Kelebokka (කැලෑබොක්ක) is a trending camping place and 360 view point situated at Matale District. It became popular among travelers after travel with Chathura programme. Kelebokka view point is the highest point of Kelebokka tea estate which is the largest tea estate of Sri Lanka managed by Sri Lanka estate cooperation limited.
I have booked the camp site at Kelebokka two weeks ago from head office of Sri Lanka estate cooperation limited. Here we used public transport to reach the place as road condition was not good in last few kilometers. Unfortunately we were late (it was around 6.30pm) when we reached at turning point (this is situated at Madulkelle-Kabaragala-Kandenuwara road-B257) and rain has started since few hours ago. Dimal, Kasun and Vinoda were drenched by rain due to their waterfall hunt of the day time. We expected Chamara to join with us but he was late. Then we five started the walk from Kelebokka turning point along the gravel road. Nothing we could see other than mist and dark when we reached the camp site.
Here I must emphasis there are two roads to reach the camp site from this turning point. We followed the short cut which is good for walking and other road is good if you are coming by vehicle. (Later Chamara reached the camp site by three whleer following second road).
Unfortunately there was another group of campers at camp site when we reached there. We didn’t have a place to pitch our tent on the concrete. People have built a Kovil at this highest point but it is still under construction. We were able to pitch our tents at the veranda of Kovil as we didn’t have a proper place to stay. Later we knew the management has reserved the camp site for two people simultaneously. But I saw a good side of this incidence as we had less effects by rain, because we pitched the tents under concrete slabs.
Later rain was stopped and mean while Chamara also joined with us. We were managed to prepare dinner and had a nice chat till late night.

Matale town at night. The sky was clear after heavy rain.

Morning was clear as we expected and we have enjoyed the 360 view from there. There were a lot of known mountains: Ambokka , Manikdena, Karagahathenna, Gammaduwa, Maussakanda, Riverstone, Pathangala, Knuckles-Kirigalpoththa, Gombaniya, Yakkunge Hela, Knuckles five peaks, Kandasamigala, Hunnasgiriya, Sri Pada, ?? Alagalla etc..
The immediate below view from summer hut was Sembuwatta Lake and factory. Matale town was visible beyond that. On the other side we have noted Madolkele-Kandenuwara road. First couple of hours of the morning was crystal clear and mist arise later to make the view more beautiful.

Camp site of Kelebokka

Three tops with towers: Karagahathenna (left), Gammaduwa (middle) and Maussakanda (right). Pathangala is the most right hand side peak. Riverstone is situated in between Pathangala and Maussakanda. You can’t see in this picture.

Three tops with towers: Karagahathenna (left), Gammaduwa (middle) and Maussakanda (right)

Pathangala and Riverstone towers

Knuckles-Kirigalpoththa

Pointed peak is Yakkunge Hela

Ambokka

Manikdena is seen

Knuckles five peaks

Two peaks of Kandasamigala

Road to Kelebokka view point. Actually the highest point of upper division is the one situated in front of view point. (Seen in photo)

Summer hut and towards Sembuwatta

Sembuwatta Lake

Sembuwatta area and tea factory

Other side of Kelebokka estate

Madulkelle-Kabaragala-Kandenuwara road

Kabaragala tea factory

?? Alagalla through clouds

Rest of Knuckles range

Hunnasgiriya and Sri Pada

Sembuwatta area

Matale town. We saw lights of the town last night.

Rest of Kelebokka estate and Hunnasgiriya peak.

Mist is coming up….

Capturing moments…

Through the mist

Through the mist

Path to heaven

Enjoying the view

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Time to relax

Broken huts at other side….

Mist coming up….

Photographers

Time for breakfast

Kelebokka estate. Last night we followed this estate road.

Where we pitched tents last night…..

Top of the Kovil

Inside the Kovil

Summer hut….

View from summer hut

The team…

Aerial view of Kelebokka view point with estate road

Bird’s eye view

.	Closer view of 360 view point

Estate road ends here

Actual highest point of Kelebokka upper division
Actual highest point of Kelebokka upper division is situated right in front of Kelebokka 360 view point. This place has a narrow view towards Kelebokka estate.
It is just a 10minutes hike from the estate road.

Along the foot pathway of actual highest point of Kelebokka

How Kelebokka view point is seen to actual highest point

.	View towards Gombaniya side

Highest point of Kelebokka upper division

Newly built houses

Couple goals achieved

Framed view of Kelebokka

Kelebokka 360 view point

Another place with 360 view situated closer to Elkaduwa

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There is a short cut from Kelebokka to Sembuwatta Lake (සෙම්බුවත්ත වැව) through Pinus forest. It is just a 20-30minutes walk. We left Kelebokka around 10.30 am following breakfast. This foot pathway starts closer to a Kovil situated on your way to Kelebokka from turning point.
Sembuwatta Lake belongs to a different management: Elkaduwa plantation. This lake is situated at 1100m attitude at higher level of the tea estate called Hapuwida (හපුවිද).
History of Sembuwatta Lake goes back to 1949. This land was a Polo ground during colonial ages and later became a small reservoir to generate hydro power for the tea factory. Later the tea factory was closed and this small reservoir was forested.
Mr. Radley Disage was became the manager of Elkaduwa plantation in 2005 and he rebuilt the current Sembuwatta Lake at the place of old reservoir with support of estate workers. Initially it was used to give hydropower to 89 estate houses. The name Sembuwatta (based on folklore) is also an idea of Mr. Radley and later management decided to convert the area as tourist attractive place.
There are different activities you can involve at Sembuwatta Lake: Boating, zip line, Swimming pool, Air rifle etc. Night camping facilities also available at Sembuwatta Lake.
As rain started again we were not able to go around the lake.

Back to estate road….

The kovil where foot path to Sembuwatta starts

Entering to Pinus patch

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Descend to Sembuwatta Lake

Misty Pinus patch…

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Reaching Sembuwatta Lake

Sembuwatta Lake

Swan boats at Lake

Zip line across the lake. This is about 50-75m long.

Sembuwatta Lake

We didn’t have much time to stay at Sembuwatta Lake as rain started again by 1.30pm. Here we hired couple of three wheelers to reach the Hunugala junction (it costs Rs 600 from Sembuwatta Lake to this junction) to get the bus to Elkaduwa.

Kelebokka 360 view point and Sembuwatta Lake in Google map

Thanks for reading

Rilagala (රිලාගල) and Selva Kanda (සෙල්වාකන්ද) are two lesser known peaks of Knuckles forest reserve, situated between Knuckles five peaks and Kalupahana area. We were able to reach one peak of Selva Kanda (Selva Kanda has two peaks) in July 2019 as a day hike. Here we trekked Selva Kanda from Hulang Kanda (හුලo කන්ද) in KMP foot pathway. We have noted the peak of Rilagala when we were at Selva Kanda. Thereafter Rilagala was in my to-do list. Here I have planned to reach Rilagala from Knuckles five peaks. Knuckles five peaks, Rilagala and Selva Kanda approximately situate in one line at Google map.

Knuckles five peaks, Selva Kanda and Rilagala in metric map. Note these three peaks approximately situate in one line.

It was part of two days trip in Knuckles area. Previous day we have hiked to Kandasamigala (කන්දසාමි ගල) and stayed at Katool Oya Holiday bungalow. First day ended up with slight rain and misty weather which continued till latter part of the day. Therefore we needed to start Rilagala hike early in the morning. Rilagala was clearly seen to Katool Oya Holiday Bungalow. We followed the same foot path to Knuckles five peaks from Gomariya (ගෝමරිය). I have not been at Knuckles foot pathway from Thangappuwa for a long time. We were able to view five peaks on our way up but it was almost covered with mist when we reached 2nd peak of five peaks.

Rilagala range and Rilagala is marked by an arrow. This was taken from Katool Oya Holiday Bungalow.

Knuckles Rilagala

Team	Katool Oya

Road side beauties….

Knuckles five peaks foot pathway. This peak was mentioned as Batagala by a villager.

Rilagala

Hunnasgiriya, Hathale MW and Kelebokka areas

Beginning of Knuckles foot pathway

Crossing the stream

Foot pathway

Yakkunge Hela and Gombaniya

Towards Knuckles five peaks

Early morning hike

Following Knuckles five peaks path.

