Ella (ඇල්ල) is one of the best tourist destinations of Sri Lanka. It is attracted by more foreigners than local travelers. Ella is a transient place of foreigners who travel from down south to central hills. Therefore it has been developed as a tourist city where number of hotels, restaurant are situated. And it’s not surprise to see more tourists than locals at Ella town. The Name Ella is might be due to the acute angle from central hills to southern slope at this area. (Elaya (ඇලය)->Ella)
Ella has few places where everyone visits:

1. Ella Rock / Ellagala (ඇල්ලගල)
2. Little Adam’s peak (පුoචි ශ්‍රිපාදය)
3. Rawana Cave (රාවණා ගුහාව)
4. Rawana Temple
5. Bambaragama Falls-බඹරගම ඇල්ල (Famous Rawana Falls)
6. Rawana Falls-රාවණා ඇල්ල / Kithal Ella Falls
7. Bridge of Nine arch

Distant tourist attractions are
1. Kurullangala (කුරුල්ලන්ගල) and Rakkithakanda Temple (රක්ඛිතාකන්ද ලෙන් විහාරය)
2. Nil Diya Pokuna
3. Bambaragala Pathana (බඹරගල පතන)
4. Namunukula

I have been at Ella twice in 2013 and 2016.Good manageable one day is enough to cover main tourist attractions around Ella. This report is to share my experience around Ella in 2016.

Ella Rock / Ellagala
Siraj and myself got night mail train from Pettah and reached Kithal Ella station early morning. As it was a poya day small boutiques situated at Kithal Ella station were closed. We had our quick breakfast there and walked towards Ella along the rail track. The foot pathway towards Ella rock starts near Bo tree closer to railway track. We crossed Rawana Falls (not famous one) and followed right hand side foot pathway to reach Ella Rock. Left hand side foot pathway directs towards Rawana cave. There were number of branches and luckily we met a local guide who accompanied three tourists. We came to first view point which was situated lower to the top of Ella rock. It provided the view towards little Adam’s peak. After passing Pines forest we reached the top of Ella Rock where previous groups had rest. Then we moved further to reach view point-2 where a small Buddha statue was placed. Ella rock is a nice view point where you can see Banadarawela side, Punagala Hills, Wellawaya side, Namunukula and Little Adam’s peak, Ella gap, Ella-Wellawaya road etc.

View of Ella Rock from Little Adam’s peak

Posing at Kithal Ella station with kids

Getting down from rail track to the foot pathway. There are some local guides waiting for tourists. It’s better have policemen here.

Passing the top of Rawana Falls (Not the famous one)

Siraj is showing the direction once you cross the Rawana Falls. Other pathway brings you to Rawana cave. We joined with this foot pathway later.

Through Mana bushes

Get into the track. There are branches of foot pathways. But you can easily trace them as local guides and foreigners are there

Boutique we came across on our way

Framed view

Climbing up…

Reaching the first view point where you can see little Adam’s peak with back drop of Namunukula

Little Adam’s peak-Zoomed

Last bit of hike through Pines forest

Reaching the top of Ella Rock

The top is full of foreigners

Sleeping calm without disturbances

Mobile tea shop situated at Ella rock. Quite expensive.

Top of Ella rock with pines trees

Winding Ella-Wellawaya road

A bend of the road

Rawana Falls we passed.

Ella gap-Right hand side is Ella rock and left hand side is little Adam’s peak. Namunukula range is behind all.

Buddha statue and cave at view point-2.

Banadarawela side and Punagala Hills in right hand side. Wadina Hela peak at Wellawaya is faintly seen.

Ella town with hotels and Narangala (Second highest peak of Uva province)

Ella town

Ella-Wellawaya road

Zoomed Little Adam’s peak

After enjoying the view we returned along the same pathway up to the boutique and followed another foot pathway to join with the road to Rawana Cave. That foot pathway was scenic and again we met few foreigners with local guides. On our way down we have noticed famous Rawana Falls (Bambaragama Ella) with low water level. At the end we entered the road to Rawana cave.

Back to route

Getting down

Peak of Ella Rock is zoomed

First Peak of Ella rock is zoomed

Get the foot pathway from here to reach Rawana Cave

Meeting of foreigners

Sceneries captured on our way back….

Sceneries captured on our way back….

Sceneries captured on our way back….

Dried Bambaragala Falls (Famous Rawana Falls)

The train crossing the bridge

The train crossing the bridge

An estate manager during colonial era was used to sit on this rock and observe tea estate.

Nicely made hut

Finally we met the steps to reach Rawana Cave

Finally we met the steps to reach Rawana Cave

Rawana Cave and Rawana Temple
Rawana Temple/ Rawana Ella RMW is also called Meda Maha Viharaya (මැද මහා විහාරය) as it is situated in between Dowa cave temple and Rakkithakanda temple. Rawana Ella Temple was built in King Walagamba period and renovated by King Wimaladarmasooriya 1 during Kandyan era. Nowadays you can see the cave temple with old Bo tree.

Rawana Cave
This cave which is situated closer to Rawana Temple has some evidences of pre historical human. Dr. Deraniyagala has done excavation related to this cave in 1940-1950 found traces of Sri Lankan pre historical human. This cave is situated at 4000ft height. It has a huge opening but suddenly ends up as a narrow tunnel.
According to Rama-Rawana story, King Rawana has used this cave to hide Seetha.

Entrance to Rawana Cave-They will charge from foreigners

The way to Rawana Cave

Scenic Foot pathway to Rawana Cave

Footsteps to Rawana Cave

Rawana Cave

Rawana Cave

Rawana Cave with modern day letters

Rawana Temple

Rawana Temple

Sleeping Buddha statue

Seating Buddha Statue

Ancient Buddha Statues

Ceiling of the temple

We have reached Ella-Wellawaya road then and enjoyed the view of Bambaragama Falls (famous Rawana Falls).

Bambaragama Falls (Famous Rawana Falls)
Though it is mentioned as Rawana Falls correct term is Bambaragama Falls. A branch of Kirindi Oya forms this beautiful road side waterfalls with seven steps, collectively has a height of 40m. Bambaragama falls can be seen from Wellawaya-Ella road one kilometer before Ella town.
The water springs origin from Bambaragama Ambadandegama area at Punagala hills.
This waterfalls is mentioned in famous Rama-Rawana story, a place to hide Princes Seetha. Seetha has come through a tunnel to bath at Bambaragama Falls / Rawana Falls and Rawana’s areoplane has parked on a hill closer to the falls.
The area has been declared as Rawana Ella forest reserve (රාවණා ඇල්ල රක්ශිතය) by the government.

First glimpse of Bambaragama Falls

Bambaragama Falls-Full view

Bambaragama Falls-Full view

Bambaragama Falls

Bambaragama Falls

Bambaragama Falls

Our next place of visit was Little Adam’s peak situated at Ella-Passara road.

Little Adam’s Peak / Punchi Siri Pade
One border of Ella gap is formed by the mountain range called Little’s Adam’s peak. By road to Little Adam’s peak is situated at Ella-Passara road in 1 kilometer. From there it is a scenic walk through tea estates to reach the first peak of Little Adam’s peak where old summer hut was placed. From there you can move from one peak to other till end of the range.This mountain range provides a bird’s eye view towards southern and eastern plains. It is nice to walk over hills of Little Adam’s peak

Scenic path to Little Adam’s peak

Scenic path to Little Adam’s peak

View of Ella rock and Banadarawela Hills on our way to Little Adam’s Peak

Cabanas of 98 Arches Hotel

Scenic pathway to Little Adam’s Peak

Scenic pathway to Little Adam’s Peak

Surrounding view

Ella tea factory

Heli Pad of 98 Arches Hotel

Reaching the first peak of Little Adam’s Peak

Reaching the first peak of Little Adam’s Peak

Flag point /First peak

Remaining of old summer hut at first peak

View of second peak from first peak

Towards Wellawaya and Wadina Hela

The drop. Sometimes it is called as Mini World’s end as well.

