Year and Month	2016 July 27th
Number of Days	One day (Part of two days trip)
Crew	05-Nirosh, Ruvinda, Myself, Shantha (local guide) and Kapilabanda (local guide)
Accommodation	Previous day night at Kapila Banda Mama’s place at Narangamuwa
Transport	Bus, Three Wheel and Hiking
Activities	Sightseeing, Hiking and Photography
Weather	Excellent and it rained at the end of the day
Route	Colombo->Dambulla->Pallegama (පල්ලේගම) ->Narangamuwa (නාරoගමුව) ->Reassa and Meeriyagolla Kanda ->Meemure (මීමුරේ) ->Hunnasgiriya (හුන්නස්ගිරිය) ->Kandy->Colombo
Tips, Notes and Special remark	Buses from Dambulla to Pallegama start/ come via Dambulla bus stand. Buses are not frequent. From Pallegama to Narangamuwa you have to hire a three wheeler. Road condition is not good in last part. Start the journey in early morning to avoid extreme heat in afternoon at Meeriyagolla Kanda. Carry a water bottle of 1l per person. There are three water streams you will cross. First one had good amount of water. Most of the time it will last during dry season as well. Wear an attire to protect your upper limbs from Mana. Must have a known person/ guide. Shantha is well known person of Narangamuwa area. Avoid in rainy days as rock is slippery. And soil may be loosened. Meeriyagolla Mountain (මීරියගොල්ල කන්ද) can be climbed in two ways: One with the help of Mana and bushes. Second is through the gap between Lakegala (Narangamuwa) and Meeriyagolla mountain. No need a rope. Better carry only necessary items when you climb over the rock. Other stuff can be kept at base of the mountain. If you visit meditation Kuti, better ask from villagers first and accompany a villager. It needs some assistance by a short rope when you climb to Kapuwatugala Lena. It is a nice place for camping. Narangamuwa is still not commercialized as Meemure. Please try to maintain it.
Related Resources	Trip report on Memorable journey to Reassa-Meemure  Trip report on Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol…Meemure-Narangamuwa
Author	Niroshan
Comments	Beautiful Narngamuwa

Narangamuwa is a beautiful village which situated at Knuckles region and at the base of mighty Lakegala. The mortable approach to Narangamuwa is from Dambulla-Pallegama side but it is connected nearby villages such as Meemure, Ranamure via foot pathways. I have been there more than three times and this is a fair attempt to describe beautiful places of Narangamuwa.

We started the journey from Dambulla and got the bus to Pallegama. Pallegama town is a vanishing area very soon due to Moragahakanda project and it is being replaced at nearby place. Shantha came to Pallegama town to pick us by his threewheel. From Pallegama to Narangamuwa is an almost ascend with fairly bad road. You will pass Ranamure on your way to Narangamuwa.
We stayed overnight at Kapila Banda Mama’s place. Next day was a busy day for us as we had to cover a lot of places at Narangamuwa and around.
We woke up early morning and breakfast was prepared at Shantha’s place. Narangamuwa Lake (නාරoගමුව විල) is situated close to his house and nice place to visit early morning. Shantha’s mother gave us packed lunch in village way. After packing things we started the journey to enjoy the beauty of Narangamuwa.

Early morning view from Narangamuwa towards Moragahakanda construction area.

Narangamuwa Lake/ Wila (නාරoගමුව විල) – It has low water level in dry season.

Narangamuwa Lake/ Wila. (නාරoගමුව විල)

Narangamuwa Lake/ Wila (නාරoගමුව විල)

This is how water comes to Narangamuwa Lake/ Wila. Natural water spring. Good for bath.

Packed lunch in village way.

Weather was excellent in our departure.

Walking along paddies. Beautiful Narangamuwa.

Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala (Narangamuwa peak) are visible in left hand side.

It was the harvest time of paddies

Walking along paddies

We entered the pathway to Meemure (There are two pathways: one goes at base of Lakegala and other avoids Lakegala) which goes at base of Lakegala. Then we entered another foot pathway to reach the meditation Kuti where a foreign monk lives. This Kuti was built by villagers about one year ago. It is the most simplest and beautiful mediation Kuti I have ever seen. The Australian Buddhist Monk was very happy to see us as he hasn’t spoken with someone properly last 2 months due to language problem.

Walking to Knuckles forest Reserve

Passing paddy fields which are at higher level

Passing paddy fields which are at higher level

Using wind power

Knuckles forest reserve

Meeting known people

Beautiful foot pathway

Entered to forest cover

Jumping

Branching off to meditation Kuti

Discussion with Buddhist Monk

The Kuti and the bridge to reach there.

සක්මන් මළුව

සක්මන් මළුව

After having a nice discussion with Buddhist monk we went back and came to original foot pathway. In my next visit to Narangamuwa to climb Lakegala we have contributed for morning alms giving done by villagers.

People are waiting for morning alms giving. The monk comes to a hut closer to village early morning.

That was a special day for him and villagers. He could preach a Bana in English and we have translated into Sinhala.

Narangamuwa is also related to Rawana legend. Some places of Narangamuwa belong to Rawana folks. Uyangomuwa Lake is one of those places. It comes across on your way to Meemure from Narangamuwa. Special feature is, there are trees grown from this lake and covering it’s surface. Reassa (රැස්ස) is a rock formation where some parts of rock have fallen down by the arrow flown by Rama’s bow (Rama Sara) in Rawana Legend. These boulders have fallen into Uyangomuwa Lake (උයන්ගොමුව වැව) and still can be seen. And King Rawana’s garden is seen at the end of this Uyangomuwa Lake. Still you can see fruit trees over there.

Back to original pathway. Another division. One to Meemure and other to Uyangomuwa Lake.

Walking along foot pathway to Meemure.

Major splits of Boulders around Uyangomuwa Lake.

This was taken from an open area of Uyangomuwa Lake. Black arrow might be the pathway of arrow of Rama. Due to this arrow, major part of Meeriyagolla Mountain blasted and scattered along the arrow s shown in red. Still these boulders can be seen when you are at Reassa.

Team at a rest point

The foot pathway lies in Uyangomuwa Lake. No water in dry season.

This is called Rawana’s garden. Still fruit trees can be seen

Kapuwatugala Lena (කපුවැටූගල ලෙන) is also situated closer to Uyangomuwa Lake. It is a cave situated in a rock about 10m above the ground level, needs a short rope to get into it. There are some creeps to get assistance to climb into the cave. It is a nice place and can accommodate about 10-15 people. You can have a nice view of Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala from Kapuwatugala Lena. This place is believed as the storage of grains of Rawana.

Moving away from foot pathway to reach Kapuwatugala Lena

Climbing to Kapuwatugala Lena

View of Meeriyagolla Mountain from Kapuwatugala Lena

At Kapuwatugala Lena

Inside the cave

Getting down with help of Shantha Photo credit oges to Ruvinda

Dried water stream feeding Meeriyagolla Mountain

Our next target was to climb Reassa and Meeriyagolla Mountain. We followed the foot pathway to Meemure and then entered the foot pathway to Lakegala (Narangamuwa). Rahassa is an outgrowth of rock into space where you can have feeling like World’s end. In between Rahassa and Meeriyagolla mountain is the passage of giant arrow. The sharpen cut surface of Meeriyagolla mountain proves it.

Passing first water stream. This water stream lasts even in drought.

Mush rooms in order

Passing second water stream. No water in dry season.

Crossing the fence. The area of Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala is used for cattle. This fence to prevent their coming back to village.

Beyond the fence

Following the foot pathway to Reassa. This area called Komala Pathana (කෝමලා පතන)

View of Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala (Narangamuwa peak)

Lakegala (Narangamuwa) peak

We three at Reassa with the back drop of Meeriyagolla Mountain.

View of Kapuwatugala Lena from Rahassa

Sharpen surface of Meeriyagolla Mountain cut by the arrow.

Shantha and Kapila Banda

Moragahakanda construction area and Narangamuwa

Paddy fields at Narangamuwa we passed

Wannimana (වන්නිමාන) and Katukithula (කටුකිතුල) mountains-These are two giants situated in front of Lakegala and Meeriyagolla Mountains.

Meeriyagolla Mountain and Lakegala (Narangamuwa) are the hallmark of Narangamuwa. Those were our next targets. First we hide our bags along bushes as it is not needed to carry unnecessary things for climbing. We walked along the base of the rock. My first impression of Meeriyagolla Mountain was kind of a difficult rock to tackle. But once we reached it’s base the mind was changed. There are enough bushes to hold and luckily it was the dry season to have non slippery rock surface. Meeriyagolla Mountain might be 1200m tall and top is flat and covered with Mana bushes. You can have a nice 270 degree view from Meeriyagolla Mountain. Structures were seen: Wannimana and Katukithula Mountains in front, Thunhisgala, Kalupahana area, Knuckles peaks, Yahangala, Kehelpothdoruwegala, Karagahathanna, Maningala, Pitawala Pathana, Narangamuwa, Construction of Moragahakanda Reservoir, Mahiyangana area, Meemure etc.

Initial part of climbing Meeriyagolla Mountain. Kapila Banda and Shantha are heading. It was not difficult to go on rock.

Rest point

There are enough bushes to hold

Nirosh has given up the journey in half way. Ruvinda is enjoying the beauty.

The slope. Misty hills seen far away are Knuckles range. Katukithula Mountain is the most front one to Meeriyagolla.

Beauty

On top of Meeriyagolla Mountain. Lakegala (Narangamuwa) peak is seen in side.

Lakegala (Narangamuwa) peak

On top of Meeriyagolla Mountain

On top of Meeriyagolla Mountain

Thunhisgala and Knuckles range

Cloud cover over Knuckles range

Constructions of Moragahakanda reservoir

View from Meeriyagolla peak

Coming back

Coming back

Dry rock surface with bushes were helpful in climbing.

Once we reached the base of the mountain small drizzling started. Our next plan was to reach Meemure and Kapila Banda and Shantha also wanted to come with us. Meemure is Kapila Banda’s native village and he has not been there for few months. There was quite heavy rain while on our way to Meemure. We have reached Meemure just before dusk and it was my visit to Meemure after 2014. Kapila Banda and Shantha planned to stay at their Grandmother’s place at Meemure while we went to Kaikawala to reach our accommodation. It was a nice day for us and we said good bye to them with the hope of tomorrow.

Crossing water stream to reach Meemure

Lakegala

අම්බරුවා

ගලේ බණ්ඩාර දේවාලය

Meemure is getting electricity

Meemure is getting electricity

Thanks for reading

Waterfall hunting in Ayagama and Gawaragiriya area was done in 2014 with low water level. But it was not successful as some instances I had to satisfy with only rock wall. As monsoon has shattered all over the country I decided to visit at same waterfalls hoping their full view.
I added Dumbara Ella (දුම්බර ඇල්ල) at Dumbara to my list but unable to find. This Dumbara and Ella are different from famous Dumbara and Ella. Enter to Dumbara from Ella (come across in Panadura-Rathnapura road after Ingiriya) just after Ella Paththini Dewalaya (ඇල්ල පත්තිනි දේවාලය). We approached Gawaragiriya from Dumbara. This road is scenic and winds through rubber patches of Dumbara estate.

Enter to Dumbara from Ella. We have crossed Kalu Ganga.

Beautiful Dumbara-Gawaragiriya road through rubber estates

Dumbara estate

View from Dumbara

View from Dumbara

This time our vehicle. Rented from travel logic.

Close to Gawaragiriya we have noted a cascade through forest patch. I have a doubt whether it is Niwun Ella (නිවුන් ඇල්ල) which I couldn’t find in 2014. Though literature says Nidan Ella is situated at Gawaragiriya area I couldn’t find.
Our first place of visit was the highest of these waterfall bunch-Meemana Falls/ Miyunu Falls

Meemana Falls / Miyunu Falls (මීමන ඇල්ල/මියුණු ඇල්ල)
60m tall this beautiful fall is situated at Mahagedara Watta (මහගෙදර වත්ත)-Gawaragiriya. It is situated right behind Kolambawa Grama Niladhari office. There is a foot pathway to top as well as bottom of Miyunu Falls behind this office.
The water stream called Diya dola (දිය දොල) starting from Horana Kanda (හොරණෑ කන්ද) forms Miyunu Falls.
Famous poet called Mr. Meemana Premathilaka (මීමන ප්‍රේමතිලක) has lived closer to this waterfalls and poet a poem about this beautiful waterfalls. This poem is named as “Nil Diye Nalagana” (නිල් දියේ නලගන). Therefore this fall is also called Meemana Falls to respect Mr. Meemana Premathilaka.
Meemana Falls has two parts. First we moved to the top of the fall and then descend to the base of the fall. Base pool seems to be a dangerous place to get in.