The view

Filtering…..

Peaks of Sudugala

Gombaniya and Yakkunge Hela are covering with mist

First peak of Knuckles five peaks

Knuckles Kirigalpoththa

Kandasmi Gala and Hunnasgiriya

Sacred peak

Towards Piduruthalagala and Nuwera Eliya

Kandy town and Bathalegala

One of my common captures

On top of first peak….

After second peak we have gradually moved to third, fourth and fifth peaks. Rilagala is situated much beyond fifth peak. Here we have followed the edges of the mountain as it is easy to mislead the path with mist. We didn’t get a clear view with the mist.

From second to third…..

Happy faces

From second to third

On top of third peak…

Fourth and fifth peaks…

Fifth Knuckles peak

Fourth peak from fifth peak…

Fifth peak…

When we were at fifth peak…

After the fifth peak, we have followed the edges of the mountains till we reached Rilagala. The path (there was no clear path) was covered by short bushes, Nelu and mountainous forest. It took about another two hours from fifth peak to get first glance of Rilagala.

Beyond fifth peak, towards Rilagala. But you can’t see Rilagala in this picture

Towards Rilagala

Thawalanthenna area

Small forest patch

Small forest patch

Furthermore to go….

A break….

Another drop

The area we have passed

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Knuckles peaks covered by mist….

First glance of Rilagala

The peak of Rilagala is almost covered with forest except few places. There was a small nice plain just before the peak, which continues with the plane between Rilagala and Selva Kanda. We could see both peaks of Selva Kanda from top of Rilagala. Thawalanthenna side should be seen from the view point but we were not able to see anything due to thick mist. It took about six hours to reach Rilagala from Katool Oya. If you need can continue the journey to Hulang Kanda via Selva Kanda.
According to the map, the Cyprus Hermitage is situated at base of Rilagala. Initially we had a doubt whether we can descend this drop or not. Otherwise we had to follow the same path we came here. But we were able to reach the tea patch around this hermitage at the end. There was a significant drop to descend and latter part was full of throny bushes and bamboo. Then we walked through tea estate to reach Sari Ella road which ends at Thawalanthenna (තවලන්තැන්න).

Closer to Rilagala peak

Came across at Rilagala

Small plain just below the peak

The plain just below the peak

The plain between Rilagala and Selva Kanda. This is the other peak of Selva Kanda.

Water stream originating from the plain.

Selva Kanda-The peak we didn’t climb last time

Selva Kanda-The peak we climbed last time (covered with mist)

On top of Rilagala.

It is measured as 1596m. But metric map mentioned it as 1604m.

When we were at Rilagala

How our journey was happened from Knuckles five peaks to Rilagala.

Thanks for reading

Nikawewa Mountain / Nikawagampaha is situated closer to small remote town called Moragollagama (මොරගොල්ලාගම) in Kurunegala District. I have done the rail walk from Maho to Moragollagama and returned to Kurunegala by bus via Kumbukgate-Ibbagamuwa. On my way back to Ibbagamuwa I have noted this mountain with the temple at middle of the rock. It was the most attractive feature of Nikawewa Mountain which made me to hike it. Later in map reading I understood, I have passed the other side of this mountain during my rail walk.
Ancient Nagala Temple (නාගල රජමහා විහාරය) is situated at base of this Nikawewa Mountain. Some parts of the temple are situated at middle of this rock. But it is not allowed to walk to this upper part of the temple except in Poya days. Nikawewa Mountain is a range with few peaks and approach seems easy from railway line side rather than temple side.

Nikawewa Mountain is seen to rail way line when you just pass Moragollagama railway station towards Awukana

Nikawagamaha / Nikawewa Kanda in metric map

Nikawewa Kanda in Google map. Here I have marked Saliyagama junction (arrow) and Ranmukgama station. Our approximate path is shown by black line.

Aerial view of Nikawewa Mountain

Nikawewa Mountain. Note it is arranged as few peaks. This is the temple side of the mountain. You can see two parts of the temple are situated at middle of the mountain.

Let’s move to the hike:
Our plan was to approach the mountain from Ranmukgama railway station along railway line. Ranmukgama railway station is a small one situated closer to Moragollagama. I have travelled from Colombo and joined with Charith at Ibbagamuwa. Ibbagamuwa-Madagalla road was a scenic road with rocky isolated mountains and greenish paddy fields. It draws my memory to six years back as I have visited some ancient places at this road. We met Anupama at Kumbukgate and Eshan joined with us from Polpithigama. We have passed small junction at Saliyagama and turned to Saliyagama-Galgamuwa road. The road crosses the railway line at Ranmukgama. Nikawewa Mountain was situated in our right hand side when we travelled from Saliyagama junction. There was a gravel road runs parallel to railway line towards Moragollagama station. We have stopped our bikes at last house of this road. House owner was friendly and gave necessary instructions to hike the mountain in positive manner.
We have walked further along the railway line towards Moragollagama till we come across a small lake in right hand side. I can remember all these lakes were dry when I did the rail walk. As it was the rainy season of Rajarata, lakes were full and paddies were greenish. We crossed this small lake along it’s bunt and came across another small one beyond paddies. There was a small marshy area next to this lake and we found our way to enter the forest along this.

Members of the journey: Anupama, Charith and Eshan (right)

Other side of Nikawewa Mountain.

Train is passing…

Rocky face of the mountain….

This is the first lake we have crossed…

Along the lake bunt

All greenish…

Hidden second lake….

Morning decoration

Small marshy area situated at base of the mountain

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It was another dry zone hike under giant trees and over boulders. Within 1-1½ hours time we have reached a peak of the range, but it seems not the highest of Nikawewa range. (As we didn’t follow the Google map properly)

Under dry zone forest cover…

There was no foot pathway

This was such a common finding.

Rising up….

Uncommon

On the way up….

A small cave

A break…..

Reaching a top….

Coming out of forest….

Seems we have reached a wrong peak… Higher peaks are situated next to this.

Next step was to move to the highest peak which was situated at middle of the range. Again we got into the forest cover and reached a point where surrounding was clearly visible. It was like a middle point in between the highest peak and the one we have reached. After another 10-15 minutes hike we were able to reach the peak where the flag was set. This place has 3600 view towards surrounding. We were able to view Yapahuwa, Diyabettekanda, Rasseruwa Kanda, Ritigala, Kahala Pallekale range, Erawulagala, Galkoth kanda, Gedaragalapathana, Beliya Kanda, Dolukanda range, Karanampotha, Na Uyana Kanda, Kadigala, Arangala, Mana Kanda and some of Knuckles range.
Galgiriya was the most nearby giant which I conquered few years ago.
We were lucky enough to see the train is passing area. According to the Google map the highest point of the range was the one next to this flag point. As we were short of time we didn’t try to go there.

View from the middle point

Reached a middle point where surrounding was clearly visible

.	On top of the peak where flag is set

Flag point. The peak we have reached first is seen next to this.

The view

Rasseruwa Kanda

Yapahuwa (right) and Diyabettekanda (left spiky one)

It’s giant of Rajarata-Ritigala

Greenish paddies at Moragollagama

Paddies at drop

Whole area is refreshed with rain

Kahala-Pallekale range…

Bambaragala, Erawulagala and Galkoth Kanda

Towards Dolukanda range

Nikawewa Lake

Nikawewa Lake bunt

Ancient Nikawewa Temple

Three ranges: Gedaragala Pathana, Kahala-Pallekale and Knuckles range

Beliya Kanda and Karanampotha

Kadigala and Arangala

Nearby giant-Galgiriya

Mana Kanda and Ritigala

One of factories at Polpithigama

Train is coming from Moragollagama station

Train is passing

I am on top of the peak

First peak we have reached…

When we were on top….

When we were on top….

We were on top of Nikawewa Kanda

Return journey was happened peacefully and we were able to reach the starting point in one hour time. On our way back to Ibbagamuwa, we have visited a beautiful lake at Maeliya (මාඑලිය). This lake is reserved only for fishing.

Back to starting point….

Where we were

Maeliya Lake

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Na Uyana Mountain and Karanampotha over Maeliya Lake.

