Knuckles is fond of so many beautiful & isolated villages. The life of the people in it is blended with nature. Their food, tradition, occupation, Emotions, Romance etc is based on nature. That’s why I love knuckles. If I memorize the villages in knuckles; Meemure, Kaikawala, Dandeni kumbura, Glamuduna, Udagaldebokka, Pallegaldebokka, Kalugala, Rangala, Thangappuwa, Karambaketiya, kumbukgolla, Na Ula, Ranamure, Narangomuwa, Rambulkoluwa, Illukkumbura, Pitawala,Pathanegama, Rathninda, Ettanwala, Walpolamulla, Puwakpitiya, Poththatawala, Dhammanthenna, Kambarawa, Huluganga, Gomara, Bambarella are some of them. Pls. add if you remember more.

Out of those villages there is a favorite for me. It’s Ettanwala .Out of 7 visits so far to knuckles, I’ve been to Pitawala/Ettanwala for 3 times. Like Meemure for Sr, Ettanwala is becoming my own village ( MAGE GAMA) and I am not board with going again and again there. Adding to this I was able to pay a quick visit to the beautiful, isolated villages Pathanegama & Puwakpitiya. It’s worth spending few night there too in my future visits.

Beautiful Ettanwala

Beautiful Ettanwala (Another view)

Beautiful Puwakpitiya

Pathanegama

So I wanted to visit these beautiful villages and do the “copy cat” waterfall tour of Niroshan’s report
Two of my office mates also promised to join me and one of them was living in Rattota. So we decided to travel by bikes and to leave homes around 4.30 a.m. on 7th October. But when the trip day came it was pouring from 4.30 to 6.00 a.m. in Colombo. My friend who lived in Colombo told me he’s unable to join me because his mum was not happy with his leaving. Although rain is a miner factor to me( In fact a plus point ) when it comes to waterfall hunting ,the bad incidents happened to our friends recently, made my mind not to push the limits of him further to join my trip. So I went alone. The other funny fact was because of the absence of the other fellow my Raththota friend also refused to come. But I was not in a mode to give up and I strongly decided to do this trip and importantly as another lonely trip.

My Guide was Niroshan’s report and his creative map. My plan was to cover the waterfalls except Rathinda and Wedda Pani ella First day and do the rest next day

Niroshan’s Creative Map

So soon after the rain stopped around 6.00 a.m. I left home and reached Peradeniya around 9.30 ( Had breakfast at Nelundeniya) Normally I used to visit Dalada Maligawa in my Knuckles visits but had to skip it because of time factor. So I turned left from Peradeniya and reached Mathale via Katugasthota. From Mathele I purchased all the things I need and proceeded towards the North end of Misty Mountains ( Riverston ). My First attraction was Bambarakiri Ella

Broken Bridge and side view of the fall.( Not recommend to use bridge). I crossed the stream to reach other bank .But it’s risky too

Bambarakiri ella

Bottom part (View From the other bank)

Kuda Bambarakiri Ella which 100 m walk from other bank is now reduced to a tiny cascade. Also the beauty the Bambarakiri ella is adulterated due to recent earth slip. You can compare with the picture which was taken in 2012 http://trips.lakdasun.org/trip-to-riverston-pitawalapathana-and-maningala.htm

She is now not that gorgeous due to stones Remembering the truth of the world ( ANITHYA- Uncertainty )

Better shaped waterfall and good conditioned bridge in 2012

Then I re started the journey riding through steep roads. As usual surrounding view was fantastic. Although my heart tempted to visit Riverston and Pitawala pathana again my brain said “No You Must Focus on Pahtane gama falls “as that was my Goal.

My Bike and view from the road

Taken from Riveston

My Old Friend KALUPAHANA

This is not Sky. Giant mountain is almost covered with mist

Beauty

After passing Pitawala Pathana

I reached Pitawala village around 12.30 and directly went to wasantha’s Home. He warmly welcomed me. I kept my bags there and took a school bag of wasantha’s son and packed some biscuits, Buns and a bottle of water and started to move to Pathanegama to see the two hidden beauties. Wasantha was kind enough to prepare me some quick lunch (rice and two curries) .

But my main issue was that I couldn’t contact Ekanayaka Mama in the morning (Although he promised me to come to the paddy field atPathanegama , he wanted me to confirm my arrival before hand as he had to come from Puwakpitiya to Pathanegama using short cuts) But when I dial the phone no one was answering. I was in two minds but decided finally to give a try to reach the Paddy field at Pathangama

Directions : If you are coming from Riverston side you have to pass the Pitawala junction ( do not turn ) and go forward.( See the map). Then after passing few hundred meters from the 33rd km post you will see a clear path to left with a concrete slab ( Bokkuwa) . This junction is called Red Bana Junction .The road is very calm and beautiful but very difficult to travel with car. 4WD or bike is a must. Then after traveling about 2.2 km along the road you will find a Y junction where somewhat straight road will lead to the only house of a villager called Niamal. The left footpath will lead to the paddy field of Ekanayaka mama. Even with a 4WD you can’t travel in this road as it’s a footpath and so many obstacles are there. I came across with uneven stones, fallen trees and creepers, snakes, elephant Dung etc. Best option is walking but if you are heroic you can use a bike. You have to travel another 2km to reach the paddy field

Since I was alone and was traveling with a bike I had to stop the bike and remove the obstacles few times. But elephant Dung increased my heart rate. Although this time (October) elephants usually move to Wasgamuwa side, according to Ekanayaka mama there were few elephants roaming in the wild. After tremendous effort I reached the Hena ( Paddy field ) around 1.30 p.m. with some uncertainty in my mind . Since no body was seen In the paddy field I was bit frustrated but I remembered the familiar method of finding missing friends when we travel in wild. “The HOOT” .I made a big hoot and surprisingly the return hoot came in no time. He was a small thin fellow who was sitting and collecting some Kochchi at a far end. That’s why I initially didn’t notice him. So the Hoot saved me that time and I went towards him. Although he didn’t received the confirmation from me in the morning (I was little late to call him) he had come there by trusting my word given last night. That’s how they honor their word. He was bit surprised with my lonely visit.

The Hena/ Kumbura is an amazing place with the view of Mini world’s end of Pitawala Pathana and a Giant Mountain called Kawdagammana . It’s a perfect place to set a camp and spend a night. Meanwhile mind you about Forest Department restrictions too. But If you are with Ekanayaka Mama that won’t be a greater issue as he’s still owned this place although it’s in Buffer zone of Knuckles. There were few families when this village was owned by RED BANA Company but almost all the lands were taken to Government except Ekanayaka Mama’s Kumbura and the land of the a Villager called Nimal. But don’t know whether the conditions will change in future.

Scenic Path to Pathanegama

Junction you meet after coming along the path( after 2.2km). Clear straight road will lead you to the house of a villager called Nimal and foot path slanted to left will lead you to Hena of Ekanayaka mama. ( NOTE : This is taken in the return journey that’s why Ekanayaka mama is visible )

Pitawala Pathana Mini World’s End seen far away

Mini Worlds end

Hut which can accommodate 6-7 people

They gave me a Nasty look. Remembered me Sri’s Funny incident in Meemure

After few chat we moved towards Pathnegama falls. To reach first one you have to walk upwards and to reach second you have walk downwards from first falls. Although there were abandoned foot paths, they were not clear. So guide is much needed. If I say about Ekanayaka mama he was a perfect guide for me. Although he walked in front of me he had a fair estimation about my fitness and intentions. So many times I have warned or even scolded some guides who made me hectic by running behind them. But Ekanayaka mama was so calm. At a certain point he did some rituals by hanging some tree leaves. Most of the time we came across elephant dung and broken tree branches by them. He said “ Putha Ali nam Innawa eee” Although this made me little upset he made me laugh at times because of his constant shouting at elephants. Whenever he had to remove the tree branches across our path, he shouted “Ali haththa , Mun meka wanasanawa“. I think These Giants were very intelligent because they had put all these branches across the paths uses by man with an eye to block human entrance to their territory. I asked him “mama ithin Aliyek hamuwunoth Mokada karanne “ He replied “ Wena Monawa karannada Putha Maga erala yana eka misa. Mama Kande Bandara deviyanta barawela yana ena gaman mewa….Ai Nikamata karanaewa newei ong”. According to him they were not that notorious and he’d lived more than 40 years with them harmony. That eased my pressure.

So after nearly 45min hike we reached the Pathanegama falls 1. She was a tall isolated beauty. Only few have got the chance to see here beauty. As I knew he hadn’t got his lunch I served him with biscuits and Buns. After spending nearly half an hour there we went downwards to see the Pathanegama falls 2. It took us another 30minute or so. Pathanegama falls 2 was the best beauty in my whole trip .She is much taller and prettier than the fall 1.

Walking towards Pathanegama falls

Jungle and my perfect guide

Elephant dung

Stream we had to cross. Not much of water despite of recent showers

Pathanegama falls 1

Tall beauty. isolated

Bottom

Mamai Benai having snacks at the calm environment

Going down towards to reach fall No 02

Her First glimpse stolen my heart

Wow	Another angle

Top

Middle

Full view

Group photo again

After spending some time we went towards the Paddy field by another route. I would say we did a circular route for this journey. If you wish to visit only the Pathanegama falls 2 the path is bit easy. In our return journey Mama showed me the ruins of houses where few families used to live in that area. After coming to the Paddy field around 3.45 p.m.we relaxed for about 15 minutes. Around 4.00 Mama packed his Kochchi and got in to my bike and returned to the Red Bana Junction. I wanted him to join with me rest of the waterfalls. In fact he guided me to the Bambarun Gahana ella as it was in his village i.e. beautiful Puwakpitiya .

Coming back to the paddy field

Traces of early civilization

Mouth watering Kochchi……..Daiyaaaaaaaa

Good bye Pathane gama and Kawdagammana……..I’ll come again

We first came to the Puwakpitiya turn off ( left path around 35km post ) then rode towards puwakpitiya. After about 5 km we met the Bridge at Wambatuhena and had a quick visit to small cascade called Wambatu Hena falls. But water levels very low. Then we visited Sera Ella. She was also not in her full flow as compared to my previous visit in 2012.

Wambatuhena bridge. One has to get down left from the bridge to reach the bottom of the falls.

Poor looking Wambatuhena falls. But worth spending 5 minutes there in a rainy season as it’s on the main road.

Palama yata

Important junction after about 10 km ….left is the Puwak pitiya villege ( 2 km ) right path is towards Sera ella in Pothtatawela ( 1.5 km )

After about 500m you ‘ll reach this Y junction …TURN RIGHT

Land Mark & Foot path to Sera Ella ……..you have to get down for about 250m

Sera Ella with less water ………but it’s comparatively better than in dry season

So calm

Flowing down

Famous Funny face

Side view

Steps to the cave

Like Duwili Eli in kalupahana

After returning from Sera Ella we came to Puwakpitiya village with a hurry. Mind you Puwakpitiya is a very isolated as well as neglected village by politicians. They were given promises about electricity but they have been betrayed so far. So Puwakpitiya still doesn’t have electricity. While enjoying the beauty of the village we hurried to Bambarun Gahana ella . You have to walk nearly 1 km and then hike upstream for nearly 300m by dealing with rocky boulders. Mind you it can be dangerous to go upstream in a rainy season

The house where ekanayaka mama’s Mother lives . ( I parked my bike there)

Bridge. you can see distance view of Pathanegama fall no 1 from here

Temple . From here you have to take the right path

Beautiful stream

Paddy fields and surrounding mountains

From here it’s dealing with rocks

Bambarun Gahana ella with calm base pool.

Zoomed

I liked the calmness

Now it’s time to leave the beautiful Puwakpitiya. I regret as my stay was only for one hour

After visiting the fall we came back to the place where I parked my bike. Then settled Mama’s dues and said good bye to him by promising to come back again. It was 6.00p.m when I left the place. I had to hurry up as I had to travel nearly 20 kms km to Wasantha’s home at pitawala in dark.. It was like a dark curtain lead in front of my path and I was in alert about jumbos too. At about 36th km I helped a guy who was walking upwards towards pitawala by getting him in to my bike. I reached pitawala village by 6.40 p.m.

As usual Wasantha gave me the key of his rest house. It was more than enough for me. He told me to go and have a wash and he would bring dinner. But how can I taste the delicious meals and enjoy the nature alone. Mind you knuckles is not ideal for a lonely trip. I remembered a phrase of a great poem by an unknown author. It was about a returned solder after war.