Foot pathway is behind this office/Montessori

How it was 4 years ago

Painted coconut shelves

On top of Meemana Falls/ Meenu Falls

On top of Meemana Falls/ Meenu Falls

Minor cascade above Meenu Falls

Meenu falls with low water level in 2014

Meenu Falls/ Miyunu Falls

Meenu Falls/ Miyunu Falls

Meenu Falls/ Miyunu Falls

Meenu Falls/ Miyunu Falls

Upper part of Meenu Falls

Water diversion after the fall

Our next place of visit was Manel cave (මනෙල් ගුහාව) situated at Gawaragiriya. We came back to the junction we turned for Meemana falls and drove towards Gawaragiriya. After passing Gawaragiriya we turned to right and continued along a gravel road for about 500m. Next turn was to left, but we parked our bike there and started to walk to reach new construction site of a temple. There was a foot pathway starting from construction site and reached Manel cave after walking about 500m uphill. This is one of a calm and quite places with a cave and Buddha statue, ideal for meditation. We walked along the foot path and ended up at a water stream.
What I got to know this cave had some ruins and treasure hunters have excavated it. There was an archaeology board as well.

Walk to Manel cave

Walk to Manel cave

Buddha statue at Manel cave

Buddha statue at Manel cave

Top of Manel Cave-In a dry day one can reach the top of the cave.

Buddha statue at Manel Cave

Excavation behind the cave by treasurer hunters

Looked out from cave…

Looked out from cave…

Crossing the road

Forest reserve around the cave

View of the cave from side

Doggies

Thoranakotha Mountain was seen closer to Ayagama

Next two waterfalls were Minee falls and Ritigas Ella situated at Gangoda Kanda road-Ayagama. We have reached Pallekanda (පල්ලෙකන්ද) area and drove along Gangoda Kanda (ගoගොඩ කන්ද) road about 3km to reach famous falls called Minee Ella. Sri Punyawardhanarama (ශ්‍රී පුණ‍යවර්ධනාරාමය) temple is the land mark.

Minee Ella-මිනී ඇල්ල (6.664197, 80.285929)
Minee Ella is about 10m tall waterfall with 15-18m width formed by Heen Ganga (හීන් ගoග). It flows in two steps. Early name of the fall was Gamith Kanda Falls (ගමිත් කන්ද ඇල්ල). Because of certain deaths happened, it is called Minee Falls:
1. Couple of teacher with psychiatry have committed suicide from this fall.
2. A drunken boy has fallen from the fall and found dead.
3. A couple has committed suicide from this fall
4. Herd of cows were caught into fast flow of Ritigas Falls following rain and found dead at this fall.
Ritigas Ella falls is situated upstream of Minee Falls. Minee Falls seems a famous drinking pot as we saw some empty bottles nearby.

Directions to Minee Falls.

Minee Falls-side view

Minee Falls-side view. Note it flows in two steps

On top of Minee Falls

Minee Falls-Front view.

Minee Falls-Front view.

I am at Minee Falls

I am at Minee Falls

Minee Falls in 2014

Ritigas Ella Falls (රිටිගස් ඇල්ල) (6.67543, 80.280892)
Ritigas Ella is a reward for us. It is situated upstream of Minee Falls. We continued along Gangoda Kanda road about 1.5km further and turned to left side in front of a bus stand. Then we passed a small landslides on side of the road and came to the end of the road. It is bit hard to go by motor bike along this due to it’s acute angles. At the end of the road small foot pathway starts to a mini hydro power plant where beautiful Ritigas Ella Falls situated.
We had a chat with a villager there. According to him this falls has water throughout the year. Water diversion done before the waterfall. Ritigas Ella is about 25 m tall falls in two parts.

Land marks- At the end of the road Black arrow shows the direction of foot path.

Functioning mini hydro power plant.

Ritigas Ella Falls

Ritigas Ella Falls

Ritigas Ella Falls

Ritigas Ella Falls

There is another fall about 10m height down stream of Ritigas Ella. I would like to name it as Ritigas Ella-2. Water diversion is above this falls for mini hydro power plant. If you want to come to the base of this fall, have to go to this second power plant and walk along the water st

Water diversion before Ritigas Ells-2

On top of Ritigas Ella Falls-2.

Next two waterfalls are situated at Ayagama-Kalawana road. After having lunch at Ayagama, we drove along Ayagama-Kalawana road and passed 8th kilometer post.
There is an uphill road to Pussalakanda (පුස්සලකන්ද) after passing 8th kilometer post. After about 500m drive along this road you will come across a foot pathway in left hand side through a tea patch then to an old house. Approach to Sipirimala Falls is situated behind this house. (Get directions from locals)

Siprimala Falls (සිපිරිමල ඇල්ල)
As a woman called Sipiri (සිපිරි) has committed suicide from falling this waterfall is the reason to give name Sipirimala Falls. Sipirimala falls is 22m tall and formed by Kesba Dola (කැස්බෑ දොල).
Once we reached the fall a pouring rain has fallen. We have crossed the water stream to other side to get a shelter under a boulder. This rain lasted about one hour to show the maximum beauty of the fall. Luckily water level of the stream hasn’t gone up much.

Sipirimala Falls

Sipirimala Falls

Sipirimala Falls

Sipirimala Falls

Sipirimala Falls in 2014

After enjoying the beauty of Sipirimala falls in rain we came back to Ayagama-Kalawana road. Last catch of the day was Miniran Falls. Though we found the exact location we had to spend much time to view the waterfall. According to the description it is situated just behind the house of Mr. U.W.Piyasena. But nobody call it as Miniran Falls.

Miniran Falls (මිනිරන් ඇල්ල)

This is situated at Peelawaththa (පීල්ලවත්ත) village which come across at Ayagama-Kalawana road. Exact location is just beyond 8^th kilometer post. You have to get down along the tea patch situated closer to 8^th kilometer post. As this tea patch is a private premises (Belong to Mr. Piyasena) they don’t like much people to cross it to watch the fall.

But he voluntarily came to show us the fall as we are so curious about the fall. Another rain has fallen once we reached the fall to add the beauty.

A branch of Kalu Ganga-Pimbura River (පිඹුර ගග) forms this 4m tall waterfall. As graphite mines were abundant around this fall in old days it is called Miniran Falls. We were able to notice another small cascade above Miniran Falls.

පීලි at Peelawaththa

පීලි at Peelawaththa. This is a bathing place.

Miniran falls

Miniran falls

Miniran falls

Miniran falls

Miniran Falls in 2014

Side view of Miniran Falls-2014

Minor cascade above Miniran Falls

Minor cascade above Miniran Falls

We thanked Mr. Piyasena and drove back to Ayagama. Rain has made more and more seasonal falls falling from Thoranakotha Mountain (තොරණකොත කන්ද).

Seasonal falls at Thoranakotha Mountain

Seasonal falls at Thoranakotha Mountain

List of waterfalls visited at the end
1. Dumbara Fall-Postponed till next visit
2. Niwun Ella-I couldn’t find
3. Meemana Falls/ Miyunu Ella
4. Minee Falls
5. Ritigas Ella
6. Sipirimala Falls
7. Miniran Ella

Thanks for reading

Kunissan Falls (කූනිස්සන් ඇල්ල) and Rupa lime cave (රූප හුණු ගල් ගුහාව) were in my to-do list for a long time. The credit of information about these places should go to Mr. Rodney Widanapathirana who was a traveler wrote couple of valuable books. It was based on his journey happened about 25 years ago. I really grateful for his travel notes as I have referred them a lot. Someone may blame writing about uncommon destinations might destroy these places but what my point of view is a large number of travelers enjoy at these places responsibly only few use them for commercial purpose as well as irresponsibly.
One of my frequent travel friends Anupama also wanted to visit there for a long time and we were thinking it. Recently a group of travelers have visited Kunissan falls and their face book pictures stimulated us to do it as soon as possible.

Visiting at Rupa lime cave is also in our to-do list in this visit. Quite large number of friends-7 attended for this journey as it is not a strenuous hike. Luckily Vinoda who visited there before also came with us to show the route.
We have passed Rathnapura and followed Palabathgala-Sri Pada route. Next turn was to Rath Ganga temple. Peak Wilderness forest reserve with hills were in our back drop. This was the ideal time to watch seasonal falls. After passing Rath Ganga Temple we followed the road to Kudawa but road is bit narrow for a car. Driving of next few kilometers was a difficult one for the car. We have parked our vehicle at Kudawa and started the walking. It was a scenic walk about 2-3 km up to the fall. Kunissan falls were seen to the main road as a silver belt. After deviating from main road (just before the bridge with electricity project) we had to hike through a tea patch. Last stretch of the path was a descend through the tea patch and then along the forest border to view the fall more closely.

Reaching Rath Ganga area. Seasonal falls at Sri Pada mountain range

Getting the start: From left to right: Dimal, Nalinda, Prabath, Anupama, Kasun and Vinoda

We are at Kudawa village

Crossing Rath Ganga

Crossing Rath Ganga

Crossing Rath Ganga

Spiky Mountain at Peak wilderness

Polwatta- Duldeniya bridge

First glimpse of Kunissan Falls as a silver belt.

First glimpse of Kunissan Falls

Much closer view

Much closer view

A break

Surrounding view after hiking along the tea patch.

Walking along the tea patch.

Awaiting for others

View of top of Buddha Gaya at Rath Ganga Temple / Punchi Dambadiwa

Mush room… This reminded me Chamara

View of Kunissan Falls from the tea patch

Once we reached the foot pathway which goes around the fall rain started to fall. Therefore we had to wait for a while till rain settled. It seems this fall is about 50/60m in height (no records available for its height) and having two wings. With maximum flow these two wings become a single flow to show the real beauty of the waterfall. (What I observe in face book pictures). Presence of small fish species at this water stream gave the name Kunissan Falls. After flowing this will join with Rath Ganga. There was a clear foot pathway around the fall and we were able to reach the base of Kunissan Falls after deviating this path. Though rain has stopped it is really hard to be there due to mist formed by the fast flow. Sometimes this mist was covering the top of Kunissan falls to give strange appearance.

Kunissan falls with it’s two wings.

Kunissan Falls. It’s height might be 50/60m.

Kunissan Falls. This was taken before the rain.

Kunissan Falls

Reaching the base of the fall.

Reaching the base of the fall. This is right wing of the fall.

Reaching the base of the fall.

Top of Kunissan Falls covering with mist. This reminded me Galagama Falls.

Base of Kunissan Falls with slippery rocks.

Left wing of Kunissan falls.

Right wing of Kunissan Falls. We didn’t go towards that part.

Top part of Kunissan Falls

Kunissan Falls

At base of Kunissan Falls

At base of Kunissan Falls

At base of Kunissan Falls

View of the fall gets covered by mist

Framed view of Kunissan Falls

Portrait with back ground of Kunissan Falls.

Portrait with back ground of Kunissan Falls.

After spending the time with Kunissan Falls we returned to the foot path and came back to main road. The second rain has almost settled and our next objective was to find Rupa lime cave mentioned in the book. Seems it is a famous cave among villagers but nobody has visited there recently. We met couple of villagers who came to show the cave in our request. I could remember the name of the villager-Haramanis Mama (හරමානිස් මාමා) who has showed the path to Mr. Rodney. His house is situated on the way to the cave and we had a chance to meet this old villager who is bed ridden for about 5 years due to a stroke. His son also voluntarily came to get into the cave.

Rupa lime cave is situated just next to a tea patch called Wanahapuwa (වනහපුව). It is bit difficult to find the cave entrance without assistance of a known person. It is about 3/4 meters to the floor from the entrance of the cave. They have made a ladder then and there and we got into the cave with aid of the ladder.

According to my previous lime cave experience in Sri Lanka- Wavulpane, Ekiriya and Sthreepura, this is one of a best lime caves I have seen. Rupa lime cave has less slippery floor and small number of bats (what we observed).
Soon after the entrance it was branched into three routes. Right hand side branch was a blind end and left side branches were big enough to walk through it. We were able to walk about 10-15m inside the cave. Middle path has ended with steep decent and sound of a stream was noted there. Most left side path also ended like a tunnel in 10-15m and we were not able to move further.

As I noted in previous caves, stalactites (formation which hang from the ceiling) and stalagmites (formations built up above the floor of the cave) were noted here as well. As different stalactites and stalagmites form different pictures on the wall of the cave, it is called Rupa (pictures) cave by villagers. There were fairly small number of bat droppings and few spiders were seen.
Though lime stone cave is not a novel experience for me, it was the first exposure for others and seems they were enjoying it well.

