The map – Click to enlarge

This year the monsoon seems to be getting late letting me venture around more and more taking the upper hand of it. There was an old post on a trail from Udu dumbara to Rathna falls which was hanging around my long list for many years. So I thought of giving it a shot. With few calls Sri, Danushka and Lahiru were in to it. It was supposed to be an easy hike which was 2.5Km’s.

On the previous day I reached Mahiyanganaya and loitered around in the evening enjoying some unseen water bodies called Dambarawa lake and Mapakada lake. Next day I met up with rest of the gang who came from Colombo at 18 bend observation point and enjoyed the sun rise from the east. Next it was time to break the bad news. I had previously measured the length along the river from a bridge which crosses a river at a lower place and the road from Poppitiya would have led us there but all in our group agreed to do the full trail from Udu dumbara, so we marched towards Udu dumbara to have some breakfast before beginning a long journey.  We hired a trishaw and continued along Kalugala road for 7Km’s and was dropped off at a bridge at Hanwella. After washing our faces we were all ready to venture on.

Madulsima range as seen from Dambarawa lake

Dambarawa lake

lake bund

yahangala and kehelpathdoruwa as seen from Dambarawa lake

randenigala range

an open bill

plucking flowers (farther and son)

Mapakada lake

glossy Mapakada lake

colours of randenigala

fishing at Mapakada lake

at newly renovated Mahiyangana lake

Our rough calculations were about 6Km’s along Maha oya (which later changes its name as Hasalaka oya) but numbers did change at the end.  So we began walking along a bliss enjoying seen how the forest was embracing the river plus creepers crossing from one side to the other creating periodically laid curtains. We came across few birds too, the common kingfisher, a fly catcher, Serpent eagle and two huge brown fishing owl’s. Out of the two owls the first one was singled eyed one.  Walking along a river is not an easy task at all. At some places we had to crawl along rocks and some places walk submerged (at least the feet) too. It was a zig zag journey conquering obstacles all the way.  We came across an interesting natural anicut in the river which seemed to be done by our ancestors unfortunately the local who was around knew nothing about it. After traveling for few Km’s we came across a canal which we flowed through the paddy fields and reentered the main stream. Few hundred meters downstream there was a beautiful waterfall which we named Anicut falls. Just before reaching the suspension bridge which crosses the river (this is the location I mentioned previously about) we had to hang on to creepers and etc to tackle the difficult terrain of the river side.

Sun rise as seen from the observation point at 18 wanguwa

kokagala and sora bora wewa

Ulhitiya

Ma oya starting point

bricks…

like walking along paradise

king fisher

kids at the river ran away after seen Sri

hiding from the paparazzi’s

a natural or ancient anicut note the square shape holes along the rock canal

decorated with creepers

unknown

more to go

paradise fly catcher

common king fisher

One eye john

violet

ah found one with both eyes too

shaped

giant creeper

yum yum

cultivation’s

along the canal

friendly guy

landscape

back to the river

kehelpathdoruwa

anicut ella

side view

along another canal

mini cascades

mineral hunting

plenty of adventure

last signs of civilization at the bridge

We did have some rest near the suspension bridge before starting our second session. We had already walked close to 6Km’s and we were worried a bit because it was already 12noon. The river architecture was not helpful to us from here onwards and the terrain becoming more difficult was hindering our speed. We were now almost away from civilization and fresh foot prints of Wild elephants on the river bed gave us few jiggles.  After about 1.5 Km we reached one of those beautiful cascades formed by Hasalaka oya, where one would feel like spending the whole day around. Though we wanted to have a swim at this place time was not in our favour.  50m’s downstream was a huge abyss and we had to de-route along an abandoned paddy field to reenter the river and at that point again we came across a beautiful cascade which seemed to be an ideal camping location during a dry period.

modified 5 start hut

robin hood was with us

crystal blue

some in our group were eyeing on this

efforts taken to save their shoes from getting wet

elephant prints

less water but yet beautiful

wish it had more water

a nice shower i guess

on the hunt

we had to by pass this

another cascade

abandoned

reaching another cascade

a waterfall of ma oya

dried out

The endless walk seemed to be like we were following a mirage and to add on to it we were facing some huge boulders. We decided to cut across the jungle and fortunately we found a foot path which took us to a higher elevation along the left bank of the river. We were exhausted and was wondering where is Rathna ella. The foot path we followed ended back at the river where we could faintly see a considerable drop.  The river was wide at this point and we managed to walk along it with not much of difficulty.  We were top of a waterfall with a stunning view and downstream we could see another drop. “Yes its Rathna ella” I said and danushka opened his eye which was closed with exhaustion.  We descended with caution from the right bank and reached the base of the beautiful upper rathna ella falls. It was already close to 3.30 so we had to find away round the deep pool just before the Rathna ella drop and for that we climbed up few boulders on the left bank. “Wow” at last we are on top of one of the tallest waterfalls in our Island; the stunning scenery from top was worth all the trouble. We were happy yet exhausted. The last challenge was getting down and for that we choose the right side forest patch and within few minutes the foot path was found. We followed it downhill for a considerable distance and lost the foot path. So from there onwards we descended with instincts. We were overjoyed to be at the base where we had a bath and refreshed ourselves before starting the walk towards the village. This last 2Km’s was like desert to us after hiking for good 11Km’s along a river. We managed to get a trishaw from Mahiyangana and reach there by 5pm where I had to depart without even saying a proper good bye to my friends because the last bus was taking off. It was tough and exhausting but worth it. That is how our 2.5Km journey ended up been 11Km’s.

more to go

through the forest

top of another waterfall

what a place to spend a night

drooling

could see the top of rathna ella too

Rathna ella upper falls

need to get around this deep pool

upper falls looks dried out

top of rathna ella

finally some smiles

at the top

the drop

through the forest while descending

finally at the base

Thanks for reading!

“Weather is changing. Seems like it’s gonna rain on Saturday heavily.” – Kasun had texted me.
“What to do buddy, we’ll take our chances.” – Replied me with a heavy heart.
“Yeah, still Friday is good. Think of any alternatives for Sat.” – He was really worried.

That’s the conversation Kasun and I had after planning our Nelu Flower hunting trip on 06 Nov. Typically it rains heavily to the upcountry along with Uva and Eastern Provinces but it didn’t scare me enough to postpone or change our plans for the weekend. It was all gang-ho as a result of Nelu Flowers blooming after so many years and everyone was yearning to go see them and we were no different.

So I sat down heavily on my chair and started to write a letter:

At Office
06 Nov 2013

My Dear Nuwara Eliya,

How are you doing? I’m doing great and can’t wait to see you again. I’m sorry it was a very brief visit last month and I couldn’t be with you long enough and hope you weren’t upset that I left very abruptly even without a proper goodbye.

Apparently, you’d been busy since then coz everyone’s talking about your newest creation, the Nelu Flowers. I too want to come and see them and be with you a bit longer too. I’ve been visiting you each year for the last 14 years and it’s gonna be two times in this year then. You know that you’re my favorite no matter what happens, don’t you?

The weather seems to keep us apart with her dark clouds and unending rains threatening to unleash her wrath. My friends are very hesitant to come as a result. Would you be able to chase her away on 08 and 09 Nov, please? You’ve always kept her at bay when I come to you and ask her to stay away from us this time too. Tell her that I promise not to hang around long and she can come back on the 9th afternoon.