“I Boiled the grain and make porridge
I pluck the mallows and make soup
Soup and Porridge were both ready
But there is no one to eat them with….”

So I kindly requested Wasantha and Ettanwala Ekanayaka Mama( with whom I did Duwili eli tour ) to take dinner with me and have a chit chat. They happily agreed in fact ekanayaka mama was delighted and replied “ Putha… Mata harima sathutui umbata mawa mathak unu ekata .”.

Wind was blowing. Whole environment was calm and quite .We three gathered around the table.
We were chatting about our past adventures and future tours to lesser known territories. Meanwhile I remembered the Kawi which he sang in Duwili eli trip and I requested him to sing few of them. Please note these are not poems about nature. These are poems of a teenager who was fed by this beautiful unspoiled nature. Ekanayaka mama wrote these poems to his love i.e his wife ( Nenda) When he was young “Those were true and real unlike so called “love “ in modern society . She had passed away two years ago but he’s still memorizing those beautiful days. As I am not quite sure whether it’s suitable for to post in this trip I’ll put here only one. If you are interested just p.m. me I’ll send more

Namal Suwanda Nithi Obagen Wihidewa!………………….
Obe Ruwa Mage Hise Nitharama Pipidewa!……………….
Namaya kisi dinaka Amathaka Nowewa!…………………….
Obe Sahakara(y) adara sudu Mama Wewa!………………

Interesting thing was they got married as a ran away in Moon light ( Handapana ) Their honey moon was spent in unspoiled pure jungle ( I’m talking about early 70’s ). Last two lines of another poem mentioned as this

Wadipura athi nisa watapita Naraka Lamai ……………
Oba mehi genenneth Sanda athi rayaka thamai……….

So it was a very fantastic night with all valuable conversations. He mentioned about Basnayaka too……..”Putha Wasanthai Basnayakai mata puthala wenne ( His relations) . Basnayaka koluwa hari Honda eka putha……..uuu tikak pissu natuwata okage papuwa hondai”……….after having dinner we went to sleep.

Early in the morning after having tea Wasantha and me went to see Rathninda falls and came back. After having breakfast we went towards Ettanwala village by bike. After seeing Wedda Peniella we wentto Ekanayaka Mama’s Home and spend some time while having a cup of tea.

Sun rise from Manigala end

Surrounding mountains

View from Wasantha’s cottage

Wasantha’s basic cottage

Started Rathinda falls tour with wasantha

Scenic bungalow close by .Not open to public

Rathinda Paddy fields

Rathinda falls upper part

One of my favourite guides Wasantha

There were many parts

Bottom Part

Lonely Traveler

Pitawala paddy fields and Manigala

Thelgamu Oya

Wedda Peni Ella with Thelgamu oya bridge

Wedda peni ella

Wedda Peni ella seen from bottom

zoomed

View from Ettanwala peddy field

scenic

Village covered with mountains

More views

Loved the view

Basnayaka’s Home

Then we returned to Wasantha’s home again. After saying Good bye to Wasantha and his family I came home via Pallegama, Bakamuna, Dambulla,Kaduwela

In my return journey

Scenic Path

Thelgamu oya closer to Forest Department Bungalow

He was hiding from me in my whole trip but showed off at Bakamuna-Dambulla Road He said “Hey HARI Please Come Back Again “. I replied “YES SIR “ and came back home with Beautiful Memories

Thanks for reading

Hanthana Mountain range is made up with various mountain peaks and it is a popular destination among the mountain hikers in Sri Lanka, especially among the university students as well as foreigners. This hike was a sudden decision of us since we felt the months of heavy rains just over. We were thinking where to go, then without wasting days we decided to explore Hanthana.

As we checked there are 2 main trailheads which are leading to the top of Hanthana. One is from the “University of Peradeniya” side and the other one is from “Hanthana 4th mile post” (Hatharekanuwa) side. We decided to take the “Hanthana 4th mile post” trail. I have done it for few times but climbed only the 1st & 2nd peaks which are with the communication towers on it. Since all 3 of our homes residing in Kandy area we decided to leave Colombo at night of the previous day & meet up in the early morning on the following day.

As planned, 3 of us met at the Kandy town around 07:30 in the morning. We were able to catch the “Kandy – Uduwela” bus without wasting much time which is going towards the trail head. We had only 2 bottles of water, some homemade sandwiches and a pack of cream crackers. That is because we knew this is not hard like our previous hikes. (There we learnt a good lesson at the end of the trail)

It was a quick ride through tea estates & beautiful sceneries. After around 30 minutes we got down at the trailhead. Please note there was no place to buy anything and we did not see any person around. There is a board placed at the trailhead so anyone can find it very easily. (MOUNTAIN RANGE VIEW POINT AT HANTHANA 4TH MILE POST) We started walking through the 4wd road which exists only for around 200 meters and the foot path begins at the end of it. Trekking the foot path was not that hard and we were able to climb to the top of the 1st peak within 30 minutes time.

Trailhead – Click Image to Enlarge

Beginning of the footpath

Kandy town. On the way to the 1st peak.

The 1st peak

The tower at the 1st peak

Surroundings

Knuckles centered

Surroundings

1st & 2nd peaks are security zones due to communication towers. But there are no restrictions to get ahead & nobody questioned us. There was an easy climb from 1st peak to the 2nd which took us only few minutes. As soon as we passed the tower at the 2nd peak the footpath got disappeared. Then onwards we had to tackle a thick grassland (mana patch). Mana has grown more than our heights. It told us nobody came that way from a long time. At the end of it there is a bedrock which called “Gal Poththa” by the villagers.

1st peak as seen from the 2nd peak

Kandy Colombo road

Long way to go

The crew. Thanks to the self timer

While crossing the mana patch

Alagalla

Sitting at the edge

We had our breakfast at “Gal Poththa” & waited there for few minutes. To continue from here to the other peaks we had to descend through the rock, enter the jungle and again fight with a thick grassland. Footpath was clear in the jungle & it was easy for us to find the way. After few minutes of walk we met the mana patch. Once it is crossed back again to the tree line. This “mana patch to tree line” – “tree line to mana patch” and “descending” – “ascending” processes repeat throughout the journey.

Crossing the tree line

Again. There is no other option

Looking back. Under the trees again

Creations

A beauty

Guess what?

Looking back from the 3rd peak. Gal Poththa & 2nd peak can be seen

The process of descending & ascending

After descending the 3rd peak we could not find any footpath in the trees or in the grassland. Crossing the mana patches was so difficult than crossing the tree lines and tree lines were lesser. It was becoming hot and we were running out of water too. So the consumption of water became limited. We always tried to climb uphill even though we did not see any mountain tops. It was continuous. However we managed to reach several peaks.

Web

A drop

Another

It’s getting hotter

Mahaweli river

Exploring

Everyone wanted to be photographed here

Another drop

Finally as we checked, we were above to climb up the last peak of Hanthana mountain range. As well as we were totally out of water. I badly wanted to continue but considering the situation we decided to descend to the tree line and reach a village. Also we believed that we could find water in the trees. Descending to the jungle was fast. But it was not the one we expected. It was really hard & disturbing to descend through.  There were only little spaces between the trees and leaves which gave us a very hard time. But we were very lucky to hear the most awaited sound……. Of water. Yes. Finally we found it. Pure & precious.

The phase we couldn’t do. The place where we gave up

These were everywhere

A flower?

Waiting till it fills

Pure & Precious

After refreshing ourselves we were back on track but could not go further down even at least 20 meters. It was really amazing. There wasn’t a single space for us to go through the trees. I had to pack the camera & put it in to the backpack in order to manage myself & for safety. Climbing up was the only option we had & we proceeded.

While trekking in this tree line we came across a wall which built by stones (Gal Bemma). As I remember it was like 2 feet high. Couldn’t capture, I was not in a mood to take the camera out. Wonder who did it, when & why? Has anybody seen that before?

We climbed uphill, walked back through the way we came and found a possible area to descend which is a fines patch. The binocular which I got as a gift from my wife helped us to get a clear view & identify everything in detail. There was a 4wd road going through the fines patch. So without wasting a second we started to descend.

Fines patch

Wow

This is not Horton

More water

Orchids

Orchids

Getting there

Time was at around 16:00. We reached the 4wd road & found a water source to have a bath. Next question was “which way we should go?” and we decided to go right after considering several factors. Maps on the phone were not loading due to poor signals.

Road

Bathtub

Endless walk

After a walk of x number of kilometers we came to a place where only few families live in a middle of a tea estate. As per them we have to go to Sarasavigama & take a bus to Kandy. They showed us a shortcut too saying there are only around 1 ½ kms. I usually multiply the distances which villagers providing by 4. And I was correct on this time too.. It took us around 1 hour & few minutes to reach Sarasavigama. We were lucky to catch the last bus from there to kandy.

We started from Daskra at about 1:30pm after having the Lunch at home. The crew was 7 people. Before we started we checked the necessary items and carries which are required for the trip and completed the things as per the check list.

The Budget + Check List + Schedule

After completing the check list took some valuable time of us. As we were too late, we took 2 three wheelers to go Pilimathalawa. We reached there at around 2:15pm. We bought some required item from the town and waited for the Poththapitiya bus.

It took a long time to get a bus and we decided to got to the destination by three wheelers. (500/- per three wheeler). We reached the Poththapitiya town by 3.30pm

From this town, we travelled through the Tea factory road. As we were travelling for the first time we took the villagers’ help to find the exact path for allagalla.

Alagalla seen from Tea Factory

After walking 1km (approximately) from tea Factory, we reached the Tank located in the Estates. This is the last place to get water. We had a small rest and got refreshed top of the tank and did the Prayers.

The Tank – Resting Place

Then we walked through the tea estate route and took left road at the T junction which ended in the jungle which is around 500M from the T Junction.

Tea Estate

We entered in to the jungle with necessary leech protection and started the hiking mountain. This stage of the hike is little difficult as the slope is high. It’ll be difficult to pass this stage during rainy days.

We took some rest in frequently at several places.

Soo Tired

Face tells Everything

After passing the jungle we reached the area with ‘Maana’.

Through Mana Plot

Around 5:30 pm we reached the Lower end of the Mountain and had some rest

At lower end Rock

Then we walked through the ‘Mana’ to reach the top ( Potato rocks).

Some of our crew members climbed to the top and had the ultimate advanture experience they ever had in their life.

Climbing to the top

They achieved it

At their own risk

I do not recommend this area to climb the rock. the other side of the mountain can be reached through the alternative path through the jungle as per my observation.

this excersice consumed around 30 minutes and the time was 6 pm. As it was getting dark we planned to find a suitable place to camp in the night.So we got back to the lower part again and cleared some mana to fix out tent.

They achieved it

We camped here

Later, We realized the area we selected was wrong as wind hits directly to our tent location but we had no option. With the support of all we managed to fix the tent challenging the winds. it took more than 2 hours to complete this work.

At the same time two of my friends did preparation for BBQ. We brought a BBQ grill with us. We spent our time on this and had a little entertainment as well. Be cautious when you deal with fire on the top as you are surrounded by manaa bushes.

BBQ party

Sausages for the breakfast

it took more than 3 hours for this task as wind conditions were high at the top.At around 11.30 pm we got in to the tent for the sleep.

The next day morning we got up at 5.30am and did prayers on the rock. Sunrise was seen at 6am and took some photographs. We spent some time in the same place by viewing the surrounding areas. Ihala kotte railway station, Uthuwankanda can be seen clearly from this location.

Sun is behind me

Moon is on his hand

All are visible with Binoculars

Sunrise

Kadugannawa side

MAwanella – Uthuwan kanda side

Our Team

Sun rise – another view

Ihala kotte

Bottom part of the rock

Camp site viewed from top

Ala-galla – potato rock

After viewing the scenic beauty we had our breakfast around 8.00am and decided to get down from the rock. We packed up all the items and cleared the place. All wastes were packed up in to bag.

Ready to get down

We were able to reach the bottom around 9.00am and our next target was Dekinda falls which is located between Poththapitiya and Ihalakotte.

We asked for the direction from the villagers and walked through the road which is heading to ihalakotte from the Tea factory.

