If you meet this then think you are going in the correct direction

Rabbits

Rabbits

On the way

On the way

Beautiful Scenery

Beautiful Scenery

Mist had invaded

Mist had invaded

Beautiful Scenery

Beautiful Scenery

Tricky point

Tricky point

Bopath thalawa farm Zoomed

Bopath thalawa farm Zoomed

Climb is getting Harder

Climb is getting Harder

More to climb

More to climb

Mist

Mist

Our Target

Our Target

Well done. Took nearly two hours ..

Well done. Took nearly two hours ..

Views from Top

Views from Top

On the Top

On the Top

More views

More views

When we descend the views got more clearer

When we descend the views got more clearer

When we descend the views got more clearer

When we descend the views got more clearer

Serpents ????

Serpents ????

flora

flora

flora

flora

Getting down

Getting down

Leopards ?????

Leopards ?????

Mission Completed. We were at base around 12.00 noon

Mission Completed. We were at base around 12.00 noon

Ladies plucking tea leaves

Ladies plucking tea leaves

After coming to Bogawanthalawa we preferred some snacks as lunch. Then we drove towards Balangoda via Scenic Road. We all reached our homes before 6.00 p.m.

Balangoda- Bogawanthalawa Road

Balangoda- Bogawanthalawa Road

Tea is everywhere

Tea is everywhere

Road through jungle

Road through jungle

Pines

Pines

View point on the way

View point on the way

Name Boards

Name Boards

Good Bye

Good Bye

Thanks for reading

 

Beautiful Narangamuwa

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Year and Month 2016 July 27th
Number of Days One day (Part of two days trip)
Crew 05-Nirosh, Ruvinda, Myself, Shantha (local guide) and Kapilabanda (local guide)
Accommodation Previous day night at Kapila Banda Mama’s place at Narangamuwa
Transport Bus, Three Wheel and Hiking
Activities Sightseeing, Hiking and Photography
Weather Excellent and it rained at the end of the day
Route Colombo->Dambulla->Pallegama (පල්ලේගම) ->Narangamuwa (නාරoගමුව) ->Reassa and Meeriyagolla Kanda ->Meemure (මීමුරේ) ->Hunnasgiriya (හුන්නස්ගිරිය) ->Kandy->Colombo
Tips, Notes and Special remark
  1. Buses from Dambulla to Pallegama start/ come via Dambulla bus stand. Buses are not frequent. From Pallegama to Narangamuwa you have to hire a three wheeler. Road condition is not good in last part.
  2. Start the journey in early morning to avoid extreme heat in afternoon at Meeriyagolla Kanda.
  3. Carry a water bottle of 1l per person. There are three water streams you will cross. First one had good amount of water. Most of the time it will last during dry season as well.
  4. Wear an attire to protect your upper limbs from Mana.
  5. Must have a known person/ guide.
    Shantha is well known person of Narangamuwa area.
    Shantha-0712249760 (phone may not work due to low signal in this area)
  6. Avoid in rainy days as rock is slippery. And soil may be loosened.
  7. Meeriyagolla Mountain (මීරියගොල්ල කන්ද) can be climbed in two ways: One with the help of Mana and bushes. Second is through the gap between Lakegala (Narangamuwa) and Meeriyagolla mountain. No need a rope.
  8. Better carry only necessary items when you climb over the rock. Other stuff can be kept at base of the mountain.
  9. If you visit meditation Kuti, better ask from villagers first and accompany a villager.
  10. It needs some assistance by a short rope when you climb to Kapuwatugala Lena. It is a nice place for camping.
  11. Narangamuwa is still not commercialized as Meemure. Please try to maintain it.
Related Resources
Author Niroshan
Comments

Narangamuwa is a beautiful village which situated at Knuckles region and at the base of mighty Lakegala. The mortable approach to Narangamuwa is from Dambulla-Pallegama side but it is connected nearby villages such as Meemure, Ranamure via foot pathways. I have been there more than three times and this is a fair attempt to describe beautiful places of Narangamuwa.

We started the journey from Dambulla and got the bus to Pallegama. Pallegama town is a vanishing area very soon due to Moragahakanda project and it is being replaced at nearby place. Shantha came to Pallegama town to pick us by his threewheel. From Pallegama to Narangamuwa is an almost ascend with fairly bad road. You will pass Ranamure on your way to Narangamuwa.
We stayed overnight at Kapila Banda Mama’s place. Next day was a busy day for us as we had to cover a lot of places at Narangamuwa and around.
We woke up early morning and breakfast was prepared at Shantha’s place. Narangamuwa Lake (නාරoගමුව විල) is situated close to his house and nice place to visit early morning. Shantha’s mother gave us packed lunch in village way. After packing things we started the journey to enjoy the beauty of Narangamuwa.

Early morning view from Narangamuwa towards Moragahakanda construction area.

Early morning view from Narangamuwa towards Moragahakanda construction area.

Narangamuwa Lake/ Wila (නාරoගමුව විල) - It has low water level in dry season.

Narangamuwa Lake/ Wila (නාරoගමුව විල) – It has low water level in dry season.

Narangamuwa Lake/ Wila. (නාරoගමුව විල)

Narangamuwa Lake/ Wila. (නාරoගමුව විල)

Narangamuwa Lake/ Wila (නාරoගමුව විල)

Narangamuwa Lake/ Wila (නාරoගමුව විල)

This is how water comes to Narangamuwa Lake/ Wila. Natural water spring. Good for bath.

This is how water comes to Narangamuwa Lake/ Wila. Natural water spring. Good for bath.

Packed lunch in village way.

Packed lunch in village way.

Weather was excellent in our departure.

Weather was excellent in our departure.

Walking along paddies. Beautiful Narangamuwa.

Walking along paddies. Beautiful Narangamuwa.

Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala (Narangamuwa peak) are visible in left hand side.

Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala (Narangamuwa peak) are visible in left hand side.

It was the harvest time of paddies

It was the harvest time of paddies

Walking along paddies

Walking along paddies

We entered the pathway to Meemure (There are two pathways: one goes at base of Lakegala and other avoids Lakegala) which goes at base of Lakegala. Then we entered another foot pathway to reach the meditation Kuti where a foreign monk lives. This Kuti was built by villagers about one year ago. It is the most simplest and beautiful mediation Kuti I have ever seen. The Australian Buddhist Monk was very happy to see us as he hasn’t spoken with someone properly last 2 months due to language problem.