I’ll be seeing you on the wee hours of 08th and till then take care.
Yours

It’s not a good idea for you to read my personal letters is it? But now you’ve read it, it doesn’t matter. I had to send this letter coz the rain kept threating to ruin our reunion and I was pretty sure she’d keep those dark clouds away. (Eventually that’s exactly what happened)

Sheham suggested we do the Nelu Flower hunt and I voted with both my feet and Kasun too, amid a very heavy workload, wanted to tag along. Athula, the ever-promising hiker, too joined willingly with Prasanna along with him. We were set for another majestic journey and decided to leave in the night to save us some time. My plan was to visit Horton Plains on 07 and do something else in the evening coz the whole day Saturday was reserved for the 3rd stage of my rail hikes.

Sheham too said that he was long overdue for a rail hike and gladly approved of the plan. However, the ever-changing weather patterns kept us on our toes right along during the planning stage. I wanted to do this no matter the weather and everybody else jumped in willingly coz they all are very seasoned hardcore hikers.

I happened to come by the Supipi Rest on Lakdasun Forums and they gave us a very reasonable rate and made the booking without second thought. On impulse, I suggested Kasun that we go see Kurundu Oya Falls as we failed to see her in the last month’s journey and we had the whole evening for us on the 8th Nov.

Day 01

Having planned everything to the last possible letter, Sheham left Dehiwala around 12.30am and picked Kasun, me, Athula and Prasa on the way and we were soon driving towards Peradeniya. We didn’t wanna take our chances on the Hatton-N’Eliya road due to its bad condition and stuck with the good old Peradeniya-N’Eliya road.

Tour Highlights:

1. Thotupola Hike
2. Nelu Flowers
3. Kande Ela
4. N’Eliya
5. Piduruthalagala Peak
6. Summary of Panos

The moment we passed Gampola, the road got winding like a giant snake and I felt giddy coz I’d had no sleep and neither had Kasun. We stopped around Pussellawa for some fresh air and the sky was cluttered with millions of different-size stars. It was as if a net attached with hundreds of glittering diamonds was draped right across the sky and we were simply fascinated. However the break wouldn’t work and I wanted to throw up very badly and soon it was a contest between me and Kasun.

Finally after all the hustle-bustle we reached N’Eliya around 5.30am and topped up our fuel reserves. Sheham had brought us all breakfast so we didn’t have to stop anywhere else and headed straight towards Horton Plains. We stopped at Pattipola for some coffee and the surrounding was as usual eye-catching. On the way from Pattipola the view kept making us want to stop at every now and then for picture taking and Sheham had a hard time containing us.

Finally we reached the ticket counter around 7.00am and bought our tickets. Passing the gate we reached Thotupola Trail in no time and the whole area was covered in Pink, Purple and White due to various colors of Nelu. We were simply amazed by the number of flowers, must have been about millions of them covering the whole area like a silk cloth draped over the trees. The morning dew added to the beauty of the flowers and they kept making artistic lines along the petals and leaves. What a sight for our strained eyes.

“Apparently there are 30 different kinds of Nelu and 24 of which are endemic to Sri Lanka”

We jumped out and headed towards the summit of Thotupola with an elevation about 200ft over 2km stretch. It was a sight to treasure for the rest of our lives. We were simply speechless and kept walking through dense forest patches till we reached a bit open area and the sight was simply outstanding. So many mountains were visible and Adam’s Peak was standing tall and majestic in the horizon with her distinct shape. Kirigalpoththa and the undocumented Agra-Bopath were standing next to each other.

We could see the Ambewela farm and its windmills almost 20km away. Along the path it was all about Nelu in vivid colors. All of a sudden Sheham and Atha were bending down very inquisitively and to our surprise it turned out to be a heap of freshly unloaded leopard scat. It had so many firs that the Sambar Deers have. Further along we saw hoof marks of Sambar Deers and possibly the Leopard’s too. It looked as if the leopard had been chasing the fellow from the top of the mountain and we saw a few marks where apparently the deer had skidded.

All of a sudden, Prasa was pretty scared. He kept looking back and forth and wondering when the leopard would pounce on him. We reached the first summit of the Thotupola and headed further uphill to the grand summit. There were many flowers waiting to welcome us to this wonderful creation of the Mother Nature. We reached the summit and it had that signature pit with rocks bordering and we could see they had even put up some solar panels for the telecommunication tower at the top.

It was a 360 degree panoramic view and rising sun kept us looking towards the eastern with her fierce rays. We saw the Ohiya temple and the Kovil where they had built when the 18th tunnel had collapsed and couldn’t be repaired. You can read more about it here. We spent about half hour savoring the freshness of the mountain air and gorgeous view and felt very hungry. The food was still in the car waiting for us and we hurried down and reached the road in no time.

Then we took the road further towards the Farr Inn where Thomas Farr had built it in 1900 and the entrances to the Kirigalpoththa and World’s End are located. Along the way just passing Maha Eliya bungalow we came across a Sambar Deer nibbling at the grass. We jumped out and started snapping away. We reached the Farr Inn around 10.00am and laid the mat Sheham had brought with him and spread out our breakfast which is long overdue.

Sliced bread with tempered onions and boiled eggs washed down with fruit juice was just what the doctor ordered. We rested a bit and saw the visitor center too giving out information and have replicas of animals such as leopard, snakes and owl. It was so horrendous to see a bunch of people playing cards inside a van coz there was so much beautiful sceneries to keep you occupied but those guys chose to ignore it. What a pity and a waste of a journey.

Around 10.30am we were back on our way and just passing the Farr Inn, Sheham noticed a Deer far away and wanted to take a pic and see what it really is. To see, it was not just one, but a whole gang of them sitting sunbathing about a km away. We managed to get a decent size pic with our long zoom and left them for it.

Passing Kande Ela, I wanted to get down and take a few pics. The boat service has resumed at Kande Ela and I was horror stricken to see the damage is done by the people around the area. The mountain is being invaded at a rapid rate, clearing and building apparently hotels. The way it goes, they’ll soon put up a hotel at the top of Kande Ela hill. Feeling down we reached the town and went to the hotel.

Towards Haggala in the wee hours

Windmills at Ambewela dancing in the morning

Getting ready

“Anything to eat?”

“Please driver uncle, give me a bun”

Towards Ambewela on the way to Horton Plains

They are mesmerized

One of many wows

Maha Rathmala

Couldn’t take our eyes away

Near the ticket counter

Well done

The isolated road

Here we are

One of a million

“Hi there!”

Ready to get going

Making patterns

Blooming like there’s no tomorrow

Different varieties of plants

Many different colors too

Morning dew making it sexy

Ravana Ravul collecting and preserving water

Shady bit

What color is this?

Gorgeous

More flowers bordering the path

Too high

Bunch of them

Through the trees

Standing tall

Getting towards open ground

Sheham with his gigantic 50-500mm lens

Out in the open

Not many like these

Everywhere is like this

Royal blue

Like snow flakes

Path is snowed with flowers

Guardian of the flowers?

Faraway mountains looking at us

The view is never ending

Different angle

Couldn’t get enough of this

Nicely done

The biggest beard?

Another different one

Tiny fella

According to Kasun, the Dhal Tree

Just disgorged?

Sight to treasure

Holding onto the droplets

The smile says it all

Bowitiya plant turned out to be the Dhal tree

The Adam’s peak in the middle

Another kind of orchid

Done the preliminary work

Feel like kissing them all

Many more

Where the Sambar deer apparently skidded

Top of the tree with loving red

Lone tree

The clouds kept disappearing

An old pile

Can’t get over this

Camouflage

Brightening our day

“Hey, are you stuck up there?”