I would like to visit Nagala temple in a Poya day to complete this journey.

Thanks for reading.

Kimbulwana reservoir / Kimbulwana Wewa (කිඹුල්වාන වැව) is situated at remote area called Kumbukgate (කුඹුක්ගැටේ) at Ibbagamuwa-Madagalla road. One of my frequent travel partners-Anupama lives at Kumbukgate area. I had an opportunity to visit at Kimbulwana reservoir when I visited at his place in 2018. There were two peaks which were overlooking at Kimbulwana Reservoir took my attention in first day. History of Kimbulwana Wewa goes back to King Mahasen period. It was renovated by King Parakramabahu Great during Polonnaruwa era. Anupama and myself decided to visit this overlooking peaks of Kimbulwana reservoir in one day.

Mountains around Kimbulwana reservoir. Left-Kalugalpaya and right- unknown.

Kimbulwana Reservoir

Kimbulwana Reservoir

Sun rise over Kimbulwana Reservoir

Another mountain around Kimbulwana reservoir

Fishery at Kimbulwana reservoir

A cool morning at Kimbulwana Reservoir.

It was the last journey of another fruitful year-2019. We decided to finish the travel calendar of the year by hiking Kalugalpaya. According to a sudden plan, Sashi also joined with us. Sashi and myself travelled to Kumbukgate from Colombo by bus and Anupama has warmly welcome us. A big thank goes to Anupama for arranging everything.
There is another attractive small rock called Banamaduwagala situated in front of Kalugalpaya. Our plan was to do a short hike to Banamaduwagala first and finish the day at Kalugalpaya. Thushara Ayya was our guide to Banamaduwagala.

Warm up hike to Banamaduwagala-බණමඩුවාගල
Banamaduwagala is a small globular shape rock situated closer to Kimbulwana reservoir. Folklore says it was the grain store of King Mahasen when he built Kimbulwana reservoir. This is a short hike of 30minutes along the rock which has 60-70 degree angle.
We have parked our bikes near the rock and started the hike early morning. We were lucky enough to have greenish paddy fields around Banamaduwagala (බණමඩුවාගල). It was the most common snaps in our picture collection. Surrounding structures were Kalugalpaya-our next target (just in front of Banamaduwagala), Etipola, Wilshire, Nikawewa Kanda, Galgiriya, Diyabettekanda, Degadathurawa, Yapahuwa, Waduwaketugala, Kuwenigala, Dolukanda, Pududkulama, Ibbagamuwa-Kotagala, Kimbulwana reservoir, Yakdessagala and Gonagama mountain etc. We spent about an hour on top of Banamaduwagala and reached to it’s base where Anupama rested till we come.

Banamaduwagala from Nelliya road

Globular shape rock-Banamaduwagala

Early morning hike to Banamaduwagala

Along the rock….

Acute angle….

On top of the rock

The path….

The view

View of other side

Another view

Highest point of the rock

Nikawewa Kanda with Galgiriya (behind)

Diyabettekanda

Yapahuwa and Waduwaketugala

Degadathurawa-new destination

Pududukulama. Ibbagamuwa-Kotagala is seen right behind Pudukulama.

Kalugalpaya is at left side of the picture. Etipola and Wilshire is seen behind Kimbulwana reservoir.

Kimbulwana reservoir and Etipola+Brandyrock behind it.

Can’t remember the peak

Dolukanda. Front peak must be Arankale….

Yakdessagala is popped up…

Gonagama Kanda

Kuwenigala

Getting snaps….

.	Paddies and coconut

Greenish…

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Houses at paddies

Shapes…

Centered….

Close up…

Paddies in aerial view

Right on top…..

Aerial view…

Further up….

The flag…

Busy with camera….

With Thushara Ayya

We were on top of Banamaduwagala

Getting down

We got refreshed from the tea boutique at junction of Banamaduwagala and said good bye to Thushara Ayya. Next was the main destination of the day-Kalugalpaya.
Kalugalpaya is situated in front of Banamaduwagala. There are few ranges surround Kimbulwana reservoir and Kalugalpaya is one of that. We drove along the road to Kimbulwana Oya and selected a starting point according to Google map.

Kalugalpaya range is overlooking at Kimbulwana reservoir.

Kalugalpaya and Banamaduwagala in Google map

Kalugalpaya from Nelliya road

There were two farmers at the starting point and they directed us to a small bushy area. Beyond that it was full of Teak forest and peaks of the range is well seen above the teak forest. It is not a hard trek through the Teak forest and we walked along the slope of the range. At the end with few rock climbing sessions we have reached the highest point of Kalugalpaya which has 360 view and ruins of a Pagoda. (I assumed it as a Pagoda). It took about one and half hours to reach the highest point from starting point.
There are nice slab rocks on top of Kalugalpaya. We enjoyed the same view as Banamaduwagala and in addition added some other places: Makulussa, Ambokka, Etipola, Wilshire, Karagahathenna, Gammaduwa, Kadigala, Manikdena, Arangala, Karanampotha and Deduru Oya reservoir.

Get into the forest

Under Teak trees

Along the slope of the mountain

Sheltered….

Out of way….

Coming out of Teak forest

Banamaduwagala-Where we were in morning

Etipola, Wilshire and Makulussa

Ambokka and Selagama MWE

Peaks with towers at Knuckles range

Arangala

Manikdena and Kadigala

Karanampotha

Another separate rock…..

Scenery from top….

Scenery from top….

Yapahuwa, Waduwaketugala and Degadathurawa

Galgiriya (behind) and Nikawewa Kanda

Hakwatuna Oya reservoir and surrounding mountains

Kahala Pallekale range is far away

Ritigala (most far)

Deduru Oya reservoir

Kuwenigala

Bisogala-Highest of Kurunegala District

Nearby small lake-Siyambalngamuwa Lake

Swarnagiri Len Wiharaya

Towards Kimbulwana reservoir

Greenish Paddies…

Shapes…

On top of Kalugalpaya

Anupama and Shashi

Ruins of a Pagoda

Next set of boulders situated towards Kimbulwana reservoir

There was another set of boulders situated towards Kimbulwana reservoir along the same range of Kalugalpaya. In 10-15 minutes time we were able to get on top of that boulders as well. After enjoying the view from there we turned back to follow the same route.

There were some more peaks towards Kimbulwana reservoir.

The highest point we have stayed is seen far away…

Black and white

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.	Don’t forget we are in Coconut triangle

‘	Highest point with 360 view

In return journey we followed the same route to reach the place we got into the forest. We met few villagers there and mentioned it’s name as Kalugalpaya. Last place of the day of visit was Kimbulwana reservoir.

Fishing at overspill

Gates of Kimbulwana Wewa

Good bye Kimbulwana Wewa and Kalugalpaya.

Thanks for reading

Nawanagala / Nawenagala is another mountain situated at southern border of Knuckles Massif. It can be well seen when you travel along A26 road, just after Hunnasgiriya town. The majestic appearance of Nawenagala attracts travelers to hike it. As it is situated at southern border of Knuckles massif, the top of Nawenagala was a surveyor point as well. It was mentioned as one place where sacred tooth relic was kept on it’s way to Kandy. One of the reasons for the name Nawanagala (නාවනගල) is due to the frequent wetness of one of the lower peaks.

Let’s see the view of Nawenagala from different mountains

Classic view of Nawenagala from Randenigala Hills. Highest peak is seen in front. Other peak is seen behind.

View of Nawenagala from Aliyakotagala.

View of Nawenagala from Kodibendihinna.

It’s unique appearance makes easy to identify it. From Chariot pathway.

It was our first hike of 2020. Ashan and Chamara have done it one year before and their information was our guide. Early morning we have reached Hunnasgiriya town and had breakfast from small tea shop right next to Meemure road. According to Ashan’s report Nawenagala has two peaks. Our plan was to hike along the ridge of the mountain to reach 1st peak (7.183848, 80.511359) and then move to 2nd peak (7.312162, 80.857327).

Click image to enlarge. Two peaks of Nawanagala are marked.