View from the Tea Estates

View from the Ihala kotte road

We travelled around 1 km to reach the Dekinda falls. We were able see the falls from the top only. Our team was too tired and we decided to end the trip at this point.

Dekinda falls (30m) top-bottom view

After viewing the falls we returned back to Poththapitiya town. From there we got into a Kandy bus which to go to Pilimathalawa. We got down from Pilimathalawa and took bus to Daulagala. by 12.30 we were able to reach our homes.

How many brand new pieces of clothes are screaming out for you from the corners of your closet asking them to be worn? Well it’s a well-known secret, ain’t it? We’ve all, well maybe not all but a majority of us, got this problem, rather the habit of buying new clothes, most of the time at exorbitant rates, and leaving them hidden waiting for that perfect occasion to wear them. Unfortunately for us, that day doesn’t seem to come anytime soon. Most of these clothes are being rotten down without even once worn. By the time we get around to them, if we ever do, they’re beyond usable conditions.

Ok, I know you are flabbergasted and starting to use the foul language on me. Don’t do so, just yet. It’s a true revelation, isn’t it? Now the million dollar question you are asking is “What the heck that has got to do with us hikers, nature lovers, environmentalists, etc.?” Fair enough. Your question carries weight and needs some serious but plausible explanation which I’m gonna give in the next few lines. Now breathe easy and get yourself comfortable, coz you gonna have to stay with me for a long time and you might as well get a mug of coffee too.

Well folks, we’ve been around this gem of an island, haven’t we? We all got these so-called dream journeys that are continuously being put off due various reasons, mainly the weather and time of the year.

“It’s raining these days so no point going now.”

“It’s all dried up and the trip will be hopelessly hot.”

“February is the best time to go there, so better wait till then.”

Above are typical things or excuses we give when thinking of doing our dream journey. We keep doing many others, still exciting and grand yet that particular trip is still planned but waiting eternally for the never-arriving-perfect-day. Very much like those expensive but unused clothes in our closets. That’s the connection I was getting at. Are you happy now? Well you might not entirely agree with me but that is the human nature so I will get on with my story, a journey that had been planned and dreamed for years but not done as I was waiting for the perfect time, very much like those clothes.

Mandaram Nuwara is a name that can send a shiver of excitement up my spine every time I come across it. It’s been very much like Meemure for me, treasured away, closely guarded for ages without doing anything about it. About one and half years ago, I went as close as 6km to this magical location with a bunch of Lakdasun members. So close yet so far. The recent terrible weather conditions made things nasty as I was just beginning my year-end holidays. Three consecutive days, there was no sign of rain except for the persistent clap clap on the roof made by pelting down rain; morning, noon and night at a stretch as if mocking me.

The December chill kept intensifying making getting out of bed an agony. I was ever so depressed, having all the time in the world yet with nothing to do. My mind was in turmoil making plans but being unable to put them into action. Sleep and sleep and sleep some more was the theme when out of nowhere, Hari, the good old buddy with whom I started my traveling life, called and suggested we go for a relaxing journey. Well I was doing just that at home but if it meant getting out seeing things, it didn’t matter what name he used. When he said ‘Mandaram Nuwara’ I was without words. “It’s raining cats and dogs so it’s not a good idea” was my first thought but as there was nothing else to do we stuck to it getting excited more and more. Of course Atha suggested we visit A’Pura & Pollonnaruwa, that were experiencing the worst floods in the last 3-4 decades, so that we could visit all that by boat, something you don’t get to do for years.

However it didn’t appeal to Hari and we made plans hastily for Mandaram Nuwara. There was very little information about this mysterious place and we had to make do with what little was available. Credit must go to Hariya for planning the whole thing and we deliberated long and hard how to get there in the first place. Not having anyone else, it had to be just the two of us. Going by bike had to be ditched at the eleventh hour due to the rains and earth slips. So finally we decided to take the road via Kandy by bus. Getting Hariya up was as easy as lifting an elephant out of a well in an abandoned paddy field. Finally I picked him close to 5am on the christmas day, while most of the country was still under the wraps trying to get some warmth from the partial wintry chill. We went to the bus stand in Pettah while the rain kept its pace. There was an A/C bus that left for Kandy at 5.30am.

Tour Highlights:

1. Gerandi Ella, Padiyapelella.
2. Mahakandura Ella, Manakola.
3. Waduwawela Bridge & Belihul Oya, Morapaya.
4. Hawari Oya Ella, Manakola.
5. Morapaya Ella, Morapaya.
6. Kirinda Ella aka Mukkara Ella, Manakola.
7. Metibembiya Ella, Metibembiya.
8. Elamulla Ella, Elamulla.
9. Kabaragala Mini Falls, Digalahinna.
10. Kabaragala Power Plant Falls, Digalahinna.
11. Kabaragala Ella, Digalahinna.

We caught up with the lost sleep and arrived in Kandy about 8.30am. There was no bus to Padiyapelella and we were informed that Walapane buses weren’t there due to earth slips. This wasn’t good news at all but we were committed. We went and had a tasteless breakfast from a nearby hotel and afterwards found a Padiyapelella bus coming. We hurried to it and managed to get seats. We left Kandy around 10am and the road was very frightening coz every now and then we saw some dangerous mud slides, at places all over the road and recently cleared away. Mahaweli River was like a very strong tea, dark brown and flowing fiercely dragging tons of debris with her. Victoria-Randenigala Reservoir was full and I was every bit excited, followed it to our left of the road.

The rain was with us all the time, on and off. Passing Hanguranketha (the paddy field where the gold was hidden) about 2km before Rikillagaskada, I saw through the rain swept window, Katugashinna Ella falls with a roar. She is considered to be a dead one due to the dam built on top of her diverting the water but the rains were so great she was in full force. This is a very rare sighting and I had to contain my urge to get down the bus. The road at Rikillagaskada town is still under construction. About 2km before the Padiyapelella town it is in terrible shape, still under construction but never ending rains haven’t helped the cause. However Padiyapelella-Mandaram Nuwara road is in good condition, fully carpeted but plenty of land slide threats. On our return we saw the road had almost caved in.

Gerandi Ella

Reaching Padiyapelella, I saw this huge waterfall to my right and the road was terrible the bus had to move at a snail’s speed. I could no longer hold myself and picking up the bag and umbrella, I jumped out of the bus almost forgotten about Hariya. Fortunately he followed suit and I was staring towards the over flowing water stream. There was a sister falls too to the left of the main one with a huge land slide. The trees obstructed the view and without knowing I ran along the by road that forks from the main road to the right and goes uphill. Inadvertently, I had walked into the Mandaram Nuwara road.

There was a huge flow of water crossing the road and it made me remove my shoes. The waterfall was simply gorgeous and the new born baby to the left added to the overall beauty making her a nice twin falls. We spent some time in the rain taking pictures of the sheer beauty thanks to my umbrella. We were in fact under the impression this was the Maha Kandura Ella but found that not the case later. Hari asked if we should walk all the way to Mandaram Nuwara and I simply didn’t mind it provided we had everything ready for accommodation. Unfortunately we got to the road with very little information and had to go to Mandaram Nuwara and find someone who was willing to put us up. Camping was out of the question and we hoped for the best.

We decided to take a tuk-tuk to Mandaram Nuwara and explore the waterfalls on the way. It seemed to be the only sensible thing to do at the time. Fortunately, Hari stopped one at the falls and without even haggling over the fee, we hopped in and told the driver “show us as many waterfalls as you can”. It sealed the bond and we were away when the driver told us this was the Gerandi Ella, and Maha Kandura Ella is about 1-2 away.

The road before the Padiyapelella Town, Mandaram Nuwara Road is above at the base of the falls

Gerandi Ella, the left side part is purely seasonal

Here’s the lowest part of the super-high Gerandi Ella

The main body

The seasonal cascade falling after an earthslip

Close up

A lot of water too but dangerous to stay here for long

The top of the lower segment

It was tough standing in front

Mahakandura Ella

We drove on and all of a sudden stopped at a ferociously flowing down girl and the driver duly informed this to be the Mahakandura Ella. She was obscured by tree branches but we managed to take a few pictures. The rain was becoming a real nuisance but we had no choice but to put up with it.

The tuk-tuk driver then asked if we wanted to see the Waduwawela Bridge and who didn’t, we said yes.

Mahakandura hidden among the branches

It was a tough one to take a full clear pic

Covered part, there’s a long upper bit similar to the Gerandi Ella but not visible from here

It was flowing in full

The view opposite

Closer look of the Belihul Oya

Despite the rains, she was very white

Portrait

Waduwawela Bridge & Belihul Oya

We raced on towards this place and the driver said his house was also nearby. Taking the Morapaya temple road to the left we reached the bridge after a couple of hundred meters. According to Navarathna, now wait, don’t jump in thinking Nava mama of Meemure was there to tell us that story. Coincidentally our tuk-tuk driver’s name is also Navarathna and just like the one at Meemure, very friendly and helpful person with plenty of knowledge about the area. He has traveled all over the country doing many jobs and now 57, settled down to drive a tuk-tuk.

We were very lucky to have come across him and he helped find many waterfalls without having to go here and there. I can highly recommend him as a guide. He, realizing our craziness over waterfalls, went to great lengths to help us get to them even driving on terrible roads which would have given heart attack to even 4-wheel drives. Ok, back to Waduwawela Bridge. This was built more than a century ago in the 1800s and the carpenter (Waduwa in Sinhala) who had worked on the bridge had fallen to his death from here hence giving the name Waduwawela Bridge. Of course now it’s renovated but the basic stone foundation still stands. Historical Morapaya RMV is close by and we got the biggest shock of the day afterwards.

While doing a short documentary, he said the river that flows like a tsunami is called Belihul Oya and without thinking much about the geography, I thought this is the famous Belihul Oya we all know but Nava corrected by saying this was another Belihul Oya. Originated from the highest mountain in Sri Lanka, Piduruthalagala, this flows through the Wilthota Jungle. Looking at the gigantic body of water made me wow. The Belihul Oya we all know (according to how Ana jokingly put – Bellyful Oya) originates from HP. You can check the documentary below.

Documentary of Waduwawela Bridge & Belihul Oya

Afterwards we went further up the Mandaram Nuwara road.

Waduwawela Bridge

Fiery Belihul Oya

Here she comes all the way from Piduruthalagala

Like a strong milk tea

Down she goes

Can see the arch of the bridge

Diversion of water, all but mud

Clear view

Falling down is unfathomable

Hawari Oya Ella & Morapaya Ella

We then stopped at Hawari Oya that joins the Belihul Oya creating a beautiful fall. Unfortunately it kept raining so hard getting a picture nearly impossible. Passing her we saw another road by falls, more likely a seasonal one for that we named Morapaya Ella.

After both these, it was time to go for another huge falls that Nava found after talking to a few people. He knew almost everyone in the area and those people found it strange Nava asking them about waterfalls. As you might have experienced, for most of the villagers, a waterfall is not a big deal and they simply use the name of the stream or call it either ‘Dola’ or ‘Kandura’. The chances are most of these falls go unnoticed is very high due to that. Thankfully we had Nava to guide us into the unknown.

One of the many cascades at Morapaya

Closer look

Hawari Oya

She joins the Belihul Oya

The Chief Hariya

The gloomy skies didn’t help with the light

Falling rain made things worse

The little Morapaya Cascade

The tiny base

People use this mainly for bathing

No danger of drowning in the base

Kirinda Ella

Passing Morapaya Ella, we headed another 0.5-1km or saw and then turned to our left. Driving along it another 300-400m we came to a halt but could hear the distant and unmistakable roar of a waterfall. The villagers had told Nava this was like Dunhinda and my heart started beating faster.

Leaving the tuk-tuk behind, we walked up for 100m or saw when we got the first glimpse of this beautiful fall mostly covered by two trees. Only the top was visible the rest was through the thick branches. There was a house and the elderly man in it told us that she is called Kirinda Ella. Numerous attempts by us to get closer to her had to be abandoned due to the ferocity of the water stream that separated us. Crossing it was simply too much so had to be content with the distant view. Then we returned to the tuk-tuk and went further towards Mandaram Nuwara.