“No silly, I’m having my breakfast”

Searching for more

The solar panels, we cleaned the plates brushing the leaves and flowers away

Lone comms towers

The path towards World’s end

The Famous Five at the summit

No idea what this is

Holding on to the water

A bee?

Cluster of Bowitiya

Another bee lost among the flowers

Almost stepped on the fellow

Time to say bye

Atha learning to walk on his all fours

Kirigalpoththa and Agra-Bopath

Endless plains

The road to the infinity

Maha Eliya Bungalow

Posing for the pics

“Enough of posing, I’m hungry”

“Just go away, will you?”

I simply love the blue of the sky

The Farr Inn

Where we had our breakfast

Hopefully you can get an idea

The Farr Inn

Tomas Farr, 1900

The replica of the trails

The map in details

Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

Hambawa

Atu Bakamuna

Running freely

Sambar deers’ resting place

The four having fresh milk

Lovely

Ambewela farm

Kande Ela

The hill being invaded

Those cables are always destroying good pics

The water gets down

Kissable

Macro

Not missing this one

The next in line of the agenda was Kurundu Oya falls but it turned out to be a wasted journey and we were very much misled by the villagers and tuk-tuk drivers at Walapane. We left N’Eliya around 1.30pm and didn’t wanna visit Piduruthalagala coz the mist and clouds might obscure our view. Took the Ragala road which is under construction and in a very bad shape. We were thankful to the AC in the car coz we could keep the shutters closed without inhaling all the dust and poisonous smoke belching from the laboring vehicles.

Having reached Walapane around 3.00pm, we decided to ask the way from villagers to be on the safe side. Niroshan had done this before and unfortunately we couldn’t figure out the path that easily. The villagers kept giving us different directions and we went all around without success and eventually went to the Walapane town to get the help from tuk-tuk drivers but they were very unhelpful and we decided to abandon it and got back coz it’s a tedious task to drive on that road in the dark.

We should’ve taken the path through the entrance to the peace pagoda but we tried to go as far as in our car coz it was evening and didn’t wanna have to walk till the dark. So if you’re attempting this, do read Niroshan’s report and get an idea and we should’ve done the same but the luck wasn’t with us that time. Came back to N’Eliya around 5.30pm and were feeling ravenous coz we had no lunch.

There was a nice place in front of the Gregory Lake Park and we had a sumptuous meal and decided to take a walk in the dusk but the rain drops started coming down reminding us to get back to the hotel and turn in early as we had a very long day ahead the following day. We came to the hotel and embraced the sleeping beauty till morning without batting an eyelid.

Getting towards Walapane

Towards Randenigala

Randenigala up close

Helmalu system

We should’ve gone up the steps

Gigantic rock boulders

The path we were shown

Savoring the evening snack

Nice landscapes but where’s the falls?

Rocks and rocks

It turned out to be a wild goose chase

Evening sun on the Magastota

Towards Kikiliyamana

Piduruthalagala is covered in mist

Gigantic cloud hovering above the lake

Flowers, the theme of the day

What a freedom

Showing off his skills

Not giving up

Wolfed down

What a place to be one’s house

Day 02 – Piduruthalagala

The morning brought with her so much promise and there wasn’t even a hint of mist and it was the perfect morning to visit the top of Sri Lanka and get a view all around. We woke up around 5.30am and were ready to leave by 6.00am and drove up to the security gate at the Piduruthalagala. We were waved away having checked our permission and there were 6km to go till we reached the summit.

The view sent us crazy and we had to bite our camera straps to keep us from getting down and walk. It’s important that you abide by the rules stipulated and not get down. There’s the threat of the leopard too and the soldier who showed us around told us that he’d once seen a leopard so big and he got very scared and rode the bike till the summit without even looking back.

Virtually all the mountains of SL were visible and the Mother Nature kept all the obstacles away from us and we must’ve got the best view one can imagine. We reached the summit well before 7.00am and were warmly greeted by the Air Force personnel. The officer who introduced himself was one of the most professional soldiers I’ve ever seen.

We toured all around and took pics. We reached the summit point and it was an unforgettable experience one could have in their entire life time. We felt honored and privileged to be there at the summit embracing the surroundings. No one felt like going any time soon. However, we had our rail hike to do so with so much hesitation, we bid our farewell to the friendly AF soldiers and Army ones too. Leaving Piduruthalagala was not at all easy as we felt as if we were dragged back towards us by some magnetic force. Let me tell you this, none of the pics in this report or in any other report for that matter, will tell you the true story. You gotta see them with your own eyes and feel it.

Ok folks, that is the story of the Two Giants and the Million Petals. Will soon bring you the tale of our Rail hike. This was one of the most memorable journeys I’d ever had and will treasure it deep down my heart forever. Beloved N’Eliya kept us safe and free from rain as usual listening to my humble request.

Take care and do check the pics, specially the summary of Panos.

The best morning

Dew making all kinds of arts

Rose buds are simply making me crazy

Full of dew

Kissable red

Simply amazing

Can’t leave you

Kikiliyamana

Our destination

Take the left from here

The 3rd Singha Regiment is protecting the place

Do adhere to these

The forest beyond

The acting guard dogs at the gate

I’m not leaving these alone

Sign on the road, not a bad attempt though

I kept biting down my camera strap

Point and shoot

2km more to go

Finally we’re here

Endless mountains and the view was superb

Sri Pada up close

Comms towers all around

Gotta get close and read

Built in 1890

Look at those happy faces, they tell a story of their own

Salutation for the heroic soldiers

Felt honored to be there

The clouds were below us

Flowers everywhere

Maha rathmal too

SLRC tower

Small temple too on the top

The sun is up and shining

Clouds

It says something

The mess of the AF personnel

Their relaxing place

The team going around

Can’t leave this place

The village at the highest elevation, Shanthipura

We met a friend

Having bread biscuits

“Good morning buddy!”

An airliner at 30,000 ft

Summary of Panos…

Pano 1

Pano 2

Pano 3

Pano 4

Pano 5

Pano 6

Pano 7

Pano 8

Pano 9

Pano 10

Pano 11

Pano 12

Pano 13

Pano 14

Pano 15

Pano 16

The map – Click to enlarge

It was long ago I did a rail hike that was in February. So with the upcoming long weekend and been clueless, I decided to do a 3 day rail hike which I had to fast track to two days because Kasun invited me for another trip. Doing 65 Km’s for two days is more like a rail run but guess what I didn’t miss a thing. Walking speed was around 4.2Km’s/hour and I have never walked on a road even that fast. As most of you’ll know this stretch is not known for any special locations or scenery but I found out that there was lot to offer. My main focus was on flowers, may be wild or grown at stations as garden flowers, so please forgive me for adding many images of these beauties.