We got onto the ridge of the mountain from the first bend of Meemure road. Lower part of Nawenagala is completely covered by Pinus forest with minimal under growth. At the end of Pinus forest we have entered the forest with Bamboo bushes.

Nuwan (left), Keshan and Sumedha (right)-members of the journey

Along Meemure road…. This was the point where we got into the forest patch

Towards Bambaragan Oya side

Checking clicks….

Medamahanuwara Kanda and A26 road. Medamahanuwara Kanda / Rajagala Kanda was the neighboring peak of this journey.

කෑලෑ ගොටුකොළ

It’s a beautiful morning

Buddha statue at Hunnasgiriya… Through Pinus window

Transferring from Pinus forest to mountainous forest

There was an almost clear foot path through the forest till we reach the water stream. Seems people have move along this path frequently to set tube lines to get water.

Morning sun rays…

Forest above pinus patch

Coming across the water stream

It was the only water source we came across in this hike. After another 20-30 minutes hike we were able to reach the ridge of first peak which was completely covered with Bamboo. Thickly woven bamboo was the main obstacle we have faced.
After a certain distance a foot pathway was noted through Bamboo forest. Later we have reached a place where highest peak of Nawenagala and surrounding were seen.

Back to forest cover after the stream

Small rock climbing part

Get into Bamboo

Facing the main obstacle-Bamboo

Coming out of Bamboo forest.

2nd peak of Nawenagala

Winding A26 road

Paddies

Again we continued the journey through Bamboo forest along the clear path. This bamboo forest finished at an open area with good view. It includes Medamahanuwara Kanda, Victoria reservoir, Kandy town, Ambuluwawa, Alagalla etc.

Reached the second view point on our way up….

Madamahanuwara Kanda

Bambaragan Oya side

Part of Victoria Reservoir

Hills beyond Victoria reservoir

Ambuluwawa tower is seen as a white dot

Kabaragala

Kandy town and Alagalla

Might be Piduruthalagala hills

It was about 500m below the summit of first peak. We walked through an open area and passed small forest patch to reach the top of first peak. The scenery was the combination of above mentioned first two view points. We had a long rest at this first peak after about 3½-4 hour journey. Though mist has covered our view intermittently it was not a major issue. Height of the first peak was about 1420m.

Continuous ascend….

තේ ගෙඩි

A lot of mushroom

Reached first peak of Nawenagala

The view from first peak

Hunnasgiriya and Campbell lane forest reserve

Mist was around

Having a long rest at first peak

2nd peak / highest point of Nawenagala is situated at 1488m height. It was about another 1-1½ hour hike from first peak to second peak of Nawenagala. We have passed a nice plain which is situated at the edge of first peak. It was a good camp site and there were evidence of camping as well.

Second peak of Nawenagala is seen to first peak

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Good camp site at edge of 1st peak

Evidence of camping…

.	We are closer to second peak

There was a significant drop between the edge of 1st peak and second peak of Nawenagala. After passing another forest patch and bushy area, we were able to reach second peak / highest point of Nawenagala. Few meters before the highest point, we have noted the Erskine mark. Closer to Erskine point we were able to view Yahangala, Kehelpothdoruwegala, Velangolla Pathana, Gerandi Eli, Ududumbara town, Hetakatuwegala, Galpadihela and Mahiyanganaya area. There was a collection of stones at the highest point but no view there. Then we moved to the edge of the mountain and climbed on trees to get a clear view on that side. It includes Madamahanuwara Kanda, Hunnasgiriya town, Kodibendihinna, Kukulagala, Hegasulla, Randenigala reservoir, Padupola plain, Randenigala hills and Hunnasgiriya area.

View from second peak. Towards Hunnasgiriya.

Kukulagala

Zoomed view of Madamahanuwara Kanda.

They have come to the edge of second peak.

Randenigala reservoir

Hegasulla and Korahana area

Randenigala Hills

Hunnasgiriya town

A26 road

Paddies

View point

He is showing the highest point

Adaptation

Ududumbara town, Hetakatuegala and Galpadihela

Towards Galpadihela

Lakes at Mahiyanganaya

Lakes at Mahiyanganaya

Ududumbara town

Erskine has visited there in 1910

On top of Erskine points

Enjoying the view from Erskine point

Yahangala and Kehelpothdoruwegala

Kehelpothdoruwegala

Kalugala Gerandi Eli

Bird’s eye view of second peak of Nawenagala

Bird’s eye view of second peak of Nawenagala

Bird’s eye view of second peak of Nawenagala

Important land marks of our journey.

We decided to follow the same path for return journey and finished it by three hours. It was an energetic start for 2020.

Getting down

At the end of the day.

Just list Erskine points on mountains.
1. Nawenagala
2. Knuckles-Kirigalpoththa

Erskine mark on Knuckles-Kirigalpoththa

3. Kokagala

Erskine mark on Kokagala

4. Galpadihela

Erskine mark on Galpadihela Mountain

5. Kukulagala

Erskine mark on Kukulagala

Thanks for reading

Paduruthalawa is a hidden entity of Sri Pada forest reserve situated in between Heen Piduruthalawa (හීන් පිදුරුතලාව) and Mahapaduruthalawa (මහ පැදුරුතලාව). Pandeniya River (පන්දෙනිය ගග) separates Heen Piduruthalawa and Paduruthalawa while the highest point of Paduruthalawa (6.855981, 80.482990) continues with the highest point of Mahapaduruthalawa (6.845931, 80.489742). We have noted Paduruthalawa and Mahapaduruthalawa when we were at 5th peak of Seven virgins and it was included into our to-do list.

Paduruthalawa is shown by black circle. Trail head at Uda Maliboda is marked by purple star. Pandeniya River is also marked. Note Mahapaduruthalawa and Heen Piduruthalawa. Click image to enlarge.

Highest points of Paduruthalawa and Maha Paduruthalawa in Google map.

Paduruthalawa is seen to 5th peak of Seven Virgins Hills.

Few weeks ago Thilina and his friends have hiked Paduruthalawa. Their journey has stimulated us to do this journey and we got necessary information from them.
Initially we had seven in the crew and three have dropped at last moment. At the end Ashan, Chamara, Keshan and Myself continued. (Same crew of Saptha Kanaya journey).
It was essential to start the journey as early as possible due to long distance from trail head. Keshan and Myself joined with Ashan and Chamara at Awissawella. Luckily a reasonable shop was opened at Deraniyagala to have breakfast. We drove along Deraniyagala-Uda Maliboda road to reach Uda Maliboda-Sri Pada trail head.
Everything started from Uda Maliboda-Sri Pada trail head. It was the second time I came to this place for 2020-Sri Pada season. Darmarawardana Mama at Dikellekanda is in the process of establishing a Buddha statue for Pilgrimages at trail head of Uda Maliboda. After having religious activities at this place we crossed Pandeniya River to enter Uda Maliboda-Sri Pada foot pathway. The weather was perfect and we stopped at small Buddha statue for a break. After few hindered meters walking along the foot path we descend to Pandeniya River back. This section was bit difficult due to steepness and overgrown Nelu bushes.

Pandeniya River

Journey begins

Uda Maliboda-Sri Pada trail

.	The forest

Artistic

Clear foot path

Upstream walk along Pandeniya River
Next part of the journey was upstream walk along Pandeniya River till we meet left hand branch of Pandeniya River. The distance was less than 1km but journey was slow as we had to walk over boulders. Pandeniya River starts in between Paduruthalawa and Mahapaduruthalawa while this branch gets birth from Paduruthalawa.

Get into Pandeniya River

Along Pandeniya River…

At river bank

Bouldering….

Tiny friend….

Deviate from Pandeniya River

The side stream joins with Pandeniya River with forming a beautiful cascade. We had a long rest at this place and good bye to Pandeniya River to follow the side stream. Compared to Pandeniya River, side stream was narrow and steeper to form tiny cascades.

Along the side stream of Pandeniya River
After the long rest at junction we started to ascend along the side stream. Most of the time it was ascend except few flat terrain along the stream. We came across about 5+ tiny and moderate size cascades at this side stream. As usual it was time consuming to walk along a river. According to the Google map we have followed another side stream for a short distance and entered the forest. Hereafter we followed the ridge in the forest to get on to Paduruthalawa. Before enter to second side stream we have noticed Paduruthalawa in our front.