Walking to Knuckles forest Reserve

Walking to Knuckles forest Reserve

Passing paddy fields which are at higher level

Passing paddy fields which are at higher level

Passing paddy fields which are at higher level

Passing paddy fields which are at higher level

Using wind power

Using wind power

Knuckles forest reserve

Knuckles forest reserve

Meeting known people

Meeting known people

Beautiful foot pathway

Beautiful foot pathway

Entered to forest cover

Entered to forest cover

Jumping

Jumping

Branching off to meditation Kuti

Branching off to meditation Kuti

Discussion with Buddhist Monk

Discussion with Buddhist Monk

The Kuti and the bridge to reach there.

The Kuti and the bridge to reach there.

සක්මන් මළුව

සක්මන් මළුව

සක්මන් මළුව

සක්මන් මළුව

After having a nice discussion with Buddhist monk we went back and came to original foot pathway. In my next visit to Narangamuwa to climb Lakegala we have contributed for morning alms giving done by villagers.

People are waiting for morning alms giving. The monk comes to a hut closer to village early morning.

People are waiting for morning alms giving. The monk comes to a hut closer to village early morning.

That was a special day for him and villagers. He could preach a Bana in English and we have translated into Sinhala.

That was a special day for him and villagers. He could preach a Bana in English and we have translated into Sinhala.

Narangamuwa is also related to Rawana legend. Some places of Narangamuwa belong to Rawana folks. Uyangomuwa Lake is one of those places. It comes across on your way to Meemure from Narangamuwa. Special feature is, there are trees grown from this lake and covering it’s surface. Reassa (රැස්ස) is a rock formation where some parts of rock have fallen down by the arrow flown by Rama’s bow (Rama Sara) in Rawana Legend. These boulders have fallen into Uyangomuwa Lake (උයන්ගොමුව වැව) and still can be seen. And King Rawana’s garden is seen at the end of this Uyangomuwa Lake. Still you can see fruit trees over there.

Back to original pathway. Another division. One to Meemure and other to Uyangomuwa Lake.

Back to original pathway. Another division. One to Meemure and other to Uyangomuwa Lake.

Walking along foot pathway to Meemure.

Walking along foot pathway to Meemure.

Major splits of Boulders around Uyangomuwa Lake.

Major splits of Boulders around Uyangomuwa Lake.

img_1527

This was taken from an open area of Uyangomuwa Lake. Black arrow might be the pathway of arrow of Rama. Due to this arrow, major part of Meeriyagolla Mountain blasted and scattered along the arrow s shown in red. Still these boulders can be seen when you are at Reassa.

Team at a rest point

Team at a rest point

The foot pathway lies in Uyangomuwa Lake. No water in dry season.

The foot pathway lies in Uyangomuwa Lake. No water in dry season.

This is called Rawana’s garden. Still fruit trees can be seen

This is called Rawana’s garden. Still fruit trees can be seen

Kapuwatugala Lena (කපුවැටූගල ලෙන) is also situated closer to Uyangomuwa Lake. It is a cave situated in a rock about 10m above the ground level, needs a short rope to get into it. There are some creeps to get assistance to climb into the cave. It is a nice place and can accommodate about 10-15 people. You can have a nice view of Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala from Kapuwatugala Lena. This place is believed as the storage of grains of Rawana.

Moving away from foot pathway to reach Kapuwatugala Lena

Moving away from foot pathway to reach Kapuwatugala Lena

Climbing to Kapuwatugala Lena

Climbing to Kapuwatugala Lena

At Kapuwatugala Lena

View of Meeriyagolla Mountain from Kapuwatugala Lena

At Kapuwatugala Lena

At Kapuwatugala Lena

Inside the cave

Inside the cave

Getting down with help of Shantha

Getting down with help of Shantha Photo credit oges to Ruvinda

Dried water stream feeding Meeriyagolla Mountain

Dried water stream feeding Meeriyagolla Mountain

Our next target was to climb Reassa and Meeriyagolla Mountain. We followed the foot pathway to Meemure and then entered the foot pathway to Lakegala (Narangamuwa). Rahassa is an outgrowth of rock into space where you can have feeling like World’s end. In between Rahassa and Meeriyagolla mountain is the passage of giant arrow. The sharpen cut surface of Meeriyagolla mountain proves it.

Passing first water stream. This water stream lasts even in drought.

Passing first water stream. This water stream lasts even in drought.

Mush rooms in order

Mush rooms in order

 Passing second water stream. No water in dry season.


Passing second water stream. No water in dry season.

Crossing the fence. The area of Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala is used for cattle. This fence to prevent their coming back to village.

Crossing the fence. The area of Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala is used for cattle. This fence to prevent their coming back to village.

Beyond the fence

Beyond the fence

Following the foot pathway to Reassa. This area called Komala Pathana (කෝමලා පතන)

Following the foot pathway to Reassa. This area called Komala Pathana (කෝමලා පතන)

View of Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala (Narangamuwa peak)

View of Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala (Narangamuwa peak)

Lakegala (Narangamuwa) peak

Lakegala (Narangamuwa) peak

We three at Reassa with the back drop of Meeriyagolla Mountain.

We three at Reassa with the back drop of Meeriyagolla Mountain.

View of Kapuwatugala Lena from Rahassa

View of Kapuwatugala Lena from Rahassa

Sharpen surface of Meeriyagolla Mountain cut by the arrow.

Sharpen surface of Meeriyagolla Mountain cut by the arrow.

Shantha and Kapila Banda

Shantha and Kapila Banda

Moragahakanda construction area and Narangamuwa

Moragahakanda construction area and Narangamuwa

Paddy fields at Narangamuwa we passed

Paddy fields at Narangamuwa we passed

Wannimana (වන්නිමාන) and Katukithula (කටුකිතුල) mountains-These are two giants situated in front of Lakegala and Meeriyagolla Mountains.

