Nuwaragala (නුවරගල) has become a popular travel destination in these days. When I was searching for Nuwaragala in metric map another rock which is situated closer to Nuwaragala was detected. It was higher than Nuwaragala and mentioned as Ethabaddagala. So we have planned to hike Ethbadda first and if time permits to conquer Nuwaragala as well.
Nuwaragala has an archeological value as it is said King Saddathissa
(සද්ධාතිස්ස රජතුමා) has built fortress on top of Nuwaragala. While he was ruling southern region of country from Nuwaragala, Ethbadda was used as elephant kraal. (ඇත් ගාල)

Hills of Nuwaragala forest reserve in metric map. Ethbadda is marked by blue star and Nuwaragala is marked by red star. Click image to enlarge.

Let’s move to the trip:
Ashan has been at Nuwaragala six years ago and his Lakdasun trip was the guide for most of travelers to Nuwaragala. He wants to be at Ethbadda and I have invited him beforehand. Harinda also has been at Nuwaragala few months ago. He is also awaiting to visit at Ethbadda. Rest of the team were strangers to this dry zone forest reserve. We have noted few locally origin guides to accompany to Nuwaragala in Facebook. Sri Lal was the one I have contacted and he agreed to visit at Ethbadda with his native guide-Gune Bandiya Mama. (ගුණේ බන්ඩියා මාමා)
Four of us travelled from Colombo by bus and Ashan came to Maha Oya by his jeep with Chamara and Eshan. But we also have to get into his jeep as bus was broken at Padiyathalawa. Amila has arranged breakfast at nearby his friend’s place. After having breakfast we have headed to Pollebadda village which is situated at Rambakan Oya road.
Sri Lal, Gune Bandiya Mama, Wikum and Chamara were waiting at Rambakan Oya junction. Sri Lal has arranged everything for our comfortability.
It was quite a late start from Pollebadda around 9am but we were not much hurry as we are going to spend the night at forest. Gune Bandiya Mama was always walking in front of us to guide the team. It was just a walk through shrub areas passing few dry streams till we reached the base of Ethbadda. Though it was a flat terrain heat was the major problem faced in walking. Harinda has brought variety of juicy fruits to replenish the thirsty. Both Ethbadda and Nuwaragala rocks are surrounded by accessory mountains to make sure those to be hidden. This might a reason to build a castle on top of Nuwaragala by King Saddathissa. This area has been deforested for teak cultivation in 1970 but that project was unsuccessful. Currently you can see shrubs and Mana with scattered trees. Elephant dung was another common finding and we have encountered set of wild elephants on our way to Nuwaragala in second day.
After passing certain distance we have entered an open area where Nuwaragala and other nearby rocks were seen nicely. It was the ideal time to get another rest under a “Kone tree” (කෝන් ගහ) with tasting some Kone fruits. First time we have noticed one end of Ethbadda under this Kone tree. Rest of the foot pathway lies at the base

Pollebadda village. Paddies get water from Rambakan Oya reservoir.

Gune Bandiya Mama with Eshan and Nirosh

Team passing the buffer zone of Nuwaragala forest reserve

Gorikana (ගොරිකාන) is situated closer to the village.

Entering to Nuwaragala forest reserve.

Crossing a stream.

Road side cave.

It was hard to get a full forest coverage like this

We have come across Elephant dung with different ages

The path almost go through short Mana

Getting a break

Watermelon was ideal for the journey.

Watermelon was ideal for the journey.

Teak were the main large trees of the area

Wide open area with picturesque view of Nuwaragala

Foot pathway lies between these two rows of these rocks.

We spent a time under this Kone tree.

Mountains from right to left: Wilumbepitiya, Delibawa, Nilgala and Ethbadda

Pre shoot time

කෝන්

This row of rocks surround Ethbadda and Nuwaragala.

Gorikana

Rest under a Kone tree.

Nuwaragala rock

Foot pathway lies at base of Nuwaragala rock

Majestic appearance of Nuwaragala rock

Crossing a stream

Majestic appearance of Nuwaragala rock

A dry stream

Gune Bandiya Mama is searching for the path

A stream at base of Nuwaragala

Now we have noticed Ethbadda…

Ethbadda…main target of the day

Place for the lunch.

After having lunch at Galen Watichcha Oya (ගලෙන් වැටිච්ච ඔය) we started the proper hike to Ethbaddegala. Though Ethbadda is taller than Nuwaragala the hike is easier than Nuwaragala. Within about one and half hour we were able to reach the top of Ethbadda. There was a small cave situated beneath the top of the rock. It can accommodate about ten people.

Ethbadda is situated right in front of Nuwaragala

Gradual ascend to Ethbadda

Nuwaragala was seen on our way to Ethbadda

Guna Bandiya Mama is leading…

Rocky face of Ethbadda

Top of Nuwaragala

Kokagala

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Ethbadda

Walking in the afternoon at dry zone forest is really difficult. It needs frequent rests.

Names of nearby rocks

There was a clear foot path on side

The area we passed.

With help of Wadda….

Ethbadda cave

Ethbadda cave

The top of Ethbadda was like a flat land spreading many acres. When we walked to eastern edge mighty Walimba Hela / Friar’s Hood was seen. Number of hills belong to Namal Oya range and Gal Oya range were seen over eastern and southern direction. Rest of the mountains we could identify were Kokagala, Unukirigala, Omanugala, Kamburagala, Hikgala, Dimbulagala, Kuda Seegiriya, Henanigala etc.

On top of Ethbadda

Nuwaragala is the closest neighbor

We have walked on top of Ethbadda

Kokagala

Uneven flat area spreads over hundreds of acres

This might be the highest point of Ethbadda

Burned….

Ethbadda provides 360 degree view to surrounding

Unseen face of Walimba Hela / Friar’s Hood

.

Walimba Hela / Friar’s Hood

Namal Oya Hills

With Gune Bandiya Mama

Beautiful landscapes

Danigala consider as highest of Namal Oya hills

Walked all over there

Towards Walimbe Hela

Rest

Navakiri Aru Tank

Towards Namal Oya and Gal Oya hills

Achieved another dream

Surrounding view from Ethbadda

Heading to other end of Ethbadda

Towards Narakamulla area of Maduru Oya forest reserve. Hennanigala is marked by an arrow

Towards Maduru Oya and Dehiaththakandiya side

Omanugala

Maduru Oya reservoir and Kamburagala

Unukirigala with Rathkinda-Ulhitiya reservoir

This must be the highest point. We couldn’t find any archeological value there.

When we were at top of Ethbadda. Black line shows the path we followed.

While we were enjoying the beauty Gune Bandiya mama was searching for water at Ethbadda. He has found a stream somewhere below the top. This stream was well enough for camping. Therefore we have changed our mind to stay closer to the stream rather than going back to the cave. Night was calm and pleasant. Sri Lal has rewarded us with delicious meal. After a long time we had rice and curry for dinner. Gune Bandiya Mama had lot of stories to tell about his experience. It was an open camp site closer to the stream. We didn’t get any disturbance from wild elephants though we expected.

Water source

Around the fire

Day 02
Viewing the sun rise from Ethbadda was amazing. Chamara, Eshan and Myself have hiked to the eastern edge of the rock from our camp site to enjoy the sun rise. Sun has risen above eastern sea. It was one of the best sun rise and glorious morning I had.

Pre sun rise pics…Chamara and Eshan

Awaiting for sun rise…

Pre sun rise pictures

Pre sun rise pictures

Frias’ Hood / Walimba Hela

Pre sun rise pics

Awaiting for sun rise…

Eastern sea and sky…just before sun rise…

Simply wow…

Breathtaking

Silhouette

It’s me….

Sun rise over eastern sea

Sun rise over eastern sea

Sun rise over eastern sea

Sun rise over eastern sea

Colorful

Good morning Ethbadda

Good morning Ethbadda

Unlimited clicks…

Posed….

Morning hours are golden hours of photography

Hills

Hills

Golden rays…

Morning vibes…

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After enjoying amazing sun rise at Ethbadda we have rejoined the crew to taste breakfast. We are heading to start another tough day as hike to Nuwaragala was remained. On our way back to Nuwaragala, we were able to view some peaks of Knuckles mountain range.

Group photo with Gune Bandiya Mama.

This arrow shows Knuckles mountain range

Till we meet again

Thanks for reading

Wamarapugala (වමාරපුගල) is a mountain situated at centered area of Knuckles-Kalupahana. It is well seen when you are at top of Lakegala. Though Thunhisgala is the closest mountain to Wamarapugala, it is hard to see from Thunhisgala. Because that side of Thunhisgala has forest cover, but you can see it through the bushes.
As it is situated at Kalupahana, approach to Wamarapugala was through KMP route via Bambarella. Rahana Ketu Pathana is found at the slope of Wamarapugala. It is a nice place to view Thunhisgala with it’s accessory peaks. And there is a foot path to Meemure from Pathana. If we put all these into one journey, it was like this:
1. Trekking from Rahana Ketu Pathana from Bambarella via KMP wadiya
2. Hike to Wamarapugala and back to Pathana
3. Trekking from Rahana Ketu Pathana to Meemure

Wamarapugala in metric map. Note the district border runs along Rahana Ketu Pathana. Click image to enlarge.

Wamarapugala is shown by arrow. This picture was taken from Corbett’s gap

View of Wamarapugala when we were at Meeriyagolla.

I have planned this trip for two days with camping at Rahana Ketu Pathana (RKP). Kasun who has sound knowledge in Knuckles area joined with me for first time. Nuwan was the other member of the trip.

Bambarella to KMP wadiya

As usual we have started the journey early from Kandy to get the first bus to Bambarella from Waththegama. The foot pathway to KMP wadiya starts from Malgudi Junction / Lebanon junction at Bambarella. Bambarella was little bit gloomy and top of surrounding peaks were covered with mist. Once we entered the forest, it was noticed weather was so dry during last few days. Here I am not going to describe the route in detail as it is repeated in my Thunhisgala reports.

Journey started. Concrete road to Lebanon estate.