Heading to second peak

Heading to second peak

Zoomed view of them

Third peak

Sun rays over Ella Rock

There are some more peaks to go

Unusual placement of rocks

Partner of this journey

Ella-Wellawaya road

Zoomed view of hotel at the edge

Three peaks of Little Adam’s peak

Coming back…..

Our last place of visit is famous Bridge of Nine arch from Ella-Passara road.

Bridge of Nine Arch

This was the last place of our visit at Ella in 2016 visit. This famous bridge (viaduct) is situated in between Ella and Demodara station closer to Ella station (About 3km along railway track). There are few ways to approach:

1. Along the rail track from Ella station or Demodara station (Little bit far)
2. Mortable road from Ella town (You can hire a three wheel)
3. Foot pathway from Ella
4. Foot pathway from Ella-Passara road

Road and foot pathway to reach Nine Arch Bridge from Ella-Passara road.

Last option was more convenient for us as we were at Ella-Passara road after getting down from Little Adam’s peak.
History of this bridge goes back to British colonial period. Due to the First World War British couldn’t import steel to construct the railway bridge between Ella and Demodara. Mr. P.K. Appuhamy solved this problem by constructing the bridge in shape of nine arch using bricks. One arch is 97feet tall and 24.5feet wide. Most fascinating thing is capturing a train which crosses the bridge. We waited for about 1hour for a train but it was delay.

Then we crossed the bridge and walked to Ella station after passing No 40 tunnel.

Bridge of Nine arch at Ella

Bridge of Nine arch at Ella

It’s their fun

Closer view

From other side

Ella station-At the end of the journey

Rawana Falls-proper (not famous) is also a place for visit in Ella journey.

Rawana Falls-proper
23m tall this waterfall is also situated at Ella forest reserve closer to Kithal Ella. It is also formed by a branch of Kirindi Oya. Rawana Falls-proper can be watched by walking along rail track from Ella to Kithal Ella (or other way round). As this falls is more closer to Rawana cave, it is called Rawana falls.
We drove along Ella-Kithal Ella road and parked our vehicle closer to Kithal Ella station. It is bit difficult to go by a low ground clearance vehicle in this road. Then walked along the rail trek and found a place to get down to the base of the fall (After the railway bridge). But there was one guy mentioning as it is a private land they charge Rs200 for person to watch the fall from there. We refused it and go further along the rail trek to watch the fall.
One can go top of the fall when trek to Ella rock from Kithal Ella.

Rawana Falls-Proper

Rawana Falls-Proper

Rawana Falls-Proper

Rawana Falls-Proper

Rawana Falls-Proper

Rawana Falls proper

On top of Kithal Rawana Falls-proper. Can be easily reached on the way to Ella rock

Let’s move for some distance attractions around Ella town.

Kurullangala Expedition
This is a separate one day journey we all get together at Kumbalwela junction as we came from different direction. Then we drove along Ella-Wellawaya road and passed Ella town. Direction to the trail head is easy as there is a clear board mentioning Rakkithakanda RMW in right hand side after about 11 kilometers from Ella junction. (This junction is called Karandagolla). It is not necessary to go to the temple but we had to park our vehicles at safe premise. The priest at Rakkithakanda temple was very kind and we met our guide (well known Meththananda) there. Meththananda has become a famous character due to the programme of awakening King Rawana!
The foot pathway starts closer to the metal quarry.
Kurullangala hike is a tough hike over boulders and rocks. There are few difficult sections where you need a rope to get up with the aid of the guide. After spending about 2 hours we were able to reach the top of Kurullangala where pre-historical paintings situated. Though this hike is tough, it is almost under the forest cover except last few meters of the journey. I have to appreciate the work of Meththananda who is an experience guide of this trail to accompany people.
Kurullangala is a nice place to enjoy the view towards Wellawaya and Ella as well.

Turn to Rakkithakanda temple from Ella-Wellawaya road

Kurullangala where pre historical paintings situated. Exact place is shown by the arrow.

Meththananda is awaiting for us. Foot pathway is situated closer to metal quarry

Journey started. Met some villagers

Small break

Hike to Kurullangala

Hike to Kurullangala

Met on our way up…

The path we passed

Time for a pose

Difficult path. Seems like a dry stream.

Climbing up….

Close to the rock

As there is no proper foot path it is a hard trek.

The rock…

With aid of creepers

Surrounding view…

Towards Uma Oya project

Uma Oya construction site…

Narrow escape

Rope is needed at some point

Prabath is awaiting for Keshan

Last bit of hike

Towards Moneragala

Sharp face of the rock

Kurullangala has drawings of 5000 years old might be belong to pre historical era. All these are linear paintings and red in color. Sometimes they have kept their hand marks on the surface. Different birds including peacocks and some animal paintings are there.

Kurullangala paintings

Kurullangala paintings

Kurullangala paintings

Kurullangala paintings

Kurullangala paintings

Kurullangala paintings

Kurullangala paintings

Kurullangala paintings

Kurullangala paintings

Kurullangala paintings

Kurullangala paintings

Kurullangala paintings

View from Kurullangala

View from Kurullangala-Uma Oya construction site

View from Kurullangala-Ella-Wellawaya road

View from Kurullangala-Ella-Wellawaya road

The team with guide.

The team.

End of the journey.

Rakkithakanda cave temple
This is situated closer to the trail head of Kurulangala. After driving about 11km from Ella town along Ella-Wellawaya road, the name board to Rakkithakanda temple can be seen.
History goes back to King Walagamba period. This cave temple was built and offered to Rakkitha Arahath Thero who lived in King Walagamba period. In 1886, one of a regional king has renovated the paintings according to Kandyan tradition.
Nowadays you can watch the shrine house in the cave decorated with paintings. It says there is a tunnel connecting Rakkithakanda temple with Dowa temple in Bandarawela.
There are few caves used by Buddhist priest for meditation.

Rakkithakanda cave temple

Towards shrine house

Stupa at cave

Stupa at cave

Entrance of shrine house. Note Queens mark just above the door.

Paintings of Kandyan era

Paintings of Kandyan era

Sleeping Buddha statue

Inside shrine house

Stupa under the cave

View towards Wellawaya

View of Kurullangala from temple

Pussy cat

Bambaragala Pathana / Bibilekanda-බිබිලේ කන්ද (4335.9ft)
Bambaragala Pathana is a nice view point situated at Namunukula area. You have to drive along Ella-Passara road till club junction (after 1km of Namunukula junction) and then take right hand side road till find a temple at Y junction. From this Y junction get the road going downhill and will pass Wewekele (වැවේකැලේ) Grama Niladhari board. Then road becomes gravel till you reach the forest patch of Bambaragala Pathana.
Bambaragala Pathana has a historical value and it goes back to Rawana legend. A fire ball has fallen from historical war between Rama-Rawana resulting no vegetation over Pathana. There is clear area on Pathana like a playground might be the evidence for this. Forest department has planted some trees called “Gas Kadju” at some section of Bambaragala Pathana.
English has placed some artillery aiming Sinhalese at Bibilegama village in Uva-Wellassa rebellion.
Bambaragala Pathana provides a circular view point towards Namunukula, Buttala, Wellawaya, Bibilegama and Wewekele. There is a foot pathway around the hill enjoy the surrounding view. There are evidences of camping on top of Bambaragala Pathana.

Entering to Bambaragala Pathana

Entering to Bambaragala Pathana. Gravel path can be overcome by four wheel or three-wheel.

Bambaragala Pathana. Note this is not natural vegetation. Planted trees.

Bambaragala Pathana and planted trees.

Bambaragala Pathana

View of Namunukula

Bambaragala Pathana

View point of Bambaragala Pathana

Towards Wellassa and Wellawaya

View from Bambaragala Pathana. Paddies at Bibilegama area.

View from Bambaragala Pathana. Towards Wewekele area. We descend from Bambaragala Pathana to Wewekele area.

View from Bambaragala Pathana-Maragala range is seen far away.

Paddies seen at Bibilegama.