Wannimana (වන්නිමාන) and Katukithula (කටුකිතුල) mountains-These are two giants situated in front of Lakegala and Meeriyagolla Mountains.

Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala (Narangamuwa) are the hallmark of Narangamuwa. Those were our next targets. First we hide our bags along bushes as it is not needed to carry unnecessary things for climbing. We walked along the base of the rock. My first impression of Meeriyagolla Mountain was kind of a difficult rock to tackle. But once we reached it’s base the mind was changed. There are enough bushes to hold and luckily it was the dry season to have non slippery rock surface. Meeriyagolla Mountain might be 1200m tall and top is flat and covered with Mana bushes. You can have a nice 270 degree view from Meeriyagolla Mountain. Structures were seen: Wannimana and Katukithula Mountains in front, Thunhisgala, Kalupahana area, Knuckles peaks, Yahangala, Kehelpothdoruwegala, Karagahathanna, Maningala, Pitawala Pathana, Narangamuwa, Construction of Moragahakanda Reservoir, Mahiyangana area, Meemure etc.

Initial part of climbing Meeriyagolla Mountain. Kapila Banda and Shantha are heading. It was not difficult to go on rock.

Initial part of climbing Meeriyagolla Mountain. Kapila Banda and Shantha are heading. It was not difficult to go on rock.

Rest point

Rest point

There are enough bushes to hold

There are enough bushes to hold

Nirosh has given up the journey in half way. Ruvinda is enjoying the beauty.

Nirosh has given up the journey in half way. Ruvinda is enjoying the beauty.

The slope. Misty hills seen far away are Knuckles range. Katukithula Mountain is the most front one to Meeriyagolla.

The slope. Misty hills seen far away are Knuckles range. Katukithula Mountain is the most front one to Meeriyagolla.

Beauty

Beauty

On top of Meeriyagolla Mountain. Lakegala (Narangamuwa) peak is seen in side.

On top of Meeriyagolla Mountain. Lakegala (Narangamuwa) peak is seen in side.

Lakegala (Narangamuwa) peak

Lakegala (Narangamuwa) peak

On top of Meeriyagolla Mountain

On top of Meeriyagolla Mountain

On top of Meeriyagolla Mountain

On top of Meeriyagolla Mountain

Thunhisgala and Knuckles range

Thunhisgala and Knuckles range

Cloud cover over Knuckles range

Cloud cover over Knuckles range

Constructions of Moragahakanda reservoir

Constructions of Moragahakanda reservoir

View from Meeriyagolla peak

View from Meeriyagolla peak

Coming back

Coming back

Coming back

Coming back

Dry rock surface with bushes were helpful in climbing.

Dry rock surface with bushes were helpful in climbing.

Once we reached the base of the mountain small drizzling started. Our next plan was to reach Meemure and Kapila Banda and Shantha also wanted to come with us. Meemure is Kapila Banda’s native village and he has not been there for few months. There was quite heavy rain while on our way to Meemure. We have reached Meemure just before dusk and it was my visit to Meemure after 2014. Kapila Banda and Shantha planned to stay at their Grandmother’s place at Meemure while we went to Kaikawala to reach our accommodation. It was a nice day for us and we said good bye to them with the hope of tomorrow.

Crossing water stream to reach Meemure

Crossing water stream to reach Meemure

Lakegala

Lakegala

 

අම්බරුවා

අම්බරුවා

ගලේ බණ්ඩාර දේවාලය

ගලේ බණ්ඩාර දේවාලය

 

Meemure is getting electricity

Meemure is getting electricity

Meemure is getting electricity

Meemure is getting electricity

Thanks for reading


කාලිංග නුවර සොයා (Hidden city of Kalinga island)

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Year and Month  June, 2016
Number of Days  Third day of a 3day trip
Crew  5 (Yohan, NG, Parakrama, Dehiaththakandiya uncle & My self)
Guide  Chaminda Damana wewa
Accommodation  Known place at Dehiaththakandiya
Transport  Pajero
Activities  Archeology, Photography & Trekking
Weather  Hot and humid
Route  Dehiaththakandiya -> Siripura -> Nuwaragala -> Damana wewa -> returned back to Dehiaththakandiya
Tips, Notes and Special remark
  • Take 1L of water
  • Do not carry Plastic items (Minimize), Make sure you bring back everything you took.
  • Get permission from the Department of wild life (we got verbal permission from the nearby “Beettu office” )
  • Need a guide (locals know where it’s safe to cross the river)
  • Beware of Crocodiles
  • There may be elephants roaming around the island
  • Crossing the river during the dry period is the safest (August – September)
  • Avoid periods of rain in the hill country.

**SPECIAL THANKS TO** the DWC officer at Damana wewa

Related Resources Books : R.L. Brohier’s book ‘seeing Ceylon’ 
Author Ashan
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

Kalinga Island is located in the center of Mahaweli River at the boarder of the Wasgamuwa NP & it consists of 7 islands. The main island harbours ruins of a forgotten era. It’s said that princes of Kalinga sailed upstream along Mahaweli River to the interior of the country and this mini island was once believed to be their ship manufacturing yard. Also in text it has mentioned that King Parakramabahu sent ships to invade Burma from this point. The archeology evidence found on the island suggests that on a later date a Buddhist monastery has been constructed on this land.

The map (click to enlarge)

The map (click to enlarge)

the huge island (click to enlarge)

the huge island (click to enlarge)

Actually the chief organizer was Amila but he had to return back to Colombo for a personal reason. Anyway we proceeded as planned and NG & Yohan also planned to join us. On the previous day we reached Damana wewa and found a guide, we also informed the local DWC officer of Damana wewa. Next day morning we met each other at Siripura and reached the elephant fence at Damana wewa where we halted our vehicles and started marching.

As we crossed the elephant fence we came across a mini canal called “Kalinga Yoda Ela” which was done by the kings to diverted water from Mahaweli River at the southern tip of Kalinga Island by damming the river. Parallel to the canal the great river of Mahaweli could be found and there were few fishermen who were trying to earn something to tackle their day to day lives. Walking along the shores of Mahaweli we started crossing the river by first reaching one of those miniature islands. The main island was seen on the opposite bank and one could not say it’s an island because it looked just like the main land. The crossing towards the island was very tricky where at some points the water level were up to our chest height. The most challenging aspects were the slippery bed rocks & the rapid tides.