Day 1 the hike was commenced from Nanu oya and it was around 8.30am. I had to hurry up from the beginning because I started very late. From the start onwards flowers were smiling at me and I was in business. Just passing nanu oya I crossed three streams and the first was Nanu oya, second forming Nanu oya falls at a lower level and the 3^rd was lower reaches of Glassaug falls. I was lucky enough to see Adams peak that day which always brought up a grin on my face. Just before Passing Radella I came across tunnel no 17 and in few minutes Great western was in sight. The 6st highest mountain range was clear of mist inviting hikers to climb it if they dare too. From great western to Watagoda it was a walk along picturesque tea estates and after passing tunnel number 16 Devon falls was seen plunging far away. Next stop was Thalawakele and just before the station St clairs mini, Upper Kotmale reservoir came across my visual path. Walking across a reservoir gave me an awkward feeling that I have never felt before. Tunnel no 15 was just after Thalawakele and a “dakkuwa” filled with passenger passed whistling by me while I was in the tunnel. Plenty of kids were following me thinking I was a foreigner and was attempting to get some money out of my pockets which they failed to do so. St clairs was my next attraction and seen it lacking its beauty which she once had made me almost tear. Kotagala stretch provided me with some misty scenery before entering the dark and spooky tunnel of Singimale. The walk through this 500m odd tunnel was really scary but meeting locals who were traveling up and down regularly was a relief for me. When I reached Hatton I was dead tired and an early dinner and an icy bath completed my day.

starting point

halted at nanu oya

reddish beauty

just like a sun flower

had to bend my back to get this one

a lovely orange

this is a rapid flowing stream at nanu oya

upper nanu oya falls

pink standing tall between the logs

tiny yellow beauties

finally a pure white one

greesed

this was seen commonly

oh the boogy man

smaller bowitiya version

what they play with

glassaugh falls

lower cascade

wild but colourful

they play with sharp blades

this one was a bit shy

life between logs

Elebedda??

towards hatton side

a panorama of lidula

gave me a nasty look

give me some room

a Ashy prinia

Adams peak

while on duty

watchful

tunnel no 17

bye bye

they make sure that we live another day

a cascade at radella

another cascade

off they go

first landmark

on the way scenery towards lidula

hooded partial cave

horton plains

mighty great western

on the edge of a mountain

a lilly?

Again i had to crawl to capture this beauty

white again

mixed together

some wood for my home

yellow tinged

my ever loving gandapana

towards the shade

next station is close by

a white daisy

the colours i love

lovely yellow border of the petal

orangish yellow

searching for the last drop of honey

wish it had a drop of water on a petal

The Great western

two rails is helpful

the blue ceauty

touch of white

dark red it is

oh she smiled

minature flowers

Pied Bushchat

white on black background

lovely isnt it

they were joyed to see me

missing school to earn few bucks

beautiful landscape at great western

scenic track

hard life

the traditional basket

the path they walk on

crossing over

please forgive me, I mean no harm

Watagoda reached

balcony view

art on a glass

friends i met

a short one

tunnel 16

Devon falls seen from watagoda

near by cascades

crossing over

st clairs mini falls

upper kotmale

ah a beauty

the face says his story

they walk on the rail road coz they have no option

roses

once this was a river

high contrasting colours

thalawakele

came across a dakkuwa while in tunnel 15

after a tiring day

the dam

upper kotmale project scheme

st clairs the current state

evolved version of a monkey

I love these

light pink it is

landscape

derryclair station

last power set train i met

kotagala cascade

lovely flow

kotagala peak as seen from the station

wondering where her kids are when needed

all in one

find the odd one

portrait

oh a surprise one

mist setting down

lovely isnt it

a cuckoo

galkandawatta wonder if they stop here even

gods on the side of the railways protecting the travelers

longest railway tunnel in sri lanka (singimale)

atlast the end

reached hatton

Day two the hike was initiated at 5.45am from Hatton station and it was another day of lonely walking through tea estates. Sun was denied its rights by the mighty clouds but it produced some magical scenery which I relished. Wild orchids which I came across after Rozella were the highlight of that stretch and also the stunning scenery as always pleased my hunger. While walking towards Watawala I came across a crew repairing the rail track and it was very interesting to listen to what they were saying while pulling a log. They used a unique language just like when the fishermen pull their nets! For ex: “Hoi wamata adin” Hoi Kelin adin”.  Watawala to Galaboda was the longest stretch I have come across up to now, the 9.2Km track seemed to be never ending and it was through a lonely pines forest where I only met two linesman. Thanks to the dog who accompanied me I didn’t feel lonely that much. Seen Galboda at last was a great relief and a 5 minute break was required to regenerate the lost energy. After Galboda I came across two tunnels in succession where a bridge intervened. From Galboda to Iguru oya I was blessed with heavy showers and it was a relief that it lasted only one hour or so. Just before Hynford station I took a by road and reached Upper Hynford falls where I washed myself and had a quick change before getting back to the railroad to rush towards Nawalapitiya to catch the 3pm express train to Colombo. When I got to Nawalapitiya it was 2.45pm and I hurried towards a pastry shop to fulfill my hunger and returned in time to catch the express power set train which provided a comfortable 4hour ride to Colombo to my tired soul. I was more than satisfied with what I achieved and the stunning images do justify my rail run in search of petals!

starting point day 2

wow an eye opener

i saw the pink on the previous day

slow shutter

blending colours

sun is battling its way

more cascades

trees were like tall guards

on fire

its history now

on a Que

Drunk driving?

blessed to see these scenery

red coloured tea factory

im in a hurry

tuhina

sllepykumba

like grains

this was at Rozella and beautiful unfortunately not possible to take a clear snap

back to the flowers

Rozella

blend together

roses and roses

yellow petals

lonely path

wow what a place

an orchid

the commonest orchid i came across

cascade at rozella

on a straight line

beauty of the railway

routine work

ihala watawala sealed off

hoi wamata adin…

purple

hydrangea

reached watawala

100 more miles

the one who followed me for the next 7Km’s

pleasure to the eyes

common but beautiful

the lonely 9Km stretch

the silent killer

toddy

bark mushrooms loving the silpara

yummy

kabaragala covered

flame flower

at dekida rail platform

at galboda

i really love this

clustered together

tunnel(13), bridge and tunnel(12) again

down stream of galaboda falls

iguru oya

they never stop surprising me

penrose

finally a mammal

it was pouring heavily when i met this beast

what they have to face day to day

iguru oya station

he was walking faster than me even with those bags

i had a long chat with this guy

a blue mormon

peella

towards hynford

lovely scenery

top of hynford

upper hynford falls

lower part

half dead cobra

few more km’s

getting tougher

their routine

jobless guys

the end destination

waiting till the train arrives

on the way bathalegala seen from kadugannawa

on the way uthuwankanda also seen at ihala kotte

Hope you enjoyed reading, thank you!

Map 1 – Click to enlarge

Map 2 – Click to enlarge

Degal hela (Diggalahela) is also known as Rock of Siyambalanduwa. This isolated monadnock was first seen while climbing Govinda hela last year, since then it was a dream for me. Though I found a guide to show me the way the weather was always turning from bad to worse when ever I plan to do so. On a Saturday early morning I met Ajith from 2^nd mile post at Siyambalanduwa and proceeded towards Helamulla ancient temple which lies at the base of the mountain where I was introduced to Sena who promised to take us uphill. The weather god’s made sure that a bit of drizzle would make it bit more challenging to us. We curved along the mountain climbing boulders and reached a slope which was not much difficult to tackle and at last we were almost at the top after a one and a half hour hike. The summit has two rocks hence Degal hela(450m). And on one of those there was a ruined pagoda just like all other mountain tops of Wellassa. We walked along the ridge and enjoyed a panoramic view towards Siyambalanduwa. Though it was a gloomy day I did manage to identify many landmarks. Actually one could clearly see Madulsima range, Govinda hela, Wadinagala, Siyambalanduwa, Monaragala, Kotiyagala, Yala, Athimale, Mahakalugolla, Lahugala and potuvil side. We didn’t forget to climb both rocks though it was bit challenging.