View point of Bambaragala Pathana

Perfect weather

View point of Bambaragala Pathana

View from Bambaragala Pathana

Giant of Uva-Namunukula

Nearby towers placed hill.

Bambaragala Pathana. Circular view point.

Around Bambaragala Pathana

Planted trees.

Bambaragala Pathana

Bambaragala Pathana

Bambaragala Pathana

Leaving from Bambaragala Pathana

Leaving from Bambaragala Pathana

Trekking from Bambaragala Pathana to Bibilegama
Actually I wanted to find water springs give the birth to Menik Ganga at Ethupattiya (ඇතුපට්ටිය). Therefore we descend from Bambaragala Pathana to Bibilegama along scenic foot pathway through Wewekele tea estate. All the way the foot path goes downhill but was rich in beauty. Bambaragala Pathana was standing behind us like a giant. At the end we came to a tarred road at Bibilegama to get the bus to Badulla.

Scenic view on our way down….Wewekele tea estate

Scenic view on our way down….Wewekele tea estate

Scenic view on our way down…. Madolsima hills seen in between the gap

Scenic view on our way down

Wewekele tea estate

අරලිය

How Bambaragala Pathana is seen

How Bambaragala Pathana is seen

View of Bambaragala Pathana

Madolsima range

Scenic estate road

Wewekele estate dispensary

Wewekele tea factory

Kilometer post

Colorful

Old Dewalaya

Hard life

Paddies

Destination where we can get a bus to Badulla

Where we came from

Thanks for reading

Same as last year we arrange donate school items for rural school. This time we selected Batuhena Primary School in Elehera Bakamuna area for our donation. 81 children & 6 teachers in that school. We arranged school bag , full set of books for 2018 , water bottle , lunch box , other stationery items for each student. Also we arranged to donate sports items for school. We leaved on December 07th midnight & reached Bakamuna at around 6.30 a.m. First we went to friend’s house & he contacted this school for us. We had quick wash there & went to school with him. The school children & their parents warmly welcomed us. They arranged little ceremony & few dancing items from little ones. First the Principle address the meeting & he pointed out from it’s start this school never got outside donation like this. After that little ones showed their talents. We noticed that these kids poor but have good talents. The teachers gave their best to educate these poor kids.

After that most awaited moment came & starts distributing gifts to children. After distributing school items & we gave them pack of sweets. They highly enjoyed it. It’s better to view photos than explain it. Finally we gave gifts for all teachers in the staff.

After donate every thing, we completed another very successful program with lots of happy memories. Around 12.30 p.m we left from school & went to our next destination.

Gifts packed & ready

Batuhena Primary School

Details of the school

Lined up for welcome us

They welcomed us

.

Unloading the Gifts

They want to check it & can’t wait

.	Waiting till start

.	The principle addressing

Happy faces

Happy faces everywhere

They showed their talents

.

.

.

.	Vote of thanks speech by student

Receiving their gifts

.

.

.

.	Gifts for teachers

.

.

Happy faces everywhere

.

.

.

Smile in every face

Smile in every face

.	Leaving school premises for 2017

After completed another very successful event we came to Angamedilla National Park. We reserved it’s bungalow for 2 days. First we went to Park office & we met some villagers came to collect “Aliwedi”. They explained their helpless situation regarding threat from elephants. Previous night 7 elephants came to his land & destroyed all the coconut trees. They mentioned that these days they can’t sleep in the night even. This was the common sad situation in theses villages. We came to see elephants in the park but villagers every night see elephants coming to their door step. After produce ID wild life officers issue only 2 “Aliwedi” for each farmer. This was the real picture of these area & which we never seen or can’t imaging.

After share their details we went to the bungalow. Friendly 2 staff members there & they informed us very little visitors for this park. Remain few hours we spent leisurely & went to sleep early.

Next day morning we went to see “Raja Bemma”. It situated other side of the Park entrance. To visit there people have to get permission from park office. They informed us from previous night elephants there & be watchful. It was nice place & can see remains of ancient “Raja Bemma”. We got instructions from bungalow staff not to bath there due to high water level. Also they told us lots of crocodiles there & later we saw 2 of them. We spent nearly one hour there & decided to walk to the forest along with the river. Walking in the National Park was prohibited by the law. Also there was a danger but we took the chance. After walking couple kilometers we found the name board of “Wasgamuwa National Park”. We walked further to the forest using elephant path. It was nice journey & finally came to the river. We turn back from there & came back to bungalow.

We quickly took our lunch & prepare for safari tour in the park. There was only 1 safari jeep in this park & it contacted by bungalow staff for us. Around 2.30 p.m we started our journey & mainly large number of deer’s we saw. Luckily we met the huge jumbo in the park. He was very dangerous one & not familiar to people. Our guide arrange “Aliwedi” to tackle the situation. After some time he left from the road & went to the forest. They told that there were nearly 100 elephants can see in the park but we saw only 2 of them.

Next day morning after having our breakfast we left from “Angemedilla Park” & left to Polonnaruwa. Around 9.00 a.m we came to Polonnaruwa & we visit to see ruins. We spent couple of time to see ruins & Gal Viharaya. Lunch for us prepared in Hingurakgoda friend’s house & we left from Polonnaruwa to Hingurakgoda.  After having good time there we started our return journey. Around 7.30 p.m we came to back to home.

We completed another memorable journey with lots of happy memories.

Thanks for reading

Sanjeewa

Angamedilla National Park

On the way to park

Entrance to the park

Villager came to collect “Aliwedi”

Entrance to Bungalow

Park Bungalow

.

.	“Debara Gotaya”

“Raja Bemma” – Angamedilla

Entrance

Inside the park

.	Nice view point on the tree

Remains of “Raja Bemma”

High water level

.

.

.

.

Views from top

.

.

.

.

.

.	Entrance to the “Wasgamuwa National Park

Left from previous traveler

Walking on the elephant pathway

Try to lift this

.

.

Angamedilla Anicut

.

.

.

.	We met this huge jumbo

.	Only this safari jeep for the park

Came to the Parakkrama Samudraya

Another jumbo waiting

.	Fishing boats

.	Mahaiyawa Wewa in the park

.	Bungalow Staff

Polonnaruwa Ruins

“King Parakkramabahu’s Palace”

“Pond”

“Raja Saba Mandapaya”

.

.	Gal Viharaya

.

.

.

.

.

.

.	Stupaya on the “Hingurakgala”

Sangamittha Perahera at Dambulla

Our team members wanted go for a bike ride without much of hiking. I read report on these places and all these places can be visited without much effort. Therefore we planned a trip to Matale region. In this trip we have visited following places;

• Kallebokka 360 View Point
• Biso Ella
• Hulangala Mini Worlds End

Kallebokka 360 View Point

Kallebokka is a estate in Panwila – kabaragala road next to Madulkele, Central Province, Sri Lanka. It is located at an elevation of 1175 meters above sea level. The 360 View point located at the highest peak in the division/estate is the attractive place where most of the locals visit to view the surrounding beauties. We can see knuckles range with it’s highest peaks and the famous Sembuwatta Lake also can be seen. A ticket of 100/- is issued at the entrance passing the village.The road uphill is tough and all vehicles cannot be driven to the top. Bikes and 4 wheel drivers are recommended. You will never regret after reaching the top.

Kallebokka Arial view

Kallebokka Estate

Knuckles Range

Land Mark 1

We can use a shortcut to reach the peak. the road with a gate near the land mark 1 ( resting hut). Also you can fill water at this place.

Short Route

hut in the view point seen from resting point

Scenic road

Final part at top

Summer hut at view point

In the hut

View point

View from the hut

View from the Hut

Kallebokka estate view

Knuckles range

Knuckles range

A peak near view point-can hike

The starting point from main road

Sembuwatta lake view

The Kallebokka Factory

.	Line houses-Kallebokka

Sembuwatta Lake

Sembuwatta

Team	Back at the starting point

After the Kallebokka visit we took the Kabaragala-kandenuwara road to Matale. This road is very narrow and with absolute beauty. The road from Pitakanda to Kandenuwara is a road for scenaries.