Quote

Kalinga Ela apparently starts about 1km upstream of the island of Kalinga Nuwara in Mahweli river left bank, with a 20m wide entrance and between that and Amban Ganga, within the Wasgomuwa National Park, some 2km stretch of the channel is visible still (personal comm.- J. Balasooriya). The map of Elahera (#43) of 1:50000 scale shows an irrigation canal between Amban Ganga and Mahaweli Ganga but without a proper beginning. It is just above the 40m contour and some 4km long. It enters Dedarane Wewa after 1.5km and leaves on its other side and then meets Nabunagas Kotaliya Ela (some 200m before Amban Ganga) which feeds Dastota Wewa located below the 40m contour.

There is a strong possibility that this canal could be the same Kalinga Ela. The same map shows a canal leaving the right bank of the Mahaweli River some 500m above Kalinga Nuwara which continues all the way to Dimbulagala, and names it Kalinga Yoda Ela (that is referred to as Gomathie Ela by Balasooriya, 2004).”

on our way along the elephant fence

on our way along the elephant fence

crossing kalinga yoda ela

crossing kalinga yoda ela

mahaweli

mahaweli

the island seen

the island seen

crossing over

crossing over

After all of us got to the shores safe and soundly we started to trek in to the island. Ruins were found mainly on the highest points of the island well cleared from high flood levels of river Mahaweli. The monoliths we came across were all less than 2 feet and scattered all over the island. We reached an interesting point where rows of rocks were placed towards the Wasgamuwa side of the island. This site seemed to be where the ships were launched in to the river. Other interesting findings we came across were a huge building which was dug up, a large excavated (by thieves) pagoda and few moon stones with elephant carvings. This large island needs proper protection and restoration because of its uniqueness and we hope someday the department of archaeology would take some interest in such a valued site like this. On our way back we had a nice dip in a mini river which traverses the island and it was equal to a paradise for our tired souls.

 the island forest

the island forest

one straight kumbuk tree

one straight kumbuk tree

along a mini stream traversing the island

along a mini stream traversing the island

piece of korawak stone

piece of korawak stone

plenty of monoliths

plenty of monoliths

more

more

humun interventions

human interventions

tall trees in the island

tall trees in the island

note the base

note the base

taking the elephant path

taking the elephant path

twins

twins

 kaluwara

kaluwara

urinary stone

urinary stone

 a monolith

a monolith

rocks plated like a stairway... may be the ships which were built were pushed to the river along this

rocks plated like a stairway… may be the ships which were built were pushed to the river along this

the plated rocks

the plated rocks

otherside of the island

other side of the island

wasgamuwa side

wasgamuwa side

one long monolith

one long monolith

 bricks

bricks

work of nidan horu

work of nidan horu

a huge sthupa dugged to the base

a huge sthupa dugged to the base

a huge brick

a huge brick

the burried moonstone

the buried moonstone

two elephants on a moonstone

two elephants on a moonstone

note the two elephants

note the two elephants

part of a moonstone

part of a moonstone

parts of tile

parts of tile

see the carvings showing the importance of the location

see the carvings showing the importance of the location

faded carving

faded carving

තිඹිරි

තිඹිරි

another korawak stone

another korawak stone

 mahaweli river seen

mahaweli river seen

paradise

paradise

paradise indeed

paradise indeed

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lovely location

lovely location

Crossing back to the main land was with many slips and falls across the river which left us with some unforgettable experiences. To finish off the day we had a wonderful “Game Batha” (which was homemade) at a miniature hut in the middle of a “Chena” where the breeze brushed off our sweat. After thanking the local guides and the DWC officer we left towards Sripura to head towards our own destinations.

 crossing back to the main land

crossing back to the main land

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many falls

many falls

on a mini island

on a mini island

 the island land is seen on the right

the island land is seen on the right

 fisherman

fisherman

plenty of mini islands

plenty of mini islands

returning back

returning back

having lunch (Photographer NG)

having lunch (Photographer NG)

 

Hiking Hanthana Range within a Day

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Year and Month  2016 September 18th
Number of Days  One
Crew  Five
Accommodation  N/A
Transport  Public transport
Activities  Scenery, Photography, Hiking
Weather  Cloudy, Rainy
Route  Gelioya -> Kandy -> 4th Mile Post (Hanthana Road) -> Return – Hadbima Janapadaya -> Sarasavigama -> Peradeniya

[Download Google Earth Trail Map From this link]

Tips, Notes and Special remark
  • Start early as possible
  • Bus to Uduwela from kandy leaves at 7 am from Kandy (Near Clock tower)
  • Last Bus to Kanduy is around 5pm from Sarasavigama
  • Carry atleast 1ltr of water per person
  • Beware of wild animals (Leopards/Wild cats are popular)
  • Path is not much clear after the 1st and 2nd
  • Leech protection may be required during rainy season
Related Resources Trip reports : on Hanthana
Author Ramzy
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

Hiking Hanthana Range within a Day

Hanthana is the most popular hiking place among University students. Normally Social Trips and Batch trips are planned to hanthana due to less travelling time. It is my long term dream to hike Hanthana. With the aid of trip reports on Hanthana in Lakdasun we planned this trip.

Hanthana can be hiked from various routes;

  1. 4th Mile Post at Kandy-Uduwela (Hanthana road)
  2. Heerassagala – Amaya Hills
  3. Peradeniya University – Upper Hanthana Lodge

Sarasavigama- Hadabima janapadaya

Map - click to enlarge

Map – click to enlarge

The Shortest and easiest is the 4th Mile post path. So we selected the 1st option.

All of us gathered at Kandy clock tower by 6:30 and had our breakfast at nearby hotel. We lucky enough to catch the Kandy – Uduwala bus started journey at 7 am. By 7.25 am we were at 4th milepost where the trail starts.

The Clock tower of Kandy

The Clock tower of Kandy

Statue of Lieutenant General Denzil Lakshman Kobbekaduwa

Statue of Lieutenant General Denzil Lakshman Kobbekaduwa

Dalada Veediya

Dalada Veediya

The Trail head – Towers at 1st and 2nd Peaks are visible.