Kandasamy Gala with mist

Heading to Rathnagiriya via Liyangalla division

Passing Liyangalla Division

Tea den

Kasun stayed at foot path till we returned back from Rathnagiriya

Last set of line houses

After passing Liyangalla division we have reached the foot path through Rathnagiriya abounded tea estate. It was the time to do a mini hike to the peak at Rathnagiriya which was covered by short Mana. Selva Kanda (සෙල්වා කන්ද) and Rilagala (රිලාගල) were seen just in front of Rathnagiriya peak. (රත්නගිරිය කන්ද)

Rathnagiriya peak

Rathnagiriya peak

Dry weather accompanied the thirsty

Dual peaks of Rathnagiriya

Rathnagiriya peak

The bay which hosts Gona Giya Ella (ගොනා ගිය ඇල්ල)

Might be Selva Kanda (right) and Rilagala (left)

The flag on top

Steep ascend was finished after passing Rathnagiriya peaks. Gentle ups and down were found then mainly through Nelu bushes till we reached KMP wadiya. Land marks we passed were Dewalaya, Hulang Kanda and baby Maha Ganga (Maha Ela). A lot of streams were dry except few which were good enough to fill our bottles. We have not seen any traces of elephants till KMP wadiya as well as throughout the journey. It seems elephants in Knuckles region have migrated to somewhere after building two reservoirs-Kalu Ganga and Moragahakanda. We have spent about four and half hours to reach KMP wadiya from Bambarella.

Foot path

Dewalaya

Through Nelu bushes

Hulang Kanda

Knuckles five peaks

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Resting at a dry stream

Checking his clicks…

Met Maha Ganga (මහ ගග)

Cascades of Maha Ganga

Cascades of Maha Ganga

KMP wadiya to Rahana Ketu Pathana (RKP)
Mahathun Ayya was preparing his simple lunch when we reached KMP wadiya. He was happy to shear it with three of us while we had some Roti brought from Waththegama for the lunch. Nothing has changed at KMP since my last visit at 2016. We spent about 1hour at this old Cardamom hut before go to our next step.

KMP wadiya

Mahathun Ayya

Our next target was Rahana Ketu Pathana (RKP) which was situated at base of Wamarapugala. There was almost a clear path from KMP wadiya to RKP. Within about two hours we were able to reach RKP without any problem. It was almost flat terrain through cardamom bushes at Kalupahana. As a lot of streams were dry we tried to maintain water store till we reached RKP. We have turned at three junctions:
Duwili Ella-Thunhisgala, Thunhisgala-RKP (7 26 55 6483, 80 48 153526) and RKP-Ambagaha Gedara Wadiya / Meemure

Junction to Duwili Ella and Thunhisgala (7 26 36 4322, 80 4802581)

Enjoying…

Another dry stream

We had maintained a water store

Knuckles forest reserve

Third junction where RKP pathway separate from Meemure road (7 27 10732, 80 48 36229)

Thunhisgala with Kudagala. This was taken before we reached RKP

Elated after reaching Pathana

Rahana Ketu Pathana (RKP)
This large open area spreads over angle of Wamarapugala. Thunhisgala with it’s two accessory peaks (Kudagala-කුඩා ගල and Belumgala-බැලුම්ගල) is seen behind RKP. The edge of Wamarapugala separates other mountain range by a large grove called Ganga Bokka (ගග බොක්ක) along which Meemure Oya flows to Meemure. Alugal Lena peak, Dumbanagala, Gerandigala with Gal Tuna, Kehelpothdoruwegala, Yahangala and Velangolla Pathana are seen in one side. (Knuckles five peaks is covered by Alugal Lena). On the other side you can enjoy the view of Yakunge Hela, Gombaniya, Sudu Gala, Kirigalpoththa, Pathangala, Riverstone, Gammaduwa, Karagahathenna, Maningala and Walpolamulla etc. Kandy-Matale district border runs along this plain and it is shown by collection of stones at Pathana.

Rahana Ketu Pathana (RKP) is situated at angle of Wamarapugala

Lakegala is seen behind Wamarapugala

Lakegala: Meemure Lakegala (right), Komalawe Gala (middle) and Narangamuwa Lakegala (left)

Ganga Bokka and Paddies at Meemure. Meemure Oya flows here.

Towards Dehiaththakandiya: You can see faint view of Unukirigala.

Dumbanagala (right), Gerandigala with Galthuna, Kehelpothdoruwegala and Yahangala (left)

Alugal Lena Kanda

Alugal Lena Kanda

Thunhisgala with Kudagala (side peak)

Towards rest of RKP

Collection of stones marks the district border

Rest of Pathana and rest of Knuckles range

Yakunge Hela, Gombaniya and Sudu Gala

Knuckles Kirigalpoththa

Pathangala and Riverstone peaks are seen at left edge of the picture

Enjoying the view at RKP

Camping at RKP
It was a beautiful evening and clear weather at RKP. Though hiking to Wamarapugala was at our initial plan it was postponed till tomorrow as we spent much time for clicking. According to information we got from Mahathun Ayya, no water source found at RKP in dry season. As we decided to spend the night at there, we wanted to collect water. It seems people (came to pluck cardamom) have spent night at RKP and burned some grass and bushes. We walked back along the foot pathway and followed the path to Meemure side. Within about 200-300m along that path, we came across a water stream. It was well enough to fill our bottles and wash bodies.
Camping at RKP is an extreme challenge with wind. I think it was not a wise decision we took. It was utter difficult to make a fire with windy condition. We required to put extra energy to save our things from the wind. My new tent was the main target of the wind. Wind has shattered the tent throughout the night. At the end the shape of the tent was changed. Therefore always we had to keep someone at inside the tent to protect it.

Eastern edge of Knuckles massif.

Time to refresh…

Unlimited clicks

Somehow we were able to make it.

It was another sleepless camping night with noises made by the wind.
While Nuwan was counting hours I was able to have a reasonable sleep. Sun rise was happened above Lakegala. Eastern sky was decorated with vivid colours to make us busy in clicking.

Pre sun rise pictures

Pre sun rise pictures

Another beautiful morning….

You can see Lakegala, Rathkinda-Ulhitiya reservoir and Unukirigala

Silhouette

A challenging day ahead of us. We had two targets remained: Hike to Wamarapugala and getting down to Meemure. This time we have reached the corner of Pathana to make a fire to have a tea. It was successful in few attempts.

Bed tea. Kasun refused to do anything without having morning tea.

Our breakfast.

Gombaniya and Kirigalpoththa side was clear now

Knuckles Kirigalpoththa

Walpolamulla and Maningala

We kept our bags at RKP and started to main target of this journey-Hike to Wamarapugala. There was a clear pathway to top of Wamarapugala from RKP.(Starting point-7 27 130795, 80 4849.935)
Most of the time it followed the edge of the mountain. Within two hours time we were able to reach the highest point of Wamarapugala where another set of stone collection could be noted. But the highest point of the mountain has zero view. On our way to top of Wamarapugala we had a view towards Meemure and eastern edge of the Knuckles range. There was another view point through trees you can look at Lakegala.

Follow the clear path to Wamarapugala

We always stick to the edge of the mountain

Window view: Dumbanagala, Gerandigala (second line mountain set). Appala Pathana and Maratuwegala are seen as first line). Uda Wannimana is seen in right side.

Paddies at Meemure

Maratuwegala and Appala Pathana

Alugal Lena Kanda

Dumbanagala at center. Nawenagala and Koboneelagala. Corbett’s gap is circled.

Meemure-Lakegala

Narangamuwa Lakegala and Komalawe Gala

Back to foot pathway…

.

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Top of Wamarapugala. This proved it has been touched by many mountain lovers.

On top of Wamarapugala

We have passed the highest point and came to another place where view of Gombaniya and Kirigalpoththa can get. Getting down from Wamarapugala to RKP was an easy task could be finished by 45minutes time.

Yakunge Hela and Sudu Gala from Wamarapugala

Descend to Meemure-Last objective of the day

We have returned to RKP around 12noon and followed the same foot pathway up to the last three way junction. There were large areas of flourished cardamom at this part of Knuckles. We have passed Amba Gaha Gedara Wadiya (අඹ ගහ ගෙදර වාඩිය) and continued along the foot pathway. After walking about 3-4km along clear foot pathway through cardamom estates we have realized the direction goes wrong. As there was a clear foot pathway we didn’t realize our path is wrong. While we were checking the map, three guys came out from Ensal bushes. They were from Meemure and carrying Cardamom to Meemure. These three villagers volunteered to show us the path to Meemure. What actually happened was our path was correct till Amba Gaha Gedara Wadiya. According to them the path to Meemure lies on the side of Amba Gaha Gedara Wadiya. But we have followed the clearer path which goes to Ensal estates. And they showed another foot path which descends in front of Thanne Wadiya-තැන්නේ වාඩිය (No remains of Thanne Wadiya now) to join with previously mentioned foot path. We were able to visit Hunugal Lena (හුණුගල් ලෙන) and Uda Wannimana Ruppa (උඩවන්නිමාන රූප්පේ) during descend to Meemure.

Descend…

Flourished Cardamom estates

This is the stream we collected water for camping…

This must be a large stream when it rains

Cardamom

Amba Gaha Gedara Wadiya

Amba Gaha Gedara Wadiya. Correct foot path to Meemure lies on side of this Wadiya. We walked closer to Wadiya.

Clear foot pathway after Amba Gaha Gedara Wadiya

Hunu Gal Lena

Roots of a giant tree branching over Hunu Gal Lena

Wamarapugala through bushes

Another small cave

Evening sun rays

Rest at Udawannimana Ruppa

Udawannimana Ruppa is the entrance to Meemure from Kalupahana

It is a drastic drop from Thanne Wadiya till Uda Wannimana Ruppa. Uda Wannimana Ruppa (Ruppa means a resting place) is the entrance to Meemure from Kalupahana. According to Sri’s report there were four entrance to Meemure from Kalupahana, Dandenikumbura, Narangamuwa and Kalugala. Soon after this resting place foot path divides into two: One goes to top of Diyakarella Falls (දිය කැරැල්ල ඇල්ල) and other one descend to Meemure. The foot path to Meemure descend on right side of Meemure Oya. (Please note after about 100m from Ruppa, there is place like a fence and foot path goes down from there). We were able to reach Meemure around 6pm. It ended up two days trekking from Bambarella to Meemure with hiking Wamarapugala. After the long walk we didn’t have extra energy to move out from Meemure on same day. We spent a night at village home and got early morning bus to Hunnasgiriya from Meemure.