.

.

Name the peaks

Viewing the surrounding

No rules

Riders

An open place

A waterfall at Kendenuwara

We reached the Matale around 3:00 pm. from there we rushed to Selagama. used the google maps for finding short routes and reached selagama. the road to hulangala and biso ella starts from the Suluna pahura temple after passing the Embody trading garments factory. After 2 km ride up in this road we can reach the selagama line house.

Biso Ella

Biso ella located near the Kovil .Take right hand turn from Selagama lime house junction and drive up to the Kovil. Then you have to go along the Marshy land in front of the Kovil to reach the waterfall. Biso falls has low water level and this is like Sera ella where we can see falls from behind in the cave. A story about seven princes is related to this waterfall, they committed suicide by jumping from the fall(From Niroshan’s Report). Ask the direction from locals. Even a kid will tell you the path.

Full view cannot be seen from here. I have taken some photos using the drone.

Biso Ella

Full view

Upper fall

Bottom view

Another view

.

On the edge

view

After spending some time at this place we came back to the kovil where we parked our bikes and the time was around 4:15 pm. Our next destination is Hulanagala to which we need to go another 2 km. On the way to Hulangala we can see Ambokka peak.

Path

Ambokka

View

Name!

Hulangala Mini Worlds End

Hulangala mini world’s end is situated at Selagama tea estate. Distance is 2km from Selagama Kovil to reach this Mini world’s end. Bikes, three Wheeler can easily reach this place

Hulangala MWE

team

Full view

Ariel Shot

.	Visitors from village

.	Peak we can hike.

Another view

Team

Around 6:00 pm we left the place and returned home safely.
Thanks for reading…

We got details about another very poor family in Mahakeliya in Wariyapola area, We started build new house for them from last October month. This month we were able to complete the task. It took nearly 5 months time due to various difficulties. 3 members in this family ( father , mother & little daughter ).Their kid was 9 months old. Father disabled due to road accident & he lost his one leg. Their main income is “Samurdhi” payment. Pls go through the photos & you can get clear picture about them. On 15th March morning I went train from Fort to Kurunegala. Around 8.00 a.m it reached to Kurunegala & from there I went to Mahakeliya by bus. Around 9.00 a.m I went to there place. They warmly welcome me & they were very happy about their new home. I spent nearly one hour with them & left with full satisfaction regard our donation.

Family situation in 2017 October Month

.

.

Showing his injuries

.

Their New House on March 21018

.

.

.

.

With our main Gift

Happy Faces

Kadiragala Raja Maha Viharaya ( Built by King Walagamba )

Wariyapola > Piyumgalla Road

It around 11 a.m & I had couple of hours free time. Therefore I decided to visit some important places near Wariyapola area. First I visit to “Kadiragala Raja Maha Viharaya”. This temple built by “King Walagamba”. Ancient stupaya situated on the rock. From there you can get the nice view of surrounding area.

Entrance

Steps to Vihara Maluwa

.

Stupaya

Entrance to Vihara Geya

Inside the Vihara Geya

Bodhiya

.

Devalaya

Pokuna

.

.

.	Stupaya & Buddha Statue on Top

.

.

Views from the Top

Ruins of Old Stupaya

.

.

Kebellelena Raja Maha Viharaya ( Built by King Walagamba )

Wariyapola > Wellegala Road

I spent nearly one hour there & came back to Wariyapola town. From there I went to “Kebella Len Raja Maha Viharaya”. This temple also built by “King Walagamba” & situated on the rock.

Climbing was very difficult due to very hot weather.

.	Old Dhamma Shalawa

1st Bodhiya near Entrance

Large Pond in the Temple

Steps to Top

2nd Bodhiya on the Rock

Vihara Geya

.

Beautiful Creation Built in Small Lena

.

Views from there

.

Beautiful Pond – Nice Shape

Views from Top

.	Abounded Kuti

Another pond

.

After visting these places I came back to Kurunegala. From there I took bus to Colombo. I completed the day in memorable way with lots of happy memories.

Thanks For Reading!

Waduwawa was one of my friends home village. Ever since I had heard about the lovely area from him I always wanted to pay a visit. Early morning after finishing a quick hike to Yogamu kanda we started to explore along the Polgahawela – Narammala road which ran through Waduwawa.

On our way Yogamu kanda was seen on the right hand side and there were many temples at the base of this mountain which we intended to visit.

Yatigal oluwa purana Gale bandara devalaya (7°20’7.85″N 80°16’8.22″E)

This Devalaya was 500m’s towards the right of Narammala road. One needs a trishaw to reach it. The main cave was closed since it was not a “Kemmura” day and we also came across another drip ledge cave close by.

Yatigal oluwa purana gale bandara devalaya

the cave behind the devalaya

the cave behind the devalaya

another cave

front view

Bambaragala RMV (7°20’33.44″N 80°15’42.47″E)

Next target was Bambaragala which was at the base of a rocky hill which could be seen from the summit of Yogamuwa. It is located 300m’s away towards the right of Narammala road and to get to the main cave one needs to climb a fleet of steps. Since there was no one around we couldnt see in side the cave (images attached were taken on 2018 Vesak day). There was a metal stairway towards the rock which we climbed up to enjoy a splendid 1Km walk along the rock with fantastic scenery.

steps of bambaragala rmv

.

main cave

bambaragala cave

.	makara thorana

restoring

.

murals

murals

murals

murals

murals

murals

murals

bo tree

climbing bambaragala

yogamu kanda seen

.	more to walk

.	Mahameuwnawa Polgahawela

kite time

childhood

.

partners

urinal

Thun dola tank (7.361444, 80.253463)

At Waduwawa Dispensary we took the right hand road to visit Thun dola tank which is a secluded location for a calm bath but filled with danger.

thun dola tank

Thun dola spill

paddy cultivated by thun dola

Kandayaya purana poth gul viharaya (7°21’34.49″N 80°14’40.59″E)

Passing the famous Polgahawela Mahameuwnawa we reached the road side temple called poth gul viharaya. There were two drip ledged caves where one was heavily modified.

Kandayaya purana poth gul viharaya bo tree

drip ledge

siri pathula

.

.	another moonstone

modified cave

.

pagoda

sal

Raanagala ambalama(7.380527, 80.243770)

We wanted to visit Wadakada area so we took the Wadakada route without proceeding towards Narammala and on our way we reached Raanagala ambalama. This fascinating monument is found just before Raanagala temple. Dont forget to stop and rest there a bit if you happen to pass by.

Renagala ambalama

roof

door

art

view from ambalama

Raanagala Raja maha viharaya (7°22’54.16″N 80°14’44.99″E)

Passing the ambalama the entrance to to Raanagala temple is to be found. The fleet of steps will take one towards the panoramic “maluwa”. This is a must visit place if you are traveling along this route. Other than the scenery the carved well on the rock was a fascinating finding for us.

Renagala rmv

steps

kema

view

wow a well carved in rock.. may be natural formation

image house

.

.

.

paintings

the statue

view from renagala

Wadakada Falls (7.396229, 80.264687)

Next attraction was the only properly identified waterfall in Kurunegala district which is Wadakada falls. Its located close to Wadakada school.

After Wadakada falls we decided to head back since it started raining cats and dogs to end a successful day of traveling.

Wadakada ella

When its dried out

downstream

.

.

full view

.	top of the falls

.

side view

One of our relative every year offer “Dhanaya” for  “Kudumbigala Aranya”. For this trip he is taking large number of people. In this trip every person has to wear white cloths & observe “Dasa Sil” under his guides.  This time he joined 45 people for this trip. On this trip he donates water bottles ,king coconut &  food items to another 3 temples also. Lorry used for carry all these goods.13th Friday midnight we start our journey & first we went to “Kithul Kote Aranya”. From there we had our breakfast & most of the people in our team took “Dasa Sil”. Next we went to “Tharulengala Viharaya”. We took our lunch before 12 noon & went to see ruins in the mountain. Longest Lena in Sri Lanka situated in here. Our plan was visiting some important places on this way , but our plan was changed. Our lorry broke down & we have to hire another lorry from there. It took long time to unloading / loading process & around 4.30 p.m we reached to “Kudumbigala Aranya”. Before getting dark we carry water bottles , king coconuts & pirikara up to the “Dhana Shalawa” on the mountain.