At cave entrance.

It is hard to find this small entrance without assistance of a villager.

They have made a ladder then and there to get into the cave.

Ladder we used to get into the cave.

At Rupa lime cave

A bat. Out of focus

Stalactites formation.

A part of group inside the cave. Note it is high enough to walk.

හිරි ලඹ

හිරි ටැඹ

Posing with assistance of an external light.

Inside Rupa Lime cave.

Inside Rupa Lime cave.

Water was coming inside the cave. This is essential for cave formation as well as maintenance.

Coral formation

Coral formation

Different shapes of stalactites.

Anupama at Rupa lime cave.

At the end we have achieved our dream of visiting Rupa lime cave.

Team inside the cave.

Team inside the cave.

Coming out of the cave.

A spider.

We had a tea at one of villagers’ house and rushed to the place where we parked our vehicles. At Wanahapuwa we have noted Kunissan falls in different angle and it has higher right wing than left wing.
In our return journey we refreshed having a bath at Rath Ganga. I call it as a day as I was able to achieve both tasks of the trip.

Happily walk out of the cave.

View of Kunissan falls from Wanahapuwa.

Kunissan Falls. Note it’s left wing is much higher than right wing. This can’t be noted in closer view.

Back to Rath Ganga.

This report might not be completed if I don’t include Rath Ganga Punchi Dambadiwa. This is sharing of some pictures of my visit there at 2017.

Rath Ganga Punchi Dambadiwa (රත් ගග පුoචි දඹදිව)
This is a place where sacred Buddhist pilgrim sites of Dambadiwa are reconstructed. Devotees can worship Buddha Gaya, Lumbini, Kusinara and Jethawanaya at Punchi Dambadiwa.

Buddha Gaya at Punchi Dambadiwa

Buddha Gaya at Punchi Dambadiwa

Buddha Gaya at Punchi Dambadiwa

Buddha Gaya at Punchi Dambadiwa

Buddha Gaya at Punchi Dambadiwa

Kusinara at Punchi Dambadiwa

Sun set over Buddha Gaya

Thanks for reading

Kithulgala is a popular travel destination situated at Colombo-Hatton road. It is famous among genera public as people come here for a bath at rapid Kelani River. And it is the only place in Sri Lanka where white water rafting is practiced.
Apart from all these Kithulgala has another value due to some waterfalls situated around. This is my attempt to cover waterfalls and some common travel destinations around Kithulgala.
Tourists attractions at Kithulgala are situated either river side of the road (A7) or opposite to the river. This is an easy clarification.

Places on river side

1. Theligama Suspension Bridge / තැලිගම සoගිලි පාලම (6.996965, 80.359676)
Theligama is the junction situated before Kithulgala. There is a suspension bridge still using by the villagers to cross the river. You can get a nice view of suspension bridge from the new bridge.

Theligama suspension bridge over Kelani River

Theligama suspension bridge

Early morning view of Kelani River

Kelani River

Crossing the river

Theligama suspension bridge

Theligama suspension bridge

Theligama new bridge

2. Makandawa forest reserve and it’s waterfalls

Makandawa forest reserve is a rain forest situated closer to Kelani River at Kithulgala area. Therefore the river to be crossed to reach the forest reserve. The famous bathing place of Kithulgala (Oruthota) is situated behind old rest house and it’s the place where people cross the river by “Paru”. Once you cross the river there is another 500m walk to enter the forest reserve.
If you need to reach the entrance of forest reserve by vehicle, river to be crossed by newly built bridge situated about 2km towards Hatton side from Kithulgala town.

Kelani River at Kithulgala

Kelani River at Kithulgala

It is the transport method of people at Parawalathenna

Follow the path at Parawalathenna village to reach Makandawa rain forest

Makandawa rain forest

Makandawa rain forest has set paths to visit few interesting places. It is bordered by small water streams draining to Kelani River. Makulu Ella and Lenthiri Falls are two waterfalls situated at Makandawa rain forest. There is a site map at the entrance to guide you but you can get a paid guide as well.

The path to Makulu Ella is straight forward. If you follow the foot path starting at entrance without any turns, it ends at Makulu Ela. Just before few meters to Makulu Ela, there is a foot path on right hand side to reach the base of Makulu Ella.
Seems Makulu Ella divides into two part, but vertically. Foot path ends at this first part where you may think it as Makulu Ella. But the roaring sound of proper Makulu Ella will call you as it sits next to this part.

Enter to Makandawa rain forest

Site map. Just get a snap and save it in phone. It will guide you.

The office

Set paths

Makandawa Rain Forest

Set paths at Makandawa Rain Forest

Set paths at Makandawa Rain Forest

Set paths at Makandawa Rain Forest

The place of old bridge between Kithulgala and Pallebage

Makulu Ela to form Makulu Ella

Directions to Makulu Ella: White arrow shows the direction to Makulu Ela. Sanjeewa is showing the foot path to base of Makulu Ella.

Summer hut near Makulu Ella.

Reaching Makulu Ella

Makulu Ella/මකුලු ඇල්ල
This 8m tall waterfall is situated in Makandawa rain forest belongs to Kegalle District. Makulu Ela (මකුලු ඇල) forms this waterfalls before it joins with Kelani River. There was a bridge about 100m above Makulu Ella, which connects Pallebage and Kithulgala. (Now it can’t be seen). Because of presence of different spider species (Makulu-මකුලු) around the fall, it is called Makulu Ella. It flows as a cascade.

Makulu Ella-1st part. Proper Makulu Ella is situated lateral to this.

Top of Makulu Falls

Makulu Ella-1st part

Proper Makulu Ella

Makulu Ella

Lower part of Makulu Ella

At Makulu Ella

Makulu Ella

Makulu Ella

Makulu Ella

Our next target was Lenthiri /Lenkiri Falls situated at Makandawa forest. When you come along the path starting from office, there is a left side turn to Lenthiri Falls. If you follow this road it will bring you to the top of Lenthiri Falls, but it’s not worth. We got direction to base of this beauty.
We crossed a small water stream first where you can see a cultivation done for demonstration purpose. It is a nice place with small paddy field and a small house made in wattle and dub. We went further along the path and crossed next water stream-Maha Ela (මහ ඇල). Soon you cross this stream, you may come across well paved path in left which brings you to top of Lenthiri falls. Fainted foot path in right side is to base of the fall. With ascends and descends along this path you will end up at base of Lenthiri Falls.

Back to foot pathway

Cultivation at forest reserve for demonstration

පාලම	Path to Lenthiri Falls

Crossing Maha Ela. Here you have left side path to top and right side path to base of Lenthiri Falls.

කුඹුර

Close up…

Hike to Lenthiri Falls

Lenthiri Falls / Lenkiri Falls / ලේන්තිරි ඇල්ල / ලේන්කිරි ඇල්ල
This waterfall flows as a cascade and lower part is 20m in height. It flows as three steps

This is the beauty we came across

Lenthiri Ella / Lenkiri Ella

Lenthiri Ella / Lenkiri Ella

Lenthiri Ella /Lenkiri Ella

Lenthiri Ella /Lenkiri Ella

Lenthiri Ella /Lenkiri Ella

Side waterfall at Lenthiri Ella

Top of Lenthiri Falls

At Lenthiri Ella

I am at Lenthiri falls

If you can crawl along the side of the fall, can reach the top. But we didn’t attempt this as rock was slippery following last night rain. We came back to same junction and followed well paved road. About 100m before the end, another foot path in right side to the top of the fall. Here you can view top parts of Lenthiri Falls.

Top of Lenthiri Falls

Upper part of Lenthiri Falls

Upper part of Lenthiri Falls

Upper part of Lenthiri Falls

You will end up on top of the stream if you continue along the path without getting the turn to top of the fall. Here the water stream flows on long slab rock where you can have a nice bath.

Top of the stream

Top of the stream

This is a good bathing place

Having a bath…

We followed the same path back and got right side turn to Ahaslen Kanda (අහස් ලෙන් කන්ද). The path was clear up to second water stream and then we couldn’t follow the foot path. Most probably nobody has been there for a long time.

Back to foot path

Clipper / Parthenos Sylvia

Rest place

Turn to Ahaslen Kanda

We couldn’t find the path beyond this water stream

Mush room

Mush room

We have noticed a camp site within the forest reserve closer to a water stream. It would be a nice experience to camp here. Basically we covered main attractions of Makandawa rain forest. Then we followed the same path up to the entrance and left Makandawa rain forest.
Our last target of the day was the “bridge of River Kwai”.

“The Bridge on the River Kwai”
The Bridge on the River Kwai is a 1957 British-American epic war film directed by David Lean and based on the novel Le Pont de la Riviere Kwai (1952) by Pierre Boulle. The film uses the historical setting of the construction of the Burma Railway in 1942-1943.

This film was made in Sri Lanka and bridge was built over Kelani River near Kithulgala. The filming of the bridge explosion was done on 10th March 1957, in the presence of S.W.R.D.Bandaranaike, the prime minister of Sri Lanka.

This place has nothing to see except some iron staples embedded in the rock at middle of the River.
You have to drive another 1.5km along Hatton road from Kithulgala town and small foot path can be seen in right side mentioning Bridge of River Kwai. This foot path brings you to the bank of the River. A large construction is going on here to build a new bridge (connecting Kithulgala and Parawalathenna) and a power house.
Kelani River is dammed at Polpitiya and water is tunneled here to operate a power house. This would affect the beauty of Kithulgala and white water rafting.

Where you get the turn to see bridge of River Kuwai

This is the only remains of the bridge. Iron staples embedded in the rock (circled)

New bridge and power plant

They are building a tunnel by screwing the rock.

Places on opposite side of the river

1. Kithulgala Beli Lena / කිතුල්ගල බෙලි ලෙන (7.002222, 80.435778)

Kithulgala Beli Lena is a cave where pre historical human has lived. After passing Kithulgala town about 800m towards Hatton, Mahabage road (මහබාගේ පාර) is seen in left hand side. You have to get the direction to Beli Lena from locals. (We followed a different road to reach Beli Lena cave). Last part of this road has been severely damaged with rain. On our way to Beli Lena we could see Wewithalawa (වෑවිතලාව) with it’s towers. This mountain can be seen most of the time at Kithulgala.

Wewithalawa is seen

Zoomed view of Wewithalawa. ITN towers.

?? Ahas Len Kanda at Makandawa forest reserve

Road side beauty

Road side beauty

Road is severely damaged

Beli Lena Falls / බෙලි ලෙන ඇල්ල

Beli Lena is situated at edge of Ingoya Mountain (ඉoඔය කන්ද) about 2000feet above sea level. It is believed prehistoric human-Homo sapiens balangodensis (බලoගොඩ මානවයා) has lived here 32000 years ago. They have found a skeleton of about 16000years old, some pre historic tools, salt and beads of pre historic humans at this cave. These humans have eaten snails (ගොළු බෙලි) and it’s evidenced by shells of snails (බෙලි) found in this cave. That’s why it is called Beli Lena.
Later this cave has become a Buddhist temple and some constructions can be seen. You can see three caves here and one water stream flows in front of second cave forming slim waterfall-Beli Lena falls-බෙලි ලෙන ඇල්ල

Steps to Beli Lena

Entrance to Beli Lena cave

It is situated at Ingoya Mountain

Constructions of a Buddhist temple

Foot path

Cave-1

In between cave-1 and cave-2

In between cave-1 and cave-2

Cave-2. Excavation has been done here.

The places of excavation is bordered here. Actually pre historical men lived in a deep cave than this.

Some later construction

Some later construction

Dropping from the edge of the cave

Beli Lena Falls

Beli Lena Falls

Drops…

View of Wewithalawa from Beli Lena

Cave-3. No excavation done here. This cave has some branches.

Beli Lena cave-3.

How Beli Lena is situated at Ingoya Mountain. Area of Beli Lena is circled…..Beli Lena falls is shown by arrow.

View of Beli Lena falls

Our next place of visiting was Handun Ell. There was a terrible road to the top of Handun Ella from Beli Lena. We got directions from locals and passed Athulauda primary school. At the end we parked our bike at a rubber estate and followed the foot path. This foot path meets a gravel road and walking few hundred meters along this road could hear the sound of the fall. There was a foot path to the top of the fall from gravel road. Handun Ella is a famous place for waterfall abseiling.

Handun Ella is seen to the road

Terrible road to Handun Ella from Beli Lena

Followed the foot path

Crossed a water stream

මීවන

We have reached the gravel road. Anupama is showing the foot path to top of the fall. This gravel road is connected to a main road from other side.