The Trail head – Towers at 1st and 2nd Peaks are visible.

Team at the trailhead

Team at the trailhead

On the way to 1st peak

On the way to 1st peak

From the trail head we reached our 1st peak within 30 minutes. It’s less than a kilo meter hike. There are telecommunication towers located in the first and second peaks. Also sanitary and drinking water facilities are available at these peaks as there are individuals who resides there to maintain and monitor these towers.

Towers at 1st peak – Peak 2 visible

Towers at 1st peak – Peak 2 visible

A good view

A good view

Peak 2 in the background

Peak 2 in the background

Samasara kanda-Aranayake zoomed

Samasara kanda-Aranayake zoomed

Gatambe Junction – Gannoruwa road

Gatambe Junction – Gannoruwa road

Half-way to 2nd peak

Half-way to 2nd peak

A viewing point

A viewing point

The team-Selfie

The team-Selfie

There are good views from the first peak. We can see the Kandy city area, Peradeniya, Gatambe, teldeniya areas from this peak. Hiking the second peak won’t take much time it’s about 100 meters. The second peak also gives you an elevated views of the surrounding.

Close to 2nd peak

Close to 2nd peak

2nd peak

2nd peak

Greeny paradise.

Greeny paradise.

The Rock phase

The Rock phase

To the edge of the rock

To the edge of the rock

The way we came

The way we came

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Beautiful path

Beautiful path

Beauty

Beauty

The Hanthana range

The Hanthana range

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To reach the other part we have should descend along the rock and take the forest path. The path is clearly visible and not a difficult task.

Entering the forest patch

Entering the forest patch

Came out.

Came out.

Shiny

Shiny

Clear path

Clear path

We are following

We are following

The Way back

The Way back

Ratnasiri Wickramanayake Training Centre

Ratnasiri Wickramanayake Training Centre

Resting time

Resting time

Rest of the range

Rest of the range

Path from Upper hanthana lodge joins here

Path from Upper hanthana lodge joins here

Good place for camping

Good place for camping

Police Barracks

Police Barracks

After this point the footpath directs to the tea estate through a forest patch. at the mid of this forest patch we met some members of the University explorers club members and they directed us with the path to Katusu konda which is our final destination. The weather was challenging us very often. so we hurried up folloed the path to the top. We did see the non-other than mist on top.

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The drop

The drop

mist

mist

mist

mist

water drops

water drops

Colorful flowers

Colorful flowers

Variety

Variety

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Can you see the difference?

Can you see the difference?

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Katusu kondha

Katusu kondha

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Nothing is visible

Nothing is visible

The were able to reach katusu kondha at around 2pm. Unfortunately we could see nothing due to misty weather. In few minutes its started to rain. So we rushed in to the cave located closer to Katusu kondha.

At the cave

At the cave

path

path

Somebody camped here

Somebody camped here

Way to Sarasavigama… Descending

Way to Sarasavigama… Descending

Spending some time at the cave we decided to go the the Sarasavigama at around 3 pm. With the rain and misty conditions we couldn’t find the path to Sarasavigama. However, with the help of GPS and Maps we got the navigation. Nothing is visible due to mist. There are rocky phases in the path descending through these a very dangerous. There are very slippery in the rain. So we tried alternated paths. It took around 2 hours to descend this 2 km path.

At around 5pm we reached Sarasavigama and able to catch the bus to Kandy with the help of a threewheeler. by 5:30pm we were at Peradeniya.

At the end it was a new experience and Enjoyable trip!

Thanks for reading..

 

Wangedigala, Wangedi Kanda and Balathuduwa

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Year and Month  22nd & 23rd of October 2016
Number of Days  Two
Crew  35 with Ranshan & Tony
Guide  Ranjith
Accommodation  Night Camping
Transport  Hired Bus
Activities  Wildlife, Photography, Mountaineering, Hiking, Exploring the nature, Camping
Weather  Good (Small rain on second day)
Route  Colombo -> Avissawella -> Ratnapura -> Blangoda -> Kalupahana junction -> Bambarakanda fall road up to 3rd mile post
Tips, Notes and Special remark
  • Start your journey early morning
  • Hire a guide and he will help you to carry the tents and stuff
  • Take enough water (3L)
  • Leech protection is needed during rainy season
  • Be careful when find the foot path in the Balathuduwa hike
  • Do not carry plastic/ polythine
  • Reaching to the all four peaks in a one day is not possible
  • Highly recommend Ranjith as the guide for entire Bambarakanda area.
Related Resources Trip reports on Wangedigala & Balathoduwa
Author  MSRF
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

We all gathered near to the Pettah railway station at 4.00am and the bus left around 4.15am. We stopped the bus for breakfast after passing the Ratnapura and again we stopped the bus at Pambahinna junction to buy lunch packets. After that we came near to the Kalupahana junction by 11am and we started to walk from there to the 3rd mile post. All bags and tents were transported by three-wheelers separately and all the participants were able to come to the 3rd mile post within 40 minutes. After that we met our friendly guide Mr Ranjith and he was carried our heavy weighted tents and the rest of 6 tents were carried by the participants. We stopped at the bridge where we met the only water source during the journey at the base of Wangedigala trail. We had lunch over there and got refreshed by washing our faces. And then we started our trek at 12.30pm. Ranjith guided the journey and our members were located at the beginning and at the end.
We use the mud road as it is close to the pines forest. We took the first break at the famous stone at the pines forest. We saw the dried Bambarakanda waterfall and hidden Lanka waterfall clearly. After that we started our journey again. This route is the closest and easiest route to Wangedigala as we can go to the top quickly. However we came to the top of the Wangedigala around 3.30pm. And then Ranjith went as we hired him only for the Wangedigala. Before he leave he showed the dying water stream to Tony and our guys where it was located at the closed horse track. That was a small water stream and it takes 10-15 minutes to fill a 1Litre bottle. But in the evening our guys were able to create a dam over there by covering a raincoat and collect the water.