From the night we start prepare of “Heel Dhanaya” & “Dahawal Dhanaya”. On next day morning around 5.15 a.m we carried the “Dhanaya” for monks. Around 7.00 a.m we visit to “Akasa Chaitya”. We had good time there & had amazing views of whole area. We came back & again carried “Dhahawal Dhanaya” around 10.15 a.m. After return back around 12 noon we had our lunch there. After that we packed our goods & ready for return journey. On that way we went to Panama Viharaya , Maninaga Pabbatha Viharaya & Muhudu Maha Viharaya. We donate water bottles , king coconuts & food items for these temples. After visiting all above places we started our return journey. We came back home around 2.00 a.m on 16th Monday. We finished another memorable trip with different type of experience.

Thanks for reading

Sanjeewa

Kithul Kote Aranya – Thanamalwila

.

.

.	Monks returning after having “Pindapatha”

Tharulengala Viharaya – Hulannuge

.	Ruins of “Dageba”

Ruins of building

“Sellipiya”

Steps to the mountain

Having “Dhahawal Dhanaya”

Another “Sellipiya”

Wewa seen from distance

Buddha Statue

“Wedda Paintings”

Another Lena

Ladder – Support for climb difficult part

.	Views inside the longest Lena

.

.

.

.

.

.

Kudumbigala Aranya

Details of the Aranya

.

Stupaya near the Entrance

.

“Bodhiya”

Path to the top

.

.

Path between two rocks

“Maha Suddarshana Lena”

.	Inside the Vihara Geya

.

“Stupaya”

.	“Akasa Chaitya” seen from distance

Steps to top

.

.	“Stupaya” on the rock

.	Ruins of another “Stupaya”

Ruins of another “Stupaya”

Views from top

Morning views from top – around 7.00 a.m

.

Surrounding views

.

.	Lagoon & the sea

.

.

Carrying prepared “Danaya” for monks

Monk coming to “Dhana Shalawa”

Arranging “Dhahawal Dhanaya”

“Gediya” – use for call monks to “Dhana Shalawa”

Giant “Kimbul Huna”

Panma Viharaya

“Stupaya” – construction work in progress

Maninaga Pabbatha Raja Maha Viharaya – Shasthrawela

Large number of “Lena” in the temple premises. Need long time to cover it. At the moment 11 small monks studying in this temple under lots of difficulties.

.

.

Ruins of “Stupaya”

We handover water bottles & food items to “Nayaka Thero”

Muhudu Maha Viharaya

.

“Stupaya”

Ruins in the temple

.

.

.

One of jumbo’s we met on the way

The trip was scheduled with one of my friends from university and usual we planned to have no plan other than the duration this time would be just 2 days.

By the end of the 2 days, we had visited 14 places and traveled 900 kilometers

1. Makulana Rajamaha Viharaya
2. A limestone kiln in Yatawatta area
3. Deevilla Ambalama
4. Kawatayamuna Rajamaha Viharaya
5. Bambarakiri Ella
6. Riverstone Telcom Tower
7. Pitawala Pathana Mini Worlds End
8. Wasgamuwa National Park
9. Namalpura Sri Vishuddharama Tampita Viharaya (Madawala Tampita Viharaya)
10. Mahadivulwewa Ancient Tampita Viharaya
11. Manankattiya Sri Sudarshanarama Tampita Rajamaha Viharaya
12. Pahalagama Archeology Site
13. Thiriyaya Girihandu Seya
14. Kokilai Fishing Point / Bird Sanctuary

We met on a Thursday at 4 AM at Bamabalapitiya and came to Thunmulla junction and stopped. It was time to make the first decision. Which way should we turn ? After bit of deliberation we decided to drive towards Kandy and decide any diversions on the way.

On the way we decided to go to Knuckles side and to avoid primary roads turned towards Rambukkana from Kegalle and took the Mawathagama road. Passing Mawathagama, we saw the Makulana Raja Maha Viharaya and its stupa on a massive rock standing against the morning sky. The time was around 7 am now and it was time for our first stop.

Makulalana early morning

According to a board displayed at the temple, two merchants Tapassu Balluka after bringing the hair relics of Buddha to the country, part of it was given to a friend called “Kanaka”. This part of of the hair relics has been enshrined at this stupa with the sponsorship of the regional king Bimba. “Makuta” is hair in Pali language and converted to Makula in Sinhala. “Ana” is jungle in old Sinhalese thus the jungle area where the Makula was enshrined was been called Makulana.

Little did we know that we will be visiting the original temple built by Tapassu Balluka enshrining the hair relic at Thiriyaya the very next day.

. Carvings on the rock at the top of the steps on the rock

The entrance to the maluwa is through this beautifully made bell tower

Makulana Stupa

The stupa seen from the ground level

. .

.

We probably spent about 30-40  minutes exploring the temple and talking to the chief incumbent priests at the temple.

Then we took off towards narrow but beautiful roads of Kegalle towards Matale. Getting closer to Matale we passed few limestone kilns along the road and decided to stop at place.

Having a chat with the workers we realised this was quite a operation. At the toad level all we could see were people dropping limestone rocks to a smoking  pit. The pit was covered by a coconut leaf thatched roof.  Getting closer we realised this was just the tip of the iceberg. The kiln continues down the mountain slope invisible to the road.

Layers of limestone rocks and wood are continuously loaded in to the pit. This operation continues throughout the year and fire is estingusided only for few days during the Sinhala and Hindu New Year in April. After few days of burning the burned powder falls off at the bottom of the kiln which is at the slopes.

Operations at the road level

Operations at the road level

Burnt limestone collected at the bottom of the kiln hidden from view

view of the top of the smoking pit from the bottom

..

.

It was around 10 AM now and we drove towards Matale and on the way I suddenly saw the Deevilla Ambalama passing by and quickly stopped. We got down took few snaps of the building to the amusement of a bunch of 3 wheel drivers wondering what was special about this building. Unfortunately most of the residents who live close to such site do not understand the value or the historical significance of such sites.

. .

.

.

.

Time was 8.40 AM when we left the Ambalama and close to Matale we saw a board towards Kawatayamuna Rajamaha Viharaya. Since this was popular name we took a small diversion and went in search of the temple.

Unfortunately nothing of historical value remains of this rajamaha viharaya and seems more popular for its devala. The only interesting feature of this temple is the depiction of various scenes of hell built across a hall.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

After a quick visit through the temple, we had a good breakfast buffet at a place just before the Matale town.

Then we took the Rattota Road. Passing Rattota we saw the directions to the Bambarakiri Ella and stopped there. Time was 10.30 AM when we reached Bambarakiri Ella

.

.

.

.

We spent almost 30 minutes at the waterfall and left toward Riverston. We reached the bottom of the telco tower around 11.40 AM. The wind at this point was so strong it even took a great effort to open and close the vehicle door.

The climb to to top is gentle and filled with mist. But the wind was strong on the last bend to the top both of us were almost getting blown away. After walking halfway on this wind passage we took a call to turned back since if the blowing increased further when we walked back it would be too risky. Number of people who came after us too turned back at this passage.

misty road to the top of Riverston

misty road to the top of Riverston

The total length of the trail is 2 km and the elevation increase is about 150 meters along the route.

Our next destination was Pitawala Pathana plains just few kilometers away. The trail is clearly marked on the plains from the ticketing office and the total distance is about 750 meters to its mini worlds end. The windy situation of the Riverston was present at this area too. Strong winds were blowing across the plains but did not post any danger on the plains.

At the two edge of the rocks (mini worlds end points) the wind increased drastically keeping us from getting on to the rock at the edge.