Cascade formed by the side stream

Lateral view

Slow shutter

When we got on to the top of the fall. Heen Piduruthalawa is seen behind.

Few peaks of Heen Piduruthalawa

Another small cascade

Evidences of human activities

Stream is shaded by forest

A waterfall

Along the branch of Pandeniya River

A waterfall

Another….

A break….

Place to bath

Sometimes we deviated from the stream

Another

Side stream gets another side stream. According to Google map we followed it.

A beauty

Snaps….

Last cascade of the stream

Get into the forest

It was a continuous ascend along the ridge and we have noted evidences of recent human visits at this forest. (Later we knew another group of travelers have followed the same route a day before.) About last 500m of this hike was a steep ascend of 60/70 degree. It was really a strenuous exercise and ended at Paduruthalawa. There was a narrow view point towards other main hills of Sri Pada including Kunudiya Parwathaya, Bana Samonala and Darmarajagala.

View of KDP from Paduruthalawa.

Rest of Paduruthalawa

Walking on Paduruthalawa
Paduruthalawa is a nice place with slab rocks and forest patches. It’s height ranges from 1400m to1690m. It gives birth to several streams. According to Google map we have traced the falling point of one of the stream. It was a beautiful place with 180 view. This stream should form one of the highest waterfalls in Sri Lanka in rainy season. The stream was fairly dry when we visited there. We have noted fairly old elephant dungs on top of Paduruthalawa.

Measuring the size of a foot print

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On top of Paduruthalawa

Slab rocks of Paduruthalawa

Elephant dung

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Over the slab rocks to the falling point of the stream.

Camping at Paduruthalawa
We have camped on top of above mentioned waterfall origins from Paduruthalawa. It was a dreamy camping site with all necessary features including spacious, water and good view. Heen Piduruthalawa and Kunudiya Parwathaya in our front and sun set was over Heen Piduruthalawa. The side stream of Pandeniya river and valley of Pandeniya river were immediately below from the view point. We forget the tiredness of the journey once we reached there. Full moon was illuminated behind the camp side at night.

Falling point

The view….

Valley of Pandeniya River

Valley of Pandeniya River

Sun set over Heen Piduruthalawa

Kunudiya Parwathaya has changed it’s shape.

Falling point of the stream. It might forms one of the highest waterfalls in SL.

Ashan

Keshan

Sun set

.

It’s me….

Sun set

Evening sky

Full moon behind the camp site

Illuminated tent

Day 02
Reaching the highest point of Paduruthalawa and return journey
The morning breaks with sun rise over the highest point of Paduruthalawa. After having breakfast we have started to hike towards the highest point of Paduruthalawa. It was a journey along the upstream and there were number of side streams join with the main stream. This was a good evidence that Paduruthalawa is an origin of number of streams and they feed Pandeniya River at the end.
At one point of the ascend, we have noted sacred peak, Bana Samonala and Darmarajagala over forest patch.

Morning was like this

Full moon

Enjoying the morning view

Side view of falling point

? Top of Bambaragala

Four person breakfast

Camp site in distance

Walking along the main stream

Heading to highest point of Paduruthalawa

As most of them were dry, walking over them was not difficult

Number of slab rocks. These streams might form beautiful waterfalls in rainy days

Mosses over slab rock

Bana Samonala and Darmarajagala

Sri Pada, Bana Samonala and Darmarajagala

Sacred peak

It might forms a nice waterfall

Heen Piduruthalawa and Kunudiya Parwathaya

Thick forest cover on top with under growth of Nelu bushes

Top of Paduruthalawa was almost covered with forest and we were able to find a narrow view point towards other side. The view includes 6th peak of Saptha Kanya, Great Western, Rilagala/ Pasmale, Uda Radella towers, Kotagala, Dell Mountain, Hortain plains, Elbedda, Peaks of Hortain Plains, Bopaththalawa, Maha Paduruthalawa and ? Ballabendigala.

At highest point of Paduruthalawa. It is completely covered with forest.

View point of Paduruthalawa

The view

Great western (left) and Uda Radella with towers (middle)

Kotagala (left, pointed) and Dell Mountain

Pristine Hill (left), and Bopaththalawa (right)

Might be Paduruthalawa (closer) and? Ballabendihela (behind)

6th peak of Saptha Kanya

Peaks of Hortain plains- Kirigalpoththa and Agra Bopath. Bopaththalawa is situated next to them. (Left)

We decided to follow the same path in return journey. It took another five hours to reach the trail head of Uda Maliboda Sri Pada foot path. Here we descend along Pandeniya River further down to find a good place to get into Sri Pada foot pathway.

Thanks for reading

Madamahanuwara Kanda/ Rajagala is a unique shape mountain situated on side of Kandy-Mahiyanganaya road at Hunnasgiriya area. It’s globular shape appearance gets attraction of everyone who travels along this road. This was in my to-do list for a long time but the forest cover on top of the mountain was discouraging the hike.
This mountain has an archeological value. King Senkadagala Senarath (1604-1634 A.C) has built a palace on top this mountain.

“ක්‍රි.ව.1604-1634 අතර රජකල සෙoකඩගල සෙනරත් රජතුමන් විසින් මෙහි මාලිගයක් කරවා මාලිගය වටා බලකොටුවක් ඉදිකරවා ඈත. මෙම මාලිගය අහස්කුස සිපගන්නා නිසා එයට අහස් මාලිගය යයි කියනු ලැබේ. අහස් මාලිගයට ආසන්නයේ දළදා මාලිගයක්ද රාජකීය පොකුණක්ද කරවා තිබී ඇත. මැදමහනුවර කන්දේ වූ බලකොටුව පෙරකල ගලේනුවර බලකොටුව යැයි කියා තිබෙන අතර ගලේනුවර බලකොටුවේ පවුර මත කාලතුවක්කු රදවා තිබී ඇත.” Quoted from “Sirilaka Esidutu Than by S.P.S.Weerasinghe.

Hunnasgiriya town is situated at base of Rajagala Kanda and the forest patch over the hill is called as Rajagala forest reserve. Don’t know it is a separate entity from Knuckles forest reserve or not.

Madamahanuwara Kanda in metric map

Unique shape of Madamahanuwara Kanda/ Rajagala Kanda

The view of Madamahanuwara Kanda / Rajagala from Hunnasgiriya town in Kandy-Mahiyanganaya road. Hunnasgiriya town is situated at base of the mountain.

Classic appearance of the mountain.

How it is seen to the closest neighbor- Nawenagala

The other side of the mountain. The view from Kodibendihinna.

This was taken when we were on Randenigala Hills.

Aerial view of Rajagala Kanda. Note though it is steep in front, there are ridges to get on it. We used right side ridge to reach the top of the mountain.

It was the independent day of 2020. After go through my to-do list, selected this ever postponed mountain to conquer. Here I got necessary information from a local source-Sanjeewa Ayya. Myself and Nuwan have joined with Indranatha at Kandy and travelled to Hunnasgiriya by his car. The weather in Knuckles area was so brightened these days for hiking.
We were warned about Maussa bushes by a local at beginning and he gave a Manna knife for protection. The lower part of the mountain is covered by Pinus forest and rest of the hill is occupied by mountainous forest.
The entry point was a concrete road just before Rajagala Hotel at main road. Soon the concrete road ends at Pinus patch. This was a continuous ascend along the Pinus plot and then we entered the forest covering of Rajagala forest reserve. Though this mountain is steep in front it has a ridge which continues with the summit on this side. Gradually we have joined with this ridge. Surprisingly we were able to notice a clear foot path on the ridge to top of the mountain. There were couple of view points as well.

The ascend along the pinus patch

Entering to the forest covering from Pinus patch. Indranatha and Nuwan.

Undergrowth was less and walking under forest patch was easy.

Reaching the first view point

We had a reasonably good view over bushes from first view point. It includes Hunnasgiriya Mountain, Victoria reservoir, Bambaragan Oya cascades, Knuckles forest reserve, Alagalla, Kandy-Mahiyanganaya road, Kodibendihinna, Kukulagala and Piduruthalagala range.