Top of Diyakarella Falls

Top of Diyakarella Falls

Meemure Oya

Summary of the journey: KMP to RKP pathway is marked by red line. RKP to Wamarapugala is marked by black line. I didn’t record GPs point in getting down to Meemure.

Thanks for reading

After a successful hike to Westminster Abbey (Govinda hela) we returned back to main road (A25) & were waiting for a bus heading to Ampara via Inginiyagala. Famous Inginiyagala Mountain located at one end of the dam of Senanayake reservoir bordering to Gal oya national park was our next hiking destination. Inginiyagala is a mountain with two peaks that anyone can easily notice it when traveling from Siyabalanduwa to Ampara via Inginiyagala. The height of the summit point is 1,035 ft.

We got down at a four way junction called “Pansal handiya (Temple junction)” at around 2.30 pm. After fulfilling our food requirement from nearby shop we walked around 200 m to reach Sri Vidyaraja Pirivena as the trail starts from temple premises. We clearly explain our intention to chief priest after that started our hike along the foot path through the forest. The foot path was clear in early part but, little bit unclear here & there. Our 1^st stop was at mini pagoda built on rock surface where we can enjoy the view towards eastern. We spent around one & half hour to reach 1^st peak which called “Punchi Sripadaya” by villagers as there is a Siripathulgala

Our target

Walk along foot path

.	Pagoda on rock surface

Pagoda on rock surface

Towards 1st peak

සිරිපතුල්ගල

සිරිපතුල්ගල

View from 1st peak

Preparing dinner

We could not identify a foot path from first peak to second peak but, looking at the second peak we realized that it is not far away from first peak hence, didn’t spent time to search for foot path. We walked towards second peak passing a small mana patch & came across a huge cave called “Ingini’s cave” within 30 min. Summit of the second peak was seen few steps away from the cave entrance but, we decided to explore it next day as we had to clean inside the cave before the dark. The cave is a huge one which can stay even 100 people at a time. According to the folk lore a Vedda called “Ingini” lived in this cave hence, named as “Ingini’s cave”. After having noodles for the dinner we went to sleep early hoping a bright morning next day. We prepared cave floor suitable for sleeping by laying polythene (ඉටිකොල) as we didn’t have a camping tent but, we had to move to another place in the mid of the night as it was started raining & flowing water in to the cave.

We waked up early morning, had a cup of tea then stepped on to the summit of Inginiyagala. We couldn’t enjoy the sunrise due to the bad weather condition, whole area covering Senanayake reservoir, Galoya national park, Namal oya reservoir & siyabalanduwa side covered by mist. We noticed Govinda hela, Degal hela, Wadinagala, Jayanthi Lake, Pallanhela, Walasgala, mountains in Gal oya national park & Namal oya sanctuary, Namal oya reservoir, fisheries and many more. After enjoying the sceneries we started our return journey which took around one & half hour. We refreshed at Senanayake reservoir & heading to Dewalahinda for our next adventure.

Ingini’s cave

Inside the cave

Morning tea

Giant Wadinagala

Fishery farm in Inginiyagala

Dam of Senanayake reseroir

Senanayeke reservoir

Senanayeke Reservoir

Govinda hela

Govindahela, Walasgala & Wadinagala

Govindahela & Walasgala

At the edge

Towards Makere

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Namal oya reservoir

Senanayake reservoir

.	Boats of Wildlife dept

The drop

Pallanhela mountain

Towards Namal oya

Gal oya national park

2 man team

නාමල් ඔයට වැස්ස

about Senanayake reservoir

Statue of Hon. D.S. Senanayake

Senanayake reservoir

Gal oya was dammed here

Gal oya was dammed here

Fisheries of Inginiyagala

bye bye Inginiyagala…

bye bye Inginiyagala…

Thanks for reading…

What I found in my camping journeys’ wonderful is digging around the knuckles. It was two times I was in the range and I found a guy who explored knuckles about 11 times. Then I realized that how less I know about this famous mysterious mountain range in Sri Lanka. There is no point in describing about the knuckles name and about the range since you can find so many resources which describes the range better than me. Aluwa , one of my friend invited me for this hike and he is another person who is greedy than me in exploring the areas which are difficult to trek. We gathered Colombo fort private bus stand around 2 am on a Friday to catch the Mahiyanganaya Bus which started the journey at 2.45 am. We got tickets to Teldeniya and everyone felt sleep after half and hour except Aluwa  (He has an issue with sleeping in moving buses). When we reached Teldeniya it was around 7 am. Then we took a Rangala bus from Teldeniya and reached Rangala around 8.15 am.

Reached Rangala Area

After that , we asked some one in the Threewheel park about the Kotaganga bus which we got to know left Rangala around 9.15 am to Kotaganga Village. But unfortunately he said that bus is not working these days due to an engine trouble. Then we asked him whether he can drop us at Kotaganga Village. But , because of the lack of threewheelers for our crew and due to the damages in the road he rejected our offer. But he said that it was just 4km and we can go on our foot. Finally we  decided to add extra 4km to our journey. We took our breakfast from the SHARMCA CAFE  Rangala (076-8815703) which gave us a kick start. And we bought some bread , dhal curry and onion sambal for lunch from that restaurant. Then we left Rangala around 9.15 am and started our journey.

On our way from Rangala to Kotaganga

Seeing Kotaganga Falls while we are on our way to Kotaganga Village

Walking along the Kotaganga River

Since we don’t have any trail map from kotaganga village to kotaganga plain , Kasun started to record the trail for future benefits. But Aluwa asked from some of his friends who followed the same trail and had collected some information early. There is a clear path from Rangala to Kotaganga Village , but starting from Kotaganga Village we decided to go along the Kotaganga river.

Seeing Kotaganga Falls while walking along the river

Obstacles we met on the river

We went around 2 hours along the river by passing different obstacles along the river but unfortunately reached to a location which we felt lost and were unable to go beyond that. But luckily we saw a little foot pathway from there onwards along the mountain side and we entered to that path. That path was not easy to follow since it has around 70 or 80 degree elevation at some points , but after some effort finally we reached the 7th fall. What a happy. We took our lunch there and it was around 12.30 pm when we finished the lunch. After taking some photos we started our hike again towards the Kotaganga Plain. We reached all the seven falls and finally it was around 2pm when we reached the top ( Kotaganga Plain).

Seventh Fall – Where we took our lunch

Shan was feeling the seventh fall

Vinu was feeling one of the scenery edges

Third Fall

Second Fall

Beauty of the second fall

Kotaganga Village seeing from the top

We ate some chocolates at the top , take a little rest and had some discussion about whether going to Alugallena or not. Since we are short of 2 hours as we planned ( we planned to reached the top around 12 pm) , there was a risk of following the trail which leads to Alugallena since it might take another 3 hours to reach there. So it will be around 5pm and if there will be mist around us , following the trail can be difficult. But finally we took that decision , whatever happened we will go to Alugallena. We started that speedy part of the journey around 2.30 pm. There was a little rain but we don’t care that at all. When we reached the junction where paths are divided towards peaks and Alugallena , it was around 3.15 pm. We were hurried up and finally reached Alugallena around 5.30 pm and it was really thick mist around us on our way but the trail was visible fortunately. And I should mentioned that most of our crew were brutally attacked by the leeches and they were bleeding a lot. But thanks to a person in Rangala we brought some Dettol mixed with water to act against the leeches. Though we use that we were brutally attacked and also some of our members fell down several times during the hike and they were wounded. But not severely.

Marching through Kotaganga Plain

Group photo at the Kotaganga Plain

Random at Kotaganga Plain

Partial group selfy on the main trail

Trekking through the mist

Beauty created by nature and the mist

Beauty created by nature and the mist

Beauty created by nature and the mist

Green wet lands

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Trekking through mist

Some pure water source on the trail – Drunk by Aluwa

After seen that magical camping spot all our tiredness got vanished. We quickly setup our tents , had a wash and get ready to cook. Me and Aluwa had a bath at the place which situated at an elevated place along the rock and Aluwa named it as a bathroom. Since we had water near , it didn’t take much time to cook noodles. We ate noodles as our dinner. During the dinner we talked about what we do tomorrow. Some needed to hike 5 peaks and reach Bambarella and some needed to have bath in the Kotaganga fall no 1 or 2 and reach Thangappuwa. Thangappuwa side is easy to trek and Bambarella side is bit lengthy and have to trek more. Since some of our members injured a bit we decided to follow Thangappuwa trail. After taking our dinner all of us felt asleep soon. I woke up around 6am and searched for others. But they were still sleeping. I went out of the tent slowly and watched the sun rise and it is really beautiful and fresh. One by one started to wakeup after that and we cooked noodles for the breakfast too. Then we had a wash , ate noodles , packed up our goods and took some photos.

Cooking at Alugallena

Full view of Alugallena

Attractive group photo of our tents at night – captured by Aluwa

Selfy at Alugallena

Morning view at Alugallena

Random at Alguallena

Group photo at Alugallena

After that we started our return journey at 9am which we estimated to reach Thangappuwa around 2pm. We came back on our trail faster than the previous day. When we reached Kotaganga Plain unexpected thing happened. A heavy rain was started by destroying our plan of having a bath in Kotaganga Fall. So , what to do. We follow trail which led to Thangappuwa in the rain instead of bathing in the fall.