For the return route we choose the abyss between the two rocks and this was a tough descend considering the slippery nature of the rocks. I won’t recommend anyone to climb from this route for many reasons. At a half-way point we came to a nice dry and large spacious space covered by a hood formed by the rock. After hanging around a bit we headed in search of a “Gal siyambala” tree. None of the “gal siyambala” trees were spared by local gangs who are doing this in an organized manner. The way they have cut trees there will not be a single tree left for the future generations. It is said that one tree fruits in 10 years or so. We found an untouched tree which we cut offed a small number of braches leaving few for the tree. Collecting Gal siyambala for two hours was a memorable thing for me and even Ajith been a local have never plucked these fruits. We somehow collected about good 2Kg’s before descending towards the base to end our hike.

450m Diggalhela

kissed by the mist a rare sighting at siyambalanduwa

Crawling along boulders

musrooms

the drop

a rest before the last crawl

last bit

ancient pagoda on the summit

Muthukandiya reservoir

Buddama,Nape,Wadinagala and west minster peaks

Kithal hela and kukulamulla range

Maragala covered with mist

Helamulla wewa

towards yala

drop	second peak

Dombagahawela and monaragala

paddy fields and chena

the cave close to the summit

first rock

peaks of gal oya

on the edge

Buttala & Wellawaya side

Lahugala and panama

the team

lakes at hulannuge

hulannuge taru lengala

2nd mile post junction

Hulannuge and lahugala

life

pano towards siyambalanduwa

framed

kahata

window view

the cave

well balanced rocks

resting a bit

mission gal siyambala

plucking gal siyambala

the product

we plucked 2Kg’s

mother nature trying to hide human cruelty

De gal hela = two rock mountain

There are few archeological sites in the vicinity and I have written about them on one of my previous trip reports called Heritage around Siyambalanduwa. Sena had some information of a place which I was not aware about called Weherapudama. This place is a rocky plateau surrounded by civilization with lot of debris of buildings and few rock ponds. Interestingly we found a cave too. My assumption is that this place might have been a monastery once. After thanking Sena for the “manyokka” lunch with “waraka” desert I took off towards Monaragala to end my adventure for the day.

a new type of light post

off we go towards weherapudama

kema	drainage line

view from weherapudama

pillar holder

bits of bricks

bat cave

Day two again it was Siyambalanduwa, for this expedition four of my colleagues from GH Monaragala joined me. Early morning we drove towards 10^th mile post of Ampara – Siyambalanduwa road. I think most of you guys must be knowing about Govinda hela which was once a fortress. Ah! We were going to govinda hela but not to climb it but to explore a cave complex called Bingoda which once served the purpose of a monastery. There is a foot path starting just opposite Sarath’s tyre shop which is now covered at few places because the place had been abandoned for 2 years. The ancient road had well placed steps and at some places steps carved on rocks which led towards a cave complex. We at least came across 10 caves with drip ledge inscriptions. And the largest cave had tree tops kissing its drip ledge. The largest cave should be the largest and tallest cave in Monaragala district. We also found a good view point (balum gala) where we sat for a while before leaving this mysterious place behind.

Entering the forest while the rays of the sun tried to creep through

mighty westminster abbey

beautiful path

ancient steps

entrance

monliths

reaching the sky

where they once gathered

steps covered with leaves

ancient lake at the base of the mountain

the foot path from the lake

the first cave

even the monk was counted

another cave

its inscription

plaster

bark mushrooms

the lipa

blent with nature

a huge cave

the largest

the drip ledge with inscription

difficult to get a full view

a symbol

inside the cave

another cave

Kiri mati guhawa

නම මසුරං උනාට වැඩ නම් පිත්තල(thanks kasun for the caption)

unfinished caves

the view from a rock

jayanthi lake & pallan hela

Wadinagala & walasgala

said good bye to the cave

still together

After getting to the main road we thanked Sarath and took off towards Damana where we took the Pannalgama road for 10Km’s to reach Ambalam oya reservoir which is said to have the longest bund in the region. After enjoying some stunning scenery we decided to return back and on the way we did stop at Ekgal oya reservoir too.

Though our last destination was Arugam bay we proceeded towards Panama and reached Panama bay where Wila oya meets the ocean. Since it was not safe to bathe at this picturesque location we returned to Arugam bay where we had lunch and nice warm bath though it was drizzling. The gloomy lagoon produced some unusual scenery for us. I also must state that the way Arugam bay hotels (mini) treat locals is very unsatisfactory and you will feel like punching them on the face if you go to a wrong place… we returned back on A4 towards Monaragala at around 6Pm on that day.

Ambalan oya reservoir

beautiful ambalan oya

comron

halted

wadinagala as seen from ambalam oya

Ekgal oya reservoir

beauty

Panama

edge of panama

panama beach

getting gloomy

wow what a place

a lagoon

Gloomy arugam bay

meeting at the horizon

full of visitors

lonely traveler

Thanks for reading!

The idea of seeking knuckles like a beautiful dream of a seeker is born in my heart before long time ago. The end of my interest is run out of this journey with beautiful memories.

I give my special thank to “Lakdasun” because of the help for materialize my dream.

We start our journey from Kurunegala to Kandy bus at about 4.00am and we reached Katugasthota about 5.15am. From there we went to Mathale at 6.30am by Anuradhapura bus. We took breakfast from Mathale & buy some other goods which we need to our journey from Mathale.

There is an only one bus from Mathale to Pitawala and also it is run twice a day. So if you use public transport, you must pay your attention well. The first turn of this bus is to be at 7.30am (You can confirm whether the bus is available or not. CTB Depot Mathale 066222228)

Our gang at Mathale bus stand

But the bus was late from one hour on that day. So we were left from Mathale at 8.30am. After 2 hours we get down from Pitawala junction at about 10.30am.
Mr wasantha who found as our guide was send a 3wheel to pitawala for us to his home Atanwala. Our guide Mr. Basnayaka gathered us from Atanwala and it was about 11.00am when we start our journey.

At the pitawala junction

Just click

We met “Wedda peni Ella” after 500m ahead and we stayed there a moment & then start our hike again by crossing “Thelgamu oya”.

Manigala mountain with a prosperous faddy field

Beauty of the “Wedda peni Ella”

After another 500m along we met a very prosperous paddy field of beautiful “Atanwala” village boundary. We were not forgetting to visit a villager’s house of Atanwala. We were very lucky to get their treats & hospitality also. One old woman in this village talked with us loyally. It was touched our heart toughly, which she said “ගල් ගෙඩි උඩ පන අරින්නේ නැතුව පරිස්සමෙන් ගිහින් වාරෙන් මයේ පුතාල…”
It was a great pleasure which talk with like that much unfeigned people and we said them to good bye & started our way again.

Prosperous paddy field in “Atanwala”

Another side of beautiful village

Feel with their hospitality

Authenticity

Loyal chat with innocent villagers

Our next target is the Walpolamulla village which we entered to the jungle from right side of the Manigala range. Though the Walpolamulla is considered as a village, there was no any sign of human being. It was about 4km from Atanwala to Walpolamulla and that way also very hard. After passed on another few kilometers we could see the faces of elephants on the path. In here we weren’t forget to put some crackers to informed elephants which our arrival. Specially our guide said that “මහත්තයලා පය ඉක්මන් කලොත් හොදයි…”

A visitor who met in transit

Get the blessing of god…

A moment of catching the beauty

A moment of catching the beauty

Another angle of “Manigala mountain’

We reached to Walpolamulla after 1.5 hour tired journey. There was a one dilapidated house & others seem to be as ruins. There was a paddy field beyond that. At very first time the travel head of “Kalupahana Kanda” was seen here and also there was a very beautiful surrounding. We could see the “Thunhisgala” mountain range & other mountain ranges were in back side to the “Kalupahana range”.