Towards Victoria reservoir and Theldeniya side. Alagalla is seen on left side of the picture.

Zoomed view of Alagalla

Hunnasgiriya Mountain.

Pointing peaks might be Knuckles five peaks

Bambaragan Oya cascades

Bambaragan Oya cascades

Winding Kandy-Mahiyanganaya road

A part of Victoria reservoir

View towards rest of the range-Kodibendihnna

This must be Kodibendihinna

The top of Kukulagala is covered by a cloud patch. Piduruthalagala range is seen behind.

Kukulagala

After enjoying the view from the first point, we moved further and came across a structure like a parapet or entrance of a building. The stones were the only remaining part of these structures. Few hundred meters before the summit, second view point was found towards same direction. Seems someone has camped there recently.

It looks like an entrance of a building

Parapet wall

.	Well established second view point of Rajagala Mountain.

View from second view point

Towards Hanthana range

When we were at second view point….Aerial photography

Closer to the summit.

The summit of the mountain was almost covered by the forest and a fairly flat area. We have noted a small pond and another set of walls on top of the mountain. These structures might be a part of an ancient building. We didn’t notice any other archeological evidences at summit of Rajagala.

The pond

Modern day involvement…..

Well preserved wall….

Could be the entrance or exit….

At highest point of Rajagala Kanda

Highest point of Rajagala kanda is covered by forest

Nawenagala through woods

Pieces of tiles

Close up of a wall

Kukulagala

When we were on top of Rajagala Kanda.

It’s height was mentioned like this….

The view over the mountain. Randenigala reservoir and Kukulagala are seen.

Hunnasgiriya town and Bambarabedda side. You can’t get this view from the mountain.

Aerial view towards Nawenagala and Knuckles forest reserve. Hunnasgiriya town and Balalgira are seen.

We moved further down to Bambarabedda side to find a view point but it was not successful. The same path was followed in return journey and we got on to a slab rock situated on side of Pinus patch. It was also a good view point.

The slab rock….

Close up of Bambaragan Oya cascades

Nawenagala

Summit of Rajagala

Back to the concrete road

End of another hike

Thanks for reading

This was the second day of a trip to Nuwaragala forest reserve. We have hiked Ethbadda on first day and camped there. Hike to Nuwaragala was our plan on second day.
Though Ethbadda (=470m) is the highest of Nuwaragala forest reserve, Nuwaragala is the most attractive and popular place. Nuwaragala is known as the fortress of King Saddathissa while he is ruling southern region of the country. There are enough evidences on top of Nuwaragala as a fortress.

We have started the hike from our camping site at Ethbadda. Guna Bandiya Mama has led us till the base of Ethbadda where Galen Watichcha Oya (ගලෙන් වැටිච්ච ඔය) was situated. Here team divided into two, as some of us have been at Nuwaragala before: Ashan and Harinda. They have decided to visit some nearby place while we were rushing to Nuwaragala.
Nuwaragala is steep on all four quarters, which is a good feature for a fortress. After crossing Galen Watichcha Oya we followed the same foot path we used to reach Ethbadda. At one point we deviated from there and crossed another dry stream to reach the base of Nuwaragala. Here we came across herd of wild Elephants but Guna Bandiya Mama has expel them. There was a clear foot path from base of Nuwaragala to top of the rock in it’s western side.

Ethbadda (marked in blue) and Nuwaragala (marked in red) in Nuwaragala forest reserve. Click image to enlarge.

Heading to Nuwaragala from Ethbadda

Nuwaragala is seen to Ethbadda.

.	Hills of Gal Oya.

Getting down….

Foot path to base of Nuwaragala

We followed the same foot path we used in coming to Ethbadda

Acute angle of Nuwaragala. This is an important feature as a fortress.

Foot path under Teak cover

Guna Bandiya gets permission from local gods.

Nuwaragala has a rocky plated foot pathway from it’s base. We have noted collection of round stones as a rampart on side of the path. This path is said as the Chariot path of the King towards the top. Remaining of railings and stone slabs used as flights steps are seen at intervals, providing that the earlier path was more than 18’ in width. There was an evidence of good drainage system as gutters were engraved on rock to save the path by rainy water.
There are two main attractions on top of Nuwaragala: Pond and cave
First we visited at stone cut pond at on top of Nuwaragala. It was square in shape (80’ in length 70’ in breadth) and situated at edge of the rock with spectacular view. We were able to stand on the base of the pool which has a muddy layer. It was a nice experience to bath in the pond.

Collection of stones on side of the path like rampart

Under the forest cover

Chariot path to fortress

Might be remaining of the fortress

.	A construction might be attached to the rock

Gutters

Gutters

Break

Closer to the top

View from the top

Ramabakan Oya reservoir

Nilgala

On top of Nuwaragala

Stone cut pond at Nuwaragala with 80 into 70

View of Ethbadda from Nuwaragala

Fair’s hood (only top is seen), Ethbadda (middle) and Nilgala (left)

Ethbadda and Nilgala

You can stand there. It is not that much deep.

At water level

Edges of the pond

On top of Nuwaragala

Heading to the cave. It is situated at bit lower level.

The stone cave can shelter more than 150 people. A clear drip ledge is cut and an inscription under it reads. What mention at inscription is;
“Devanapiya Maharajaha gamanitishaha puta maha tisha ayaha lene shagasha.”
(The cave of prince Mahatissa, the son of Great Devanampiya Gamini Tissa given to Sangha.)

The great king can be identified as Saddathissa, and his son ‘Mahatisa aya’ as Lanjitissa, who ousted Thullatthana.

Entering to the cave

Nuwaragala cave with drip ledge

Opening of the cave and brick wall

Inscription under the drip ledge

Cave opening provides spectacular view

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.	Guna Bandiya Mama at Nuwaragala cave. Note modern day scribbles on cave wall

The drop

Rest of mountains of Nuwaragala

Roof of the cave

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Gutters

Nearby lake

When we were on top of Nuwaragala

Ven. Ellawala Medhananda Thero mentioned about ruins of vivid shape and size buildings and found in an area of more than hundred acres. A few pieces of a Buddha Image are also scattered inside one building, which can be considered as an image house.
The Pail Lalatadthuwansa and Sinhala Dhatuwansa mention of a prince named Giri Abhaya who was the son in law of King Siva of Kelaniya and husband of Soma Devi, the sister of Kakavannatissa. Also it tell us that Prince Dutthagamini went to Giri Abhaya, with one of his ministers named Dava. Some scholars are of opinion that this ‘Giri Nuwara’ is “Nuwaragala”, but there is no other valid information to prove it.

Most probably Nuwaragala became a Buddhist hermitage with time.

After enjoying the beautiful view from Nuwaragala cave, we said good bye to this ancient rock fortress and started the return journey.
We were able to come down in 30minutes time to the base of Nuwaragala and join with Ashan. Here we decided to follow the foot path towards Aranthalawa directly as our vehicle and belongings were at Aranthalawa STF camp. This foot path went through a bushy open area with Teak trees. We came across few cattle farms during the trek to Aranthalawa. It was a tiresome journey to Aranthalawa and we spent about 3hours. There were no water source we found and at the end crossed the Elephant fence to reach road. We should thank Guna Bandiya Mama to come with us to Aranthalawa. Though he was with us, most of the time we followed the route with aid of Google map.
It was the end of two days journey to Ethbadda and Nuwaragala. A big thank goes to Sri Lal and Guna Bandiya Mama for their hospitality.

Team at base of Nuwaragala: Ashan (left), Nirosh, Thiwanka malli, Guna Bandiya Mama, Amila, Eshan, Harinda, Sri Lal, Susil and Chamara (right).

A herd

Thanks for reading

Degodathurawa is an isolated mountain situated closer to Polpithigama area. I have noted this mountain when I was at Kalugalpaya. Anupama has been at this mountain before and he mentioned there is a clear foot path to the top where transmission towers placed

Degodathurawa in metric map. Click image to enlarge.

Degodathurawa is seen to Kalugalpaya. Note there is a small rock in front of Degodathurawa. It is mentioned as Indakadawala in metric map. Don’t know such a name persists.

Degodathurawa Mountain with surrounding paddies.