On our way to Thangappuwa

Nice view

Just few meters away from Thangappuwa (Land Mark)

Almost there

Finally we reached Thangappuwa around 2.45pm and took our bus to Teldeniya which left Thangappuwa at 4 pm. Since we ate some biscuits on our way to Thangappuwa , we were able to bear our hunger. We reached Teldeniya around 5pm and took a bus to Kandy and reached Kandy around 6.30pm and took our dinner there and got into a Colombo bus. It was around 10pm when we reached Colombo Fort and marked the ending of the best crowded hike I have ever been.

Finally I have to mention few things about Alugallena Camping place. It is the best camping place I have ever been and people who read this report and willing to go there has to keep in their minds that when we reached there and left there , it was a very clean place. Please do not harm that cleanliness. Bring back what you are taking there please. Thank you all for reading my report.

Selva Kanda (සෙල්වා කන්ද) and Rilagala (රිලාගල) are two peaks marked in metric map of Knuckles forest reserve. After studying Google map and metric maps we were able to find two peaks of Selva Kanda and one peak as Rilagala. These two mountains situated in between Knuckles five peaks and Kalupahana area. And Selva Kanda is marked in the cemented map shown at Malgudi junction / Lebanon junction.

Selva Kanda and Rilagala in metric map, Click image to enlarge.

Peaks in Google map. We have hiked the peak marked in red star.

This board can be seen at the side of the road at Malgudi junction. It has marked Selva Kanda.

Kavinda and myself want to hike these two mountains for a long time. We have planned to do it as one day trip but due to time fact we were able to reach one peak of Selva Kanda (the peak marked at metric map). Other peak of Selva Kanda and Rilagala were put to To-do list.
We started journey from Kandy. Previous day we hiked Kumaragala / Wahigala Pathana / Walgama Wewa Kanda around Dambulla. It was a change from dry zone to wet zone. Our plan was to follow the path towards KMP till Hulang Kanda (හුලo කන්ද) and get right turn to Selva Kanda. But hike was not simple as we seen in the map. Leeches, throny bushes and bamboo were main obstacles.

Break at Rathnagiriya. We have a doubt rainy weather, but it didn’t rain.

Towards Selva Kanda and Rilagala side. But these are not peaks. They are beyond this line of mountains.

Towards Selva Kanda.

Entering to True Knuckles forest.

If I describe the path from Hulang Kanda, first we had a walk through the forest and came out to an open area. We were able to observe the path we had to follow from this small treeless place. Then we descend to the stream which makes “Gona Giya Ella” (ගෝනා ගිය ඇල්ල). Though we have reached the top of the fall we didn’t interest to reach the base as it was out of the route. Path was full of Bamboo after the stream. Here we have done a silly thing assuming the hike along the angle of the mountain is easier than top. (This is not Selva Kanda, mountain next to stream). After fighting with Bamboo we were able to come out. Here I was able to view Gombaniya, Yakkunge Hela and valley of Gona Giya Falls.

This is the open area I have described.

View towards Selva Kanda.

Crossing the stream which makes Gona Giya Ella.

On top of Gona Giya Falls. Rathnagiriya peak is at center.

It was like infinity pool.

Back to the route.

Coming out of Bamboo. Lakmal was always in front line to clear the path.

The area we crossed. The drop of Gona Giya Ella is seen.

The valley of Gona Giya Ella.

Towards Yakkunge Hela and Gombaniya.

Is this Knuckles Kirigalpoththa?

There were two or three mountains to pass before Selva Kanda. Here we have decided to hike to the top of the mountain rather than go along the angle of the mountain. It was a wise decision and we were able to reach the plain where two peaks of Selva Kanda was situated. Rest of the journey was about 30minutes hike to the highest point of Selva Kanda. If someone need to go to other peak of Selva Kanda can go from this plain.

Reached the plain where two peaks of Selva Kanda is situated.

Heading to the peak of Selva Kanda.

I really like to go through this kind of a forest.

Highest point of Selva Kanda has no view point but we have climbed a tree to get a view. Alugal Lena Kanda, Knuckles five peaks and Rilagala were nicely seen here. It was difficult to get a clear view towards other side due to forest cover. We have spent about three and half hours to reach top of Selva Kanda from Lebanon junction.

We are at Selva Kanda.

This Altimeter shows it’s height as 1618m.

Getting on to a tree to get a view.

The view through tree cover.

Different view of Alugal Lena Kanda from Selva Kanda.

Towards Knuckles five peaks.

Rilagala

Team at top of Selva Kanda. Kavinda is the photographer.

On our way back we have decided to bypass the Bamboo area. Return journey was made in two and half hours time to reach the starting point at Lebanon Junction. Luckily we didn’t get rain during this journey. It was another day hike to a peak of Knuckle range.

Return journey.

Rotti for the late lunch as usual.

In return journey.

Back to the stream. Here we have crossed the stream at much higher point than Gona Giya Ella.

We spent a time to get snap with this tree. Kavinda, Thiwanka and Lakmal were the partners of this trip.

Back to Rathnagiriya.

Rathnagiriya line houses.

Thank you

This was another long awaiting hike at Dambulla area as this long range is seen to most of nearby mountains. This range is named as Gedaragalapathana in metric map and I have named it in my previous reports in same name. Ashan and Chamara have hiked the range few months ago and added two different names to the range: Wahigala Pathana / Kumaragala range. Their approach to the range was bit different than us. After reading metric map and Google maps, I marked a route which was bit different than them. This trail starts from the village called Walgamwewa. Therefore villagers name this part of the range as Walgamwewa Kanda.
Actually it is a long range with 5/6 peaks but we targeted the highest peak of the range. In metric map they have marked a peak in other end of the range as Gedaragalapathana.

Gedaragalapathana is circled in black. The highest point of it marked by black star. Walgamwewa is marked by red circle.

Walgamwewa Kanda in Google map. It is shown by the star.

Gedaragalapathana range is seen from Karagahathenna MW.

The highest point of the range is seen to Yakkuragala

When we were hiking Hinguruwatta Kanda

Full range was seen to Kadigala

When I was at Lenadora

Approach to Walgamwewa Kanda is from A9 road. We have reached Dambulla town in early morning and waited till a shop is opened to get the breakfast. After having breakfast we got a bus towards Naula and got down at one junction before Pannampitiya junction.
Here onwards we have used Google map to find the trail head. We have crossed Dambulu Oya and Elahara canal to reach Walgamwewa village. My pre assumed starting point was the lake at base of the mountain and villagers also guided us towards the temple situated closer to the lake.
The priest at the temple had bit of resistance initially for us due to wild elephants and treasure hunters activities at this range. After explaining our pure intention of hiking the mountain he built confident on us. According to him it is full of wild elephants and forest officers are eyeing on hunters and treasure hunters.
The highest point of the range is not seen to the temple and a project is going on to widen the nearby lake. Though we mentioned names such as Gedaragalapathana, Wahigala Pathana and Kumaragala, nobody knows them. They use the name only Walgamwewa Kanda.
After getting instructions from priest we started the journey along a dry stream situated behind the lake. We have come across elephant dung at the beginning of the journey and were careful in each steps in getting to the forest. This stream got smaller and smaller with ascend. Later we have moved to right side of the stream and followed the angle of a mountain to reach an open area.
The highest point of the range is situated behind another two or three mountains. Therefore you can’t see it from the trail head.

The team: Thiwanka (left), Anupama, Lakmal, Wikum and Kavinda

අලි ඩෝo

Along the dry stream

Along the dry stream. We came across a pit with water after a distance along this stream.

Filling our bellies with water.

Deviated from the stream

.	Most of the time hike was under shady path.

Yakkuragala range was seen after certain distance.

Pointed…

With assistance of Google map, we followed the angle of the mountain.

Back to the view. Beliya kanda.

Clear weather. This area hasn’t got rain for a long time.

Another group photo.

Dry zone forest.

Under forest patch

View of Kalundawa and Yakkuragala

Coming to an open area

The actual hike to Walgamwewa Kanda starts from here. We were able to view the peak and the range from this open area. Other important incidence was finding remains of an elephant skeleton at this place. There was a descend to the base of the mountain from this open area. The base of the range was full of Mana and we were able to view hills at Naula and Matale area from there.

Remains of an elephant skeleton

Remains of an elephant skeleton

Here we are seeing our target for the first time

Reaching the base of the range

Hills of Matale and Naula area were seen

We were searching a path to get into the forest patch of the mountain. There was a water stream at the base of the mountain and seems it is the best way to get into the forest patch. We have followed the stream up and got into the forest patch after a while. It was like a final ascend to the top and we came across some water filled pockets on our way up to the peak.

The stream at base of the mountain.

This stream became a dry path after a while. I can assume it makes beautiful waterfalls in rainy weather.

Biscuit time

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Ascend

Along another dry stream

Giants….

Path covered with dry leaves

A friend we met

At the end reached the last Mana patch.

At the end we came out of the forest patch and the top of the range was seen just above dry Mana. The top of Walgamwewa Kanda has 360 degree view towards surrounding. Rest of Gedaragalapathana range was seen in front. Moragahakanda reservoir, northern facet of Knuckles massif including Sandamadala, Karagahathenna MWE, and Hawarimana were seen on left to the range. Later we have observed Knuckles range is getting the rain with time. Wilshire, Etipola, Makulussa, Ambokka, Arangala, Kadigala, Manikdena, Lenadora, Karanampotha, Dolukanda, Kahala-Pallekale range, Beliya Kanda, Ritigala, Dambulla rock, Ibbankatuwa reservoir, Yakkuragala and Galkoth kanda came to the long list of surrounding structures we have observed.

Top of the range is seen through Mana.

He is on top of the range.

It’s time to celebrate.

Further ascend….

View from the top

Rest of the range. I think Ashan has approached along this to the top.

Enjoying….

Moragahakanda reservoir and Knuckles range at the back drop.

Upper border of Knuckles Massif. Covered with rainy clouds.

Road to Moragahakanda reservoir.

Wilshire, Etipola and Makulussa

Ambokka and Arangala

Arangala zoomed…Naula town is also seen.

Manikdena and Lenadora

Top of Kadigala. Dolukanda is seen behind it.

Karanampotha Kanda

Beliya kanda

Kahala Pallekale range.