Foot path connected to top as well as base of Handun Ella

Reached top of Handun Ella

The base of Handun fall from top

Garbage collection at top of the fall

We continued down along the same foot path to reach the water stream formed by Handun Falls. In this journey we have missed the side path to the base of Handun falls. As we reached the water stream somewhere down, we had to go up stream to come to the actual base of the fall. It was the opportunity to watch few cascades situated below Handun Falls.

Handun Ella lower cascade-1

Handun Ella lower cascade-1

Handun Ella Lower cascade-2

Handun Ella Lower cascade-2

Handun Ella Lower cascade-3

Handun Ella Lower cascade-3

Patterns made by water

Patterns made by water

Now Handun Ella is seen

Upper part of Handun Ella

2. Handun Falls / හදුන් ඇල්ල

Directions: Colombo->Kithulgala->Mahabage road-> Handun Ella

The water stream starting from south west slope of Unulugala Mountain forms this 30m tall waterfall. As there were ample of Sandle trees in the forest around waterfall, it was called Handun Falls.

Handun Ella

Handun Ella with it’s two parts

Handun Ella

Handun Ella

Abseiling team on top of Handun Falls

Closer view of Handun Ella

On top of Handun Ella lower cacades-3. Actually this is the base of Handun Falls

Base pool at Handun Ella

Here he comes down….

Our next target was Mannakethi Falls. We followed the same road and came to a junction where we got a turn to Handun Ella and line houses are situated. Then we followed the road through line houses and end up at tarred road. We continued along this road where we came across another side road to Palmstone hotel is situated. Luckily the road to Palmstone hotel was in good condition. We parked our bike at last bend before the hotel. Then we crossed the river and got directions from locals in other side of the river. The foot path to base of Manna Kethi falls is situated behind the last house of the rubber estate.

Directions to Manna Kethi falls

The water stream we crossed near Palmstone Hotel. This is the same water stream forms Manna Kethi Ella

The water stream we crossed near Palmstone Hotel. This is the same water stream forms Manna Kethi Ella

3.Manna Kethi Falls / මන්නා කැති ඇල්ල (7.011499, 80.427818)

Directions: Colombo->Kithulgala->Mahabage road-> Manna Kethi Ella

This 60m tall waterfall formed by Girankitha Oya starting from western slope of Unulugala Mountain. It flows in two parts. Reaching to the base of Manna Kethi falls is somewhat difficult task due to sloping slippery rocks and deep base pool.
Villagers wash their Manne (මන්නේ) and Keththa (කැත්ත) from this waterfall causing the name Manna (මන්නා) +Kethi (කැති) fall. Another reason might be the curved appearance of waterfall like Mannakathha (මන්න කැත්ත)
Though it’s height is mentioned as 60m, I feel it is less than this.

Classic view of Manna Kethi Falls from its base. Note it flows in two parts.

Upper part of Manna Kethi falls

Lower part of Manna Kethi falls. Note it flows into a deep base pool.

Closer view of Manna Kethi Falls

Base pool of Manna Kethi Ella

How it falls after forming the water fall… I can remember our first journey to Manna Kethi falls in 2009. We reached the base of the fall from somewhere down the stream.

Manna Kethi Falls

Manna Kethi Falls

Manna Kethi Falls

Then we came back to same foot path and get on to the top of the fall in it’s left side. Upper Manna Kethi falls (ඉහළ මන්න කැති ඇල්ල) is situated above the top of Manna Kethi falls. It is about 15m tall waterfall. We didn’t try to go beyond this waterfall.

On top of Manna Kethi Falls. Nice bathing place.

The drop of Manna Kethi Falls

Upper Manna Kethi Falls

Closer view of Upper Manna Kethi Falls

Upper Manna Kethi Falls

Compare the height of waterfall…

Distance view of Upper Manna Kethi Falls

Our last place of visit of the day was Sampath Ella which was situated at separated area. We came back to Kithulgala town and drove along Malwatta road (මල්වත්ත පාර). After passing the bridge (get directions from locals) we got left side turn to a gravel road and ended up at non mortable narrow concrete bridge. We parked our bike there and got left side turn to reach the water stream from Sampath Ella. It needs to cross few private premises. Walking upstream about 30 will meet Sampath falls. Actually this falls is a cascade and upper part only can be seen on our way in Malwatta road. What we are visiting as Sampath Falls is, it’s lower part.

Non mortable narrow concrete bridge to reach Sampath Falls.

4.Sampath Ella / සම්පත් ඇල්ල (7.027764, 80.418201)

Directions: Colombo->Kithulgala->Malwatta road->Sampath Ella

Liyan Oya which is a branch of Kelani River forms 30m tall Sampath Ella at Ampana area. Seems this waterfall has low water level when there is no rain.

Sampath Ella-Lower part-water level is low

Sampath Ella

Sampath Ella-most lower part

Sampath Ella-Upper part

Sampath Ella

Sampath Ella-Upper part

Looking at us

Last shot of the day

Thanks for reading

Rathnapura is the district where highest number of waterfalls are situated in Sri Lanka. This is my attempt to visit waterfalls around A4 road (Colombo-Batiicalo) when it crosses Rathnapura District. There are separate waterfall routes branching from this main road. Ex-Rathnapura-Kalawana road. These are waterfalls around A4 road only from Eheliyagoda to Rathnapura.

Let’s start from Bisodola Falls situated at Eheliyagoda.

1. Bisodola Falls/ බිසෝදොල ඇල්ල (6.864990, 80.273128)

Directions: Eheliyagoda->Dehiowita road-> Eheliyagoda estate road->Bisodola Ella

Bisodola Falls is situated at the border of Eheliyagoda rubber estate. It’s height around 6m (though waterfalls book mentioned it as 3m). Queens (Biso) of King Maya Dunne (මායා දුන්නේ රජතුමා) have bath here to give the name Bisodola.
As it is so closer to the main road, has been popular as a bathing place. Therefore in threaten of pollution.

Scenic Eheliyagoda-Dehiowita road. This is the bend we have to get on to Bisodola Falls

First appearance of Bisodola Falls

First appearance of Bisodola Falls

Bisodola Falls

Bisodola Falls-closer view

Bisodola Falls

I am with Bisodola falls. Imagine the height of the fall.

Beauty around Bisodola Falls

Beauty around Bisodola Falls

Beauty around Bisodola Falls

All in one-Sacred peak, Kunu Diya Parwathaya and? Bana Samonala

Garbage collection around the fall

We came back to A4 road and turned to Eheliyagoda-Nadurana-Kiri Ella road ඇහැලියගොඩ-නැදුරන-කිරිඇල්ල පාර (B222, just after Eheliyagoda town in right side) to visit few waterfalls: Kiri Ella Falls, Kachchaputa Ella (කච්චපුට ඇල්ල) 1 & 2.

We drove along the main road and turned to the by road goes to Nedun RMW (නැදුරන රජමහා විහාරය) at Nadurana junction. Road condition is utterly bad here and noted couple of cascades which are situated closer to each other falling from the mountain with B222 road (on our left hand side). I got clarification from villagers, mentioned its name as Dola Palle Falls. Pictuers and its place are similar to Kachchaputa Falls 1 & 2 described in amazing Lanka site. But nobody knows the name Kachchaputa Falls.

2. Dola Palle Ella /දොලපල්ලේ ඇල්ල 1 & 2

Couple of cascades falling from the mountain closer to Eheliyagoda-Nadurana-Kiri Ella road. Though it is situated closer to the road, can’t be seen from it’s base due to the angle. It is best seen from the road to Nadurana RMV. (6.765896, 80.256102) is the best place to watch these waterfalls in Nadurana RMW road.
Both waterfalls have height of 20-30m. They are not seasonal.

Dola Palle Falls-1 and 2 circled

Dola Palle Falls-1

Dola Palle Falls-1

Dola Palle Falls-2

We continued along the road and got right turn to Handu Kanda (හාන්දු කන්ද) in view of Kabaragala Falls / Kiri Ella falls. Kabaragala falls is well known by people at this area. Handu Kanda road is a carpeted road and we parked our vehicle near Handukanda Praja Shalwa (හාන්දු කන්ද ප්‍රජා ශාලාව). There was a concrete road opposite to Praja Shalawa. At the end of this road, there was a house and we found a foot path starting behind the house to base of Kabaragala falls through a tea patch. Kabaragala falls appeared as a silky sheath with the end of tea patch. There was a short hike to reach its rocky base.

3. Kabaragala Falls / Kiri Ella Falls (කබරගල ඇල්ල / කිරි ඇල්ල) (6.756381, 80.250054)

Directions: Colombo->Eheliyagoda->Nadurana road->Handu kanda-> Kabaragala

18m tall Kabaragala Falls origins at the edge of Kabaragala Mountain (Mountain looks like an Alligator’s back.) It is also called Kiri Ella as it’s white water flows like milk.
But most villagers call it as Kabaragala Falls. We were directed to a cave situated near the fall by villagers. There is a separate path to reach the top of the waterfall. (Not from here) Seems it has low water level without the rain. And villagers are getting drinking water from the fall.

Kabaragala

First appearance of Kabaragala Falls

Kabaragala Falls

Kabaragala falls with it’s spiky base. It is difficult to stand over there. No such a base pool. Therefore protection from pollution by bathing.

Closer appearance of Kabaragala falls

Closer appearance of Kabaragala falls

It’s difficult to get a picture from it’ base

Closer view of Kabaragala falls

How it ends

View of Thoranakotha Kanda from Kabaragala Falls

The cave near Kabaragala Falls

The cave near Kabaragala Falls

Entrance of Mahauskanda (මහඋස් කන්ද) forest reserve situated at Handu Kanda road.

Then we came back to A4 road and got Kurugammodara road (කුරුගම්මෝදර පාර) at Baduwatta (බදුවත්ත) junction to reach Manan Falls. Manan Falls is marked in Google map. It is easy you can come to Kurugammodara road from Nadurana road rather than coming to A4 as both these roads lie parallel to each other.

4. Manan Falls / මනo ඇල්ල (6.788287, 80.269008)

Directions: Colombo->Eheliyagoda ->Baduwatta Junction-> Kurugammodara Road-> Pahalagama Estate road (5km along Kurugammodara Road) -> Manan Falls

The board of Pahalagama Estate is seen in left hand side and road is situated in right hand side (next to Kaju kade) when you travel from Eheliyagoda side. This road ends at a Cinnamon estate. We parked our vehicle at the beginning of the road. We entered the estate through the gate. After 50m walk there was a road to right and we walked about 1km along that road. Manan Ella can be viewed from far when we walked along this road.

Manan Ella flows in three parts. Can go to top of all three parts. We walked up on the left side of 3rd part and reached both 2nd and 1st part. Middle part is a small cascade compared to other two. After reaching the top of 1st part there was a foot pathway to right, to be connected with main road.
Height of 1st part is around 10m, second part is about 3-4m and third part is 15m tall.

At the end of the foot path we reached Manan Falls

First glimpse of Manan Ella

Third part of Manan Ella

Third part of Manan Ella

Close-up

Third part of Manan Ella

At Manan Ella

Selfie time

Elated…

Side view….

On top of third part…

1st and 2nd parts

Second part of Manan Ella

First part of Manan Ella

First part of Manan Ella

Imagine the height of 1st part

Sacred peak again….

On top of 1st part. A foot pathway is there to cross

The water stream

Risky

Again we came back to A4 road and reached Kuruwita town to visit famous Bopath Ella and Dodan Ella which are situated in same road. Devipahala road (දෙවිපහල පාර) which is situated next to Kuruwita police station will bring you to both falls.

5. Bopath Falls / බෝපත් ඇල්ල (6.801782, 80.369443)

Directions: Colombo->Kuruwita->Dewipahala road-> Bopath Falls

This must be one of famous waterfalls in Sri Lanka and most visited waterfall. There is a name board in right side of Devipahala road indicating the by road (after 2-3km) to Bopath Falls. Boutiques are situated on either side of this road and few parking premises available for high prices. A ticket is issued at the entrance.

This 30m tall falls resembles a shape of a leaf of Bo tree and formed by Kuru Ganga. The base of the fall can be reached in two ways: either to get assistance of a “Paru” and reach left side of the fall. Or directly cross the stream to reach the fall. But this might be difficult in high water level of the fall.
It is not advised to climb along the fall (some people do) as it has cost number of lives.