As I assumed it was a short hike in dry zone. Anupama was busy on the day of hike and his brother-Eshan has joined with us for the hike. Nuwan and myself reached Polpithigama early morning and had our breakfast. Eshan has found the starting point of foot pathway to the summit of mountain. Galkadulla Lake is a small water store situated adjacent to Degodathurawa Mountain. The forest patch covering the mountain is called Degodathurawa conservation forest. We drove along the road over the bunt of Galkadulla Lake and reached the starting point.

Degodathurawa conservation forest

Beginning of the journey

This was the foot pathway used to carry goods to construct the transmission tower. Currently they are building another tower which is bigger than the existing one. Therefore they have placed a rope and a carriage along the path. It was a steep ascend since beginning. After a certain distance we came to an open area with limited surrounding view. Indakadawala (ඉදකඩවල) with paddies was the main objective seen to this narrow view point. This foot path straightway goes to the summit where transmission towers are placed. Nobody was there at the construction site on that day. It was the highest point of Degodathurawa mountain and it might be the reason to place the towers. But this highest place has no view point.

Clear foot pathway

They have fixed a carriage to transport heavy to the top

Bags of sand and metal were on the way

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Half a way view…. Nearby mountain is called Indakadawala.

Mini break

The rope….

Rising up…..

.	New transmission tower is being placed

Current transmission tower on top

On top of Degodathurawa Mountain

When we were on top of the mountain

Just next to the summit we were able to find a minor view point. Degodathurawa has two peaks and we were moving to next one. On our way to second peak we have reached another view point with270 degree view. As it is situated at lower level to the summit, view is obstructed by the summit of Degodathurawa. This place has a nice rocky seat to have a nap and to enjoy the view. We were able to identify Thalpaththekanda, Yapahuwa, Diyabeththekanda, Galgiriya, Nikawewa Kanda and Daduru Oya reservoir with fairly hazy weather on that day. Pale yellow color paddies were surrounding the mountain and villagers were busy with the harvest. We spent an hour at this view point and started to descend along the same path without going to other peak. On our way back we have met a group of workers coming up to construction site.

At first view point

Natural holes of the rock

Talpaththekanda (376m)

Yapahuwa

Diyabeththekanda with it’s awkward appearance.

Paddies closer to the mountain.

Shapes….

Summit of the mountain is seen to the view point.

Nice rocky seat at this view point.

It’s me….

Other peak of Degodathurawa.

Galgiriya (left) and Nikawewa Kanda (right)

Galgiriya Kanda

Nikawewa Kanda

The view is full of paddies.

At view point

Paddies were surrounding the mountain

Wow

Close up…

We were there

Return journey

Narrow view point.

Galkadulla Lake was the ideal place to spend the afternoon. We had a dip over the lake to finish the day.

Heading to Galkadulla Lake

Heading to Galkadulla Lake

Galkadulla Lake

Galkadulla Lake with bunt

Heading to the bathing place

Galkadulla Lake

Cormorant in action

Degodathurawa is over Galkadulla Lake.

Thanks for reading

Please note that the pile of rocks were at the point where the map indicates as the summit. We did proceed to the other summit which we thought was higher.

The map – Green arrow is the other summit which we reached.

Dothalugala is an known nature trail designated by Forest department but unfortunately it doesn’t extend up to the summit. We decided to give it a try to reach the summit and for that we decided to use the Dothalugala nature trail. We reached Hunnasgiriya early morning and had breakfast, from there we headed towards Deanston forest office where we bought tickets for the Dothalugala nature trail. From the office we walked along the camp site road to reach the trail head. Along the trail we reached the summit view point of Dothalugala nature trail which provides a stunning scenery towards Victoria reservoir.

Target

on the way scenery

Dumbanagala , Geradigala

Kehelpathdoruwa

Aliyawetuna ela, Sphinix 2

circular trail

top of the circular trail

Wamarapugala, Wannimana, Lakegala

endless

the view

open areas

further to climb

The true trekking part begins at this point where we had to climb up 150m uphill to reach a false summit with a pile of rocks signifying the false summit. The scenery which we experienced during this short climb was mesmerizing. Mist blowing while kissing the peaks of knuckles massif was simply heavenly.

mahiyangana side

peaks of Knuckles

hanthana side

knuckles range trough the clouds

.	Aliyawetuna ela

Victoria and hanthana range

false summit of metered map

From here onwards it was a continuous trekking session along the ridge on animal paths until the forest summit was reached. At some points we came across few view points too. Close to the summit there is a view point towards Victoria side. For the landmarks which were seen please refer the images. (It took around 3.5 hours to reach the summit)

.	on the way views

views while walking towards the summit

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mini break

animal paths

less explored

summit view point

approximate summit

Rajagala and beyond

twin peaks of Nawanagala

Kukulagala

the drop towards victoria

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range towards Nawanagala side

After a small break we returned back on the same route and had a bath at Dothalugala camp site waterfall before exiting the reserve with some lovely memories.

.	Aliyawetuna ela

pygmy forest

Yahangala

.	getting down

wow	Dothalugala ella 1

Dothalugala ella 2

Dothalugala ella 3

Gawarawila is a beautiful plain situated in Sri Pada forest reserve surrounded by hills with an attitude range 1800-1900m. Folklore says ancient mythical giant cow called “Gawara”-ගවරා has lived here to give the name Gawarawila (Gawara +Wila). Ancient Uva-Sri Pada path lies along Gawarawila. (People from Uva province have visited Sri Pada along Balangoda-Gawarawila and this foot path is no longer exists). The feeding stream of Upper Gartmore falls and Gartmore Falls origins and flows through the plain.

Gawarawila Plains

I was waiting to visit Gawarawila plains for a long time and Thanuj has invited me to join with them for this journey. It was a newer experience me to go with new friends for a camping trip.
It was a part of long weekend in Sri Pada season and buses were fully loaded. We have reached Hatton town by 4.30am. Our destination is Gartmore estate and there were no direct buses from Hatton to Gartmore estate. First we got a Sami male-Hatton bus (at 6am) and got down at Tea junction to catch first Gartmore bus from Maskeliya.
Gartmore is a beautiful place situated on the other side of Maussakle reservoir. I have been at opposite bank of Maussakle reservoir for waterfall hunting (Gartmore falls and Adam’s Peak Falls). Trail head (6.46402071, 80.33308362) starts from the estate called Frogmore estate which is situated above Gartmore estate. There was an ascend of 320m from bus stand to trail head through tea estate.

Reaching Gartmore estate. Note the bus stand, new line houses and Maussakle reservoir.

Gartmore tea factory.

Trail head can be approached in two directions from Gartmore bus stop. There is a formal mortable route through line houses but distance is more. We followed the shortest route on the other side of the stream, it mainly follows foot pathways through tea bushes.

Starting point and trail head of Gawarawila plains. We followed the road left to the stream.

Sacred peak and accessory peaks were seen in one side and hills surrounding Gawarawila plains were rising in other side. On our way to trail head we have crossed two streams which are responsible in forming upper Gartmore cascades at the edge of Gawarawila Plains. It took about 2 hours to reach the trail head at Frogmore estate from the bus stop.

New friends for travelling: Ishara (left), Ruwan, Thamindu, Darshana, Iresh and Thanuj (right).

Stairs case starts just above the bus stand.

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Sri Pada. Hatton route is seen as a white streak.

Accessory peaks of Sri Pada.

Abounded Carolina estate hills

Hills of Gawarawila was rising in one side like a parapet

Majestic…

Mini break…

The team

Following the foot path through estate

Waterfall with marked height. This must be visited in rainy season to get actual beauty.

Another waterfall

Upper Gartmore cascade

Upper most one of Upper Gartmore cascade

One of the streams we have crossed.

A waterfall made by one of the streams we have crossed.

Frogmore estate

On top of a waterfall

Conventional route to reach the trail head. Note it goes through a lot of line houses.

Foot path through bushes

Foot path lies at the base of this water fall

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View of Maussakle reservoir. Note the bus stand and factory.

Hills surrounding Gawarawila plains.