Kalundawa and Yakkuragala

Kalundawa zoomed.

Yakkuragala range

Paddies at Kalundawa village.

Paddies at Kalundawa village.

Ibbankatuwa reservoir with Pleasure Island. Ritigala is seen behind.

Ibbankatuwa reservoir with Pleasure Island.

Galkoth Kanda

Dambulla rock and temple

When we were at top

The top of the range doesn’t have any large trees to give a shade. Therefore we have moved further down on other side of the range to get a rest. Along this side range is sloped to Elahara side. We have spent nearly four hours to reach the top from Walgamwewa Lake. Return path was almost similar to the ascend but we have faced more and more Mana patches. Within about two and half hours time we were able to reach the temple. On our way back to the main road we have refreshed from Dambulla Oya.

Getting down

Laying eggs

Pointed

Back to the starting point…

At the end of the day…

Thanks for reading…..

Sigiriya is known as a majestic creature of King Kasyapa I (478-496AD). But Sigiriya has much more complex history than this. Now archeologists believe a series of developments occurred at Sigiriya extending from 2nd or 3rd century BC to 12th or 13th century AD. Sigiriya has become a Buddhist monastery and a tourist destination following King Kasyapa’s demise. This amazing place was rediscovered by British in 19th century. Prof. Senarath Paranawithana was sacrificed a much time of his work in excavation of Sigiriya.

How to getting there
Sigiriya has two separate vehicle parks for locals and foreigners. Local car park is situated at T.B. Tennakoon MW. There is about 1.5km walk along the shaded path to reach Western entrance of Sigiriya where all enter this place. Foreign parking premises has less distance to western entrance.

These two chaps participated in this journey: Heshan (left) and Rakitha (right)

The path to Sigiriya was margined by boutiques

Shaded path to Sigiriya western entrance

Remember it is elephant kingdom

Number of avoidance

Sigiriya Museum is situated just before the western entrance and one of a must visit place at Sigiriya. It gives a complete idea of evolution of Sigiriya from pre historical days to current days. We visited Sigiriya museum before climb the rock.

Sigiriya frescos at Sigiriya museum

Statue of Prof. Senarath Paranawithana. He is looking at Sigiriya forever.

Sigiriya is surrounded by three ramparts (පවුරු) (outer, middle and inner) and two moats (දිය අගල්) (outer and inner). Water gardens are situated on your way to western entrance, on either side of the pathways. (I couldn’t give attention for these items, kept for next visit)

Inner moat

Getting through western entrance

Plan of miniature water gardens

Miniature water gardens

Water gardens of Sigiriya

View of Sigiriya from western entrance

Classic appearance of Sigiriya from western entrance

After passing water gardens you will enter boulder gardens through which steps and pathways lie. There are sheltered caves among boulders. Deraniyagala cave and Cobra hood cave are two of them.

Climbing up….

The path through boulder gardens

.	Heading up…

Heading up…

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.	Deraniyagala cave

Murals of Deraniyagala cave. Rajawarna blue was used for murals. These paintings were imported from Afghanistan.

Cobra hood cave

About Cobra Hood Cave

Murals of the cave

Famous frescos and mirror wall are situated above boulder garden of Sigiriya.

Spiral staircase to reach frescos.

Graffiti on mirror wall of Sigiriya are unique for Sigiriya. They have found over 2000 works of graffiti over mirror wall ranges from 6th century up to 20th century.

Mirror wall is situated on the side of the path.

Mirror wall of Sigiriya

End of mirror wall is one of a good place to get nearby view. I was able to view Ritigala and hills at Naula from this point.

Ritigala-giant of Rajarata

In to known hills: Erawulagala, Galkothknada, Arangala and Manikdena

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Lion paw (සිoහ පාදය) is the next place of Sigiriya comes in order following mirror wall. The name Sigiriya derived from Sinhagiri: Lion rock. And lion paw is the common place of Bambara attacks in Sigiriya. Bambara protection cages can be seen there.

Lion Paw at Sigiriya

Sigiriya from Lion Paw

Lion Paw at Sigiriya

Claw of Lion

Bambara nests on Sigiriya rock

There is a steep ascend with aid of hand rails and metal steps up to the summit of Sigiriya (183m) from Lion Paw. The summit of Sigiriya slopes eastward and has 1.5 hectare space to accommodate the palace, service buildings, rock-cut and brick built pools, drainage systems, gardens and terraces. All connected by limestone steps and pathways.

A pond

On top of Sigiriya

Where palace of Sigiriya situated

Another pond

Steps to connect two different levels

Pahangala-පහන්ගල

View of Sigiriya citadel from top of Sigiriya

Water gardens from summit

Lime stone steps

Steps to a pond

Erawula Hills zoomed. Bambaragala is situated in front of Erawula hills.

Nuwaragala Kanda

Sigiriya Maha Wewa

Sigiriya-Kimbissa road

Stone-cut ponds

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The cave on top of Sigiriya

The cave on top of Sigiriya

View from Sigiriya

Throne

View of Pidurangala from Sigiriya

Lion paw from summit

Different angle of Sigiriya with it’s iron rails

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Sigiriya mirror wall

Aligala and Pahangala (අලිගල, පහන්ගල)
Aligala is a cave with pre historical evidences, situated on a side of Sigiriya. There is a sign board to direct Aligala cave. Pahangala /preaching rock will come across on your way to Aligala. We were able to get onto Pahangala and enjoy the different view of Sigiriya and Pidurangala. This foot pathway continues till Aligala cave where one of the oldest pre historical evidences found.

Get on to Pahangala

View of Sigiriya from Pahangala

View of Sigiriya from Pahangala

View of Pidurangala from Pahangala

A cave

Forest around Aligala

Foot pathway to Aligala

Stone tools and animal remains from Aligala archeological site

Information of Aligala cave

Aligala cave

This is one of an important board found at Sigiriya.

Ramakele archeological site (රාම කැලේ පුරාවිදයා ස්ථානය)
It is one of the major monasteries around Sigiriya. A Dagaba can be seen at
archeological site and there are some scattered ruins at the forest around.

Ramakele archeological site

Into the forest

Hidden Mal Asanaya at Ramakele archeology site.

There are different viewpoints around Sigiriya to get different view. Next part of the trip was based on it. Pidurangala is one of a popular places to get a beautiful view of Sigiriya.

Pidurangala (පිදුරන්ගල)
Pidurangala is situated about 3.5km from Sigiriya. There are three things to do around Pidurangala: visit at Pabbatha Viharaya, temple at base of Pidurangala and get on to Pidurangala rock. (172m)

Pidurangala Pabbatha Viharaya (පිදුරන්ගල පබ්බත විහාරය)
Pidurangala Pabbatha Viharaya is situated few hundred meters away from Pidurangala rock. Pabbatha Viharaya means temple complex consists with bodhigara, Dagaba, image house, chapter house and Sabha Shalawa.
This is a nice place with grass coverings and shaded by trees.

Pidurangala Pabbatha Viharaya

Bodhigara at Pabbatha Viharaya. .

Dagaba at Pidurangala Pabbatha Viharaya

Dagaba

A stone pillar

Chapter house

Assembly Hall.

Pidurangala Vaharala Inscription

Inscription

Moonstone

Forest path

Ruins came across along the path

The first step of classic Pidurangala temple is Len Viharaya situated just above modern day Awasa Geya. There is an inscription below the drip ledge of cave temple. Inside the cave you can see two Buddha statues.

Pidurangala Len Viharaya /cave temple

Inscription with Brahmin letters.

Entering to cave temple

Buddha statue at cave temple

After passing Len Viharaya you will reach the boulder garden of Pidurangala amid which meditation caves can be seen.

Ascend along boulder garden

It rained before we arrive

Posing….

Pathway

Another cave of Pidurangala

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Reaching Pidurangala Ihala Maluwa

Ihala Maluwa of Pidurangala has a long cave with Buddha statue. Pidurangala stone inscription and the pond can be seen on side of the cave. We were able to get on to the rock after passing the cave.

Ihala Maluwa cave of Pidurangala

Drip ledge of Ihala Maluwa cave

Pidurangala rock inscription

Rock inscription

Reconstructed Buddha statue

Reclined Buddha statue

The pond at Ihala Maluwa

A frog

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The foot path to top of Pidurangala is bit tricky after the Buddha statue. Top of Pidurangala is another place to watch Sigiriya. There are remaining of two Dagaba on top of Pidurangala

View of Sigiriya from Pidurangala

View of Sigiriya from Pidurangala. Erawula hills at back.

Lion paw and iron railings above lion paw can be seen here.

Walking on the rock

Debris of a Dagaba on top of Pidurangala

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Either “Pansal Wewa” or “Pahala Wewa”.

Pidurangala temple

Buddha statue situated with meditation caves

Pottanigala

Foreigners love to stay on it

Place to relax

Fainted view of Dambulla cave temple

Kayanwala Wewa (7.56 28.89, 80.45 16.19) (කායන්වල වැව)
Kayanwala Wewa is another place to watch Sigiriya, Pidurangala and Erawula hills. After get right turn after few meters following Ramakele, you can end up at the lake bunt of Kayanwala lake

Erawula hills and Bambaragala over Kayanwala Lake.

View of Sigiriya over Kayanwala Lake. This might be the northern face of Sigiriya.

View of Sigiriya over Kayanwala Lake. This might be the northern face of Sigiriya.

Kayanwala Lake is a good place for bird watching.

Nuwaragala hills over Kayanwala Lake.

View of Sigiriya and Pidurangala closer to Kayanwala Lake.

View of Sigiriya from Mapagala (7.57 140, 80.452762) (මාපාගල)
Southern face of Sigiriya can be seen from Mapagala. Though we were not able to get on to Mapagala, the same picture could be captured from base of it.

Southern face of Sigiriya.