After the all participants came to the camping area we were started to build our tents. Finally we build 8 camping tents at the Wangedi Plains where we can see a 180 degree view towards Haputale, Idalgashinna, Devils Staircase and Horton Plains. That day is a luck day because there wasn’t any rain and there were billions of stars. The environment goes dark slowly and our guys create the massive camping fire 100ft away from the camping area. That fire was about 6ft tall and we grab many woods and pines leaves. By 7.30pm we all gathered around the camping fire and light up it. Some guys went to Wangedigala and spent some time with the stars and the darkness.

By 9.30 we all went to the respective tents and all the girls were located to two scout tents. We all had our dinner and went to sleep by 10pm. We had a good time during the night and some were waked up at 2am to see the stars falling/rain. By 5.30am we waked up and one by one went to see the dam and were surprised by seeing the water. There were enough water to wash our body too and one guy had a bath too. And some were gone to the jungle to catch rabbits too.

On the way to 3rd Milepost

On the way to 3rd Milepost

 At a bend

At a bend

Observing the guests

Observing the guests

Preparing to the adventure

Preparing to the adventure

Village Beauty

Village Beauty

at the 3rd milepost

at the 3rd milepost

We are ready to the trek

We are ready to the trek

Giving an introduction to the journey

Giving an introduction to the journey

We started it

We started it

Getting closer to the water stream

Getting closer to the water stream

Moving to the jungle trek

Moving to the jungle trek

The old bridge

The old bridge

Strcuked at the Mud area

Strcuked at the Mud area

11-jungle-path

jungle path

Small rest at the jungle path

Small rest at the jungle path

 Dried Bambarakanda girl

Dried Bambarakanda girl

Beautiful Flowers

Beautiful Flowers

Entering to the Pines patch

Entering to the Pines patch

Along the Pines forest

Along the Pines forest

Resting place

Resting place

We are on the track

We are on the track

First Group photo at the common resting place at Pines forest

First Group photo at the common resting place at Pines forest

Along the journey

Along the journey

Its time to a selfie

Its time to a selfie

Resting

Resting

Resting

Resting

Resting

Resting

Trek is again started

Trek is again started

The Wangedigala peak

The Wangedigala peak

Wangedigala peak zoomed

Wangedigala peak zoomed

Came to the top of Wangedigala

Came to the top of Wangedigala

Moving to the Camping area

Moving to the Camping area

Searching the path

Searching the path

Old is Gold

Old is Gold

We prepared the Tents

We prepared the Tents

We prepared the Tents

We prepared the Tents

We prepared the Tents

We prepared the Tents

Wangedikanda at the behind

Wangedikanda at the behind

A billion star hotel

A billion star hotel

Preparing the giant fire camp

Preparing the giant fire camp

Our Night Lamp

Our Night Lamp

Plain at the top of Wangedigala

Plain at the top of Wangedigala

We build 8 tents

We build 8 tents

Making the dam from the little water source

Making the dam from the little water source

Dam is ready for tomorrow morning use

Dam is ready for tomorrow morning use

Fire Camp Started

Fire Camp Started

Fire at the bottom & Billions of Stars at the top

Fire at the bottom & Billions of Stars at the top

Tony in action

Tony in action

 Just singing songs

Just singing songs

Second Group photo at the night

Second Group photo at the night

Lovely capture

Lovely capture

Haldummulla Beragala Area at Night

Haldummulla Beragala Area at Night

We had our breakfast and started Gommoli trek by 8.30. We reached to the Wangedi Kanda with in half hours and came to the Balathuduwa Mountain by 12.30pm. However there was a rain at Balathuduwa and due to the time and darkness we decided to get down from Balathuduwa to Wangeduigala base. As we didn’t carried our bags to this journey we were had our lunch which is similar to breakfast at camping site. After that we started to descend the Wangedigala at 2.30 pm and all participants reached to the Bridge by 5.30pm and had a cool bath over there. After that we all went to the Kalupahana junction by three-wheelers and came to Colombo by 1am on Monday.

All together there were 35 participants including with 2 participants over 55 year old. They are Tony and Ranjith who performed the whole journey without any help or any problem. Further there were 8 participants who had their first night camping experience from this journey. Wangedigala is a good place for camping and trekking as it gives a beautiful view over the mountains. Further we noticed that the old horse track which is closed 10 years ago is still in good condition to try a bike ride to the top of wangedigala. We met a person and he said that the road will start from 1.5km before the Kalupahana junction but there were some landslides at past hence this road closed. Because he is the person who carried “Mayim Kanu” to the top of Wangedigala by his Van 10 years ago.
We as the SOBASIRI TEAM, not doing these kind of events for money. We just join others to our own trip and give them a chance to feel the adventure, night camping and forest surviving experiences. We only collect some money from each participant for the transportation, and for the tents. Hence the cost per head is about Rs.1, 500/-. SOBASIRI TEAM is a five of people and we always highly care about the participants, there are two our members will take the lead and another 2 our members will come from the back and they will help to the people who get tired and further they will encourage the participants who is getting slow. And the other members will be at the middle of the journey to check whether all the people are in line with the journey. Before the journey we send an email to all the participants mentioning the nature of the journey and about the foods, water, bathing etc. and strictly not allowed liquor. Tony aiya (senior Lakdasun member) was participated for two of our events and he will witness for us.
Facebook – Travel in Sri Lanka-Sobasiri

Early Morning

Early Morning

Refreshin at the morning

Refreshin at the morning

Early morning

Early morning

Moments of the Sunshine

Moments of the Sunshine

Moments of the Sunshine

Moments of the Sunshine

Moments of the Sunshine

Moments of the Sunshine

Moments of the Sunshine

Moments of the Sunshine

Moments of the Sunshine

Moments of the Sunshine

Moments of the Sunshine

Moments of the Sunshine

This is called feel the life

This is called feel the life

Morning Beauty

Morning Beauty

Priceless place

Priceless place

Devil's Staircase and Ohiya side

Devil’s Staircase and Ohiya side

Collecting water from the Dam

Collecting water from the Dam

Feel the nature at a priceless place

Feel the nature at a priceless place

Our destinations of the day, Left Balathuduwa Right Gommoliya

Our destinations of the day, Left Balathuduwa Right Gommoliya

We at the top of Wangedikanda

We at the top of Wangedikanda

Wangedi Kanda

Wangedi Kanda

Leading the path

Leading the path

To the Balathuduwa

To the Balathuduwa

On the way to Balathuduwa

On the way to Balathuduwa

Entering to the Forest of Balathuduwa

Entering to the Forest of Balathuduwa

Pines Patch

Pines Patch

Camping site at Balathuduwa

Camping site at Balathuduwa

Along the forest

Along the forest

Bambarakanda Area

Bambarakanda Area

At Balathuduwa

At Balathuduwa

On the way to Balathuduwa

On the way to Balathuduwa

Thick Forest

Thick Forest

Balathuduwa bend

Balathuduwa bend

Non Pariel side

Non Pariel side

Trees in White background

Trees in White background

 Came out from the Balathuduwa forest

Came out from the Balathuduwa forest

Final Group photo at Balathuduwa

Final Group photo at Balathuduwa

 