Trail head for Mini Worlds End at Pitawala Pathana

At the mini worlds end view point 1

At the mini worlds end view point 1

At the mini worlds end view point 1

At the mini worlds end viewpoint 2

At the mini worlds end viewpoint 2

We left Pitawala Pathana around 1.45 and made a stop at a Roti Kade near a bridge which was being constructed. There we accidently found a lovely black pool up the river which Ashan G later identified as a popular bathing place on the Thelgamu Oya.

Thelgamu Oya – note the waves on the surface due to high winds

After this stop we didn’t have an idea where to go so after deliberating whether to travel towards Batticaloa or Trincomalee  over a plain tea and a pol roti with Lunu Miris we decided go to Wasgamuwa and figure out the next steps. So we drove towards Wasgamuwa National Park .

We had our lunch on the way from a small shop and continued towards Wasamuwa NP. We reached to park around 3.45 PM

Unfortunately there weren’t many animals but we did manage to see two bull elephants testing their strength at a edge of a water tank.

.

.

.

.

We came out of the NP around 6 AM and decided to end the day at Dambulla. So we turned back and drove towards Illukkumbura and reached Dambulla through Bakamuna. Since it was around 7 PM, we decided to go up to Habarana for the night. On the way we checked few placed to stay on Google and found a nice place advertised for Rs 4500 on bookings.com. We called them on the way and said they have rooms available. So we went there found rooms and environment exceptionally well maintained so negotiated the price to Rs 3000 and made our stop for the night.

Day 2

My friend wanted to go upto Kokilai Fishing Point and on the night before so I mapped our route to see some of the Tampita Viharaya I had in mind to visit which would also avoid the common Habarana – Trincomalee road.

We took off around 7 AM  and drove towards Ritigala and turned right from Palugaswewa leading to Namalpura. Our plan was to have breakfast somewhere on the way.

This area consists of a cluster of 4 Tampita Vihara which mostly remain unknown and are are rarely visited by outside parties. Namalpura Sri Vishuddharama Tampita Viharaya (aka Madawala Tampita Viharaya) lies 11 km down this road and this would be our first stop for the day.

.

.

.

.

.

.

This is a small rectangular Tampita Viharaya built on 16 granite pillars and well maintained. The pillar stumps are about 3 feet high uneven as though they were scavenged from various ruined buildings. This is the only Tampita Viharaya in the area conserved by the Department of Archaeology.

From Namalpura we took 4 kms of gravel roads twisting turning through chenas, jungles and elephant fences to reach our next destination, Mahadivulwewa Ancient Tampita Viharaya temple which is remote village off the beaten path rarely visited by outsiders.

When we arrived at the temple, the resident monk was out and there was a small school next to the temple. First we went to the school and inquired about the chief monk and found he has gone out. Then we met the principal of the school and informed our intentions to explore the Tampita Viharaya who willingly accompanied us.

This Tampita Viharaya is built on 15 granite pillars. The pillar stumps are about 3 feet high. The exterior of the temple has not changed but the interior of the Tampita Viharaya has been completely rebuilt about 50 year ago.

.

.

.

.

.

It wa 8.30 AM when we left this site and stopped at the adjoining Mahadivulwewa Reservoir. This is a large Reservoir covered in Lotus flowers and surrounded by elephant fences.

.

.

.

Our next target was Manankattiya Tampita Viharaya. This Tampita Viharaya was not identified in in any list or publications but I had accidently stumbled upon it on a facebook page some time ago. After some research on satellite views  I had located the temple on google map and was not 100% sure of the location.

This was another 13 km of gravel roads jungles and elephant fences with no sign of any civilization in between. Now we were getting hungry but had nothing to eat. Then out of nowhere a Choon Paan truck appeared from the middle of the jungle with no village for kilometers on both sides.

We immediately hailed the miracle three wheeler and bought our breakfast of Buns, Kimbula Banis and Jam Paans.

.

We reached our destination around 9.40 am. Found the Tampita Viharaya at Manankattiya Sri Sudarshanarama Rajamaha Viharaya in somewhat dilapidated state but not harmed by ad hoc restoration efforts.

The temple lies close the Manankattiya Wewa and is in a peaceful location surrounded by some simple houses. We spoke to the head priest and went in to see the Tampita Viharaya.

.

.

.

.

,

.

.

.

.

.

The temple has a fairly large Bana Maduwa which has the date 1952 carved on a wooden rafter. Although the history of this temple is not known, scattered granite pillars on the temple premises indicate that this temple is much older than the Kandyan period.

We left the temple and and made a quick stop at the bund of the beautiful Manankattiya Wewa unspoilt by human activity.

Manankattiya Wewa

Manankattiya Wewa

Our next plan was to find the Divulwewa Samadhi statues which were almost identical to the Samadhi statue at Anuradhapura.

The location I had identified as this archaeological site was found to be wrong and the villagers didn’t know of such a site in the vicinity. With mobile data signals being almost non existent to do any research we gave up the idea and left the area with the next destination being the Thiriyaya Girihandu Seya.

Later after coming home I did some research on the Divulwewa site and found it to be few kilometers towards Hamillewa from the site I had identified. For anybody interested in the location, this has been update here.

We drove past Hamillewa, Mahadivulwewa and Gomarankadawala and came across an cleared archaeology site right by the road. The typical ‘kalu’ board just identified it as the Pahalagama Archaeological Site. Too tempted not to pass it we stopped there where we met with few labourers who maintain this site. This site consisted of a Stupa, Bodhigara and a Image House which has been cleared and conserved. Although no historical document had been found here the existence of Sri Pathul Gal indicated to a early Anuradhapura period.

On gravel roads through the Andiyagalahinna Forest Reserve towards Gomarankadawala

On gravel roads through the Andiyagalahinna Forest Reserve towards Gomarankadawala

Pahalagama Archaeological Site

Ruins of the Stupa

Ruins around the stupa

A Sri Pathula Gala at the Stupa

The Bodhigara at the site

The Bodhigara at the site

The Image house at the site

The Image house at the site

It was 12.20 when we left this site and arrived at the  Girihandu Seya around 12.45. We climbed enjoyed the view for about ½ hour but it was blazing hot at the top.

.

.

.

.

.

.

After gorging ourselves with some fresh mangos at the car park of the site, We left to Kokilai Point which is a lagoon, a protected bird sanctuary and a fishing harbour which lies about 18 km towards Mulathivu from the Girihandu Seya.

We arrived at the Kokilai fishing point at 2.30 PM. There weren’t much birds this time probably due to our timing. Last year I visited this site in the morning and the sky was filled with various types of birds and eagles. With no luck with birds we tried to get a ride on a fishing boat around the lagoon but the fisherman were getting ready to go on their evening fishing rounds thus could not find a boat.  So we drove to the very edge of the lagoon where there was the Karawala Wadiya.

Since the lagoon lies just after Pulmude town, the beach is mostly black mixed with mineral deposits in the area. Here my friend insisted on having a sea bath and at the end of it, it was time to return home

Kokilai Fishing Point

Edge of the Kokilai Lagoon

A Karawala Wadiya

Blackish sand on the beach of Kokilai Lagoon

A Karawala Wadiya

Not many birds today.

We left Kokilai at 2.30 PM  to return home. We took the route of Padaviya – Kebithigollewa – Anuradhapura – Wariyapola and Narammala and reached colombo around 11 PM ending an eventful two days.

Thank you for reading.

We went our relative’s house in Mawanella area on month of May. We stay there 2 days of time. Dewanagala Viharaya situated near to our relatives house. Therefore we visit there on 6th morning. We spent few hours there &  we came with happy memories.

Dewanagala Raja Maha Viharaya

This temple’s history starts from Anuradhapura Kingdom’s time. This was very historical & important place because evidence can found in temple premises connect to “Anuradhapura” , “Polonnaruwa” & “Kandy” Kingdom’s time.

According to history first details found regard this temple during “King Dathusena”s time ( 459 – 477 ).At that time this called “Dasen Pawwa” In time of Polonnaruwa Kingdom this called “Kithsen Pawwa”. In Kandyan Kingdoms period  “King Wimaladarmasooriya 1” donates to “Dewanagala Rathanalankara Sangaraja Thero” after renovation.