So close yet so far

The mist, rain and gloomy skies all conspired against us

Crossing a canal was all it needed to get closer but it was simply impossible

I don’t usually hate trees, but looking at this, feel real upset

Some clarity to the top

She must’ve been so much like Dunhinda

Metibembiya Ella

Reaching Metibembiya village we saw this tall waterfall by the road to our left. The stream originates from Udagampola village and then flows into Belihul Oya via Metibembiya village. We named her as usual after the village and we could see the distant mountains towards Mandaram Nuwara. Gigantic Piduruthalagala rose into the sky but most of the time kept hidden among clouds and mist. We carried on further towards our destination.

Metibembiya, what a funny name for a falls

Closer view

Portrait

Touch of brown

The top

And the wider base

Parting shot

Belihul Oya

Elamulla Ella

We then reached the Elamulla town. It’s not exactly a town but a few shops along the road. We took Kabaragala Estate road and drove uphill for 1-1.5km before reaching the Black Bridge (Kalu Palama).

To the left of this was the two storied Elamulla Ella. She too was like others was in full force with the mud brownish color. She had a third lower part on the other side of the bridge as well.

We kept admiring her while Hari kept on reminding the time. It was gloomy and felt later than it actually was. Afterwards, we went passing Elamulla towards Digalahinna searching the Elamulla Power House road.

Misty and gloomy

Elamulla Ella road

Here she is

Plenty of brown though

The base

The faraway top part

Closer look

The full package

Top	Deadly dangerous

She’s the lower part but noway to get a better shot

Kabaragala Ella, Kabaragala Mini Falls & Kabaragala Power House Falls

We turned to the road which is good for the first 0.5-1km. Thereafter it’s simply impossible. Lose rocks, mud and pot holes made the ride like hell and Hariya’s weight didn’t help the poor battered wheels and axles. Nava drove like a man with a mission disregarding the hell of the condition.

Once we had to get down and push it and I only had to stand by and watch Hari at work. I was glad to have him for company. Closer to the power plant, the road was completely blocked by the fallen down rubble. It was a short walk so leaving Nava with the vehicle, we walked up. We saw a beautiful and tall waterfall before the power plant. She was so far up and the mist kept popping in and out making it hard to see her clearly. So we named her Kabaragala Mini Falls.

Then, at the gate of the power plant was what we called Kabaragala Power Plant Falls. She is actually a very tall girl but only the lower most part is visible at the gate. However when you are watching the Kabaragala Mini Falls, to your right you will see the extreme top of a waterfall. I guess this is the top of the one that falls near the gate. Unfortunately most of the middle section is hidden by the thick foliage of trees.

We then went into the power plant and asked for permission to go see the Kabaragala Ella. They were very helpful but warned us about the rising water levels and slippery rocks. End of the power plant complex we noticed the stream going downhill with a deafening roar as if all the M6 engines of Railway going at once. Looking at how furious this is our hopes were beginning to diminish. Even the last time we had to give up getting closer having gone all the way there.

However, Hariya was in no mood to give in that easily and we could see the falls in the distance beyond trees. I couldn’t resist any longer and led by Hariya we walked parallel to the stream along a pipeline for 100-150m. At the end was a cloud falling to the rocks breaking into million pieces. In fact this was the sensational Kabaragala Ella. It was a sight that will remain in my mind forever. We did another of our short documentaries there.

Documentary from Kabaragala Ella

This is some beauty, there’s no doubt about that. We felt the trouble was worth to reach the place. Afterwards we left for the waiting tuk-tuk.

Nava was waiting and when we showed him the video, he too was amazed by the sheer beauty this. On the way back, we stopped at a bungalow called “Elamulla Bungalow, Bodhi Hill Resort” and went in search if it’s available for rent for the public. But one of the workers there said it’s owned by a German lady and not for rent. I deduced from the way he said it the bungalow is not available for rent for locals but maybe for the foreigners. We’ve seen this trend at many places, bungalow and even hotel owners being very hesitant to accommodate locals as their reputation is not good being good visitors. So feeling hungry, we returned to Elamulla searching for something to eat.

Distant view of Kabaragala Mini Falls

Zoomed in

Light was simply terrible

The top of the Power Plant Falls, funny name but couldn’t think of any other

Closer look but the main body is hidden among the trees

There’s the base at the gate of the power plant

So much water

Plunging down

At the end of the power house premises

Mist was so thick

Whooah!!!

Just unbelievable

Pity the pics are not so grand but the view with our own eyes was so much better

There you go

Base	Not so tall but beautiful all the same

Full package

Time to go

The Yeti?

The bungalow I told you about

Won’t miss these

This either

Not the real bungalow, must be servants’ quarters

We got to Asiri’s grocery cum hotel. This is located next to the liquor store. The time was 3pm and there was only bread and dhal curry to eat. Beggers can’t be choosers so we sat down to wolf this down. However Asiri, the owner, having listened to our tale, offered to make some omelets that received a standing ovation from us. It tasted delicious and after buying few of the essential items, we headed towards the mysterious Mandaram Nuwara that awaited our arrival with open arms.

Enjoying the lunch under the light of a chimney lamp

Many streams feeding the Belihul Oya

Main body

Never seen this much water

We reached the Bo Sewana, the three-way junction at Mandaram Nuwara and went into Gamini Super Center, former Saman Hotel looking to get somewhere to spend the night. Unfortunately Gamini was out and while waiting for him to come Nava had gone and told one of his friends about our situation. I told you we were lucky from the start of the journey and it stayed that way as this person, Kiri Mahaththaya, offered not just a room, but a complete house for us.

It’s their first house (Maha Gedara) but after the tragic death of his younger brother his mother was now living with him in his own house leaving the house unoccupied. What a stroke of luck for us. We accepted the offer delightedly and went there immediately. This is located about 500m from the Bo Sewana and Nava took us all in the tuk-tuk. The place was good, but the roof leaked in a few places largely due to being ignored but it was no problem for us. All the furniture and kitchen stuff were there as well making it easy even to cook meals but we ordered rice and curry from a shop at the town which Nava later would bring.

Kiri Mahaththaya’s house

Hari got stuck at the entrance and Kiri, Nava and I had to pull him with a rope

Gardens beauties

Giving us some warmth

Time to sleep coz there’s so much to see tomorrow

After a wash in the ice cold water, we settled in for the night. Due to the rain, the cold was somewhat bearable. I got to use my newly acquired sleeping bag, even though we slept on a bed, and it made the night nice and comfortable. Kiri Mahaththaya informed us that the mountain in front of us is called Horagolla and it reminded us the famous Horagolla in Gampaha. The dinner was delicious, especially the Chaw-Chaw leaves’ Mallung. I’ve given all the helpful numbers for you to contact should you ever go to Mandaram Nuwara. Just make sure you respect their way of life and not do anything to change their friendly hospitality. Around 7.30pm, Hasi called out of the blue moon and inquired where I was.

When I told him where I was, he was surprised and informed me that the Victoria is over flowing with all nine sluices open. Oh my gosh, this I couldn’t miss. Then to burn me with sorrow and jealousy, he said that my beloved St. Claire was also in full flow as the wretched Upper Kotmale Dam has opened its tightly shut jaws. Oh dear, why am I always being deprived of seeing her in full flow. I thanked him for giving me the good news and decided to go see Victoria as it was on our way back the following day if possible. Whether I could do it or not, if I did, how it looked will be from the next fairy tale.

Well, this is not the end of the journey folks, but I’ve decided to leave you speculating as to what awaited us the following day. All I can say is, it was more exciting and compelling.

Hope you guys enjoyed my narration of this dream journey and will enjoy the next episode as well.

Until then, stay safe but keep traveling and don’t wait for the perfect time to do your dream journey.

I hope the contacts at Mandaram Nuwara will be useful to you all.

Alavidā!!!

Sri…

The map – Click to enlarge

It was the end of North – East monsoons and the sun was shining on mother Lanka. Since this was the ideal period to do a hike around Nuwara eliya, we decided to attempt to conquer the 9^th highest peak called Mahakudagala which was once a part of Piduruthalagala reserve. Kamalawarna decided to join me with all of his lenses on this hike and I was happy to find a companion at the last minute. We reached Nuwara eliya around 7am and took the Udupussellawa road. Just before Brookside we took the high forest road until we reached Mahakudugala factory. While we were finding a place to climb up we came across Gopal who volunteered to show us the path.

Dawn at uva

namunukula as seen from hakgala

maha kuda gala and ragala range

our target

a different view

standing tall

After taking many turns in the tea estate we came to a small shrine where we halted our vehicle and started climbing through the tea bushes (refer the gps map to see the trail head). We did have our breakfast on the way before we entered the jungle path. We were told that even foreigners do this hike and on some occasions they do camp here. The path was marked on trees with red paint at some locations but even without those markings one could follow a clear path along the neck until the summit is reached. Just before the summit there was a nice camping site (but no water) which we decided to camp on another day.

off we go

entering the forest

the path

decaying

mountain forest

micro life

bit of sun

kamalawarna was running with gopal

webbed

camp site close to summit

We reached the summit around 10am ending a one hour uphill hike. It was very well rewarding. On one side we could easily see the Piduruthalagala range and the gap where Mandaram nuwara is located. Though it was bit misty we did manage to see towards Rikillagaskada, Udupussellawa, Ragala, High forest, Padiyapelella town and etc. we did proceed towards another rocky ledge where one could enter the dense forest of Ragala range.

wow what a view

looking down

Padiyapelella town

zoomed

towards rikillagaskada

misty central hills

high forest

tree tops from birds eye view

life on the summit

mountain tree tops

colourful

another view

with many lenses

our guide gopal

ashoka

piduruthalagala range

piduruthalagala summit

lovely isnt it

a pano

summit flag

locating landmarks

the next view point

gorgeous

zoomed leaves

ragala side

the forest

bowitiya

misty ragala range

life on the rock

mist is catching up

he didnt want to leave

time to leave

the team (Kamalawarnas pic)

serpent eagle (kamalawarnas pic)

good bye mahakudagala

After having a snack we decided to get down since the mist was not in our favour. The most interesting thing was our guide Gopal who was afraid of heights and he always kept good 30 feet away from the edge. After getting down and thanking Gopal we returned back to Nuwara eliya to end our half day hike and return back to our destinations.

getting back

Within the forest (kamalawarnas pic)

a leech on the frog

the violet tinge

returned back

awaiting our return

we were there

Our guide,Gopal’s family (kamalawarnas pic)

Brookside

bomburu ella reservoir

The morning rays penetrated the glass panes on the windows announcing that the morning is here. The rain kept drumming on the tin roof throughout the night making some sleepy sounds. We were feeling the cold now and getting out of the warmth of my sleeping bag was not something pleasant.

Finally around 7am I managed to break the shackles and stir the snoring Hariya. After a chilly wash we locked up and went down to the Bo Sewana looking for some breakfast. We found just the place and sat down for some hot Wadei, Rolls, Hoppers and Rice-flour made delicacy called Pusnambu. The rain was intense and mist had come without an invitation covering the whole area. After a hearty meal and sweet cups of coffee, we went to Kiri Mahaththaya’s house ready for the morning chores. He was surprised to see us up and about so without much waiting went uphill towards the base of the tallest lady in Sri Lanka.

Tour Highlights: 

1. Kolapathana Ella, Mandaram Nuwara.
2. Hollangala No. 3 Ella, Mandaram Nuwara.
3. Hollangala No. 4 Ella, Mandaram Nuwara.
4. Andawela Ella, Munwatte.
5. Gorakamadiththa Ella, Gorakamadiththa.
6. Katugashinna Ella, Rikillagaskada.

Our target was another beautiful falls, named Kolapathana Ella. So laden with raincoats and my umbrella we hurried uphill going parallel to the Belihul Oya.

Kolapathana Ella

Kiri Mahaththaya spoke very highly of this falls saying she was the best of the lot and we had no reason not to believe his word. Let’s wait until we see her for real was my cautious reply. After about 500m we came across the first barrier of the day. The path to Kolapathana, very much similar to the ones in Meemure where cattle is left alone after the agricultural duties to find their own food by grazing the fresh and lush grass, was blocked by the over flowing Belihul Oya.

Golly, we were stuck. Even Kiri found it impossible to cross it and he then led us through bean, carrot and raddish fields. Kiri and Hari carrying his rubber slippers most of the time in his hands were barefoot while I was in my shoes hindering my movements in the soggy earth. After a while the farmlands disappeared paving the way to abandoned paddy fields. After the declaration of a reserve, the farmers had been asked to go further towards Mandaram Nuwara leaving their former farmlands behind. The mighty Piduruthalagala looked majestic when the mist was kind enough to part. While the rain hammered us from above, the abhorrent leeches showed no mercy from the below.