65 Places in 15 Days Tour – Day 10 – 12

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Year and Month  2016 August
Number of Days  15 Days ( August 08 – 22 ) (Day 10 – 12 )
Crew  3 (between 7 – 40 years of age)
Accommodation  Relatives House in Kaikawala & Guest House in Kandy
Transport  By van
Activities  Religious , Sight Seeing , Photography
Weather  Hot & Sunny, , In Sembuwatta cold & mist
Route  Dambulla -> Matale -> Elkaduwa -> Sembuwatta Lake -> Hunnasgiriya Falls -> Wathegama -> Kandy
Tips, Notes and Special remark
  • Ask direction from locals.
  • Road is in bad condition in Elkaduwa , Sembuwatta area
Author S.BADULLAGE
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

Refer Day 1 , Day 2-4 , Day 5 , Day 6 , Day 7 & Day 8 – 9

From Dambulla we came to our relatives place in Kaikawala. We stay 2 days in there. Next day morning we went to Alu Viharaya & Buddha Statue in Seru Gala. After that we went to Ambilla Raja Maha Viharaya. On 19th morning we left from our relative’s home & went to Sembuwatta Lake. It is very beautiful place. But the road is not in good condition. We spent couple of good time there & went to see Hunnasgiriya Water Fall. After that we came to Wathegama Town & we were unable to find a place to stay. After that we came to Kandy. After found a place to stay we went to Dalada Maligawa in the night time. But we unable to worship Dalada Maligawa because doors closed by 8.00 p.m. So we decided visit Dalada Maligawa on next day morning.Still we are in Kandy. Read the next Trip Report to find details about our next destination from Day 13 onwards.

Day 10 – 12 ( 17.08.16 – 19.08.16 )

56.Alu Viharaya – Matale

57.Budha Statue – Seru Gala

58.Ambilla Raja Maha Viharaya

59.Sembuwatta Lake – Elkaduwa

60.Hunnasgiriya Water Fall

61.Sri Dalada Maligawa

Alu Viharaya - Matale

Alu Viharaya – Matale

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Buddha Statue – Seru Gala

Buddha Statue – Seru Gala

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View from top

View from top

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Sudu Ganga - Matale

Sudu Ganga – Matale

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Ambilla Raja Maha Viharaya

Ambilla Raja Maha Viharaya

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Vihara Geya

Vihara Geya

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Sembuwatta Lake - Elkaduwa

Sembuwatta Lake – Elkaduwa

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With heavy mist

With heavy mist

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Hunnasgiriya Water Fall

Hunnasgiriya Water Fall

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 Crab

Crab

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Sri Dalada Maligawa

Sri Dalada Maligawa

Night View of Dalada Maligawa

Night View of Dalada Maligawa

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Thanks for reading.

Sanjeewa

Trekking Knuckles from Bambarella to Thangappuwa

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Year and Month  2016 November 13 & 14
Number of Days  Two
Crew  Five
Accommodation  Camping at Alugallena
Transport  Public transport
Activities  Scenery, Photography,Hiking, Waterfall hunting
Weather  Cloudy
Route Gelioya -> Kandy -> Waththegama -> Bambarella -> Knuckles Peak -> Alugallena -> Kotaganga falls -> Thangappuwa -> Theldeniya -> Kandy

[Download Google Earth Trail Map From this link]

Tips, Notes and Special remark
  • Start early as possible.
  • Do not travel solo.
  • Bus to Bambarella from kandy leaves at 7:20 am from Kandy (Near Clock tower) in School days and starts 9:00 am from Wattegama in non-school days. Next bus is at 10:45 am.
  • Last Bus to Teldeniya from thangappuwa is at 4:00pm.
  • Carry atleast 1ltr of water per person.
  • Path is not much clear after the 1st and 2nd peaks of Knuckles. Alugallena, Thangappuwa trail is very clear.
  • No need of a guide to do this trail.
  • No water at Alugallena during this period. Water source available within 1km.
  • Leech protection needed
Related Resources Trip reports : on Knuckles , Kota ganga & Alugallena
Author Ramzy
Comments Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread

Bambarella to Thangappuwa is a popular trail among the knuckles trekkers. There are several attractions can be seen in this trail.

  1. Knuckles falls (near the trail head)
  2. Knuckles Mountain peaks
  3. Alugallena cave (3 Km away from main trail)
  4. Kotaganga (seven) falls

All above can be done within two days and its around 20 Km trail.

The Map

Map - click to enlarge

Map – click to enlarge

We have been to Knuckles in 2015. During that trip we were able to reach up to 3rd peak of the Knuckles despite the rainy conditions. Therefore we wanted something extra to visit during this trip. So we planned two days trip with camping at Alugallena

We gathered at 7 am Kandy and had breakfast at a nearby hotel. Then we got in to the Wattegama Bus and reached Wattegama around 8:40 am. The Bambarella bus was halted there at Bus-stand and we got in to bus. The bus started the journey around 9:00 am and ended Journey at Bambarella around 10:30 am. We bought some snack items from the shop at Bambarella.

We saw some constructions being done at Bambarella by Forest Department. We inquired and they said FD is putting up Information Centre with a Ticket Counter. In near future it will begin services.