Sigiriya and Pidurangala from Pahala Wewa (7.58 49.56, 80.4448.02) (පහළ වැව)
Pahala Wewa is a nice place to capture Sigiriya and Pidurangala in one frame. Pahala Wewa gets water from Mahaweli project. Get right turn from Thalkote School to reach Pahala Wewa. Pahala Thalkote Lake is not functioning now. This lake is a popular place for bathing. We have ended the day after having a dip at Thalkote Lake.

Along the bund of Pahala Wewa.

Sigiriya and Pidurangala over Pahala Wewa. Nuwaragala Kanda is seen in between two hills.

View of Pidurangala over Pahala Wewa.

Sigiriya

End of the day.

Thanks for reading

Govindahela and Diggalahela are two isolated mountains seen to Siyambalanduwa-Ampara (A 25) road. I have been at Govinda Hela twice and recent visit was happened few weeks back. I have a fainted memory on Diggalahela hike as it was happened almost 5 years ago.

Govinda Hela (ගෝවින්ද හෙල)/ Westminster Abbey (558m) (7.034519, 81.546660)

This box shaped rock is situated closer to 9th mile post at Siyambalanduwa-Ampara road. It has a historical value as folklore says a regional King call Buwanekaba has built a castle on top of this rock during Polonnaruwa era to protect Ruhunu kingdom from foreign invasions. British rulers have called this rock as Westminster Abbey due to it’s similar appearance to famous British church.

Classic appearance of Govinda Hela / Westminster Abbey.

Longitudinal view of Govinda Hela over Jayanthi Lake / Pallan Oya reservoir.

View of Govinda Hela from Degal Hela

Govinda Hela / Westminster Abbey in metric map. Note they haven’t mentioned it as Govinda Hela. And heights of mountains are mentioned in feet not meters.

Govindahela and Diggalahela in Google map.

Starting point of the hike is situated behind Buwanekaba Pirivena (බුවනෙකබා පිරිවෙන) at Govindu Pura, 100m away from 9th mile post junction. We met the priest at temple before the hike and kept our bags at temple premises. As usual two dogs also joined with the hike but they couldn’t complete the stuff due to the ladder part.
The path to top of Govinda Hela was shady and well paved foot path was seen with stone steps intermittently. There were small steel bridges and ladders connecting rocky parts. As whole area was dry we didn’t notice any water source on our way up. Sulang Kapolla (සුළ0 කපොල්ල) is a view point come across on our way up.

Box shaped rock is seen behind Buwanekaba Pirivena.

Pagoda at Buwanekaba temple.

Getting to well paved path

Stone steps

A cave

Notice

Trio of the journey: Kasun (left), Keshan and Thiwanka (right)

Shady path covered with dry leaves

Artistic

Clear foot path

.	First and highest ladder of the journey.

At Sulang Kapolla

View from Sulang Kapolla

Along the edge

After a leisure hike of two hours we were able to reach the top of Govinda Hela. Govinda Hela has multiple view points with different views. The first and commonly visited view point has small Dewalaya, Buddha statue, scattered ruins and couple of ponds. We could get the view of Muthukandiya Lake, Maragala range and Moneragala, Lollhela, Velihela, Diggalahela, A25 road and surrounding of Govindu Pura.

Reached the top….

Pond situated at top

Diggalahela with dual peaks.

View from popular summit: Maragala range and Muthukandiya Lake. Valihela and Lollhela also seen.

Muthukandiya Lake zoomed.Velihela (most pointed peak) and Lollhela situated behind Muthukandiya Lake.

Maragala range and Moneragala. Madolsima range was seen behind this. But not clear in this picture

Buwanekaba Temple at base of Govinda Hela. And A 25 road.

9th mile post junction. Buddama road goes up.

The drop and towards Bibile. This is the rock edge is seen from temple.

Landscape

Landscape

Landscape

Watermelon is a nice fruit in dry weather.

At first view point

Busy with cameras

Ruins

Another pond

Next view point is situated right opposite to the first place and it also has a nice slab rock. All these view points are good camping spots and hope you will get beautiful sun set and sun rise. We were able to view Konduruhela, Pannelgama Lake, Navinnakanda, Ampara side, Pallanhela, Inginiyagala, Dhanigala in Gal Oya NP, Walasgala and Jayanthi Lake (Pallan Oya reservoir) from this view point.

Land marks here: Walasgala, Jayanthi Lake, Inginiyagala with two peaks,? Pallanhela. The range far behind must be Dhanigala at Gal Oya NP.

Zoomed view of Jayanthi Lake.

The drop and towards Ampara.

Landscape

Towards Pannelgama reservior. Navinnakanda is the range seen behind.

The drop

Konduruhela

When Jayanthi Lake and Inginiyagala were filled. Pallanhela can be seen at right side of the picture.

Then we moved towards third view point where Jayanthi Lake, Wadinagala and Inginiyagala side are seen clearly. It was like a circular path and we have moved closer to second view point where Pannelgama and Konduruhela were appeared back. The drop of Govinda Hela was beautiful in this side and I have never seen it in pictures before.

Scattered ruins came across on our way to third view point

Majestic Wadinagala

Dhanigala-Gal Oya NP is popped up…

Wild flower

පතොක්

Towards Pannelgama reservoir, Navinnakanda and Konduruhela.

A part of Inginiyagala reservoir.

Landscape

Suagaldevi Lake

Rock cut pond

Enjoyed the view from fourth view point.

Unseen drop of Govinda Hela.

Unseen drop of Govinda Hela. The second view point is seen from here.

Four man team….

A nest

After enjoying the view from different viewpoints at Govinda Hela we returned back to Dewalaya. It was bit hard to stay there longer as rock was heated with afternoon heat. We have returned to the starting point in an hour time. This was another successful day hike.

Returned back to Dewalaya.

Panoramic view from Govinda Hela. This was taken at my first hike to Govindahela.

Diggalahela (480m) / Degal Hela (දීගල් හෙල / දිග්ගලහෙල) (6.943410, 81.574054)

Degal Hela / Diggalahela is another rock situated at Siyambalanduwa closer to A25 road. I have hiked it five years ago and thought this is the high time to include it to a report. As this rock has two peaks, it is mentioned as Degal +Hela=Degal Hela.
I couldn’t find any historical value of Degal Hela though we have noted excavated pagoda on top of the rock.

Diggalahela / Degal Hela in metric map. Note height is marked in feet not meters.

Two peaks of Diggalahela are seen to 2nd mile post

Tempting peaks for hike….

Ashan has introduced a guide to hike this rock. Ajith who was Ashan’s guide accompanied me to Helamulla ancient temple which is situated at base of the rock. There were some stone pillars at Helamulla temple premises. I met Sena and another young boy at Helamulla and they were my original guides to Degal Hela. We started the journey behind the temple. It was again a hike through dry zone forest. Though there were few difficult sections, the hike was basically an easy one. We came across couple of caves on our way to the summit. I took about one and half hours to reach the summit of Degal Hela.

Helamulla cave temple

Stone pillars at Helamulla cave temple

View of the rock from temple premises

What a rock….

Get into the dry zone forest

Through the forest

A cave…

Over boulders

Reached to a view point

Landmarks we identified on top of Degal Hela were, Maragala kanda, Moneragala, Muthukandiya Lake, Wadinagala, Buddama, Govinda Hela, Ampara side, Lahugala side, Tharulengala, towards Yala, Buttala and Wellawaya etc. Then we have moved to the second peak and spent a time on there.

Ruined pagoda on top…

View towards Wadinagala

Maragala kanda and Moneragala

Muthukandiya Lake

Towards Buddama and Wadinagala

Wadinagala (left) and Govinda Hela (right)

Towards Yala

Towards Yala

Hulannuge and Lahugala

Tharu Len Gala

Might be Konduru Hela

Buttala and Wellawaya side

Second mile post

Helamulla Lake

Helamulla temple

Moving to the second peak

View from second peak

What a view….

Two guides

It’s me on top of Degal Hela

Posed with guides

Return journey was happened along the same route and we were able to come to the temple in an hour time.

Thanks for reading

Kalundawa is a rock situated at Kalundawa village in Dambulla. The immediate range next to Kalundawa hill is Yakkuragala which I have completed in 2015. When I climbed Yakkuragala (යක්කුරාගල), I didn’t identify Kalundawa as a separate range. Because the top boulders of Yakkuragala has covered the view of Kalundawa.
Four years later I have reached Gedaragalapathana / Walgamwewa Kanda which is situated in front of Yakkuragala range. Both Kalundawa and Yakkuragala peaks were seen nicely and I was able to identify them as separate two ranges.
Then I went back to Google map and planned for the hike along less steep side of the range.

Metric map gives a different idea as it has marked a separate peak as Kalundawa. This peak is about 381m tall and situated at other side of Kalundawa village and continuing with Walgamwewa Kanda. So it made me confused when I write the report after the hike.

Confusion comes with metric map. The identified peak in metric map as Kalundawa is marked by red star. The peak next to Yakkuragala is circled and we have hiked this peak as Kalundawa. Click image to enlarge.

Kalundawa in Google map. This shows our path.

Yakkuragala and Kalundawa ranges. And?? Kalundawa in metric map.

Zoomed view of Kalundawa

As usual my dry zone hiker-Anupama joined with me for this hike. Kasun and myself travelled from Colombo to Dambulla and had breakfast from Dambulla town. Our next target was Dambulu Oya junction at A9 road where Kalundawa road starts. As Anupama was getting late, we have just walked along the road to pass the time. After about 1km, there was a sign board to a small lake called Binthambura (බිoතැඹුර) Lake.
Binthambura lake bund is a nice place to watch surrounding. Kalundawa was seen just opposite to the lake while Walgamwewa Kanda and Manikdena were appearing on the other side of the lake.

Trees are branching over Binthambura Lake.

Binthambura Lake

Lake bund

Binthambura Lake.

It is a nice place for bird watching

Photography at Binthambura Lake.

Karagahathenna and Gammaduwa with towers

Dry lake

Binthambura Lake

Manikdena and Lenadora peaks over lake bund

Lenadora

Walgamwewa Kanda / Gedaragalapathana

There was an abounded quarry about hundred meters from Binthambura Lake. We have started the hike behind this quarry.
It was a sharp ascend from the beginning till we reached a nice view point towards this dry lake.