Bopath Ella

Bopath Ella

Like a leaf of a Bo tree

Bopath Ella

How it ends making water vapor

Bopath Ella

Bopath Ella

After it flows

Path to reach Bopath Ella

6. Dodan Ella / දොඩන් ඇල්ල (6.809489, 80.365135)

Directions: Colombo->Kuruwita->Dewipahala road-> Dodan Ella

Dodan Ella is situated in the same road of famous Bopath Ella. Pass the by road to Bopath Ella, drive another half a kilometer. There is a concrete road in right side (ask directions) which divides into two after about 200m. Follow the left side one to cross the tunnel. There is a foot path to left side to reach both parts of Dodan Falls. If you follow the right hand side road you will reach the fall but with more troubles. It had low water level during our visit.
Devipahala Ela forms Dodan Ella when it flows at Demada village. As it has a shape of a Dodan (an orange) it is called Dodan Ella. It flows in two sections and total height is about 53m.??

This the left side road to cross the tunnel and can reach the fall

Diversion of water into this tunnel makes skinny fall

Dodan Falls-Both parts, low water level

Dodan Falls-Both parts

Dodan Falls-Both parts

Dodan Falls

After flow…

Cave near Dodan Ella

After visiting Bopath Ella and Dodan Ella we were back to A4 road. It was hard to forget Batathota Lena and Batadomba Lena when we passed Kuruwita Town.
Both caves are situated in Kuruwita-Erathna (Sri Pada) road.

Batathota Lena / Diwa Guhawa / බටතොට ලෙන /දිවා ගුහාව

Directions: Colombo->Kuruwita-> Erathna road (7km) -> Batathota Lena cave temple

According to the history Lord Buddha has spent the rest of the day with 500 disciples at this cave after making sacred foot print at Sri Pada. Therefore it is called Diwaguhawa.
King Nissankamalla (නිශ්ශ0කමල්ල රජතුමා) (1178-1207) has built this cave temple during Polonnaruwa period. It is said King has visited this cave on his way to Sri Pada.
“Makara Thorana”-මකර තොරණ is seen at the entrance of image house belongs to Polonnaruwa period and a part of it has been renovated by the villagers later.
Later this temple was forested and Ven. Sri Subethi Thero has rediscovered in 1908. The Devale situated outside the shrine house was built at that time. After the demise of Sri. Subethi Thero it has been forested again and rediscovered by Ven. Balangoda Ananda Maithree Mahanayaka Thero in 1995.
Most of current development occurred after that.
This is a popular tourist attraction among Buddhists now.
After the car park you have to walk along the path with boutiques on either side and then have to follow hundreds of steps to reach Diwa Guhawa / Batathota Lena cave temple.
The cave with shrine house, Devale, pond and the statue of Ven. Balangoda Ananda Maithree Thero are the important things you have to visit here.

It says Sthreepura cave-(ස්ත්‍රී පුර ගුහාව) is situated about 200m away from this temple, but I was not able to find it.

Entrance to Batathota Lena cave temple

Shrine house and Dewalaya on left side. Ancient Makara Thorana can be seen at the entrance of shrine house. There is a reclining and standing Buddha statues are seen at shrine house belongs to Polonnaruwa period. No photographs allowed inside the shrine house.

Paintings at outside of shrine house with Makara Thorana

Statue of Balangoda Ananda Maithreeya Thero. And the stupa at cave

The bell…

Cave opening. Cave pond is marked by a fence in right side.

View of Sri Pada from Batathota cave

Shrine of god at Batathota Lena cave temple

Old clock

Flowering Sal tree

කිරිටොපි හා බෙලි මල්

Boutiques on either side of the road to Batathota cave temple

Unknown waterfall is seen in far from Batathota temple.

Kuruwita Batadomba Lena /කුරුවිට බටදොඹ ලෙන

Directions: Colombo-> Kuruwita->Erathna road->Guruluwana road-> Waladura village->Batadomba Lena

It is easy to locate Guruluwana road as turn is right at Eknaligoda Walawwua. You have to drive along a winding road (4.5km) to reach the foot pathway to Batadomba Lena.
This is a pre historical cave where Balangoda Manawaya lived. The foot path starts from the main road first with stone steps and then come to a path with ascends and descends (1.5km). At one stage it goes parallel with a water stream with minor cascade.
There are there are three caves here including main cave with excavation has been done and two accessory caves. Balangoda Manawaya (බලoගොඩ මානවයා) have lived here about 31000 years ago. They have found human remains, marine shells and stone weapons here.
There is a tiny waterfall falling from the top of Batadomba Lena. A Buddha statue and recent construction indicate presence of a cave temple in later stage.
Bulathsinghala Pahiyangala Lena and Kithulgala Beli Lena are other places you will find evidences of pre historical man.

Path to Batadomba Lena

Path to Batadomba Lena. Highly infested with leeches.

View on our way to Batadomba Lena

Road side cascade

Lizard

Dun tree… / දුන් ගහ

මීවන	Reaching Batadomba Lena

The fall at Batadomba Lena

Cave fall

Cave fall

Main cave where excavation has been done.

Through cave opening

Through cave opening

Buddha statue at cave

Excavation. Archeologists have found a human skull here and kept it back for future researches with good technology.

Later constructions of a temple

Separated from main rock

Stone weapons / ගල් ආයුධ

Place where hearth is situated

Trio at cave

Trio at cave

View on our way back from Batadomba Lena

Beautiful evening

Beautiful evening

Eknaligoda Walawwua (එක්නැලිගොඩ වලව්ව) and Irahanda Payana Falls (ඉරහද පායන ඇල්ල) are also situated in Kuruwita-Erathna road. But we couldn’t visit them due to lack of time.
Our next turn to Thepulangoda Falls which is situated at Panukarapitiya-Palm garden road before Rathnapura town.

7. Thepulangoda Falls / තෙපුලන්ගොඩ ඇල්ල / Elle Gedara Ella /ඇල්ලේ ගෙදර ඇල්ල (6.801782, 80.369443)
This waterfall is marked in goggle map. We drove along Palm garden road about 2km and fall was viewed beyond a bridge. It is a bathing place of villagers. Thepulangoda falls is about 4m in height. We moved beyond the fall and found another beautiful fall which is about 5m in height. I would like to name it as upper Thepulangoda Falls. (උඩ තෙපුලන්ගොඩ ඇල්ල)

Thepulangoda Falls is seen over the bridge

Thepulangoda Falls

Thepulangoda Falls- closer view

On top of Thepulangoda Falls

Along the stream

Upper Thepulangoda Falls

Upper Thepulangoda Falls

After visiting at Thepulangoda Falls we continued along Palm Garden road to Goluwawila (ගොලුවාවිල) area to search a fall called Wandura Mala Ella (වදුරා මල ඇල්ල) described in waterfall book. But we were not able to find such a waterfall.

Next set of waterfalls would be described in waterfalls in A4 road (Rathnapura to Balangoda).

This sktch will give you an idea where these waterfalls located.

Click image to enlarge

Thanks for reading

දුමෙන් බර මිටියාවත නොහොත් දුම්බර මිටියාවත ලෙස නම් කළ හෙක්ටයාර 22,000 ක පමණ භූමි වපසරියකින් යුත් නකල්ස් වනපෙත ලංකාවේ අතිශය වැදගත් රක්ෂිත වන පියසකි. යුනෙස්කෝ සංවිධානය විසින් නම් කරන ලද ලෝක උරුමයක කඳු, හෙල්, උමං, ගුහා, දිය ඇලි, තැනිතලා වැනි ස්වභාවධර්මයේ නිර්මාණයන් සේම උරඟයින්, පක්ෂීන්, මාළුන් හා තවත් සතුන්ගේ උරුමකම් කියන මෙම වනපෙත මධ්‍යම පළාතේ උතුරු ප්‍රදේශයට ආසන්නව මාතලේ හා මහනුවර දිස්ත්‍රික්ක වලට යටත්ව පැතිර ඇත.

SD map shows the destination. Note the marked mountains

Yellow line footpath from Thangappuwa to Alugallena and Karambaketiya White line is the normal road we followed to Thangappuwa via Corbets Gap

Kobonilagala seen at Thangappuwa

Early morning at Thangappuwa

Had a quick visit to Perdel Fall

Perdel Grama Niladhari area

Reached to Kotagaga plain

Kandasamigala seen

Nice place to camp

Pigmi-short forest patch. Remember this edge goes to Aliyawetunuela mountain

මීට පෙර අප නකල්ස් වනයේ අබිරහස් ස්ථාන වූ ලකේගල හා රෑහැස්සේ ගුහාද, රාවණා රජුගේ මෘත දේහය ඇතැයි පැවසෙන යහන්ගල පිළිබඳවද තතු හෙළිකළ අතර අළු ගල්ලෙන යනු හුදෙක් සංචාරක ඉසව්වක සීමාවෙන් ඔබ්බට ගිය යටගියාවක් සහිත ස්ථානයක් බවට විස්තර සොයා ගත්තෙමු.

වචනයේ පරිසමාප්ත අර්ථයෙන්ම අළුගල්ලෙන යනු විවෘත ලෙනක මෙය පිහිටා ඇත්තේ නකල්ස් වන පෙතේ ඝන වනාන්තරයක් මැදය. නේක වෘක්ෂලතාදියෙන් වැසුණු කාලෙකට ඉහතදී එනසාල් වගාවෙන් සුපෝෂිත වූ වන පියසකය. මහනුවර සිට මහියංගණය පාරෙ හුන්නස්ගිරියට පැමිණ එතැනින් ලුල්වත්ත හරහා මීමුරේ දක්වා යන මාර්ගයේ කරඹකැටිය නම් ග්‍රාමයට ළඟා වී එතැන් සිට ඇති සම්මත සංචරණ මාර්ගය ඔස්සේ කි.මී. 9 ක් පමණ ගිය පසු අළුගල්ලෙන හමුවේ.

Clear view of Kandasamigala

Footpath through Kotagaga plain to Knuckles peaks

Misty forest

Path is clear

More to go

Close to the junction where road divide, Left to Knuckles peaks and right down path to Alugallena

Walk through litle shower

Fully misty

enasal area

reaching to Alugallena

එම මාර්ගයේ ගමන් කොට අලුගල්ලෙන සිට නංගප්පුවට යා හැකි අතර අළුගල්ලෙන සිට තංගප්පුව දක්වා ඇති දුර කි.මී. 10 ක් පමණ වේ. කරඹකැටිය සිට අළුගල්ලෙනට පැමිණ තංගප්පුවට යාම යනු සීඝ්‍ර කඳු නැගීමක් වන අතර නියත වශයෙන් දින දෙකක් වැය වන වෙහෙසකර ගමනකි. එම නිසා මහනුවර සිට තෙල්දෙණියට පැමිණ රංගල පාරේ කෙළවරට එනම් තංගප්පුව ගමට ළඟා වී තංගප්පුවේ සිට නකල්ස් කඳු පෙළට යන මාර්ගයේ ගමන් කොට අළුගල්ලෙනට පිවිසීම සහ පසුව කරඹකැටියට යාම පහසු වේ. මන්ද එම මාර්ගය කඳු බැසීමක් වන බැවිනි.

අළුගල්ලෙන පිහිටා ඇත්තේ නකල්ස් කඳු පන්තියටත් අලියා වැටුණු ඇළ කන්දටත් අතරමැද වන පියසේය. මීමුරේට සහ කොබෙට් කපොල්ලට සුපාහැදිලිව පෙනෙන අලියා වැටුණු ඇල කන්ද අළුගල්ලෙන ලෙස බොහෝ අය වටහා ගන්නා නමුත් අළුගල්ලෙන යනු කන්දක් නොව තනි කළුගලින් යුත් පර්වතයක් පමණක් බව බොහෝ අය නොදනිති. එම අළුගල්ලෙන පර්වතය තනි පර්වතයක් ලෙස පිහිටා ඇති අතර එය ගෝලාකාර වේ. නකල්ස් වනයේ ඇති අසාමාන්‍ය කඳු හා පර්වත අතර ස්පිනික්ස් කන්ද, යහන්ගල සහ මෙම අළුගල්ලෙන දැක්විය හැක.

මන්ද ස්පිනික්ස් කන්ද සහ අළුගල්ලෙන කන්ද යනු කිසිසේත්ම කඳු මුදුනට තරණය කළ නොහැකි කඳු වේ. ස්පිනික්ස් කන්ද කොබෙට් කපොල්ල නොහොත් අත්තල වෙට්ටුව නිම්නයට පෙනෙන්නේ මුර සේවයේ යෙදී සිටින සිංහයෙකුගේ හැඩයක් විලසිනි. එසේම අළුගල්ලෙන යනු වක්‍රාකාර වූ තනි පර්වතයක් වන අතර කොපමණ ධාරානිපාත වර්ෂාවකදී වුවත් ලෙන තුළ පහසුවෙන් කූඩාරම් 8 ක් පමණ අටවා ගෙන නොතෙමී සිටීමට හැකි ඉසව්වක් වේ. මෙවැනි විරල ස්ථානයක් ලෙස අපට නක්ල්ස් හි පිහිටි දූවිලි ඇල්ලේ ඉහළ ඇල්ලේද ගත හැක. එයද ඇල්ල ඇතුලේ පිහිටි ගුහාවකි.