We kept up the pace, Hari mostly using 4-wheel drive, slipping and tripping being covered in mud. We kept going uphill and after about 2km, we saw the typical geographic signs of a flatland aka Pathana. Kiri said the Sambar Deer roam around at times but we saw only the left cattle. They looked threatening but soon as Hariya came to the view, ran for their lives. The Piduruthalagala was getting closer to us and according to Sumanarathna mama, an elderly farmer we met tending to his cattle, the height at the Kolapathana Ella area is about 7500ft. The Piduruthalagala is around 8300ft so we were as close as 800ft to the summit but that stretch is beyond the legal barrier. Even though there used to be a footpath leading to N’Eliya from Mandaram Nuwara via Piduruthalagala, now it is not in use as entering the reserve is prohibited.

We walked close to 3km when out of nowhere came to see this gorgeous twin falls falling amid thick jungle. The real Kolapathana Ella is the one to the right, the one to the left is a seasonal cascade yet bigger and higher. This was something I won’t ever forget. The two white lines drawn amid the dark green background with touches of white was a painting that can only be drawn by the capable hands of the Mother Nature. The mist had covered the falls nearly completely when we arrived but I started singing “Mist, mist, go away – Come again another day” and as if on cue, the rain eased and the mist lifted calmly over the Piduruthalagala showing her prominent rocky slope. The radar site is located almost on the middle of the summit making it impossible to see from here and this angle. Sumanarathna mama too joined us now and Hariya went down to the base of the falls with him and Kiri while I stayed up and took hundreds of pictures.

We were in a world of our own; this is nothing short of the so-called heaven. Despite not getting any sunlight, the surrounding mountains looked their best. They were all shades of green with a few patches of grey where the rocky skin was showing. The misty scarves hung around their necks giving them a more prominent look. The sky was dull grey with ripe grape-like rain laden clouds drifting with a difficulty as if had a bellyful meal. The ground was lush with light green grass which those cattle devoured. Tiny streams popping out of every crevice making playful pools all around. This is a scene straight from the high heaven. Just check out our documentary from here.

Documentary from Kolapathana Ella

We could even see the Gerandi Ella in the far distance which was like being able to see the both ends of Mandaram Nuwara road. Beyond her was another taller cascade but she was just a seasonal one. We couldn’t get enough of her but had much more to go see, so very sadly we bid farewell and headed back. Our next target was a mountain of waterfalls, yeah you heard me right the first time, Mountain of Waterfalls, located about 2-3km from Bo Sewana at No. 5 area. That area is just called No. 5 and there are other numbers as well.

Good Morning!

Gerandi Ella seen from the way, such height. See another falls to the right?

This one

Mighty Piduruthalagala

The valley in between

If you’re wondering where on earth that football-shaped radar, it’s on the other side and not visible in the thick mist

Good day to you sweet heart!

Yellow and Green ghosts on the prowl

The fiery Belihul Oya

Full of water

The farmers at work despite the relentless rain

Misty and rainy

They kept ahead of me

Kolapathana

Hariya not giving up

That bull was so frightened of Hariya

Hari talking to the bull calming it down

All around green and mist

I just can’t say how I felt at the sight of this

Where we came from

“Mist, mist go away – Coma again another day”, I sang

And it worked

This is the main falls

The one to the left. She’s just got bigger due to the rain

Amazing!

Bottom

It was a world of vapor

Hari wanted to get down just to feel the water on his face

Can you see the “Titanic Pose” of Hari the Dwarf?

There he is

Gushing through the thick tree cover

The sister falls’ top

She’s bigger than many

A pic worth taking again and again

Simply unbelievable

Sumanarathna Mama

Icing on the cake

Used to be farmers’ land but now taken over for the reserve

There was water everywhere

The valley

Mission Leech-Plucking

Mountain of Waterfalls – Hollangala

No, no you got it all mixed up. It’s not the Holman Gala (Ghostly Rock), it’s the Hollangala. You remember My Waterfall Tour around Maussakelle, don’t you? Along the Hatton route to the Sri Pada, I showed you the best waterfall mountain I’ve ever seen. Well, Hollangala is very similar even though not in the same caliber, she’s come closer. There were 5 very prominent falls (we named them Hollangala No. 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5 Falls) but spread out over a vast area compared to the tight fitting one near Peace Pagoda. In addition to these, there were a few faintly visible cascades as well.

We reached Mandaram Nuwara and went towards Hollangala or No. 5 area. This is due left when you look at Piduruthalagala from Bo Sewana straight ahead. Tell you another funny thing, this road circles around and returns to the Bo Sewana via other numbered areas and closer to Mandaram Nuwara is a place called Malsara Nuwara. In other words, the Cupid’s Town. It’s funny but very true. We kept walking along the terrible road and came across a few mud slides that had blocked the road. The over flowing water streams turned the road at places into canals.

We walked about 2-3km enjoying the beautiful country side. Out of the 5 prominent cascades, two were clearly visible from the road at a distance. Others were too visible but not like the No. 3 & 4 Falls. We enjoyed the scenery but time was running away so without going through the full circle, we returned to our home and got ready to leave. We thanked Kiri profusely for his hospitality and being the guide and gave him some money asking him to improve the condition of the house so that it will be a good investment.

Returning to Mandaram Nuwara town, we spoke to Gamini and when I showed him my video of Kolapathana Ella, he asked for it to be saved to his computer. I obliged and even he gasped at the amount of water and the sheer beauty. We had some snacks while waiting for the bus and called Nava informing of our arrival in Padiyapelella as we had more plans. So bidding farewell to everyone we got on the bus and left very sadly, especially Hariya who was very reluctant to leave Mandaram Nuwara for some reason. He even wanted to stay one more day by taking a leave but I wouldn’t let him. The ferocious Belihul Oya kept with us winding down parallel to the road. This is when we came across a huge split across the road signaling of another danger. The bus cautiously drove through the split and we arrived in Padiyapelella rather late for our liking.

Coming back to the civilization

Washing the mud and the blood

“Mada Sodagath Hariya Waterfalls Baleemata Hondaya.” (Hariya is good to go waterfall seeing after washing away the mud)“Mada Sodagath Hariya Waterfalls Baleemata Hondaya.” (Hariya is good to go waterfall seeing after washing away the mud)

Purple

The mountain range covered by the charcoal grey mist

There go Hari and Kiri followed by Siri

It simply impossible to tell you how beautiful they were in real life

Hollangala Falls No. 1 seen from the road. She too is a twin fall but not so visible in the dry season

Looking back the road we came

Mountain of Waterfalls – Hollangala. The No. 2 Falls is visible just underneath the misty layer to the right

Newly done

The life goes on, sun or rain

Bulls and Hari? Can’t understand the combination

No. 4 Falls

Closer look

Wow, one of the most beautiful ones

No. 3

Similar to Devon

So much like her

The road had turned into a canal

Water and water and water

Chow-chow. They make a delicious dish using the leaves of this and another using the fruit

Hiding from us

No.1 and 2 clearly visible from a distance

Piduruthalagala waving us good-bye

Such majestic view!

Andawela Ella

We arrived at Padiyapelella around 2.30pm well past our estimated time. Amid Hari’s protests, we met with Nava and hurriedly drove towards Walapane searching for the mighty flow of Andawela Ella. She is located at Munwatte, about 6km from Padiyapelella just by the road. The road was in a terrible condition, full of chocolate like mud, very slippery and plenty of pot holes full of brownish water making them deadly dangerous, especially for small vehicles.

Passing through, we saw a smoke drifting to the air in the distance and at first my thought was something was on fire. However getting closer I realized I couldn’t have been more wrong. This was the water vapor created by the sheer volume of the water levels of Andawela Ella. She’s tall, something around 80-100ft and falls in two crevices and joins in the middle making a big fat girlie. This was something out of a Hollywood movie. The bridge shook under the continuous hammering from this hefty lady and walking along it was like going through a hurricane.

You could really feel how strong the water levels were. I felt like pushing to the other end of the bridge by a heavy force, even Hariya shuddered under the pressure. Standing in front of her, let alone taking a picture was a mission impossible. You could have got wet within a few seconds, repeat, just in seconds. All you had to do was, get in to your bathing suit, walk along the bridge from one end to the other, then soap yourself, and walk back. At the end, towel yourself and you’d have had a superb bath faster than making instant noodles. That powerful her force was.

We had to fight for taking those precious pictures. The camera, especially the lens would get covered with water droplets just trying to focus. The best you could do was, point it, press the shutter button and run for cover. Then wipe the whole camera with a towel or hanky and repeat the process. It was hell but I didn’t mind it for one bit. We were seeing something that happens maybe once a lifetime and savored every second of it amid all the hardships. We behaved as kids who had found gifts under their pillows brought by the Santa. Nava just looked on, must have been wondering how crazy we were. We were late and we knew that yet there was nothing we could about it. Hurriedly we got back started driving back towards Padiyapelella only to stop by another waterfall at Gorakamadiththa, about 3km from Padiyapelella.

Bridge at Padiyapelella

She was like Niagara

Through the arches

What’s ahead?

The top of her

Simply unimaginable amount of water

There had been more water the day before. Just think about having more water than this

The camera got all soaked up and wet but could do nothing about it

Ferocious

The top of her

The center mass

There was a shop to the right that had been washed away. This was taken from there

See you girl and don’t you be naughty

Gorakamadiththa Ella

We arrived at a bridge in Gorakamadiththa and just like any bridge in the upcountry roads there was this waterfall next to it. Looking from the road over the railing of the bridge, you might not notice much about this. However we weren’t to be deceived by these kinda disguises so got down to inspect further. We were right of course and towards the uphill behind typical tree cover were two upper parts falling from two different sections and joining later making this large body.

Well you simply can’t compare her with the likes of Andawela Ella in size but still this was no one to ignore. Unfortunately we faced the most common problem when taking pictures of a waterfall, the branches and trees. Even though our eyes are more than capable of looking through them concentrating solely on the waterfall, the cameras are not so bright. Of course you will stand a better chance with a sophisticated camera than the simple point-n-shoots we use. So we had to be content with mostly the lower section of this and went towards Padiyapelella.

As like many others, the most prominent part is covered by the trees

So had to be content with the lower cascade

Managed to get a sneaky shot through the trees

The bottom that goes under the bridge after

Tried in vain to go get a clear shot but no luck

The mountains towards Mandaram Nuwara Road. See the Gerandi Ella?

Zoomed view, very tall

Katugashinna Ella

I of course badly wanted to see her from the time I saw her falling majestically from the bus coming up the previous day. However the time was past 3.30pm and missed the last bus to Kandy which meant having to go up to Rikillagskada. This multiplied the chances of seeing the Katugashinna Ella. The last time we came to see this fall, there was nothing but the solid rock to photograph. This is mostly due to the diversion of water from the top. However heavy rains had made sure no amount of diversion going to block her falling over the rock making this beautiful fall come alive.

Passing through Rikillagskada, we went close to 2km further towards Hanguranketha. She is right by the road but have to cross a private hotel property to get to the base. Getting out we went through the driveway of the hotel and got some pictures. The waterfall was very rich and had the unmistakable brown tinge to the color. You can’t miss her as there’s a yellow sign board too on the road. We had barely been with her when a bus came and had to finish the shooting cutting it short. Wish there was more time but had to be content with what we got. Paying Nava and bidding him farewell we rushed to the bus.

I’ve noticed some refer to a waterfall named Katugas Oya that is very much similar to this. Probably they’re both referred to the one and the same.

The notice at the road

View is once again blocked by the trees. This is after walking through the hotel’s gate

They’ve done a small farm out there

Getting closer than this would’ve soaked the camera and me. So had to be content with this

Partially clear

The stream goes downhill. They’ve done the area up a bit

That stinking pipeline destroyed many good shots

Another

The top zoomed in

Parting shot, how I hate that pipeline

That bus was only up to Hanguranketha but fortunately the Kandy bus that had left before us was waiting in Hanguranketha. Things fell into place afterwards and we managed to catch probably the last A/C bus to Colombo around 6pm.

Gosh, I’m tired telling you all this than actually doing the whole marathon. Hope you got something out of this helping you plan your future trips.