Finding various angles

Walk along the paradise…

The first scene of the destination

Decayed cottage in “Walpolamulla”

“Thunhisgala” mountain standing as a hulk.

While small shooting…

We spend some time there and started our journey again with a new inspiration and power. The way of this time was across a dip. The main problem was the path was very slippery due to the dry leaves. After 1 hour of hard journey we managed to finish our mountain dip.

Then we met a stream and we decided to have our lunch there. We rest for some time and started to walk again around 3.00pm. Our root was across a mountain range with a narrow ascending by that. We could reach to “Nugathalawa” at about 4.pm. It was a narrow dip from “Nugathalawa” to “Weddahena”. We faced an unexpected heavy rain and it destroyed all our plans. When reach to “Weddahena” we were tired and it was about 7.00pm.

Some members of our gang prepared dinner and others went to find some fire wood for bonfire. We faced some other problem as we had limited water for all uses at that time. After that the dinner was swallowed by us very eagerly and that was a very long and acrimonious night for us. Before the sleep we had to dry our wring wet clothes by using bonfire. Then we got asleep. All the members were affected by the cruel chigoes attacks by that morning.

Start withdrawing from “Wlpolamulla”

“Nugathalawa” (This a better place for camping)

First day night bonfire… (That was a long and acrimonious night with a chigoes attack and effluvium of bats)

With the intention of seeking beautiful dreams…

Second day

We started our second day hike at about 6.00am by adding sweet memories of earlier night to memory book. But we had to face an unexpected leaching force early morning because of their inspiration with the last night rain. We could reach to “Puswelketiya oya” after quarter an hour journey and first of all we got a long bath as our wish. We returned that place at 7.30am after having the breakfast also. We walked along nearly for two hours with the new inspiration and the road was across a valley.

Amazing beauty…

Feeling the cool of nature…

One of precious gift by mother nature…

What a great beauty…

The great morning in Knuckles

The hidden beauty of nature

Another angle…

Kingdom of bumble-bees

When we entered to “Kalu ganga” and the time was 9.30am by that. We met the first two waterfalls away from few kilometers. It’s a very beautiful waterfall with a tiny pool. We stayed there at a moment and feel its beauty as our wish and again started our journey.

The beauty of the first mermaid which we met

Woww..!!!

Another angle of first water fall

The second mermaid (Though the height is less, it’s spread in wide area)

The tastiest water drop I had ever drunk…

Along the dream…

The path of the journey was away from the river by that and we had to climb the mountain across a narrow ascent. We had to go out from our way in order to watch the water fall, so we kept aside our baggage and get relax to feel that beauty of the water fall. 3,4,5 water falls were very close to each other.

Amazing third mermaid (This falls to a deep brae, so it’s very dangerous to reach there.)

Zoom view of in third mermaid

Fourth mermaid (This situated in over the third fall and also there is a deep pool)

Can you persecute to mother nature furthermore..?

Sign of danger!!!

Again we entered to our way and came to “Kalu ganga” across a tough dip. We fed up too much by that, so we had got the lunch there and get a rest. Again we started to walk at about 12.30pm and then we entered to “Kalu pahana kanda”. It is also very difficult track and crossing this track also hard. It was risky because of the slipperiness of the path. We were affected cruel attacks of leaches because of the wet surrounding. This was much of snakes and but we could safe because of wearing safety boot.

Climbing the “Kalupahana mountain”. It’s a very fed up moment

Too…difficult (The road was tough & slippery)

Bleeder is not give up his effort yet

Though the size is small, the beauty is a lot…

We reached to “Duwili Ella plain” after 2.5 hours difficult journey. All of us got a good rest there. According to our guide reached our destination by that. After another half hour it was full filled our beautiful dream. We celebrated our victory with showering from the water fall.

The moment after materialized the dream…

Overflow the joy & happiness

Result of successful team effort

Beautiful “Knuckles Queen” with the angle of cave

We collected fire woods before getting dusk with the experience of early day. We spend second day night at “Duvili Ella cave” and it was an unforgettable night in our lives. The rain which started evening was continued till mid night. The water amount of the water fall is increased by that and it was a fresh experience also.

The beauty of Knuckles Queen

Another angle…

Don’t jealousy, feel the beauty and try reach it sooner or later …

Another angle from the cave

How do you feel..?

Yes I know it’s an amazing…

Extremely feel…preserve for next generation

As a victorious gang from the trail head.

Simple way…

Having a long bath as our wish…

So cool…

Beautiful night in “Knuckles” with moon bath

Third Day
We ready to go back before sun rising to the Knuckles. It seems to be very unlike from our gang because of the departure of Knuckles. However we had reached to “Rambukoluwa” before the dusk. So we left there with sad moods.

Is she the mermaid whom we seek?

Zoomed click of “Riveston peak”

Another beautiful morning of “Knuckles”

Beauty of nature

Just click…

Zoom view on “Karagahathenna transmission station”

Deep in “Knuckles” range

“Duvili Ella” with the cave (We spend second day night in this cave)

Finally we seek our “Queen mermaid”

Actually It’s amazing…

The cave is beyond the water fall (The cave which we spend second day night)

The cave is beyond the water fall (The cave which we spend second day night)

Dedication for one intention…

We hurried to “Pusselketiya” with watching other missed water falls in second day at it was at 12.00pm by that. Then we had our lunch & started our walk again and it was 1.00pm. We selected “Rambukoluwa” way for our return. Because that way was easier than “Atanwala”.

Another beautiful mermaid (Our gang named this one as “Padipela Ella” because of the position)

What a great beauty like a sari…

It fall down to deep pool

Foaming water like milk

Sixth mermaid…

Creating fifth water fall…

It has a great bio diversity

Fantasy of mother nature…

While preparing lunch in middle of the “Puswel ketiya oya”

We are also good chefs…

Mmm… Lunch is ready…

The way was parallel to the “Kalu ganga” & it was across a valley. This was a great consolation for our fed up gang.

We could see other beautiful fall which “Deganthuduwa Ella” after a 1km along the way. At very first time, the “Aswedduma paddy field in “Rambukoluwa” village had seen after another 2km. It was little rain by that & it was quickening our walk.

Beautiful “Deganthuduwa fall”

Our gang entered to “Rmbukoluwa” way…

Another little water fall (You can see this along the “Rambukoluwa” way)

It was seems to be signs of human settlement so far ahead. There was a little bit narrow path & the evidence to people walking. We reached to the boundary of “Rambukoluwa” village at about 4.00pm & we were completely wringing wet by that.

Amazing view of “Kalu gaga” (This join with “Mahaweli” river which starting from “knuckles” range with feeding “Ambangaga”)

View of “Aswedduma” paddy field in “Rambukoluwa” (The first sign of human settlement after 3 days)

Quick steps towards “Rambukoluwa”

“Rambukoluwa” is another beautiful isolated village in Knuckles range like “Atanwela”. The people who living there is very poor by physical properties but they have high level of human qualities than us. We stayed a moment in their house & came back with finish of successful & adventuresome journey in whole 3 days nearly 30km walking.

But very special thing is by that also our gang was in high mental & physical health even with many challenges.

Dilapidated house in “Rambukoluwa”

Our 3 day adventure journey finished like this…

We came from “Rambukoluwa” to “Pallegama” by hired taxi & we could catch the “Dambulla” bus at about 6.30pm. We could reach to “Dambulla” at 8.30pm. When we reached our home the midnight was passed also.