The massive rock wall of Alugallena

Some views of the rock

We went to the top of this mountain called Alugal Kanda in 2018

Our small fire

Natural caves but some how man made

Ruins of old resting place

The giant

Like a bed room

Ash	How our people behave

ලකේගල විශ්ව ශක්තියේ තෝතැන්නක් ලෙසත් ලකේගල ගුහාවන් රාවණා රජුගේ යුද සේනා උපක්‍රමවලට ප්‍රයෝජනයට ගත් ස්ථාන ලෙසත් රැහැස්ස සහ උයන්ගොමුව නම් වන පියස රාමරාවණා යුද්ධය පැවැති ස්ථාන ලෙසත්, යහන්ගල තුළ රාවණා රජුගේ සිහිමුර්ඡා වූ දේහය තැන්පත් කොට තිබෙන ලෙසත් පුරාවෘත අනුව අභිරහස්මය ස්ථාන ලෙස නකල්ස් වන ​ෙපත තුළ පවතියි. මීට තවත් ආසන්නතම ස්ථානයක් වනුයේ අළුගල් ලෙනයි. අළු පිහිටි ගල්ලෙනක් ලෙස හැඳින්විය හැකි අළුගල්ලෙන හි ලෙන පිහිටි භූමියේ ඇත්තේ අළු පමණි. වර්ෂාවෙන් කිසිදු හානියක් එම අලු පිහිටි ප්‍රදේශයට සිදු නොවන අතර එහි කිසිදු ශාකයක් වර්ධනය වීමක් ද සිදු නොවෙයි. තවද එම ප්‍රදේශයට කූඩැල්ලෙකුවත් නොපැමිණෙන අතර එම අලු පිහිටි පොළොව තුළ කූඩාරම් අටවා සිටීමට හෝ මිනිස් ජීවිතයක් සැරිසැරීම තුළ කිසිදු හානියක් සිදුනොවන ස්ථානයක් වේ.

නකල්ස් වනපෙත් සැඟව තිබෙන අලංකෘත පතන හා තැනිතලා වන ගිනිකෙළිය පතන, රැහැන කෙටු පතන, වෙලන්ගොල්ල පතන, කොමලෑවේ පතන, පිටවල පතන සේම කොට ගඟ පතනද තුරු ශාක පිරි විටෙක හෝර්ටන් තැන්න ලෙස අත්විදිය හැකි ස්ථානයක් විය. ගුවනට විවෘත විශාල ප්‍රදේශයක් වූ එහි කුරු ශාක පමණක් තිබූ අතර නොඉඳුල් ජල මුලාශ්‍ර කිහිපයක් ද චිරි චිරියේ අතරින් පතර ගලාගෙන යන්නට විය.

කෙසේ හෝ නකල්ස් කඳු පියසට හා අළුගල්ලෙන මාර්ගය බෙදෙන ස්ථානය හමුවූ අතර ඉන් දකුණු මාර්ගය දිගේ පහළට ගමන් ඇරඹුවෙමු. ඝන කැලයකින් අවට වැසුණු අතර ගුවනත නොපෙනන ​ෙලසම තුරු වියත සැදී තිබුණි. අළුගල්ලෙන් දක්වා කි.මී. 5 ක් පමණ ඇති අතර එම මාර්ගය තුළ දිය දහරාවන් දුසිමකට වැඩි ප්‍රමාණයක් අපට හමුවුණා.

ඒ සමඟම කුඩා ගුහා පිහිටි ගල් පර්වත කිහිපයක්ද දැක ගත්තෙමු. විටෙක පසෙකින් මහා හෙලක් වූ අතර විටෙක එනසාල් අතු අතරින් වැටුණු පොළව නොපෙනන මාර්ගයක් විය. සුදු මීදුමෙන් වන පියස වෙලා ගෙන අත්භූත සිනමා පටයක භයංකර සිතුවමක් පසක් කරලීය. අඩිය තබන තබන තැන එල්ලෙන ලේ උරා බොන්නන් ගලවා වීසි කිරීමට තරම් වේලාවක් හෝ ප්‍රයෝජනයක් නොවුයේ සවස දෙක පමණ වන විට මහා වර්ෂාවත් පතිත වූ නිසාවෙනි.

How our people behave

Ready to go to Karambaketiya

Path to Karaambakatiya

Full view of Alugallena

Through the mist

Waterfalls on the way

This is height over 80m

There were two falls close each other

One of a obstacle on our way

වර්ෂාව මධ්‍යයේ අප සවස 4 වන විට අළුගල්ලෙනට පැමිණියෙමු. හාත්පසම ඝන මීදුම වූ අතර මහ වන මැද තනිව මහා වර්ෂාව මැද කූඩාරම් අටවා ගත්තේ මෙහි වර්ෂාවට හොඳම විසඳුම තිබූ නිසාවෙනි. අළුගල්ලෙන නකල්ස් හි පිහිටි ගුහා අතරින් සුවිශේෂි වේ. මන්ද ස්වභාවිකවම පිහිටි මෙම අළුගල්ලෙන මීට වසර ගණනාවකට පෙර සිට අවට ගම් වල ජීවත් වූ දඩයක්කරුවන්ගේ සහ එනසල් වගාකරුවන්ගේ නවාතැන් පොළක් වූ හෙයිනි.

අළුගල්ලෙන අපේ පිහිටීම සම්බන්ධව එක් කතාවක් වනුයේ අතීතයේ පටන් ගැමියන් සහ දඩයක්කරුවන් නවාතැන් පොලක් ලෙස මෙය භාවිත කිරීමේදී ගිනි මැල දැල්වීම මතු මෙලෙස අළු තැන්පත් වූ බවයි. නමුත් යථාර්යානුකූලව විමසන විට එය කාලාන්තරයක් මුළුල්ලේ වීමේ සත්‍යතාවයක් ප්‍රායෝගිකව පිළිගත නොහැක. මන්ද දර පිළිස්සීමෙන් හට ගන්නා අළු බොහෝ විට සුළගම මුසුවේ.

එලෙසම කාලාන්තරයක් මුළුල්ලේ සමස්ත ලෙස පරිශ්‍රය තුළ ගිනිමැල දැල්වීමට අවශ්‍යතාවක් නොමැති වේ. දඩයම් ගිය උන් හෝ එනසල් වගාකරුවන් වුව එක් ස්ථානයක් ගිනිමැල දල්වා රැය පහන් කිරීමටත් ආහාර සකසා ගැනීමටත් තබා ගැනීම සුදුසු හෙයිනි. සමස්ත ලෙන පුරාවට එකම ආකාරයේ අළු තට්ටු ගණනින් තැන්පත් වී ඇත. මෙය හුදෙක් දර පිළිස්සීමෙන් පමණක් වූ බවට පිළිගත හැකි ප්‍රායෝගිකතාවයක් නොමැත.

අළුගල්ලෙන හා සබැදි අනෙක් පුරා වෘත්තය නම් රාම රාවණා යුද්ධයේදී මියැදුණු සේනාවගේ සිරුරු පුළුස්සා දැමූ ස්ථානය බවය. එනම් ලකේගල ආශ්‍රිත උයන්ගොමුවේ සටන් වැදුණු රාම රාවණාගේ සේනාවන් එකිනෙකා මරා ගත් අතර එසේ මියගිය අයගේ සිරුරු අළුගල්ලෙන තුළ පුළුස්සා ඇති බවය. එම නිසා මෙපමණ තට්ටු ප්‍රමාණයක් අළු පොළොවේ තැන්පත් වී ඇති බවය. මන්ද මෙම පොළොව තුළ බොහෝ ඇත්තේ අළු පමණක් වන හෙයිනි. පුරාවෘත්තය අනුව නකල්ස් හා රාම රාවණා යුද පෙරහැර සම්බන්ධ වූ ස්ථාන කිහිපය අතරම අළුගල්ලෙනත් අයත් වන අතර මෙම තනි පර්වතය කිසිදු අවශේෂ කන්දකට හෝ පර්වතයකට සම්බන්ධ වූ විශාල තනි ගල් කුට්ටියක උසින් මීටර 100 කට වඩා වන මෙම දැවැන්ත ගල ගෝලාකාර බව අප සමග ගිය මාර්ගෝපදේශක මහතා පැවැසීය. ඔවුන් කුඩා කළ පවා අළුගල්ලෙන අළු තිබූ බවටත් මෙම පර්වතය ඉහළට කිසිදු කෙනෙකුට නැගිය නොහැකි බවටත් යම් නිධන් වස්තු පර්වතය මුදුනේ ඇති බවටත් ඔවුන් පැවැසීය.

කෙසේ හෝ රාවණාගේ දඬු මොනරය මේ අවට ගොඩබැස්වූ ස්ථානයක් ලෙස අලුගල්ලෙන සැලකිය හැකිද නැත්නම් මෙම අස්වාභාවික ගලේ පිහිටීම තුළ යම් අබිහරසක් තැන්පත්ව තිබේදැයි තවම කිසිවෙකුත් පර්යේෂණ කර නැත. කෙසේ හෝ ගොම්මන් අඳුර වැටී ගෙන එන විට අපද පෙර භාවිතා කොට තිබූ ගිනි මැලයට අපගේ භාවිතයට ගත් අතර ලෙන තුළ ගඩොල් තබා කුඩා කාමරයක් ලෙස සකස් කළ ඉසව්​ෙව් ගල් ඇඳ මත සියල්ලෝ සිට ආහාර ගත්හ. කෙසේ හෝ රාත්‍රිය උදාවූ පසු නින්දට යාමට සැරසුණු අතර භාගෙට නිවී යන ගිනිමැලය විනා වෙනත් කිසිදු ආලෝකයක් පරිසරය තුළ නොවීය.

Reaching to Karambaketiya oya

Its so dangerous due to rain

Casecades

Where we were

Other Cascades

අළුගල්ලෙනට වන සංරක්ෂණ දෙපාර්තමේන්තුවේ සම්මත සංවරණ මාර්ගයක් ඇති අතර සමස්ත නකල්ස් වනපෙත තුළම අවසර සහිතව කඳවුරුලා සිටිය හැක්කේ දෝනලුගල හා අළුගල්ලෙන කඳවුරු භූමි තුළ පමණි. අළුගල්ලෙන අයිනකින් බට ආධාරයෙන් ජලය ලබා ගැනීමට ක්‍රමයක් ඇති අතර අනෙක් පසින් මඳක් වනපියස තුළට ගිය විට දිය දහරාවක් දැකගත හැක.

මෙම මහා පර්වතය වටා ඇවිදීම අතිශය දුෂ්කර සේම පර්වතය මුදුනත බැලීමෙන් බොහෝ විට දුෂ්කර විය. ඒ මීදුමෙන් පර්වත මුදුන වැසී ඇති හෙයිනි. රාත්‍රී නින්දට ගිය සියල්ලෝ පසුදා පහන් වන විට නැගිට ගත් අතර පෙරදින වර්ෂාව එලෙසින්ම නොකඩවා ඇද හැළෙමින් පැවතුණි. නමුත් ඉඩ සහිත සුවපහසු ලෙන තුළට වර්ෂාවෙන් හෝ වර්ෂා ජලයෙන් කිසිදු හානියක් සිදු නොවුණි. උදෑසන ආහාර ගත් අප කරඹකැටිය ගම්මානය වෙත පියමං කිරීමට පටන් ගත්​ෙත් නැවතත් මොරසූරන වර්ෂාවේ එනසාල් කැළය මැදින්ය.

චිරි චිරි වරුසාව කොළ පාට ගස් මුදුන් අතරින් පතර දැවටී බිමට වැටෙන්නට විය. අතිශය ලිස්සන සුළු මාර්ගයක් වන මෙම කොටසේ පවතින බෑවුම අධිකය. පසෙකින් අඳුරු හෙළ පිහිටා ඇති අතර බොහෝ ස්ථානවලත් දිය දහරාවන් ඇද හැලෙන්නට විය. මඩ සහිත ලිස්සන අඩි පාරේ ස්ථාන කිහිපයකදී පස්සා බිම වැදෙන ලෙස ලිස්සූ අප කෙසේ හෝ ආරක්ෂාකාරී ලෙස ගල් කුට්ටි අතරින් පහළට බැස ගත්තෙමු. එක්තරා ස්ථානයකදී දෙපසින් දිය ඇලි දෙකක් කඩා වැටෙන ස්ථානයක් විය. එහි සුළු වේලාවක් ගත කොට එහි සුන්දරත්වය වින්දෙමු. අධික වර්ෂාව නිසා දිය ඇළි දෙකෙහි ජලය ඉතිරෙන්නට විය. කූඩැල්ලන්ද අප මෙන් එය නරඹන්නන් බව දුටුවේ කලිසම පුරා සපත්තු මතින් උන් උඩට ඇදෙන විටය.