Behind the quarry

Steep ascend for warm up

Nature creation

Reaching the first view point after a hard hike

Teak and mango cultivation

Binthambura Lake and bund

Rice mill

Dahayyiakanda and Dambulugala

Isolated stupa

Ibbankatuwa reservoir

Second phase of the hike started from this view point. We have walked along this rocky ridge and entered the forest. Within about half an hour time we were able to get on to the ridge of the range. Following that it was like a walk over the ridge under the forest cover. Last one hundred meters of the hike was again an ascend till we reached the knife blade summit of the rock. We have spent about two hours to reach the top from quarry.

We have entered the forest patch along the rocky ridge

Into the forest

Another view point

Same view with at higher point

Through the forest

A break on trees

The summit of Kalundawa is a narrow place with 360 degree view. Yakkuragala range was rising in other side. Ritigala, Sigiriya, Pidurangala, Kandalama Lake, Ibbankatuwa reservoir, Dambulla rock, Dahiya Kanda, Erawula Kanda, Galkoth Kanda, Beliya Kanda and Nuwaragala Kanda were identified at Yakkuragala side.

Getting on to the narrow summit of Kalundawa

Yakkuragala range. I have been there four years ago.

Erawula Gala, Galkoth Kanda and newly identified Bambaragala.

Kandalama Lake

Kahala Pallekale range and Ibbankatuwa reservoir

Ibbankatuwa reservoir with pleasure island

Ritigala

Nuwaragala Kanda is situated behind Erawula Gala

Sigiriya and Pidurangala covered with smoke

Beliya Kanda and Galewela side

Posing at summit

On top of Kalundawa

Kalundawa village with vegetable farms and small lakes is situated at the base of the rock. There was a sheer drop on that side. Walgamwewa Kanda, Karagahathenna, Gammaduwa, Wilshire, Makulussa, Etipola, Arangala, Kadigala, Manikdena and Lenadora were seen in this side. It was a bit difficult to stand on top due to wind.

Walgamwewa Kanda / Gedaragalapathana.

Arangala, Manikdena and Lenadora

Wilshire, Etipola and Makulussa

Towery peaks: Karagahathenna and Gammaduwa. The one rising behind the range must be Gombaniya.

Rocky summit of Kalundawa

A lake at Kalundawa village

Cultivation at Kalundawa village

A lake at Kalundawa village

Another rise mill and a factory

When we were on top of Kalundawa

Return journey was made in an hour time. On our way back to Dambulla, we had a dip at Dambulu Oya. It was a successful day with good hike.

Enjoy the view on top https://youtu.be/7z-6pF7c-xc

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Nuwaragala Kanda is another mountain range situated at Dambulla and it separates central province (Matale District) from North Central Province (Polonnaruwa District). It is a mountain range with highest point of 520m height.

Nuwaragala Kanda in metric map. (Circled). Highest point is marked by a star. Click image to enlarge.

I have noted Nuwaragala Kanda in different occasions when I conquered nearby mountains.

Long range of Nuwaragala Kanda is seen to Erawula Gala. (Marked by arrow)

Nuwaragala Kanda is noted behind Erawula Gala. This was taken from Kalundawa.

View of Nuwaragala Kanda from Sigiriya.

Folklore says King Mahasen (මහසෙන් රජතුමා) (277-304 AD and built Minneriya Lake) has built his palace at Nuwaragala Kanda range. I have red an old article in Lakdasun about Nuwaragala Kanda few years ago. Most recent document I went through was Sigiriya and beyond book. It gives a good account about Nuwaragala Kanda. According to them the most fascinating thing of this journey is visiting ruins and “Ahas Wewa” rather than enjoying the view.

This place was well excavated by treasure hunters before archeology officers. Therefore we really wanted to have a village person for guide though it is a simple hike through dry zone forest. I got a contact of a person who lives closer to the range. Wewala is the nearest bus stop following Dambulla and Galkaruyaya is the area situated closer to the mountain.

All together it was six for the journey. My ever trusted travel companions-Ashan, Chamara, Anupama and Keshan were with me. Nalin was my old colleague also joined with me for this journey.

It was quite an early start from Dambulla following breakfast. Ashan was the official transport provider by his jeep for the journey. Our first destination was Wewala junction where Wewala-Dambulla buses stop. On our way to Wewala we had a superb view of Erawula Gala, Galkoth Kanda, Kaludiya Pokuna Kanda and Bambaragala.
As our guide is getting late we drove another two kilometers to visit Wewala Lake.

Journey begins….Official transport provider by Ashan.

Galkoth Kanda…unseen view

Erawula Gala

New addition….Bambaragala

Gal Len Kanda Aranaya Senasanaya

Wewala Lake…Not an ancient lake. Built under Mahaweli project.

Wewala Lake…It is a fishery lake.

At Wewala lake bunt…

Drought….

At water level

Sigiriya and Pidurangala over lake bunt

Then we have reached Galkaruyaya with our guides. Galkaruyaya has number of Chena and we started the journey from Galkaruyaya. Within about 15-20 minutes we have crossed an elephant fence and entered the forest.

Journey begins from Galkaruyaya.

Crossing Chena areas.

Placing a leafy twig for local gods.

There was a clear foot path since beginning and it was a journey through dry zone forest. Nuwaragala Oya / Kiri Oya (නුවරගල ඔය/ කිරි ඔය) begins from Nuwaragala Kanda. It feeds the lake at top of the mountain called “Ahas Wewa”-අහස් වැව. But the stream was completely dry due to drought lasted since 6 months. We can imagine how beautiful it would be when water flows. Our foot pathway lies parallel to Nuwaragala Oya and ends up at a place with scattered ruins.

Clear foot pathway since beginning.

Team at Nuwaragala Oya.

Dry zone forest with leafy floor.

කළුමැදිරිය

There are three major constructions at Nuwaragala Kanda: Palace, Vihara / monasteries and irrigation system. We were able to visit ruins of Vihara and Monasteries but not Palace. But all these ruins were excavated by treasure hunters. It has been done since a long ago and still it is being done. There were destroyed pathways, ponds, bases of Vihara and moon stones. This is the only hill monastery don’t find caves with drip ledges.

Stone steps

A moon stone

ගල් වැටි

Stone pillars

Ruins

A base of Vihara

Broken ruins

Broken ruins

Scattered ruins

The area with ruins

The extent they have dug the ruins

.

Remained…

Ruins at Nuwaragala Kanda

Ruins at Nuwaragala Kanda

Ruins at Nuwaragala Kanda

Ruins at Nuwaragala Kanda

It said there is a tunnel through this.

ගල් වැටි

Elephant dung…

While we were staying at ruins site, Ashan and Keshan walked along the ridge of the mountain and snapped some photos of surrounding view. Then our guides accompanied us to a place called “Paththirippuwa” where you can see a perennial pond. There was a gutter at this place which was broken by treasure hunters recently.

The view. Photo credit goes to Keshan

View from edge. Photo credit goes to Keshan.

The view. Photo credit goes to Keshan.

Perennial pond

අසෝකා මල්

The place called Paththirippuwa

The gutter was broken into pieces

Then we followed Nuwaragala Oya again to reach “Ahas Wewa” (අහස් වැව). It is situated almost on top of the mountain. We were surprised by seeing such a large lake on top of this mountain range. It was a continuous ascend from the pond till you reach “Ahas Wewa”. It is not a surprise to see empty lake as Nuwaragala Oya is also completely dry.

Heading to Ahas Wewa.

Back to Nuwaragala Oya.

The lake on top of Nuwaragala Kanda.

“Ahas Wewa”

Ahas Wewa is completely dry.

The base of the lake. It is covered by grass

Wide angle….

Though it is called as Ahas Wewa, it is not the highest point of Nuwaragala Kanda. There are dual peaks situated on either side of the lake. One of this could be identified as the highest and we visited there to get the view. There were couple of rocks at this highest point to provide a narrow view towards surrounding. But the rising bamboo trees have cut the view further. We were able to identify Gedaragala Pathana / Kumaragala range and Moragahakanda dam.

When we were on top of Nuwaragala Kanda. We didn’t try on other peak. But it is the margin of two districts.

At highest point of Nuwaragala Kanda.

View from highest point of Nuwaragala Kanda.

View from highest point of Nuwaragala Kanda.

Moragahakanda dam.

It was a sad situation to see this valuable place has been destroyed by treasure hunters since a long time. Hope archeology department will get necessary action to prevent further destruction. We came back Galkaruyaya with an hour time with that wish.

On our way back.

Selfie under Banyan tree.

Group photo.

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Pettigala is a range of mountain can be seen at Balangoda when you travel along Colombo-Badulla road. Spiky appearance of this mountain range attracts mountain lovers to conquer it.

Spiky appearance of Pettigala is shown by arrow. The photo was taken from Vantage point of Nagrak.

How it is seen to Balangoda town. Pettigala has a misty cap most of the time.

View of Pettigala (right side) from Dethanagala

Ashan and Harinda have been at Pettigala few years ago. Ahsan’s report was the only available help for this hike with his guide’s number. Though I was planning to do this hike later, it was prompted by Widuramina’s invitation. During his short visit to Sri Lanka he wanted to do this hike. It was a great help as he is from Balangoda area. Widuramina has discussed with Raja (the guide) and date was fixed. Main obstacle was the short lasting rain over the area in morning hours.

Let’s move to the metric map. There are different peaks in Pettigala range named at metric map: Pettigala 1 (1405m), Pettigala 2 (1506m), Hunuwalakanda (හුණුවලකන්ද) (1523m), Kabaragala, Ununugala, and Badagala. Highest peak of this range is Hunuwalakanda. What we conquered is third highest of the range-Pettigala 01.

Click image to enlarge: Pettigala 1 (red), Pettigala 2 (green) and Hunuwalakanda (blue) in metric map.