Later we started our hike through the short route just passing the bridge. The distance to the trailhead from Bambarella Bus  stand is 3 Kms. Then another 3-4 kms to Knuckles peaks. The Knuckles falls is located in this path few 100 meters from trailhead.

Starting the Journey from Bambarella

Starting the Journey from Bambarella

Here we go

Here we go

Bambarella

Bambarella

Wildberry

Wildberry

Team at the trailhead

Team at the trailhead

Stream on the way

Stream on the way

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Kalupahana side view

Kalupahana side view

Stream

Stream

Entering trail head

Entering trail head

Trail Head

Trail Head

Knuckles from Trail head

Knuckles from Trail head

Knuckles falls

Knuckles falls

Waterfall

Waterfall

We were able to reach the first peak around 2:45pm. There is a camp site at 1st peak but no water source available. The 2nd peak is just another 100 meter hike. The path is cleared upto 2nd peak only. There is a campsite in the second peak too.

Crossing a stream

Crossing a stream

Knuckles Mountain

Knuckles Mountain

White-Cypress Hermitage

White-Cypress Hermitage

Clear path

Clear path

An open place

An open place

Nature trail

Nature trail

A resting point

A resting point

Beautiful path

Beautiful path

Beauty

Beauty

Forest path

Forest path

On the way to 1st peak

On the way to 1st peak

View

View

resting

resting

Lower angle snap

Lower angle snap

View from 1st peak

View from 1st peak

Team at 1st peak near campsite

Team at 1st peak near campsite

The Way to 2nd peak

The Way to 2nd peak

achievers

achievers

Looking back from 2nd peak

Looking back from 2nd peak

Mist created beauty

Mist created beauty

Rock in the second peak

Rock in the second peak

Priceless

Priceless

All the way we came

All the way we came

Path to green paradise

Path to green paradise

Rock bed to have a rest

Rock bed to have a rest

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Mist

Mist

Campsite 2nd peak

Campsite 2nd peak

Lovely path

Lovely path

Returning

Returning

Unfortunately the mist covered everything to the meemure side. but the other side was much clear. The managing the time was the big challenge. We wanted to go Allegallena before its getting dark. We started our march to alugallena at around 3 pm. The distance to Algallena from the 2nd peak is 4.5kms. So we were on a hurry to settle in the Alugallena and we managed to reach Alugallena by 5:45pm.

an open area

an open area

Knuckles is in the background

Knuckles is in the background

Crystal water

Crystal water

Greeny path

Greeny path

FD campsite

FD campsite

Campsite-Water source available

Campsite-Water source available

At Alugallena

At Alugallena

The toilet

The toilet

Cooking

Cooking

Dinner

Dinner

The challenge we faced in Alugallena is the unavailability of water. We went back more than 500 mtrs to fill water. The next day we met a trekker and who said the water available in few meters in the path to Kaikawala infront of the cave.

We made delicious food with Instant precooked curries. We had rice and curry for the dinner. Prepared Porridge for Breakfast.

Breakfast

Breakfast

For the Lunch

For the Lunch

Milo

Milo

Alugallena

Alugallena

Alugallena

Alugallena

Bottom-top view

Bottom-top view

Cook in process

Cook in process

Rock of Alugallena

Rock of Alugallena

You don’t need a tent to camp in Alugallena. It’s an ideal camping spot. The plan for the next day is Kotaganga falls and Thangappuwa. We didn’t have a guide so we were not sure about route to the Kotaganga falls. We started the day with prayers and after taking the breakfast we began the 2nd day journey at around 8:15 am.

Rock of Alugallena

Rock of Alugallena

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Beautiful track

Beautiful track

The Junction – Left to Knuckles Right to Alugallena

The Junction – Left to Knuckles Right to Alugallena

Another open area

Another open area

Different types of plants

Different types of plants

In to the Kotaganga plain

In to the Kotaganga plain

Kotaganga plain

Kotaganga plain

Another camping site

Another camping site

Towards kotaganga falls

Towards kotaganga falls

Kotaganga Plains

Kotaganga Plains

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Another stair falls but no water

Another stair falls but no water

Waterfall

Waterfall

Kotaganga Village

Kotaganga Village

Path which starts in the plains takes directly to the 2nd fall from the top and from there you can decide which path/area we want to go. If we select the lower path we can end up in the kotaganga village. If we move the upper path we can reach thangappuwa. So we decided to take the upper path to get some good views. But we were able to visit only two falls of seven falls. Our target is catching 3:45 bus from thangappuwa. this is another reason lead us this decision.

Kotaganga 2nd fall

Kotaganga 2nd fall

2nd fall

2nd fall

1st from top

1st from top

1st fall

1st fall

1st to 2nd

1st to 2nd

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On the edge

On the edge

The view

The view

Cheering

Cheering

Rainbows

Rainbows

Top of 1st fall

Top of 1st fall

Top of first

Top of first

With water

With water

Top to bottom view

Top to bottom view

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The upper side

The upper side

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Tourists

Tourists

The team

The team

Selfie

Selfie

After spending sometime at the top and taking the lunch we packed up things  to move towards thangappuwa at around 1pm. We walked along the stream to reach the thangappuwa path

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Don’t try during rainy days

Don’t try during rainy days

Some cover from shadow

Some cover from shadow

Back in track

Back in track

Scary?

Scary?

Covered path

Covered path

Close to thangappuwa

Close to thangappuwa

Beautiful view

Beautiful view

Corbets gap - Dothalugala

Corbets gap – Dothalugala

Thangappuwa village

Thangappuwa village

Zoomed out

Zoomed out

Photography

Photography

At thangappuwa

At thangappuwa

We reached thangappuwa around 2:30 pm. We went to the bus stand and had meals near by shop. The shop owner showed us their Cardamom reating/heating point. These cardamom are from Knuckles and they are in best quality. We purchased cardamom from them.

Cardomom

Cardomom

Treatment

Treatment

Drying trays

Drying trays

Road towards corbets gap

Road towards corbets gap

The bus to teldeniya from thangappuwa started journey at 4pm. it took more than 1 hour to reach Teldeniya. From there we took Bus to Kandy and reached our homes. It was one of our best camping trips.

Thanks for reading..

Elevation Profile

Elevation Profile – click to enlarge

 

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