පසුව අප තවත් දුර බසින කල කුඩා ගුහාවක් හමුවුණ ගුහාවට එපිටින් පිහිටි පහළට වැටෙන ජල දහරාව හරහා අප සීරුවට අඩි තබා අනෙක් පසට පැන්නේ පොඩි වැරදීමකින් ජීවිතයෙන් වන්දි ගෙවීමට සිදුවන ස්ථානයකින්ය. පුරා හෝරා දෙකක් මුළුල්ලේ එක එල්ලේ නොනැවතී අප පහළට බසින්නට වූ අතර නඩය එකා පිටුපස එකා ගමන් කළේ පටු අඩි පාර හෙයිනි. ඉතා විශාල කන්දක් බසිමින් අප පැමිණි අතර වර්ෂාව අඩුවක් නම් නොවීය.

ගමනේ අවසන් ඉසව්ව වූයේ කරඹකැටිය ඔය තරණය කිරීමයි. හෙණ හඬ නංවමින් ගල් කුළු මතින් පැන දිය රැලි පෙණ පිඬු නංවා පහළට ඇදෙන කරඹකැටිය ඔය වර්ෂාව නිසා දැඩි ලෙස ප්‍රචණ්ඩ වී ඇත. ගඟේ ඉහළ කාලය තුළින් මද දුරක් ගිය පසු ජලයට බැස අනෙක් පසට යා හැකි ස්ථානයක් සොයා ගත්තෙමු. බෑග් සියල්ල හිස මත තබාගෙන එකිනෙක අත් අල්ලා ගෙන ඔයට බැස්සේ පපුව පමණ තෙක් ජලයේ ගිලී මෙනි. අඩි 4 කට වැඩි ගැඹුරු ජල කඳ සියල්ලෝ තරණය කොට ගම්මානයට යන අඩි මාර්ගයට ආවෙමු.

The dream we conquered in 2018

This looks like seperate peaks, but this area is a flat area

Wamarapugala, Uda Wannimana and Set of Lakegala peaks

Nameboard at Karambaketiya

Near Kumbukgolla Nitro cave junction

Seasonal Waterfall 1

Seasonal Waterfall 2

Seasonal Waterfall 3

Kinihiral gala II(Sphnix Rock) in left and Alugal Kanda in right

At Corbets Gap

A hotel still constructing on the way to Thangappuwa from Corbets Gap

Dumbanagala peak seen

දවල් දොළහ වන විට කරඹකැටිය ගම්මානයට පැමිණ අප කොබෙට් කපොල්ල තෙක් නැවත ප්‍රධාන මාර්ගයේ ගමන් කොට එතැන් සිට තංගප්පුවට ඇති පර්ඩේල් මාර්ගය ඔස්සේ සවස 4 වන විට ආවෙමු. දින දෙකක් පුරාවට නකල්ස් වනයේ පිහිටි දිය ඇලි සොළොසක් පමණ නරඹමින් අබිරහස් ගල්ලෙන වන අළුගල්ලෙන රාත්‍රිය ගත කොට නැවතත් ආරක්ෂාකාරී ලෙස ගමන නිම කළේ පුරා පැය 12 කට අධික වර්ෂාවේ ගැවසෙමිනි. අළුගල්ලෙන පිහිටි අළුවල අබිරහස් පොළ වංශයේ කුමන හෝ සිද්ධියක සම්බන්ධ බවත් එහි අරුමය තවමත් අප සිත් තුළ තබමින් ගමන නිමා කළෙමු.

Thanks for reading!

Sobasiri Team © 2018

Last year we build a “Kuti” in Kukulamalapotha area & donate to Monk. Last year “Was Period” he lived in there. Soon after “Was Period” he left the “Kutiya” & went to another remote area. We found another monk is willing to live there for some time. Then we arrange the trip & we start our journey on 04th night. First we went to Ehiliyagoda & pick the monk from there. After that we start our journey & came to the Riverston area around 5.15 a.m. We had little rest there. First we plan to visit “Poththatawela” village. On that way we came to “Sera Ella” around 6.30 a.m. First we offer “Heel Danaya” for Monk. We also had our breakfast there. We were able to see magical views of “Sera Ella”. She gave amazing views with high & powerful water level. No one there at that time & we enjoyed very happy silent morning time there. After good time there we left from Amazing “Sera Ella”. When we came to the entrance  the villagers start arranging their small shops. They surprised that we came such early time there. They ask to offer “Heel Danaya” to monk, but we mentioned that we brought food items & already offered to monk. Then again they surprised & we asked directions from them. We have to go another few km’s from there to reach “Poththatawela” village. Road end from this village & this was the last village in this route. When we came to village we asked the direction to “Kutiya”. We have go another 3 – 4 km’s through paddy fields, water canals & passing water ways. First we missed the route & then the villager came to show us the direction. On the way we met the Monk who returns from the village after having “Pindapathaya”. We start our journey again after sending back the villager after thanking him. When we came to the “Kutiya” premises we couldn’t believe our own eyes. “Kutiya” build in a very simple way & it situated in amazing place. The place ideal for such monks for meditation. We waited there till monk having his “Pindapatha Danaya”. We walk around “Kutiya” & see the beauty around there. “Kutiya” situated near the river bank & during rainy season water level come up to the “Kutiya” premises. Lots of large fish we were able to see in the river. When we had discussion with monk he mentioned that it’s time for left this place. They live few months in one place & left it. This was another opportunity for us & we plan to take this monk on our return journey. After waiting nearly one hour there & came back to village . We arranged & paid for village three wheel for take monk up to Illukkumbura on next day morning. Hard to believe these remote villagers life’s. They don’t have any proper transport & other facilities. Anyhow they live in these remote beautiful villages hiding from many eyes. Our aim was to reach “Sera Ella” before 11.30 a.m. Because we have to offer “Danaya” for monk before 11.30 a.m. But around 1.00 p.m we came back to “Sera Ella”. “Dahawal Danya” missed & we offer “Orange juice” for monk. We also had quick snack as lunch. After that we start journey to Kukulamalapotha village. Lot more remaining in the day !!!

Please read next report for details from there.

Thanks for reading

Sanjeewa

Morning views

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.	Details of “Sera Ella”

Steps to down

“Sera Ella”

.	Her beauty

Ladder to cave

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cave view

Nice shape in the tree

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Having “Heel Danaya”

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Came to the Entrance

Having chat with villagers

“Bodhiya”

Temple at the “Poththatawela”

.	Through paddy fields

Have to cross fences

Water way

Crossing waterway

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Villager guide us

Nice view

Lot more to go

“Kutiya”

In front of “Kutiya”

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Group of large fish

On return journey we received warm Welcome from them

We reach to Illukkumbura around 2.00 p.m & from there we started our journey to Kukulamalapotha village. First we went to last house in the village. Earlier we informed them to prepare “Dhawal Danaya” for monk. They prepared it & waiting for us. First we told them what we done from morning. They offered “Gilanpasa” for monk & tea for us. Finally we came to “Kutiya” around 3.30 p.m. First we clean the “Kutiya” premises. We have free couple of hours before getting dark. Previously we were unable to see down side of the river. Then we decided to walk  & see the down side of the river. We walk on river bank because water level high & slippery rocks in the river, Finally we walked 4 – 5 km’s through forest along the river. When getting dark we decided to stop our journey & return back to “Kutiya”. Otherwise we were in big trouble & it was very difficult to walk in the forest in dark . On that way we saw many beautiful places in the river hidden from many eyes. Around 6.30 p.m we able to came to the place. First we had a good bath & it washed our tiredness.

Next day morning we waked up around 6.00 a.m & cooked rice & one curry. First we offered “Heel Danaya” for monk. We had our breakfast near river after having good bath. Around 9.00 a.m we left from “Kutiya”. We came to Illukkumbura around 10.00 a.m & monk came from “Poththatawela” is waiting for us there. We started our return journey & “Dahawal Dhanaya” offered  for monk from our relative’s house at Kaikawala. Next target was reach to “Kutiya” in Dhaigala before getting dark. Around 4.00 p,m we were able to reach Dhaigala. We got directions from villagers & we went to it. We have to walk 2 – 3 km’s from the village to “Kutiya”. It was spacious large cave. Soon after  we reach there the monk decided to wait there. We can’t even imagine theirs simplest life style. They highly focused only to their greatest destination. Then we again came to village & brought essential items from village shop. Less than 1 hour we manage to clean the whole  “Kutiya” premises. Nearby water stream there &  it can fulfill all water requirements. After arranging everything we left from “Kutiya” after worshiping Monk. From that time onwards he will walk to his great target / destination. We got great satisfaction about what we done & we were able to help in small way to the Monk’s great life. After completing everything we came to home around 11.00 p.m. We completed another memorable journey with lots of happy memories.

Thanks for reading

Sanjeewa

On the way to Kukulamalapotha

They waiting for us

On the way to “Kutiya”

Lot more to go

“Kutiya” premises

Doing “Sakman Bhawanawa”

Finding path through forest

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Came to large flat rock area

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Powerful water stream

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Different colour of water

Nice view

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Dhaigala

.	On the way to “Dhaigala Kutiya”

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Finally came to the place

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“Kutiya” premises

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.	Checking water source

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This is a small collection of uncommon places in Kegalle. We were able to visit following places in one day:
1. Mathula Alu Lena
2. Statue of Millangoda tusker
3. Willara Falls / Nona Ella
4. Maligathenna RMW
5. Lahupana Falls
6. Galgediyana Ella

Mathula Alu Lena / Aloka Viharaya (7.246135, 80.386567) මාතුල අලු ලෙන / ආලෝක විහාරය

Route: Kegalle-Aththanagoda road-> Alu Lena / Aloka Viharaya

Alu Lena is situated just walking distance from Kegalle-Aththanagoda road. This pre historical cave has been converted into a cave temple with a drip ledge. Presence of ashes (alu) on the floor causes it’s name Alu Lena.

A number of faunal and human specimens have been found covered with a calcium encrustation. Dr. Shiran Deraniyagala visited the site in 1954 discovered lithic and skeletal materials in a single test pit. They have found snail and mollusk shells, bones of Deer, Monkey, Buffalo and stone tools as well.
(Summarized from Amazing Lanka site)

Locals believe this is the place where writing of Thripitaka (ත්‍රිපිටක) in Pali occurred in King Walagamaba period. Currently the temple occupies the whole premises of Alu Lena.

Alu Lena with drip ledge

It is such a long cave to shelter whole temple

Stupa

Brahmin letters under the drip ledge

Side of Alu Lena

We got permission from chief priest to get on the top of the rock. There was a foot pathway on left side of the cave and then through private premises. It is surprise to see private lands are situated very closer to the temple premises. We were able to see Nawugala (නැව්ගල) and Ura Kanda (ඌරා කන්ද) from top of Alu Lena.

To reach top of Alu Lena

Nawugala

Ura Kanda

Surrounding view

.	Another cave below the original cave

After spending time at Alu Lena, we returned back to Molagoda-Kegalle. Accidentally we have noticed the elephant museum situated at Molagoda.

Statue of Millangoda Tusker / Millangoda Raja / මිල්ලන්ගොඩ රාජා (7.253908, 80.384779)

Route: Kegalle->Molagoda

Millangoda Tusker was considered as the longest tusked Asian elephant, when he was living. He was captured at Nawagaththegama jungles in Anamaduwa, in 1945 by
Millangoda Appuhamy of Molagoda, Kegalle. Millangoda Raja participated in Kandy Esala Perahara for nearly 40 years and also carried the casket of tooth relic. This tusker died on July 30th 2011 at the age of 73.
His body was preserved and placed on public display in museum.