If I had not a gang shoulder to shoulder with me like that & also our guide Mr basnayake, I never get experience as much as beautiful like this.

Hiya folks, I left you at Piduruthalagala in the last report and you must still be there mesmerized by the majestic and unobstructed view offered by the ever-loving and so kind Mother Nature. So I thought of bringing you back to the concrete jungle where we make our living. No matter how much we despise this piece of unforgiving land yet we have to come back coz our lives depend so much on these concrete pillars, smoke-belching vehicles, dust-filled air, grime-covered sidewalks and hectic occupations.

I won’t simply bring back to Colombo, instead, I’m gonna take you through a detour and show you more lush greenery mixed with outstanding landscapes thanks to the mercy shown by my beloved N’Eliya. As I told you before, she proved to be a gem chasing all the rain clouds away and making sure we were kept nice and dry. We couldn’t thank her enough and wanna go see her again. Guess what? She was so happy to see my letter as it was the first time I did send As I told you before, she proved to be a gem chasing all the rain clouds away and making sure we were kept nice and dry. We couldn’t thank her enough and wanna go see her again. Guess what? She was so happy to see my letter as it was the first time I did send her one and all the other times it was either text messages or just telepathic mails.

We left amazed by the view offered at the summit of Gigantic Piduruthalagala and hoping they’d let us walk to the top from the entrance (6km). It would make it the ideal hike but due to all the security protocols coupled with bureaucracy wouldn’t likely to allow that in the foreseeable future. If you missed reading my previous report, you can check it over here.

Having stocked our larder with rice and curry and noodles, we reached at the Ambewela at moderate 8.45am and got the permission from the SM to park our car and leave it there. He was very willingly agreed and the Colombo-bound Podi Menike was arriving at the station and then sat waiting for the signal to run along.

Having stored water bottles, meal packs, portable cooker of Prasa and other essential items into our back packs, we left Ambewela towards Nanu Oya through the lush green patches of Ambewela farm.

Tour Highlights:

1. 14+ km of Rail Hiking

2. Elgin Falls

3. Perakumpura Falls and Perakumpura Mini Falls

4. Endless breath-taking sceneries

5. Summary of Panos

It was nice and sunny and we enjoyed the fresh mountain air to the max and this was Sheham’s first rail hike and according to him, long overdue. So he wanted to make the most of this and attempt others soon after. The KM post at the Ambewela said 219.5km which meant we had to hit 205.5km post to finish our hike.

 Ambewela-Perakumpura – 9km

We came across the Ambewela Reservoir and its sluice gates after a short distance. Unfortunately it was closed so we couldn’t get a good view of the running down water with plenty of foam. Apparently there used to be people fishing in this reservoir for trout which is among the many threatening species found in Sri Lanka. The Mount Thotupola was looking at us from far away feeling sorry that we were leaving her behind.

The either side of the railway line is also used as a footpath for the villagers and farmers. We even saw the footpath is being used by motor bicycles carrying sacks of vegetables to hand over to the waiting Lorries. The life either side of the railway line is based on farming, mainly vegetables such as Carrot, Leeks, Radish and Potatoes. Unfortunately, they are not organic by any means and it made me feel very sad as they not only add poison to our vegetables but also make our waterways unusable.

However the kids found us irresistible peeping around corners but running away the moment I pointed the camera at them. There were so many beautiful flowers bordering the track and I couldn’t get enough of them as I kept well behind the group snapping at almost every single flower and finally it became too much coz the group had a nearly half km lead on me and had to run at times to catch up with them.

The footpath on either side helped us so much as we didn’t have to walk on the railway line itself and this took a huge burden off our hip bones and spine. It’s always a tedious task to walk on the uneven railway tracks and the gap between sleepers is not the best friends of your feet. We saw a few caves dug into the walls and later found the reason for them. The workers of the railway and farmers use these caves to boil water and sometimes cook meals as they give optimal shelter from constant drizzle and winds. We saw many remains of makeshift hearths in and around these.

We stopped by for breakfast and had our rice and curry spread on the sleepers piled on either side of the railway line. It was so nice to have a hearty meal enveloped by the trees. After about an hour we met the first of the trains coming from Nanu Oya. A good old M6 with carriages of passengers and oil heading towards Haputale was the first to come across us along the hike and it was a nice welcome. The color combination of the engine (Red and Green) was a nice addition to the already greeny and bluey surroundings.

Just before Elgin Falls, there was a very nice bridge similar to the Black Bridge in Demodara and it had recently been renovated with new pilings and looked absolutely gorgeous. It’d been grand had there been a train coming at that time to capture it on the bridge but we were not that lucky. Passing that we came across the famous Elgin Falls onto our left. Initially my intention was to get down to the base of her but our time schedule wouldn’t hear any of it. Instead we had to be content with the view from the railway line. However, Niroshan had got down to this fall some time ago and you can see his report here. This is at the 215km post which means 4.5km away from Ambewela.

There’s a signpost saying Elgin Falls and we had a quick snack of biscuits and fruit juice to pacify our dehydrated bodies. Passing Elgin, we saw yet another somewhat bigger waterfall about 500m away and it could even have been a seasonal falls but located at the edge of a tea estate and surely easily accessible than Elgin.

Along the way, we met a linesman who applies oil to the side of the railway track to avoid it being eroded or cut away by the wheels of the train. He’s carrying a 2-foot tube like thing in which has two flags of red and green along with some explosives. Now don’t get alarmed. It is just a circular-shaped fire-cracker the size of a “Cheena Patas”. When it’s misty and the visibility is low, these people tie the cracker onto the track with a tiny metal strap so that when the train goes over it, it blasts with a huge bang giving a warning to the engine driver. With these they can easily avoid catastrophes happening.

Then we found a bunch of workers replacing the old sleepers with new ones and fixing the railway line and Udarata Menike train too arrived just on cue. She went very slowly due to the track being not as steady as it was amid the repairs and we got some nice captures on our lenses. The track made some nice shapes like a capital S and it was nice to see the train too winding along these like a python after a heavy lunch.

We reached Perakumpura in no time and the going was reasonably quick. The bridge before the Perakumpura station was being repaired too with new plates being welded into the structure to help pedestrians walk on either side. The workers show us a beautiful passion fruit flower with amazing purplish patterns on it. Just on the right hand side we could hear a waterfall but the overgrown bushes prevented us seeing her. I was frantically searching for a path when out of nowhere got a glimpse of this beauty through a nearby farm. With their permission we crossed the garden to get a close look and got some decent shots in our cameras. She was named the Perakumpura Mini Falls as there was a bigger one towards the village.

I was looking for the other cascade which is the bigger sister of this and Ashan’s previous report helped me locate her.

Podi Menike coming to Ambewela

Ready with the tablet

Train length

Away she goes

Ready to go

Ready to go

The road lies to New Zealand farm

Single orchid

I’m left behind

Tiny pond

Shy but curious

Being invaded?

Nicely done as if done with a foot ruler

First of many

Cluster of white beauties

all closed up

Up close

Going towards Ambewela, see the foot path beyond

Different arts being created

Couldn’t resist this one

There are hundreds of these

Another one

Hidden in the trees

Being unloaded to be transported

Waiting for the lorry

Like the artistic look

Simply stunning

Had breakfast with these all around

See the color reproduction

Not to be taken away

She’s there too

Thotupola in the horizon

Busy at work

Towards New Zealand farm

Just found it

Endless

It’s like a road

Being nourished by the disgorging trains

Up through the V cut

Leaveless

One of the cooking caves

Further more

Love the color combination

Here comes the first one and the folks are busy

Majestic looking despite the old age

See yah

Giant ferns

Good for freshing up

Another nice one

Freshly dug

More work to be done

Around the corner

Where’s Kassa?