The open spills of Victoria had to be put off due to the lack of time but it was in my mind all the way to Colombo. Hopefully I will get to go get a glimpse of that rare sighting before the rains pack up and go home.

If I get to do that, you are sure to hear all about it. Well keeping my fingers crossed.

Until the next time, this is Sri signing off.

Nawatha Hamuwemu!!!

Sri…

I wanted to start my trip calendar of 2015 with some fresh waterfalls hunting following heavy rains of end of 2014. My first visit to Bambarakanda happened in 2010 and this is after 5 years. Bambarakanda area doesn’t have much rain during last two weeks. But feeding lands of these waterfalls-Hortain plains had such heavy rain. Therefore waterfalls showed their full phase in our visit.

We reached Bambarakanda resort cottage around 8.30am and Mrs. Sera Mayakaduwa (owner of the cottage) was ready with our breakfast and the guide. Following the breakfast we started the journey. It was a circular trail we planned like as follows:

Bambarakanda Resort Cottage-> Bambarakanda waterfall and it’s upper one->Lanka Ella-> Yalathanna Falls-> Uduwara and Nagadowa Falls-> Returned to Bambarakanda Resort Cottage.

Walking along Colombo-Badulla road towards Bambarakanda

Peaks of the area- Black circle-Wangedigala (වන්ගෙඩිගල), Blue circle-Balathuduwa (බලතුඩුව) , Yellow circle-Gommolliya Kanda (ගොම්මොල්ලිය කන්).

Recently found archeology attraction. This is called Gala Pita Gala (ගලපිටගල)

Surrounding view

View of Bambarakanda Waterfall from Bambarakanda Resort cottage. Two markers: Black circle- Bambarakanda Lovers. Red circle-Sleeping man. But I can’t spot them

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All in one-Bambarakanda Waterfall, Gommolliya Kanda, Balathuduwa and Wangedigala

View of Bambarakanda waterfall over Bambarakanda Resort Cottage.

We walked down along the main road up to the entrance of Bambarakanda waterfall trail. Now they have made a foot pathway with cement steps to the base pool of Bambarakanda waterfall. There is an observation desk at base pool of Bambarakanda waterfall where we had a full view of the tallest fall of Sri Lanka. It was difficult to save our cameras getting wet from droplets of the waterfall shakes with wind.

Starting the journey

Front view of the waterfall

Water from Bambarakanda waterfall

Time for a snap

Nicely made cement steps towards the base pool

Bambarakanda Falls (බඹරකන්ද ඇල්ල)

This is the highest waterfall of Sri Lanka which has 263m (863feet) height. It starts from Hortain Plains and makes the waterfall at Bambaragala (බඹරගල) Mountain. Though it is seen as a single waterfall, it has a hidden fall above classically seen Bambarakanda waterfall.  There is a pool in between upper and lower Bambarakanda waterfalls where you can have a bath.

Top of lower Bambarakanda waterfall-Zoomed

Fast flow

Full flow of Bambarakanda Falls

Base pool where you can have a bath

Members of the journey….Their first visit to the tallest waterfall of Sri Lanka except me

Clicked up

We followed the cement steps back and joined with the foot pathway which went through Pines forest. It ascended up and at one point we noticed a branch in right hand side towards the upper Bambarakanda falls. Without going to upper fall we followed the foot pathway further to reach Lanka Ella.

Bambarakanda waterfall with it’s upper and lower parts. Photo was taken on the way to Soragune Dewalaya.

Foot pathway to Lanka Ella (ලoකා ඇල්ල) winds through the Pines patch first and then reached an open area where we met Mana bushes.

Blue arrow shows where we continued towards Lanka Ella. Yellow arrow shows the direction towards top of Bambarakanda Falls

Going up….

Ascend….

Colombo-Badulla road is seen

View through Pines trees

One of the oldest guides we got

Flat terrain…..

Entering to the open area…..Hortain plains is seen

Little creature…..

Where foot pathway gets branched…Black arrow towards Lanka Ella. Red arrow towards upper part of Lanka Ella and then to Yalathanna Falls

Through Mana bushes….

What a scenery…..

.	Another waterfall which is found somewhere below Lanka Ella

Lanka Ella (ලoකා ඇල්ල)

This 12m/40feet tall waterfall gets it’s name due to the base pool which has the shape of Sri Lanka. Early this base pool was so deep and believed to have a treasurer. But now this base pool is filled with large stones making it shallow.

Lanka Ella-first view

Reaching the base of Lanka Ella…..

Full view of Lanka Ella….

That’s why it is called Lanka Ella

How water flows following the water fall

Following Lanka Ella we followed the foot pathway back and headed towards top of Lanka Ella. We crossed Lanka Ella and followed the foot pathway through the Mana patch till we reach Udaweriya/Uduwara tea estate. Our aim was to visit at Yalathanna waterfall.

As usual, our guide was clueless about the waterfall and he denied to cross Lanka Ella. This time Sri came to my help over the phone and guided towards Yalathanna Fall.

After come to tea estate we walked about 100m and then creped down in our left hand side towards the water stream. It was bit difficult to get down as there was no such a foot pathway. Then we walked parallel to the water stream. At one stage we found a tiny waterfall at the water stream. We would like to name it as Pahala Yalathanna Fall (පහල යාල තැන්න ඇල්ල).

We walked further up till we meet this furious lady following rain-Yalathanna waterfall.

Yalathanna waterfall (යාල තැන්න ඇල්ල)

This waterfall is situated at Yalathanna area. It might have a height of 15-20m. Yalathanna waterfall is a hidden one and no clear foot pathway to reach there.

.	Shows the foot pathway crossing Lanka Ella

Upper part of Lanka Ella where “Edanda” (ඒදණ්ඩ) is placed

Help to cross……

Poor guide refused to cross

At top of Lanka Ella

Foot pathway at the edge of the slope

Upper part of Lanka Ella is seen well

Entering to tea patch and descend in the direction shown by yellow arrow

Pahala Yalathanna Falls

Yalathanna Falls

Furious flow

Base pool of Yalathanna Falls

This is how Lanka Ella origins

Unknown hidden beauty

We followed the same foot pathway back and selected the foot pathway up to join with the road goes in front of Bambarakanda guest. There was somewhat clear foot pathway but we clarified our way by estate workers.

Once we entered the gravel road we started to go down till we find the foot pathway to “Lampuwaththa” estate. You can have a view of Uduwara and Nagadowa at “Lampuwaththa” estate. But estate workers discouraged us about unclear foot pathway.

We got a new guide form there and he brought us to a place where both Uduwara and Nagadowa waterfalls can be seen well. Actually this foot pathway starts at the end of the tea estate and now it has been forested. Otherwise no problem in following this foot pathway.

Getting to the road

Black and white bend

Lampuwaththa- foot pathway is started from the end of the tea patch. It is direction is shown by the arrow

Surrounding view

Two in one-Nagadowa and Uduwara Falls

Nagadowa Falls

Uduwara Falls

Day 02

This was the day of Haldummulla. Haldummulla is situated few kilometers away from Kalupahana (කලුපහන) (Where Bambarakanda waterfall is located) towards Badulla. It has several tourist attractions. It’s elevation is 1200meters.

Haldummulla Portuguese Fort (හල්දුම්මුල්ල පෘතුගීසි බලකොටුව)

This is situated on top of Haldummulla mountain where surrounding is clearly visible. The fort is referred as Katugodalla (කටුගොඩැල්ල) fort as well. Only the stone outlining of the shape of the base of the fort lies within the Pines forest in the present day. At the time of existence, it formed a frontier post for the Colombo based area under Portuguese control. The Idalgashinna (ඉදල්ගස්හින්න) pass was a gateway to the Uva and its capital of Badulla and it was used as staging post by the Portuguese forces.

There are two pathways to reach this. One is through Need Wood estate where road condition is good. We got the direction at Halatuthanna (හාල් අටුතැන්න) junction (Before Haldummulla town from Kalupahana) and drove up about 4-5kms. Scenery was so beautiful and we parked our vehicle closer to the tea factory at Need Wood estate. Then we clarified the way by nearby villagers. It was situated about 500m away from Need Wood tea factory.

There is another road/foot pathway from Haldummulla town towards the fort. We noticed the archeology board in front of this pathway. Don’t know much details of it.

Directions at Halatuthanna junction: Blue arrow from Kalupahana. Black arrow towards the fort

Scenic view….

Haldummulla Mountain

Idalgashinna

Need Wood tea factory

Balathuduwa, Gommolliya and Hortain Plains

Haldummulla Fort with it’s back drop of Balathuduwa and Gommolliya Kanda

Foot pathway following tea factory

Clicked up…

At Pines patch….

Haldummulla Portuguese Fort

Might be the water canal surrounding the fort

Remains of the fort

What a view…..

Mountainous view

We drove back to Halatuthanna junction after the fort and got the way down towards Soragune ancient Katharagama Dewalaya from the junction.

Soragune Ancient Katharagama Dewalaya (සොරගුණේ පුරාණ කතරගම දේවාලය)

This might be the main tourist attraction of Haldummulla. It is situated about 8km from Halatuthanna Junction. The road condition is excellent following new construction.

This was built by a local king called Yapa (යාපා) during Seethawaka Rajasingha (සීතාවක රාජසිoහ) period. During the battle with King Seethawaka Rajasingha, King Yapa made a promise to build a Dewalaya for God Katharagama if he wins. He forgot his vow though he won the war. Later King Yapa got a sore throat and then he remembered the promise for God Katharagama. Then he built a small Dewalaya here for the god and cured his sore throat. Therefore this Dewalaya called Soragune due to curing sore throat.

Soragune Dewalaya has all components of an ancient Dewalaya: Kattaha Maduwa (කට්ටාහ මඩුව), Diggeya (දිග්ගෙය), Maligawa (මාලිගාව), kitchen and store rooms.

Directions at Halatuthanna junction

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Entrance

Entrance to “Kattaha Maduwa” කට්ටාහ මඩුව

“Kattaha Maduwa” කට්ටාහ මඩුව

Wood carvings

“Diggeya” දිග්ගෙය

“Kani Madala” කැණි මඩල

“God Katharagama”

Kitchen and store room

Wood carvings

Up stair is called Maligawa

Image house of the temple-new constructions

Stupa

A Stone pillar

“Paththirippuwa” පත්තිරිප්පුව

“Ratha geya” රථ ගෙය

Following Soragune Dewalaya we came back to Halatuthanna junction. Our next place of visit was a pre historical burial ground and settlement at Haldummulla. There are number of these kind places at Haldummulla and excavations done by Prof. Raj Somadewa and team few years ago.

Local authority has made a concrete road over one of these excavations in Haldummulla.

It is situated in few meters of the road of Haldummulla Tamil School.

Road towards Haldummulla Tamil School

This is the area some excavations done. But road is concreted including a part of that land

Huffing and Puffing…..

Haldummulla church-It was built recently but it carries some traditional components of Sinhala architecture. First time I have noticed such a thing at a churc

Moon stone and guard stones at church

At the end we had a bath from a water stream and got our lunch there. As I had to attend to a function in the night we winded up the second day of the trip early and came to Colombo.

Thanks for reading.

If the desire of cossing Sri Lankan 6th highest mountain is born in my heart very earlier, it spent a long time to materialize it. The main reason for that is the vary weather condition of there. However I found a guide by didn’t leaving the try & contact with him. As a result of that finally Morgan responded me which I expected for long time & then prepared to crossign.

I got on to Badulla night mail from Colombo Fort at about 9.40pm. & my companion joins with me at Peradeniya junction. Although we are in sleeping booth, we couldn’t get a comfortable sleep & we reached to the railway station of Great Western at about 3.00am. Two friends of Morgan were come to carry us to Morgan’s house. After getting little sleep in his home, we start the journey at about 7.30 am.

Great dawn

Sacred “Sri padaya”

Tea Estate

Correct Focusing

The security guard of Morgan

It’s shoot at Morgans’ garden

Ready to commence the trail

This is the 6th highest mountain in Sri Lanka

Entering to the rail way track

He disentitle one leg (He met and accident on his childhood)

Now it’s old

Lonely Rail way Station

Nice view

It’s feel dispassionate

Enter to the correct line :-)

The Seven virgin

Just click

Lonely

Along the rail way

We started the journey with entering to railway from Morgans’ house. After walking 2km like this we climb the stairs which situated on the left side of the railway line. Passing about 200 steps like this we could sceen a shrine & Morgan said that it is a most sacred one in this area.