There was 2 “Sel Lipi” in the temple premises. You can see the remains of old “Vihara Geya” built by using stone blocks. You will find the “Tempita Viharaya” inside  the “Vihara Geya”. This temple locates in very beautiful place & you can see amazing surrounding views from there.

If you can visit this place when you are passing Mawanella area is highly worth. Famous “Aluthnuwara Dewalaya” also situated very close to this temple.

Name Board

Steps to top

Temple seen from distance

.

.

.

“Vihara Geya” – “Tempita Viharaya” inside

History of the Temple

.

.

“Tempita Viharaya”

Inside the Vihara Geya

Views of the Temple

.

.

.

Sel Lipiya No. 1 & 2

.

“Sri Pathul Gala”

.

Old Vihara Geya – built by stone blocks

“Bodhiya”

.	Ancient Pond in the Temple

“Dewalaya”

.

.

Views

Alagalla

Bathalegala

Thanks for reading…..

Again long awaited August vacation came. We decided to arrange a tour like last year we do. But we have to wait till August 13th to finish little one’s extra classes. After all we managed to start our trip on August 13. On 13th 6.00 a.m we started our journey. Our plan was first visit to Anuradhapura side. We used Ibbagamuwa – Madagalla road & on that way we visit 4 important places. We had very memorable experience at Nagala Viharaya at Nikawewa. The place also very important, because it’s image house situated at side of a rock. Another view point also there. The path was very difficult. First we didn’t got permission from temple to climb the mountain due to wasp attacks. Previous day also people got attacked. Anyhow we want to climb the mountain & we told them we took the responsibility of ours. Finally they gave permission to climb the mountain. After passing very difficult path we came to the destination. After that we went to Kalankuttiya via Bulnewa. We stay at our relative’s house & finished very tired day with lots of new experiences. Next day morning we went to Kalankuttiya wewa & spent couple of hours there & evening we spent hours in Kalankuttiya lake. Whole day we spent very leisurely & next day morning we started our journey.

Pls read the next Trip Report to find details from Day 3 onwards.

Thanks for reading.

Sanjeewa

Day 1 – 2 ( 13.08.18 – 14.08.18 )

1.Arankele Aranya

2.Kebellelena Viharaya

3.Maligathenna Ruins

4.Nagala Raja Maha Viharaya – Nikawewa

5.Kalankuttiya Wewa

1.Arankele

Ibbagamuwa  – Madagalla Road

Sakman maluwa

.

pond

.

Natural creation

Nice pathway

.

.

.

.

.	Hospital Building

.	Used for prepare medicine

.

.

.

.

.

.

.	The Lena used by Arahath Maliyadeva Thero

Inside the Lena

2.Kebella Lena Viharaya – Maeliya

Ibbagamuwa  – Madagalla Road

This place history go back to King Devanampiyathissa’s time. This place famous recently after using this place for tele drama.

Famous “Sidu” tele drama filmed in here. But can’t see any evidence ,“Sidu” producers helped for this place.

.

.

Stupaya

Way to “Vihara Geya”

.	Vihara Geya inside this large cave

.

.

.

.

Inside the “vihara geya”

.

3.Maligathenna Ruins

Ibbagamuwa  – Madagalla Road

Name board in main road , but no any sign board in turning point. Some villagers also don’t know about this place. It is sad to mention, some villagers gave wrong directions & we waste 10 – 15 km’s because of that. Road also in very poor condition. This place a branch of Arankele Monastery complex. Only 2 buildings restored & lot more to recover.

.

.

Way to the site

Ruins of 1st building

Ruins of 2nd building

.

.

.

.

.

.

4.Nagala Raja Maha Viharaya

Madagalla – Bulnewa Road

You will get memorable experience if you visit this place. The image house situated on the rock. Next to that another large Buddha statue & view point there.  The path to mountain through forest & very difficult one. Until you reach to last stage you can’t see the mountain ,because of the forest. When you came to the point finally, you get amazing views of surround area.

Entrance to the Temple

“Sel Lipiya

..

Stupaya

.

.

Steps to the mountain

Image house on the mountain

Inside view

.

Buddah Statue near view point

.

.	Views from top

.	Smile after hard work

Views from top

.

.

5.Kalankuttiya Wewa

Thabuththegama – Galnewa Road

.

,

Eagle is having rest

Views of “Wewa”

.

.

.

.

On 15th morning we left from Kalankuttiya & first we visit Awkana Viharaya. After that we had little rest at “Kala Wewa”. After visiting “Vijithapura Viharaya” we came to Galkulama via Maradankadawala. From Galkulama junction we turn onto right hand side road to reach “Thalaguru Viharaya”. After having some time there we went to Mihintale side. Around 1.00 p.m we came to Mihintale After having some rest we went to Mihintale temple. We decided to stay in Mihintale & cover some places on next day. Next day morning we went to “Kaludiya Pokuna Aranya” & see all ruins at opposite side of the road. After visiting all places we went to see “Doramadalawa Viharaya”. After visiting all places we came back to Mihintale around 2.00 p.m. It’s time to say “Good bye” to Mihintale & we went to Anuradhapura. Finally we reached to Anuradhapura after 4 days travaling !!!
Pls read the next Trip Report to find details from Day 5 onwards.

Thanks for reading.

Sanjeewa

Day 3 – 4 ( 15.08.18 – 16.08.18 )

6.Awkana Raja Maha Viharaya

7.Thalaguru Raja Maha Viharaya – Galkulama

8.Mihintale

9.Doramadalawa Raja Maha Viharaya

6.Awkana Raja Maha Viharaya

Galnewa – Vijithapura Road

.

.

History of “Kala Wewa”

“Kala Wewa”

.

7.Thalaguru Raja Maha Viharaya – Galkulama

.

Entrance

Way to the top

Stupaya

.	Inside the “Lena”

.

.

Ancient chain used by King’s “Royal Elephant”

They believed large snake live here

.

8.Mihinthale

.	“Ata seta len” – 68 caves

.	Views of some of them

.

.

.	“Sinha Pokuna”

Lion’s statue

.

.	Lot more to go

,

.

.	“Mihindu Seya”

Statue of “King Dewanampiyatissa”

Unfinished image house

.	Views from top

.	Way to “Mihindu Guhawa”

“Mihindu Guhawa”

.

.	“Kantaka Stupaya”

.

.

.

.

.	Nice shape

“Kaludiya Pokuna”

.

Kaludiya Pokuna Aranya

notice to public

entrance

Kaludiya pokuna

.

.Low water level

.

.	Ruins of buildings

.

.

.

.

Monk in the Aranya

.

.

.

The seat used by “Arahath Maliyadeva Thero”

.

Large pond

.

.

.

.

Stupaya

.

9.Doramadalawa Raja Maha Viharaya

Mihintale – Rambewa Road

.	“Vihara Geya” inside this cave

Inside the “Vihara Geya”

.

.

.

.

.

“Sel Lipiya”

.

Stupaya on the mountain

Kalubowitiyana is a mountain situated between Kalubowitiyana and Dewalegama Villages. When I and my friend travel around Neluwa area we saw this mountain on the way and it was looks like SripadayaSoon after I saw a photo of this mountain in a FB group. After few weeks we planned this hike since friend of my friend is in Dellawa and he was able to have a well-known guide for this mountain.

We came to the village by our bicycles and parked them at the guide’s home and we started the hike by carrying enough water and some snacks. From Dellawa, this mountain could be seen as an Elephant and that was remind my visit to Kobonilagala at Knuckels. From another side, this mountain is like Lakegala/ Sripadaya peak. There is a small foot path up to a place called “Puja Gallena” which was having the ruins of an “Aramaya’. After that we have to enter to the thick jungle and walk towards the hill. Since there is no any footpath, we had to always listen to the guide’s views and from a side I was keep my eyes on offline google maps where I was mapped the peak earlier. However guide was able to take us from safe paths and he taught us about the trees and the old stories about this area.