Team at trail head

Next part of the trail lies through mountainous forest and a clear foot pathway was noted till we reached Gawarawila plains. It has small ascends and descends but basically a flat terrain. We have crossed a significant one stream which gets start from the sub plain of Gawarawila. (Will come to this later). This stream accounts for above mentioned two main waterfalls. Collectively one can call all of them as Upper Gartmore Falls.

Gawarawila Plains and Gawarawila Sub plains in Google map.

Foot pathway was surrounded by Bamboo and Nelu bushes.

The stream gets start from Gawarawila sub plain. It gets a small drop here to form a waterfall.

Other side of the stream.

? බාදුරා

Close up….

Clear foot pathway margined by Nelu bushes.

Clear foot pathway margined by Nelu bushes.

බජිරි

Gawarawila plain is close by.

Reaching Gawarawila Plains.

Gawarawila like a mini Horton plains and surrounded by hills. The water stream flows slowly through the plain and forms Upper Gartmore cascade at the end. As we have reached the plain by 2pm there was enough time to roam around. There were enough camping places closer to the stream. After set the camp we have followed the course of the stream till its end to view the drop of the plain where Upper Gartmore cascade is formed. It was another amazing place where we spent hours till dusk. We were able to view Sri Pada, Yaka Andu Gala, Ballabendigala, Dakinapura mountain and Maussakle reservoir from this view point.

Aerial view of Gawarawila Plains. Note the stream crosses the plain. Whole like structures in the middle of the plain are Gem pits.

Sri Pada is seeing beyond the plain….

At Gawarawila Plains

There were enough camping places closer to the stream.

Weather was so bright and it is a perfect day for camping….

Nothing much to do….

Our camp site. We were the only group for that day.

Cooking time….

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Camp site in distance

Aerial view of the camp site…

Camp site of Gawarawila Plains

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Follow the course of the stream till end

Wild beauties

.	View from the drop: Maussakle reservoir and Dakinapura Mountain

Rest of the view: Sri Pada, Yaka Endu Gala and Ballabendigala

The drop

Snaps at the drop

It’s me…

Flying the drone…

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One of the Upper Gartmore Falls

The view….

Gawarawila Plains, surrounding mountains and Upper Gartmore cascades

Upper Gartmore Falls

Lateral view of Upper Gartmore Falls

The team on top of Upper Gartmore Falls

The team on top of Upper Gartmore Falls

Day 02
Night was cold as we expected and plain was clear with moonlight. Fortunately it was a full moon day. There was no significant sun rise to Gawarawila plains due to surrounding mountains. After the morning tea we have walked parallel to the stream along the plain to explore it. Seems Gawarawila has human involvement for years and years. There were number of gem pits at middle of the plain closer to the stream.

Sun rise over Gawarawila Plains

Enjoying the sun rise

.	Good morning Gawarawila

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Tea time….

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Walking along the plain

Walking along the plain

Walking along the plain

Walking along the plain

Shadows….

View of the camp site

.	The mountain behind Gawarawila plains

Selfie time

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Sri Pada is rising in front of the plain

Sri Pada and Hatton route

Yaka Endu Gala (behind)

Ballabendihela

.	It was a beautiful morning.

After the breakfast we have packed our stuff and said good bye to Gawarawila plain. Return journey happened along the same route and we were able to reach Gartmore bus in late afternoon. It was another memorable camping trip.

Exploring Gawarawila sub plains / ගවරවිල උපතැන්න සොයා යෑම
After I have fallen love with Gawarawila plains, I wanted to see her again. My second visit to Gawarawila plain was happened exactly after one week. We mainly focused on Exploring Gawarawila sub plains.
Gawarawila sub plains is another grassy land situated parallel to Gawarawila plains. But it is smaller than main plain. I have noted this when I examine the map for Gawarawila plains.

Gawarawila Plains and Gawarawila Sub plains in Google map.

Exploring sub plains happened as one day journey. We got Nallathanniya-Colombo bus from Pettah and reached Maskeliya town by 3.30am. Then we got to know the first Gartmore bus starts at 7.30am from Maskeliya. After got breakfast from Nallathanniya junction (there was a nice shop at Nallathanniya junction, but opens at 6am) we hired a three wheel to Gartmore.
It was not a good day for a hike as surrounding was gloomy and misty. We met another group of travelers who are going for camping at Gawarawila plains.

Nuwan and Keshan- This time my partners for the journey.

Gartmore estate

Islands of Maussakle reservoir

Hills covered with mist

Not a good number….

Get blessings from local Gods….

.	Upper Gartmore cascades

.	Upper Gartmore cascades

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Wild berries

Cascades met on our way….

Cascades met on our way….

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Surrounding is getting bit clear

Ascend to Frogmore estate

The view from Maussakle from Frogmore estate

At trail head. Just before enter the forest.

Here onwards we followed the foot pathway to Gawrawila plains and came across the first stream. This stream starts from Gawarawila Sub plain and we had to follow the steam to reach the plain. We followed the stream in it’s right side (later we revealed a clear foot pathway in left side of the stream) and reached a small open area in few hundred meters. Walking along the stream was not that much difficult. This stream was wider than the one we met at Gawarawila plains. Following this small open area we found a foot pathway in left side of the stream and reached a small pond created at the stream. This is a nice place with shallow water. Beyond that Gawarawila sub plain starts

Follow the course of the stream

Reached small open area

Continuing along then stream….

Small pond in the stream

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Gawarwila sub plain is narrow initially and getting wider later. Proportionately the stream becomes smaller with the plain. We were able to notice gem pits (newest ones) at this plain. (More organized sites compared to Gawarawila plains). This might be the reason to have a clear foot pathway in some occasion. Continuation of the Plain was disturbed by the forest in few occasions. Within one and half hours time we were able to reach the end of the plain. The plain ends with a significant drop at a place is a like a mini world’s end. The provincial border (Sabaragamuwa and Central provinces) goes closer to this place. This drop provides the view towards Rathnapura side-Alupola Ella area. But we didn’t have a clear view due to mist.

Entering to the sub plain

Wide stream compared to the plain

It is a narrow plain

Walking along the stream

Walking along the stream

Now stream becomes narrow and plain gets wide

Continuing parallel to the stream

At Gawarawila sub plains

Crystal clear water

More wider part of the plain

.	At Gawarawila sub plains

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It should be careful in walking on the plain due to gem pits

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Gem pits

One of an organized site of Gem mining

Site of gem mining

At the end-Reached to the drop

View from the drop….

View from the drop…. Rathnapura area

It was like a Mini World’s end

We were at the end of sub plains

As weather was not good, we have decided to turn from this point. Actually we had a plan to hike the nearby mountain from this point but it was postponed due to weather condition. Return journey was uneventful and we met another two groups who were on their way for camping at Gawarawila plains.

Good bye Gawarawila sub plains

We have revisited the shallow pool on our way back

The drop makes a small waterfall here

Smiley faces at the end

Thanks for reading

The route we took

Few days back to be specific on 21st of April 2019 disaster struck and the whole country was in distress, so to get away from all the hate, anger and grievance we decided to hike a small mountain. Since Anupama lived around Kumbukgete we decided to climb Kumbuk wewa Pudukulama mountain. We started our hike from the main road and reached a small mountain range, from here we crossed over to the main Pudukulama range.

Though the route we selected was a distant one it was less tiresome. After reaching the ridge of Pudukulama mountain we had to face a thorny ridge section until we reached the rocky summit of Pudukulama. the walk along the ridge was not an easy task as we expected and at some places we had to crawl on all four limbs through thorny bushes. Please do refer the images for landmarks.

the range

as seen from Dolukanda

start of a long hike

on the way scenery

Dolukanda

Bathalegoda seen

thorny ridge

Aragama

Ambokka seen

Bisogala and beyond

Kotagala

final few steps

summit ed

yakdessagala seen

Ambokka

Dolukanda

the range

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kibulwana and karanampotha range

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kimbulwana

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.	Madagalla rd

To get back we decided to climb down a valley so we could reach the near by village with paddyfields. After reaching the village we started walking towards Manapaya temple to ultimately end up at the main road and then suddenly problems started to arise. Few villages encircled us and did some deep questioning prior to been released from the village. After reaching the road we walked few kilometers to reach our vehicle and depart from Kumbuk wewa as soon possible.