There is only one place to take water which suitable for drink from here. So we filled up our bottles. There after we walked ahead along the way which falls near to shrine.

Now entering to steps

It’s get into mind “MAHAGIRI DAMBAYA”

Nice view

Blue Sky

Little fane

Enter to the Forest

It’s imagine an art

Another angle

crowns

Waiting for bait

Freight train

Five petal

Direct sun light gives us more tired, because of the foot path lays across an open area. And also cossing become more hard because of the tough ascent & without any support to hang. We went forward very dificully with fallings. (It’snt spent much time to understand the journey of here when rainy season.) Then we entered to a plain area & took the breakfast from there. We swallowed all the foods vey quickly because of  hungry & tired. Then ready to go after getting half hour rest.

Peeping through it

Clear destination

Nice color

“Nelu” buds

Way is not easy

He is going to be dead

Another angle

Want some rest

Ready to get breakfast

Everything vanished at ones

Now reach to plain area

It dead harshly

Little bit tough

This time she is photogenic

Another angle

Buds

We reached to the first top of this mountain which including five tops at about 11.00am & we could scene very beautiful land area. When looking from here we could scene Haggala mountain range side & the Horton plains, Kirigalpotta & Thotupola mountains could be scene very clearly in the other side. Piduruthalagala, Kikiliyamana Mountains & the maiden forest range which spread towards Nuwara-Eliya could see clearly.

After stay few minutes there we left with the intention of see the exchange of two trains. Rests of four tops were situated as very small, so we could went easily forward.

First view point

Kirigalpoththa & Horton plains

Rainy wind

The way of “Shortcut”

Radella Stadium

Trail head at hand

Great guidance

Piduruthalagala & Kikiliyamana

Landscaping

Haggala Mountain

Amazing up county rail way track

Now we close to it

The forest range which spreads towards Nuwaraeliya

Through the bushes

we raech to the destination at about 11.45am and by then a beautiful image of the surrounding is appeared. Specially we hope to feel the splendour of the view of cossing 2 trains which came from Colombo to Badulla & Badulla to Colombo on air. This is the only place which we can see this view in Sri Lanka.

But the unexpected misty condition is made us very inconvenient with broken our all hopes. As time spending like this we had herd only the sound of the train. The train is waiting at the rail way station for the arrival of next train & three of us herd the sound of that with looking the mist. morgan said that, its depend on the fortune.

The other train is coming from Badulla by now & our fortune is arising according to the Morgan. Because the mist is dissapeared little by little & the beautiful scene is appeared. Really we were lucky to see that beautiful sceneries which related on that place only.

The trail head

Railway Station

Morgans’ village

Misty is flowing

All is covered by the mist

Podi Menike waiting for Udarata Minike

Udarata Menike is coming

Mist make us inconvenient

But we are lucky

That’s the view which we waiting

Now it’s time to leave

Udarata Menike Start the journey to Colombo

Actually it’s an amazing

The longest Train in Sri Lanka :-)

It’s areal photogenic

Mist again disturb us

She passing the Morgans’ colony

Podi Menike get permission to Badulla

Another view

She is very flexible

Nice view

She is near to vanish

She moves her own rhythm

She also reaching to vanish

The clear surrounding which exsists till dispearing the trains is change orderly and covered by the mist & we stay there a moment & left at about 1.00pm. There is a camp site on the highest place of the mountain & our hearts were pain by looking the damage of surrounding there because of polythene which throw by travellers.

Red leaves

Mist is come again

Mist is governed there

Misty world

The victorious gang

A great guide

We did it

The camp site

It’s an safe method… lol..

After stay some time on the rock, we start the journey again with the start of small rain. It’s little hard to come down, so we have to use the rope for some places.

Just click

Colorful forest

It’s like a flower

Just click

Beautiful blossoms

Seeking the infinity

Red buds

Relax in heaven

Hanging legs in freedom

Little bit adventure

It’s too risky in rainy season

Through the misty cloths to Badulla

Ready to bend

Turn around the mountain

Fully damp

She covered her face by mist

We came to kovil premises at about 3.00pm & we entirely get wet by then. The surrounding is swallowed by the mist and it gains a novel experience for us.

We entered to the rail way track and start came back and completed the journey successfully at the rail way station at about 4.30pm.

Along the went back

Leaves

Another angle

Little buddy

Thick mist

Way of heaven

Feeling cool

Just click

Went back

Mist is go away

Just click

“Expo” to Badulla

Observation saloon

Danger zone

He tries to get Selfie

Gift of nature

Nice pattern

Ear of corns

Along the paradise

Straightly

Chaining the environment

Little train

Reaching to the destination

Station of great western

Morgon said about the journey to the SM

Well efflorescence

Blooming yet

Thanks a lot dr…

Good bye!!!

Thanks for reading my long report.

Have a safe & lucky journey!!!

Would you believe that if I said there is a mini Horton plains in the peak wilderness. Yes that’s true this beautiful savanna plain first came to my notice during an Adams peak hike in 2009 and after seen it for the second time in 2013 I started gathering information about this mysterious plains. Once there was a newspaper article but without any pictures of the plains and reading it urged me to explore this unseen territory some day in my life.  It is said a Bison like buffalo called “Gawara” once lived here long ago and hence the name Gwarawila was given. It is also said that once the Haldumulla route to Adams peak fell across this plains of Gawarawila too.

The map – click to enlarge

Google earth image

as seen from Adams peak

zoomed

On a Saturday I got on to the Colombo bound night mail train and arrived at Hatton to sleep on a chair until Chamara arrived by the Badulla bound night mail. From Hatton we took a Nallathanni bus and reached Maskeliya at around 3am and slept in a halted Gartmore CTB bus. The bus took off at around 6am and reached Gartmore estate at 7am. Since Harinda & his friend were coming from Colombo by bikes we had plenty of time to walk around this beautiful estate. We walked along the border of the tea estate while enjoying the splendid scenery towards Maskeliya reservoir. Finally we reached the plunging point of Adams peak falls where we rested for a while before returning back to the bus halt. After a one hour wait Harinda came on his bike and we took off towards Frogmore division ASAP. Initially we were bit lost within the tea estate but somehow with the aid of Google maps and advice from locals we found the correct route. A long ride on 4wd road took us to the forest boundary and the scenery on the way was just amazing. This is a place one would like to re visit at any given time. Just before entering the forest we had some breakfast at a stream with a shrine. Few hundred meters from this point the road ends and the foot path begins.

sun rise at maskeliya

festivals

Gartmore estate

mode of transport & accommodation :-P

lovely

the reservoir

towards HP

lighting up

crowd along the trail

to be plucked

the two gartmore estate falls

top most cascade of adams peak falls

plunging down

adams peak falls

holy peak

view from frogmore

Gartmore falls falling from gawarawila

the fall which plunges down

capturing

where the plain is located

Actually it’s a 1km hike with a small ascend. One needs to cross the valley and get on to the plateau but this is not an easy task at all because of the undergrowth. We decided to follow the foot path and it paid off. Initially the foot path took us along the bank of a stream (bit higher up) and at one point we had to cross it. The crossing point was just like paradise and there was a wonderful pool to dip in but the freezing temperatures weren’t human friendly. After crossing the stream it was a gradual climb through Nelu and bamboo bushes. Surprisingly the path was cleared very well but at one point it suddenly disappeared. When we checked on Google maps we noted that we were 150m away from the plains. There was no other option other than creeping through the bushes and reaching our target. After 15 minutes we finally saw the plains through the branches and we did hurry to reach this heavenly location.

covered path

one of those beauties

Common Rough-sided Snake

the path

paradise

unknown

where samber rub there antlers

cleared uphill path

forest roof

more flowers

a mini break for harinda

end of the path

last bit

We were mesmerized with what we saw and delighted with our achievement. After sitting around a bit we started walking around. Though the plain was dry when we visited most of the year this is a muddy marshy land. So one needs to be careful when stepping around during the wet period. We reached the stream which could be found in the center of the plain and there were few gem pits which were abandoned few years back. This must have been an illegal gem mining paradise once. The problem is that there is a chance of accidentally falling in to one of these pits. If one camps they would be lucky to see herds of Samber here on early and late hours of the day. On a clear day Adams peak could be seen over the mountain forest but we were not fortunate enough to see it. The stream flows to the edge of the plateau and forms one of those Gartmore estate falls which could be seen from the summit of Adams peak.

wow the plain

this is what I wanted to witness

cloud forest

Horton plains junior

staghorn clubmoss

feeder of maskeli reservoir

marshy land

on a clear day Adams peak could be seen (copyrights Mr Anil)

A pano

just like horton plains

gem pits

wow

dreamland

bit dried out

towards the main peak

what a scenery

more

young explorers :-P

this changes to green after april

the cut off line

this is where the waterfall falls down

the colours

tree tops

three layers

and more

found here and there

After hanging around this magnificent landscape we decided to return back. And as expected it was not possible to find the path we came along. So we decided to traverse the dense forest by using Samber foot paths. We targeted the place where we crossed the stream and headed in that direction, after an exhausting one hour journey we reached the river and headed up stream to reach the way point. The walk along the stream was like walking in paradise. After reaching the crossing point we had “Dosai” as lunch and backtracked along the foot path until we reached the tea estate. Ah I almost forgot there were few leeches here and there that troubled us intermittently. After reaching the tea estate we washed ourselves from the stream close to the shrine and took off towards Colombo on bikes. It was one of those tiring days for me but somehow on the same day I had to return back to Monaragala for work. This was one of those dreamily adventures I would cherish for many years and I’m sorry that I had to leave behind few Lakdasun friends who wanted to do the same.

bit of adventure actually this was the end part of the 2 hour lost session

the main stream

a cascade

like a privet garden pond

along the stream

another one

Gordonia speciosa

pure red

happy faces

where we were

a cool dip

team picture near the shrine

Indian Fritillary

Gartmore no 2 falls

crossing the bridge

A much awaited trip! Me and my good old hiking buddy Murtaza (matz), with whom I went to Great Western a couple of years back, were eagerly looking forward for this hike since a long time. But since the both of us were not able to find time this topic was dragging on and on endlessly until the last weekend, Sunday the 15th of Feb.

After a quick discussion with matz the other day, on Saturday, we decided that we’ll be taking the bus to Kadugannawa at 06:00 hrs from Colombo from where we have planned to reach Polaththapitiya tea factory. Upon getting down from Kadugannawa at 08:40 hrs we had breakfast at a shop nearby the station and was told that we have a more likely chance of catching transportation to Polaththapitiya from Pilimathalawa rather than from Kadugannawa since there are like only 02 busses operate at the moment and given the fact that it was a Sunday we may forever be waiting for a bus where as the driver is still fast asleep back home 

Hence we once again checked with the Kadugannawa bus station master and was soon on our way to Pilimathalawa by bus. Upon getting down from Pilimathalawa we waited at the respective bus station for almost 30 minutes after which we decided to pool-in and to hire a tuk without wasting our time doing nothing but waiting for the bus. (We were told that there are more than 100+ busses towards Polaththapitiya but I guess since it was a Sunday, the chances were less)

The trishaw driver was an interesting person. He is working as a lab assistant in Colombo Medical Faculty and during the weekend he drives his trishaw back home in the Pilimathalawa vicinity. Also from him we got to know that a welfare fee of LKR 50,000.00 is required to pay by any new trishaw driver who would like to have a spot in the Pilimathalawa trishaw stand! (Just in case if any lakdasun members were considering on this opportunity)

So after a bumpy ride we arrived at the Polaththapitiya tea factory and commenced the trail towards Alagalla.

During the initial part of the trail you will be walking on a gravel road amidst the tea plantations, the estate workers community residences and a number of breathtaking view points with awesome sceneries as well. As you move on, the trail will become slightly more ascending and the path will lead you directly to a tea plantation. With a bref ascend you will reach your first forest patch where you will be required to ascend through the dense in a more challenging pace. A number of tree roots and washed up boulders will welcome you with a nice smile as you may wonder why you find it difficult to ascend 

After clearing the forest patch you will reach the lower section of the Alagalla where (at the time of our visit) you will find a barren land with burnt “maana” bushes scattered all over the place. The ground appears to be on a gradual ascending elevation with rock debris all over the place which you are sure to trample if you do not watch where you step. To your left you will be able to identify quite a number of well known mountains such as the Hantane range, Bible rock and Uthuwankanda as well. Also, alongside the steep drop on the same side you will be able to locate the Ihalakotte train station and the railway track which winds its way around and through the mountain side as it progresses gradually gaining ground and elevation.