Clouds and mountain tops

The bridge

Close up

Just got this

Purple covered

Atha’s way ahead

Mammoth pillars

Wish there was a train

Nice plant

This is where you find Elgin

There it is

Faraway

Trying hard to get closer

Bottom part

Consists of 3 parts

Top most

Walking along

Time to go

Another resting place of workers

The falls beyond Elgin

Looks big

Yet another V cut

Endless mountains

Closing in on Perakumpura

All over

Love the reddish color on this

Pretty much isolated

There he comes

Unloading the tube

The contents: Oil can, cracker, flags and the tube itself

This is the one I’ve been telling you

Super macro

The color of love

Got plenty of these too

Where’s Perakumpura?

Repairs

Makeshift bathing place?

Ready to blossom

She’s feeding on them

The equipment of the workers. That rope looks like it can pull a ship

Coming slowly

See yah

Some more of these

Super looking

The mix bag of dark, white and blue sky

Entering into the tea estates

Endless

Must be close to Perakumpura now

How can I not take these?

Not missing you either

Been going for a good 8+km by now

The dark clouds threatening but going away at last

This is just part of the life

The Perakumpura bridge, Sheham and Prasa who died 1000 deaths crossing this coming towards the village

Repairs underway

What can I say?

The hidden Perakumpura Mini Falls

Hi there!

Still got enough water

Wish we could have a very cold bath

Ready to reap the benefits of hard labor

Looking good

Immaculate

Perakumpura-Nanu Oya – 5km

Having visited the little sister of Perakumpura Falls, we got the directions from the villagers to the big sister and it was about a 600-800m circular track which brought us back onto the railway track beyond the Perakumpura station.

The falls could be seen through a potato patch and we got as close as possible to get a few shots. There was doggy and he seemed very friendly at first jumping up and down but must have got disappointed as we didn’t offer him any scraps. So he hid is tail between the hind legs and started growling softly and Kasun simply ran away. I too realized the fellow meant business and quietly slipped past his kennel.

Meanwhile, Atha, Sheham and Prasa had got down to the top of the falls and we too joined them. After a short break we decided to get back and continue our journey. There were dark clouds hovering above threatening to come down at any second but my humble request had more merits to keep them away.

After a km or so away we decided to cook our instant noodles and have them with the bread we had. So another collection of sleepers gave us a perfect resting place and we could see the Great Western Mountain watching us faraway through the mist. The top of her was completely covered by the mist but she was generous enough to give us a good view on and off.

Prasa and Atha got busy with the cooker and noodles while Kasun called Ashan, Dana and Thinuwan who’d gone to visit Nelu Flowers and waiting for a train at Ambewela. Having cooked different flavored packs of noodles we settled down to devour them with chunks of bread. As soon as we finished the breakfast we heard the train coming and wanted to do a short video and got busy with my Lumia.

Ashan and the gang were waiting towards the end of the train and we both had a hooting competition. The video of that is here.

Video 01:

Nanu Oya was looming ahead and Colombo bound Podi Menike having suffered numerous delays were waiting at Nanu Oya till the train from Ambewela reached Nanu Oya. The blue Chinese S12 was coming through the lush tea plantations like a giant snake and it was very beautiful sight. It got closer and closer and we managed to get some long shots.

Eventually there was a tiny hill and we all got up to it and it gave a super overhead view of the oncoming train and I shot another short video.

 Video 02:

Then it was a very short distance to the Nanu Oya station. The lush tea plantations kept us occupied with our cameras and it started to drizzle and it got us worried coz the dark clouds were pretty much right overhead and Kasun decided to take out it raincoat and put the camera in his waterproof backpack. However, it didn’t bother us that much and we managed to reach Nanu Oya in record time by 2.15pm.

There was a train leaving for Ambewela at 2.30pm and we were glad to have got before that. We also saw the signs of the former Udupussellawa railway line but further examination had to be called off due to the timing of the next train. However, we were disappointed to hear the train is delayed as much as an hour or so and settled down for the long wait.

Finally when it came, it was 3.50pm and the drizzle was getting heavier and we enjoyed our steps backwards in the train. I was fortunate enough to get pic of the bridge and the front of the train on it which partially compensated for the earlier disappointment. Around 4.20pm we reached Ambewela and bid our farewell to the SM with our thanks.

Well it was my third successful rail hike and there sure will be plenty more coming up in the future. It was so nice to be back in N’Eliya and she was very kind for us. That concludes the 3rd stage of my rail hikes and it surely turned out to be another fairy tale. Hope you guys enjoyed reading as much as I enjoyed writing it. Again let me tell you, it’s nothing like going and seeing it with your own eyes.

Take care…

The Perakumpura Falls hidden among the trees

Orange rose bud

The twins

In full color

The cluster of love

The circus doggy trying to get some scrap from us

Getting down to take closer look at the falls

Irresistible

Finally

Still blocked by the branches

That’s the best we can do

The water is mixed with all kinds of fertilizers and chemicals used up hill

Adorable

Growling softly looking menacing

Ready for another winter

From the top of Perakumpura falls

Right at the top

Not much water

Watering the carrot plots

By passing the station

Dark clouds have finally gone far away

Overhead bridge to cross from one estate to the other

Now I’m hungry

Towards Talawakele

They had been pruned and fertilized

Pruned to the bones

Looking for a place to cook

Working alone

That’s the work

Every inch of land is being used

Finally got a place and the cooker is good to go

Prasa, the master chef

Atha putting all the noodles packets in one go

Almost done

Gosh I’m ravenous

There comes the Podi Menike through the tea estates

The peak of Great Western finally cleared just a tiny bit

End of work

Glassaugh Falls seen from far

It’s very close now to the destination

The train must be coming very close now

On the left corner is where we climbed to get a good view of the oncoming train

Lush greenery

There she’s

Not Scotland even though it says Edinburgh

We were running to get a good look and record her movements

Innovative

Drizzling

Time to hurry

More to go

But not leaving these behind

After school and running to beat the rain

IPW?	Another look of Glassaugh Falls

Abandoned carriages just before Nanu Oya

Trying to get a good view from the bottom

Widening the road?

Couple of bucketfuls will fill this to the brim

Hurrahhhhhhh!!!!

Just the board is there and must try and follow its steps

The tuning bridge at Nanu Oya

Solidly built by the English

We did it

Long platform

This must’ve used to pour water to the coal carriages

From the station

Concrete sleepers ready to be taken away

Good old buildings

Those workers we met coming down to the station

End of the day’s work

Had to balance the camera on top of a bottle to get this

She really is amazing

From the crossing bridge

The sleeping competition

Using the paw instead of a pillow… what a relaxed face

Nearly 1.5hrs late

On the move and got the pic of missing Perakumpura station

My wish came true. The rain on the bridge

Reachig Ambewela

Caterpillar had been on the move too

Wondering when it’d move

Bidding our farewell

Kotmale in the last bit of sunlight

Summary of Panos

Ok here goes the Summary of Panos. Enjoy!

Pano 1

Pano 2

Pano 3

Pano 4

Pano 5

Pano 6

Pano 7

Pano 8

Pano 9

Pano 10

Pano 11

Pano 12