It is in Google map. Pettigala 01 (purple), Pettigala 02 (Green) and Hunuwalakanda (red)

The day starts with drizzling and we got a ring from the guide about the difficulty of the hike with rain. But we have determined to do this hike even in the rain. We got the first bus to Pettigala and travelled to Pettigala estate. We were asked to come to new Pettigala division and it was about 2km hike from bus stop. It was worth to walk along estate road with enjoying the view. There were number of seasonal cascades situated at Pettigala estate with rain.

Journey begins: Widuramina (left), Kavinda (middle) and Chamal (right).

Along estate road

How Pettigala is seen to Pettigala estate

Pettigala 01 is seen to Pettigala estate

.

.

End of a gloomy day. Sun is rising….

Walk to new Pettigala division

Pettigala estate

New Pettigala division

Pettigala estate

Good morning…..

Seasonal cascades following rain….

Seasonal cascades following rain….

Greenish…

Dewalaya…

Pettigala 01 and Pettigala 02

We have met Raja at New Pettigala Division. After having breakfast at his place we have walked to the trail head along estate road. There was a fainted foot path from the trail head and soon it ended at a water stream. This stream origins from the valley between Pettigala 01 and Pettigala 02. Main part of the journey lies along the stream. It was bit time consuming to go along the stream especially in rainy days. High water level and slippery boulders were main obstacles. But we were rewarded by beautiful waterfalls situated at Pettigala water stream. Once we had to bypass the stream due to acute steepness. After about 200m ascend along the stream we have entered the forest.
Undergrowth was less in upper part of the mountain. Guides have used a rope in one occasion to take us up. Within about 30minutes we have reached an open area which is considered as the top of Pettigala 01.

Get into wild….Trail head

Enter to the stream

Hike along the stream

Surveyor mark came across in stream

Our guides consider this as the easiest way to reach Pettigala

Having a break

Forest

Waterfalls at Pettigala stream

Waterfalls at Pettigala stream

Waterfalls at Pettigala stream

Waterfalls at Pettigala stream

.

Another waterfall

Misty weather

Another fall

Another beauty

Raja (left) and his helper

Nelu

Get into the forest after the stream

?එනසාල්

Bamboo and Nelu are main undergrowth of the forest

Reaching the top of Pettigala 01

The open area and slab rock on top of Pettigala 01 are favorable factors for camping. Pettigala 02 and Hunuwalakanda were appeared in other side. Though we suggested to go to Pettigala 02, our guides were reluctant to go there as it is time consuming. We have noted another surveyor mark on top of Pettigala 01. (Nobody got a photo) Weather was fairly good when we reached the top. We have moved to the edge of Pettigala 01 to get the surrounding view. The view was not that much clear but we were able to note Colombo-Badulla road, Balangoda town and Opanayaka area. Guides have accompanied us to another point of Pettigala to get the view but whole area was gloomy. It started to drizzle again to push us to move back.

On top of Pettigala

Formed by hikers

Open area on top of Pettigala

Pettigala 02

Having a long break after a strenuous hike

Rhodendrone spp.

Going to the edge of the mountain to get a view

Others of the range: Pettigala 02 and Hunuwalakanda

View from Pettigala 01

Colombo-Badulla road

On top of Pettigala 01

On top of Pettigala 01

How it happened…..

Return journey was difficult as water level of the stream has risen. We were able to reach Pettigala estate in 2 hours time following the same path. Surrounding was clear when we reached Pettigala estate. Dethanagala, Hawagala, Adarakanda, Vantage point of Nagrak, Balathuduwa, Gommolliya, Hortain plains, Balangoda town, Samanala Wewa reservoir and wind mills at Weligepola area were nicely seen from Pettigala estate.

Return journey was difficult as water level of the stream has risen

Back to Pettigala estate

Order….

Paddies at Balangoda

Where we were…..

Balangoda town and Samanala Wewa reservoir

Massena area

Wind mills

Dethanagala….

Hawagala, Adarakanda, Vantage point of Nagrak, Balathuduwa and Gommolliya

Boys at the end of the hike

We said good bye to Raja and left Pettigala estate with hope of hiking Hunuwalakanda and Pettigala 02 in near future.

Thanks for reading

This is another dry zone hike at Ampara district. When we hiked Govinda Hela last month, we have noted a hump back shaped mountain towards more eastern. It was identified as Konduru Hela. A lot of mountains in eastern and Moneragala district are named as “Hela” (හෙල). Kasun and I had an intention to visit at Konduru Hela in one day. Konduru Hela is a mountain with dual peaks situated in Bakmitiyawa-Thimbirigolla (තිඹිරිගොල්ල) forest reserve at Ampara district.

Our first experience of Konduru Hela when we were at Govinda Hela. Konduru Hela is a mountain with dual peaks.

How it was seen to Jayanthi Lake

We got information about Bakmitiyawa from Kasun’s friend at 3rd mile post and planned the journey according to that. (Actually there was a detailed report on Konduruhela, written by Ashan. We have noted it after our hike).

Konduru Hela in metric map. Height is mentioned in feets. 1143 feet. 348m.

Bakmitiyawa can be approached either from Kongaspitiya-Siyambalanduwa or Pannelgama from Ampara. We hired a three wheel from 3rd mile post to Bakmitiyawa via Kongaspitiya. It was around 25km from 3rd mile post to Bakmitiyawa. We have noted Govinda Hela and Wadinagala while travelling to Kongaspitiya. The different view of Govinda Hela was attracting. First few kilometers of the road was fairly satisfactory and it became terrible closer to Kongaspitiya. We have crossed dried Leara (ලේආර) following Kongaspitiya and passed bumpy gravel road to reach Bakmitiyawa. Here you will come across number of Chena cultivation and road goes through dry zone forest.

Soon we turned at 6th mile post…. noted this mountain.

Govinda Hela with different view and Wadinagala

Zoomed view of Govinda Hela

Konduru Hela above Chena….

While Kongaspitiya is situated in Moneragala district Bakmitiyawa is located at Ampara district. Bakmitiyawa had terrorist threats during civil war and now it is replaced by wild elephants. We have noted the elephant fence around the village. Bakmitiyawa is another small village situated deep in the forest. There are two roads from Bakmitiyawa to Pannelgama. One goes through the forest with close proximity to Konduruhela. It is about another 1.5km drive from Bakmitiyawa to base of the mountain. Soon after Bakmitiyawa this road became narrow and narrow, might be due to lack of use.

Unplugging the elephant fence to enter Bakmitiyawa

Much closer view of Konduruhela from Bakmitiyawa

Konduruhela / Konduruwagala

Might be an elephant bathing place

Konduruhela hike is not that much difficult as we expected. After correct analyzing of Google map we have started from the road and got into the forest. The typical dry zone forest with few undergrowth and large boulders were familiar for us. With guidance of Google map we have noted a place in between two peaks. It was a gradual ascend from the road to this point. There was a rock with nice view point at this place.

Get into the forest

Hiking partner….Kasun Lakmal

Giants of the forest

Ascend through the forest

Place to get relaxed

Cave like structure

Grown on top of the rock

Gradual ascend through the forest

This middle view point is a nice place to identify hills at Moneragala area. Maragala range, Govinda Hela and Wadinagala were the main attractions from here. In addition we have noted Degal Hela, Neelagirihela, Karanda Hela-Hulannuge and Pannelgama side. Highest point Konduru Hela was seen from here with the flag attached to a tree.

Middle view point….

Through boulders

Get on to it……

Framed view….

The view: Maragala Kanda (left), Govinda Hela (middle) and Wadinagala (right)

Pannelgama-Bakmitiyawa proper road

Highest point with flag

Towards Pannelgama and Ampara side

Closer view of Govindu Hela. Sugala Devi tank must be seen here but not clear due to lack of water.

Westminster Abbey / Govinda Hela

Maragala range. Two mountains at left corner situated near Muthukandiya reservoir: Valihela and Lollhela

Towards Siyambalanduwa and Deegalhela

Chena

Towards Lahugala and Bakmitiyawa. We have followed this gravel road from Bakmitiyawa to reach the base of the mountain.

Neelagirihela

Karanda Hela at Hulannuge

Enjoying the view….

Then we have moved back under forest canopy to reach the highest place of Konduru Hela. The top of Konduru Hela has few flat slab rocks which are good for camping. The same view noted towards Siyambalanduwa and Ampara was repeated with much higher place. In addition we have noted Pannelgama area in detail with Pannelgama reservoir and Navinnakanda Mountain.

Back to forest

On our way to the top

Same view…..

Towards Maragala range and Deegal Hela

Other peak of Konduru Hela and Pannalgama side. Navinnakanda is the prominent hill here

Towards Pannalgama reservoir. Danigala range is seen behind.

Pannalgama area, Nawinnakanda and Pannalgama reservoir

Flag is attached to the tree

Wide angle view from top of Konduru Hela

Wide angle view from top of Konduru Hela

There was another view point towards eastern side of the mountain. It is the ideal place for camping. Excavated pagoda was also situated at this place with evidence of archeological value of Konduru Hela. The view was straightforward to eastern and southeast cost. . Few tanks of eastern area were also noted including Ambalanoya and Kanchikudichiaru. We have spent much time at this place with enjoying the view.

Heading to other side…..

Evidence of camping

Reaching other view point of the mountain

Excavated pagoda

Circular rock situated next to Konduruhela

Towards Pothuwil and Arugambay. Southeast coast.

Ambalanoya tank (left) and Kanchikudichiaru Tank (right)

Small hills situated towards Akkaraipaththu

Towards Damana and Hingurana side…

Ambalan Oya tank and Malayadi tank behind it.

Enjoying….

It’s my style

The view

The view

Wide angle view towards Komari forest reserve, Ambalan Oya tank (left) and Kanchikudichiaru tank (right). Eastern and south eastern coast are far behind…

Towards South eastern coast

Two men team

As all these viewpoints provided almost same view, we have decided to not to go to other peak of Konduru Hela. We have rushed in descend as the Last bus from Kongaspitiya leaves at 3.30pm. On our way back to Kongaspitiya we were caught to a pouring rain which lasted more than hour. It was another memorable hike.

Return journey

How it happened….

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