Matz on the move towards the summit

Matz on the move towards the summit

Time for a pano!

Alagalla summit seen from our first resting point

After a short break under a weary tree by a boulder, where once upon a time matz have spent a daring night all by himself camping under showers, we decided to go ahead with the tiring and the risky part of the hike.

Matz reliving the moment back from the days

You can see a train has stopped at the Ihalakotte train station

The rock face climb! All went well since we put a lot of time to it, premeditating our moves up all the way up till the summit of Alagalla.

Matz on the move

A bit of a light through the scrambled boulders

View from our half way resting point

At the top it definitely was a rewarding 360 degree view! Thanks to the awesome weather we were able to have a good look at the landscape from the summit before heading back down

Going pano from the summit of Alagalla

Awesome click by Matz

Matz getting ready for a descend

Our next destination

Before deciding to head back down the same rock face we wanted to check if it’s possible to descend from the later part of it. However after analyzing the face we’ve come to realize that it is a risk which is not worth taking, hence we decided on getting down through the same rocks that we climbed up from. Once the difficult part has been cleared we decided to sit on the ledge and have our lunch (bun with pre-BBQ chicken). After a much anticipated meal approx around 13:00 hrs we were heading back down. Luckily we were greeted by a group of local individuals who were on their way up for “fun”. We took the advantage of it and inquired from them about alternate routes available that would lead us directly down to the Ihalakotte train station since we did not want to get back on the same route we have climbed up from.

Heading down the boulders

Heading down the boulders

Taking a break after the lunch

With the instructions and the directions received we were soon on our way around the rock (rock was towards our right side) alongside the impressive, inviting rock face which has quite the potential for a nice rock climbing session! (maybe some other time since we were not prepared for such). The trail appeared to be somewhat abandoned and there were plenty of random footpaths all the way. It was not until sometime that we realized the fact that we are now on the second mountain side at which we were grooling at from the summit of Alagalla. Remembering what the locals mentioned about, a “temple/shrine being built on the other rock” we decided to explore the land before taking the road down to the station as intended. After a brief walk through the forest patch and a little hopping over the rocks we arrived at the construction site.

On our way through the forest patch

.	Time for a short break

The so called construction appears to be abandoned and the area has been deserted.

However we were intrigued by the great foot print that is being carved on the rock face which accompanies a few of the ancient “paali” inscriptions alongside 

the ancient “paali” inscriptions alongside (Highlighted in the picture with a red color box)

Since there were few individuals who were admiring the view at a distance we decided to approach them and to inquire about the findings. The group of people introduced themselves to us as “villagers who are in-charge of building the temple and the authority of the village”. As per to them their intention is to “protect the environment” and “develop the tourism sector” in the area. For some reason I didn’t buy any of the explanations or the stories they told us because it all seemed to me a “little out of the place” and “dodgy” (Maybe it’s just me). However later, my suspicion grew stronger when they confessed “earlier we lied to you. We are not in charge of building the construction. We are from a local environment committee here to make a report about the pollution on this mountain range. We lied to you earlier because we were not sure about who you (me and matz) people are” Anyway we didn’t give out much and decided to move on.

The mysterious foot-print

After receiving few directions from the group we were soon on our way down. The trail heading down was mostly boulders and uneven ground covered with dry leaves and earth debris. Later on we came across a chain of man-made concrete steps which gave me the thought that “this could become a place like Adams Peak given a couple of years, when the temple is being built at the top in honor of the foot print that is claimed to be carved back in the kings-days in preparation for Lord Buddha’s visit to the mountain side which didn’t go as planned” (Please correct me if more information is available about the foot-print since this was a new piece of knowledge for me and also on the 16th Feb when I informed Ashan about this he claims that it is his foot print! LOL)

The concrete steps being built. Reminded us of Adams Peak quite often

The concrete steps being built. Reminded us of Adams Peak quite often

The concrete steps being built. Reminded us of Adams Peak quite often

Descending through the maana filled terrain and the occasional chain of concrete steps we arrived at a rubber plantation. We were basically following the footpath hoping that we would end up at the rail track or at the Ihalakotte station itself J We’ve been descending for more than 2 hours and yet the ground level seems to be way down and there was no end to the descend. We kept on following the path through the rubber plantation and we met a couple of locals who directed us towards a “short-cut”. They did give us a warning saying that the road is not cleared so watch out or you may get lost. And yes we were lost J After walking back and forth on the foot path for a while we decided to just go down with or without a path. By now matz have developed a little bit of a greed for bananas after passing by a couple of banana trees in the vicinity. Later he decided to let go of it since he felt that it will not be nice to go ahead with the greed

Came across this house so we thought of asking for directions from the locals

Yep even the residents of the house were saying that we are “lost”

.

Afterwards we came across another house! This is the front view of the house. Later we assumed that it is some sort of a worshipping place or a “dewalaya” due to all the red color cloth strips and the garlends and all. But then again even this building appeared to be abandoned sometime back and felt a little spooky too P

We took the well paved way assuming it is the correct path but nope! Just a few yards down that path it was a dead end so yeah, again, off road it was

The well paved path

.

So we dashed our way down and finally around 18:00 hrs ended up walking through a number of village houses. We were under the assumption that we have reached Ihalakotte but to find out we are in the Gangoda vicinity (01 station before Ihalakotte). Upon reaching the village we were greeted by a number of welcoming villages and with the information received about the transportation possibilities we walked down the road towards the train station.

.

After evaluating our current condition and with the supportive information received from the station master at the Gangoda train station we decided to head 01 station up, to Ihalakotte and board the Badulla – Colombo inbound train from there back home.

Gangoda bridge

Note that from the Gangoda train station you will not be able to board a train to Colombo or to Badulla. Closest train station is Ihalakotte (approx 2-3 km away, includes 3 tunnels)

All and all it was a pretty good entertaining trip and looking forward to go back for a little daring adventure along with a camping session

2014 has seen a flurry of waterfall hunts thanks to the unexpected heavy rainfalls. I didn’t miss even a slight opportunity go see these wonderful creatures of the Mother Nature. I finished the year with another waterfall hunt in and around Nanu Oya & Nuwara Eliya that took the total tally to 16 (being only 5 shy of the Tour de France stages). What better way to open your account in the New Year other than with waterfalls. I had to see some of those sexy girls in 2015 as well so called one of my long-time friends, Lasantha whose hometown is Welimada. I’d already done a few visits to Welimada before but the heavy showers in December brought another opportunity which I grabbed with both hands.

So on the 4^th Jan, Duruthu Poya Day, around 3.00am I woke Lasantha and joined him to wait for a Badulla bus. After about half hour there came a blue-stickered semi-luxury bus. Have any of you wondered what the difference between Normal and Semi-Luxury is? We’re paying some one and half the usual fee for nothing, as far as I can see. This has turned into a big rip off and wonder who on earth had come up with this shoddy idea of semi-luxury. They’re not even going fast but stop everywhere to pick up people.

Tour Highlights: 

1. Ravana Ella, Kital Ella.
2. Bambaragama Ella, Ella.
3. Dunhinda Ella, Badulla.
4. Dunhinda Mini Falls, Badulla.
5. Lower Bomburu Ella, Perawella.
6. Bomburu Ella, Perawella.
7. Ravan Ella, Uduhawara.
8. Mana Ella, Lunuwatte.

Day 01

Now that I’ve taken it off my chest, let’s see what was in store for me upon arriving in Kumbalwela where the Ella-Wellawaya Road begins. It had gone 8am, much later than I’d planned but there was hardly anything I could do about the crawling bus, when we reached Kumbalwela and waited for a bus to get us to Ella. The under construction road was full of dust and waiting proved to be a huge challenge but after it felt like an eternity, there was a bus and we got in quickly.

My efforts to catch up on sleep became futile so had a tough time waiting till we reached Belihul Oya for breakfast. Pan Cake just out of the oven washed down with ginger-flavored plain tea brought the active adventurer in me. From there the journey became more pleasant. The Walawe Valley stretched into miles with vivid colors. Finally around 8.30am, we reached Kumbalwela and got off the bus. Then it was another sometime before a bus arrived for us to get to Ella.

Ravana Ella

We jumped out of the bus as it went through the tunnel where the railway line is overhead. We then got onto the railway line hoping to walk towards Kital Ella some close to 2km away. However, it wasn’t to be as I heard a deep rumble coming from the railway line ahead at a bend and ran for cover. There was no train even after about 5 mins and was wondering where on earth it went when it dawned on me that the train services were curtailed at Nanu Oya due to landslides.

Oh dear, what was coming then, I panicked but my anxiety got the better of me and went parallel to see what was making such a noise. At the corner, peering like a frightened deer, I saw a JCB travelling about along the railway line. What the world has come to was my immediate thought but looking closer I realized it was simply removing the earth and rubble off the railway line. Feeling relieved we took a detour and got to the railway line on the other side and walked towards Kital Ella.

About half a km into the journey, we could see the Ravana Ella falling beautifully in the far. Compared to last time when we saw her during My First Rail Hike, the water level was rich and healthy but not as much as I’d hoped for. We kept going up stopping here and there to take pictures when the opportunity arose. As usual, there were many foreigners taking a stroll along the railway line. Ella is a very hotspot for foreigners and they usually walk along the railway line to climb the Ella Rock.

We reached the railway bridge just before the Kital Ella station and got down to see the falls that gave us a side angle. The trees and their branches did everything to prevent us from taking her picture but Lasantha managed to keep them away while I took the photographs. The jumping upper section was like a tail of a cockerel and we enjoyed this beauty. I wish we could get to the base of but it’d’ve taken the whole day and still not sure if it was possible either.

So after a few minutes of shooting, we headed back towards Ella in the scorching sun hoping to catch a bus to go see one of the most popular and photographed falls in Sri Lanka, Bambaragama Ella.

JCB on railway lines

Dear me!

In the distance

Like a saree

Closer

Top

Bottom

Cover ups

Oh managed to clear it

Going for a stroll

Distant hills

Hi buddy!

Bridge where you have to get down to the left

Side view

Can see very little

Wish the view was from the front

The ground beyond

Better to stay away

The top of her

Through the hut

One of those lovely cottages closer to Ella

Bambaragama Ella

We were lucky to find a CTB bus going towards Hambanthota but were surprised when the writing on the bus said that it belonged to Panadura Depot. After a brief conversation with the conductor, I found out that they were going to Hambanthota for transporting people to election rallies. We got off at Bambaragama Ella to find a lot of people already shooting away as if this was the only fall in Sri Lanka. This is one of the most commonly visited and photographed falls in Sri Lanka due to its location, just by the road towards Wellawaya. Similarly the falls like Devon, St. Claire (now the St. Claire Rock), Ramboda Centre and Diyaluma are popular due to their strategic locations.

Unlike the video shown on TV a few days ago, a brownish body of water falling ferociously was no longer there. Instead what we saw was a very beautiful and pristine white beauty falling majestically along the rocks creating a few prominent cascades on the way. Even though she’s on the roadside I’ve only seen her a few times and the most recent before this time was a couple of years ago.

The sign informing about the number of people who had died attempting to either bath or climb up the slippery rocks was horrifying yet you can still see people trying the very same thing. The right hand side of the falls where people usually try to get up is now blocked with a metal fence and we saw a few police officers keep a close eye out for anyone trying to be heroic. There were a couple of foreigners trying to get up a rock closer to the base and get a few pictures of the falls and the police officers quickly went and warned them.

This one is also called Ravana Ella Lower Falls due to maybe due to its location.

I even saw a cluster of butterflies feeding on the wet earth looking for the daily mineral dosage I guess. After spending about an hour enjoying the beauty of her, we got into a Badulla-bound bus.

Feeling ravenous

Felt sorry for the fella

Mighty Bambaragama

Not overflowing

Towards the top

Lower part

Lower cascades

Upper most, couldn’t reach there

Portrait

Mid-section

Full package

Distant hills

The mighty gap

Feeding on the earth

Three Muskateers

Look at the shadows