As he said it is very rare to see hikers on this mountain except the nearby people. However within 2 hours we were able to come to the 1st peak which is like the head of the elephant. And then we climbed further to the next peak which was having the highest point of this mountain. Finally within 4-5 hike we came to the highest point of the mountain and we were lucky to confirm that point as per a survey department mark was on a rock surface.

Few meters from this place there is a view point where we could see the nearby areas and mountains. But unfortunately we didn’t see much due to the dark and misty clouds over the sky. There is not a big space on that point and we had our meals and rested for few minutes.

After that we got down to the village from another path which was much doubtful. Since there is no any phone signals, people might be lost at the forest if they go without a guide to GPS support. When our water finished guide uncle shows us a survival method. He cut one “Weniwelgeta” roots and we collected that herbal drink to a small cup. That was a brilliant solution on a forest hike but hope not to promote this method because useless people might cut roots for hobby.

Finally we came to the village after having 7 hours hike and out of that 7 we were totally wet for 3 hours and donate blood for the blood suckers as well.

After that we wanted to have a good bath and we went to the Dellawa Duwili Fall which was not popular among the travelers. That is about a 20 feet mini waterfall having a large pool and we walked along the stream and reached to another small fall.

Mountain seen as an elephant

Journey started

At the primary level of the hike

More to go

A small flat area

Reaching to a rocky wall

Like a small cave

Asking for helps

Giant rock wall

Reaching to the top

When we look back in our future

At an edge

We almost at the Top

Surrounding beauty

Malith shows the next direction

Beautiful nature

Achieved the summit

Suddenly we saw something familiar

Its-the-land-mark-of-Surveys-visit

Other mountains situated Mr

Creatures

Nearby Beauty

Under the heavy mist

A waterfall near Dellawa fall

Nearby beautiful creation

Dellawa Waterfall (1)

Dellawa Waterfall (2)

Had a small bath

Thanks for reading!
Sobasiri Team © 2018

Sri Craft Village is a private resort which is owned by a young entrepreneur named Sameera. I saw a picture of this cave on their Facebook page and soon after I called to Sameera and asked about the cave as I’m cave explorer. As he said he leased this property for 30 years from the Kandy Dewalaya. This property belongs to Kandy Dewalaya but currently owned by Sri Craft Village under the leased agreement.

However as a Travel Journalist I was able to have a special permission to visit this cave only. Hence I arranged a Saturday and visited the places as it was mapped in google maps. Sameera arranged me 2 boys with ropes and water bottles and we ready to start the hike after the breakfast. There are two main paths to the cave. First path is about 4km hike through a forest and Algama waterfall. It is much difficult than 2nd route.

Second route is very easy but there is no much experience about the forest and sceneries. One of guide told us about some other small caves and water spring at the route one and we decided to have the experience with first route.

Hike started from the back of the resort and we climbed the nearby small mountain through the rubber estate and reached to a summit and we could see up to the Colombo harbor over there. After that we walked along the rocky plain and met the mentioned water spring. It was covered by bricks and pipe lines attached to the nearby villages. After that we got down to another side and walked about 1 km through the dry forest. Again we reached to a rubber estate and met the stream which creates Algama waterfall. We walked 200 along the stream and stopped at Algama waterfall for a while.Again we walked to the left side rubber estate and reached to a Banana planting estate where the last house of this situated in Nilvalagala Mountain. Nilvalagala Mountain is about 150m height Mountain and we reached to the summit with in minutes. After that guide took us to the ridge of the mountain and we got down to the rocks by sitting on the rocky plain. And we reached to an open cave and walked 10m towards the opposite side where the dead end located.

Then we arranged our ropes and one of our guide got down to the cave in 1 minute. Because there are only 4 steps to get down to the large cave from the dead end. But the risk is that 4 steps are situated in 90 degree slope of the rock face. Hence we need a rope to avoid any life risks on the way to get down to the cave. Finally we entered to the cave and the surface of the cave is too big. There can be accommodate for 30 people easily. When we go to the inner corner of the cave we could see the beautiful view of the cave as an “Eye”.

That is why we called it is the “Eye of the mother Nature”. The mountain we can see from the front is the mountain where we saw the water spring. Apart from that we could see few small mountains over there which are named as Gerandigala, Bambaragala, Panihela.Resort was located in Egodagama and Sameera’s home is at Puwaththawala where the second route was located. Ground area of the Nilvalagala Mountain is called “Elipallama” and we could reached “Kella watichcha wala” on that area. As per folk fares King Walagamba used this cave to build his army and him hideout here for some time.

Actually there is a path inside to the rock but we cannot go towards that area due to the entrance is too small.After few hours we left to reach the resort from the other side and it took just 1 hour to reach to the resort. Caving and camping at the top of Nilvalagala Mountain is offered by the resort as they are planning to introduce cave hunting with safety equipment in near future.

Sri Craft village hotel under construction

Hike started from the back of the hotel

A small cave on the way to the first mountain

Natural Spring source

This water still use by the villages

Reaching to the first mountain

Surrounding beauty

Nilvalagala seen from the first mountain. Cave marked

Algama waterfall side

Entering to the Ruber estate

Reaching to the Algama stream

Crossing of the stream

Hike to the top of Nilvalagala from its base

At the top of Nilvalagala

Getting down to the cave along the rocky wall

Risky journey

Another small cave before the original one

This part we should get down through a rope

Our guide reached to the cave

At the dead end of thecave

Two of our guides

We at the Nilvalagala Cave

More exploring of the cave

Eye of mother nature

The cave is continued more

Its an eye

Nirosh at a risky climb

This is how we reached to the cave

Thanks for reading!

Sobasiri Team © 2018

We left from Anuradhapura around 8.00 a.m & reached to Jathika Namal Uyana around 9.00 a.m. We spent couple of hours there & came back to entrance around 11.30 a.m. From there we went to Ibbankatuwa Wewa. We had good bath there & we left to see Ibbankatuwa Megalith Cemetery. Now this place developed & maintain nicely.

We spent nearly one hour there & left to Dambulla. We had our lunch from there and left to Sigiriya. All the places booked & finally we found a room. We faced a shocking experience there. Time was around 4.30 p.m & when we came to the room. Wild elephant came to nearby house from forest. Many people joined & try to send back elephant to forest. They were shouting & throw “Ali wedi” to him. But the elephant didn’t fear to it & freely walked through lands. We also joined them & first time we saw such operation live. But later came to our mind how we can escape if elephant turn back & chasing us. Finally they were able to send elephant back to forest. After finishing “Jumbo operation” we came back to the room. We finished the day with lots of new experiences.

Next day morning we went to Sigiriya. We were able to climb the Sigiriya rock before it getting crowded. After that we went to “Aligala Nature Trail”. It opened in few months ago ,but now looks like they abounded the project. This trail starting point situated at main exit pathway from the sigiriya rock. But most of the local & tourist people don’t know this path. Because they don’t properly informed. This pathway finished at “Aligala”. On that way we  climb “Pahangala”. From there you can get nice & different views of “Sigiriya” & “Pidurangala”. Around 12.30 p.m we came back to room & had quick wash. Around 1.00 p.m “Safari jeep” came & we went to “Kawdulla National Park”. After taking tickets & visit to park museum we went to park around 2.00 p.m. Luckily we were able to see 300 – 400 elephants at the park. We wait until 5.30 p.m at the park & we had memorable time there. When we came back to room we noticed that , the previous day jumbo again came to same house around 3.00 p.m. People’s & elephants lives under threat in this situation. They don’t have any other option  than live with this danger. After having good time in Sigiriya we prepared to leave from there on next day morning.

Pls read the next Trip Report to find details from Day 9 onwards.

Thanks for reading.

Sanjeewa

Day 7 – 8  ( 19.08.18 – 20.08.18 )

18.Jathika Namal Uyana

19.Ibbankatuwa Wewa

20.Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Cemetery

21.Sigiriya

22.Aligala Nature Trail

23.Kawdulla National Park

18.Jathika Namla Uyana