Millangoda Tusker

Millangoda Tusker

Some information

Our next target was Willara Falls /Nona Ella situated at Molagoda-Kegalle. We have walked towards Mawanella side from Molagoda then followed the road parallel to Anda Oya. There was a by road in right side towards the mini hydro power station. We have passed this power station and followed the foot path further to reach the waterfall. Molagoda-Aththanagoda road goes in other side of this water stream and this waterfall is faintly seen from there. (But difficult to reach from there)

Willara Falls / Nona Ella / විල්ලර ඇල්ල/ නෝනා ඇල්ල (17m)

Directions: Kegalle->Molagoda->Willara Falls / Nona Ella

Willara Ella is a cascade with three parts situated at Molagoda-Kegalle. It is formed by Anda Dola (ආදා දොළ).
We have reached the lowest part of the fall and walked upstream to view the entire fall. Willara Falls has three parts: Upper part is about 7m tall, middle part is 6m and lower part is 4m.
Earlier it was named as Nona Ella and later it is called Willara Falls to commemorate Mr. Jayantha Willara who was journalist of Kegalle district. One of estate superintendent has killed his wife and put into this fall during colonial era might be the reason for name-Nona Ella.

Lowest part of Willara Falls.

Lowest part of Willara Falls.

Lowest part of Willara Falls.

Lowest part of Willara Falls. Closer view.

Lowest part of Willara Falls. Closer view.

Third part of Willara Falls.

Third part of Willara Falls. Different view.

Second part of Willara Falls.

Second part of Willara Falls.

Top part of Willara Falls.

Top part of Willara Falls.

Kurulu Kale (කුරුලු කැලේ) is a forest reserve situated at Kegalle town. Earlier it had a giant “Yodha Pus Wela”-යෝධ පුස් වැල. Our next target was to visit at Giant “Pus Wela” but got to know it was dead for a time ago when we visited there.

Kurulu Kele forest reserve.

Kurulu Kele Buddhist hermitage.

Then we have reached Moronthota (මොරොන්තොට) in Kegalle-Bulathkohupitya road (A21) and followed Arandara (අරන්දර) road. Arandara road goes parallel with Gurugoda Oya (ගුරුගොඩ ඔය). As public transport system is poor in Moronthota-Arandara road, we hired a 3w to Maligathenna RMW. A vehicle can be driven up to the temple.

Maligathenna RMW / මාළිගාතැන්න රජමහා විහාරය (7.176504, 80.336202)
Maligathenna RMW is situated at a peak of 239m height. It is one of the place where King Walagamaba has stayed when south Indian invaders ruled the country.
Though it is a RMW, we can see a modern day temple with Stupa, Bo tree and image house. As it is situated at an edge of a hill, provides nice surrounding view including Gurugoda Oya.

Maligathenna Temple

Stupa

Modern day temple at Maligathenna

Dewalaya

Small “Kuti” under the cave.

Nuwan with care taker of the temple.

Wild beauty

View of Gurugoda Oya

Arandara-Moronthota road and Gurugoda Oya. Galgediyana Falls is situated just after the dam.

Rest of the view

This dry waterfall can be seen from Maligathenna, called as Keenigama Fall (කීනිගම ඇල්ල) .

Nice way to spill water.

Then we have come back to Arandara road and walked further towards Arandara to reach Lahupana Falls.

Lahupana Falls / ලාහුපන ඇල්ල (7 1047.3N, 80 19 48.6E) 3m
It is a road side beauty of Moronthota-Arandara road before Iddamalpana RMW. Lahupana Falls has three parts but we didn’t try the upper part due to slippery rock. This is formed by a side stream of Gurugoda Oya and later it flows to Gurugoda Oya. Height of Lahupana Falls is mentioned as 3m, most probably the lower part.

Lahupana Falls is seen to Arandara-Moronthota road. This is the lowest part of Lahupana Falls. 3m might be the height of this part.

Lahupana Falls-lowest part.

Lahupana Falls is-lowest part

Lahupana Falls is-lowest part

Middle art of the fall. Nuwan is trying to reach upper part of the fall.

Galgediyana Falls was the last visit of the day. We have walked towards Moronthota again and got down to Gurugoda Oya just after the dam to reach Galgediyana falls. (There is a foot path from main road to this place)

Galgediyana Falls / ගල්ගෙඩියාන ඇල්ල (7.175485, 80.344055) (5m)
Galgediyana Falls is situated in Gurugoda Oya after 3km from Moronthota town. It is a wide waterfall (? 50m) as situated along the river. A dam is built across Gurugoda Oya, just above Galgediyana Falls. This waterfall has two steps.
Gurugoda Oya gets birth from Dothaluwa Mountain, passes Kegalle and Galigamuwa areas to join with Seethawaka Oya Ruwanwella.

Galgediyana Falls-front view

Galgediyana Falls

Galgediyana Falls

Galgediyana Falls-upper part

Galgediyana Falls-Upper part

Galgediyana Falls-Upper part

With Galgediyana Falls

Gurugoda Oya after forming Galgediyana Falls.

We have finished the day by bathing at Gurugoda Oya just before Galgediyana Falls.

Thanks for reading

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

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

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

Heading to Nuwaragala from Ethbadda

Nuwaragala is seen to Ethbadda.

.	Hills of Gal Oya.

Getting down….

Foot path to base of Nuwaragala

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

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

Foot path under Teak cover

Guna Bandiya gets permission from local gods.

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

Collection of stones on side of the path like rampart

Under the forest cover

Chariot path to fortress

Might be remaining of the fortress

.	A construction might be attached to the rock

Gutters

Gutters

Break

Closer to the top

View from the top

Ramabakan Oya reservoir

Nilgala

On top of Nuwaragala

Stone cut pond at Nuwaragala with 80 into 70

View of Ethbadda from Nuwaragala

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

Ethbadda and Nilgala

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

At water level

Edges of the pond

On top of Nuwaragala

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

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

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

Entering to the cave

Nuwaragala cave with drip ledge

Opening of the cave and brick wall

Inscription under the drip ledge

Cave opening provides spectacular view

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

The drop

Rest of mountains of Nuwaragala

Roof of the cave

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Gutters

Nearby lake

When we were on top of Nuwaragala

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

Most probably Nuwaragala became a Buddhist hermitage with time.

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

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

A herd

Thanks for reading

සති තුනක වගේ කාලයක් තුල සංවිධානය වුනු අපගේ මෙම වැඩසටහන අපි හිතුවටත් වඩා හොදට සාර්ථක වුනා. උතුම් ගෞතම ශ්‍රී පාදස්ථානයට සහ සමනල වනපෙතට ආදරය කරන පිරිසක් ලෙස මෙම එකමුතුව හරහා එකතු වුනු අපි ලබන සතියේ පොහොය දිනෙන් එළඹෙන 2019/2020 සිරිපා වාරය උදෙසා අපෙන් යමක් කිරීමට කතිකාවක් ගොඩ නැගුනු හෙයින් අප විවිධ මුලාශ්‍ර හරහා අපිට කරන්න පුළුවන් සුදුසුම සහ පලාදයිම වැඩේ මොකද්ද කියලා හොයද්දි තමයි අපිට කුරුවිට එරත්න මාර්ගයේ පවතින මුලික පහසුකම් වැඩි දියුණු කිරීම සහ ශ්‍රමදානයක් සිදු කිරීමට අදහස ජනිත වුනේ. මේ සඳහා අප නිවැරදි ලෙස රාජ්‍ය අංශ හරහා පැමිණිය යුතු නිසාවෙන් අපගේ සහයට ශ්‍රීපාද සේවා මහජන සෞඛ්‍ය පරීක්ෂක ප්‍රදීප් මහතා හා සම්බන්ද වීමට ලැබුනා. ඔහු හරහා අප මෙම මාර්ගයේ වගකීම ඇති කුරුවිට ප්‍රාදේශීය මහා ලේකම් කාර්යාලය දැනුවත් කරමින් මෙම මර්ගයට අවශ්‍යම දේවල් ටික කරන්න අපි සුදානම් වුනා. එහිදී අපි මුලික වශයෙන් පහත ක්‍රියාවන් සිදු කිරීමට තීරණය කෙරුණා.

1. සියලුම අම්බලම් සුද්ද පවිත්‍ර කිරීම සහ තීන්ත ආලේපනය
2. සියලුම අම්බලම් වල සහ ස්ථාන 15ක කසල බඳුන් 3 බැගින් ස්ථාපනය කිරීම
3. සිරිපා කරුණාව සහ පාරිසරික දැනුවත් කිරීමේ පුවරු 10ක් පිහිටුවීම
4. සමස්ත මාර්ගයේම ඇති නොදිරන ප්ලාස්ටික් පොලිතින් වැනි දෑ එකතු කර පවිත්‍ර කිරීම
5. අම්බලම් අවට පාලම් කොඩි එල්ලීම

මේකි කරුණු කාරණා සිදු කිරීමට අපට අවශ්‍ය ප්‍රධානතම දේ වුනේ මුදල්. කෙසේ හෝ තුන් වරක් පමණක් සමුහය තුල මතක් කරමින් අපට හැකි වුනා ඒ අභියෝගය ජයගන්න. දැනුවත් කිරීමේ පුවරු සඳහා අපට පුර්ණ අනුග්‍රහය ලබා දුන්නේ HHCO Helmet ආයතනයයි. ඔවුන් රු.60,000 ක මුදලක් ලබා දෙමින් එම පුවරු 10 අපට සුදානම් කරගැනීමට හැකියාව ලැබුනා. පසුව අපගේ ලොකුම වියදම වුයේ කසල බඳුන් 45, කෙසේ හෝ අපගේ වාසනාවට මෙම කාලය නිසා පවතී වට්ටම් හේතුවෙන් රු.142,800 ක් වටිනා අඩි දෙකහමාරක් උස ලීටර් 100 සහ 120 කසල බඳුන් 45ම අපට 39%ක පමණ වට්ටමක් සහිතව මිලදී ගැනීමට ලැබුනා. බොහෝ දෙනෙක් අපට අවශ්‍ය මුල්‍යමය සහයෝගය ලබා දුන්නා.

People are gathering

They were from all over the country

Participants (1)

Participants (2)

Participants (3)

Items are ready to move

Divisional Secretariet of Kuruvita delivering her speech

I am addressing the crew

She was help to take all permissions

Explaining the team requirement

The Head Team

Teams with their Work files (1)

මීට අමතරව පහත ද්‍රව්‍යමය ආධාරත් අපිට ලැබුනා.

Fillar තීන්ත ලීටර් 40ක් සහ පින්සල් 2ක් by Harinda Ranasinghe
පින්සල් 4ක් Akalanka Samarasekara
Large Size Garbage Bags 500ක් by (දුන්නු කෙනාගේ නම නොදනී)
Large Size Garbage Bags 100ක් by Shakila Shehan
පාලම් කොඩි 23ක් by Anu N Dilshan

ඒ වගේම අපි සවි කරපු පුවරු 3කට අදාල උඩවැඩියා මල්, සර්පයෝ සහ උරගයින් සහ අනෙක් සතුන් ගැන විස්තර සියල්ල සහ චායාරුප ලබාදුන් Gayan Prasanga අයියටත් ස්තුතියි.

මේ බදු ඔක්කොම පටවාගෙන සෙනසුරාදා පාන්දර මොරටුවේ ඉදන් අඩවි කන්දටම Free Transport ලබා දුන්නේ Kumara Kapurubandara විසින්.

මේ දේවල් මේ අයුරින් වෙද්දී ඊළඟට අපිට තිබ්බ ලොකුම අවශ්‍යතාවය තමයි වැඩේ කරන්න පිරිසක් ඕනා. කොහොම හරි සෙනසුරාදා උදේ 9 වෙනකොට අඩවි කන්දේ හිටියා ලංකාවේ එක එක පැති වලින් ආපු මේකේ ඉන්න කොල්ලෝ කෙල්ලෝ 100 කට ආසන්න පිරිසක්. ඒ අයව අපි අම්බලම් වලට බෙදල එයාලට නියමිත බදු ටික දී දී අපි පිටත් කළා 60කට වැඩි පිරිසක්. පස්සේ බෝඩ් ටික ගෙනියන්න තව 20 දෙනෙක්ව වගේ පිටත් කළා අදාල තැන ගැන කියමින්. ඊටත් අමතරව බෝඩ් සවි කරන්න සහ අමතර වැඩ වලටත් තව 12ක් වගේ හිටියා. උදේ අපි වැඩට පිටත් වෙන්න කලින් කුරුවිට ප්‍රාදේශීය ලේකම් තුමිය, සහකාර ප්‍රාදේශීය ලේකම් නිහාල් මහතා, PHI ප්‍රදීප් කුමාරසිංහ මහතා,ග්‍රාම නිලධාරී මහතා පැමිණ පොඩි කතාවක් එහෙමත් තියලා නිල වශයෙන් අපේ වැඩ කරන්න සම්පුර්ණ අවසරය දුන්නා.

අපි වැඩේ කරපු හැටි වින්ද දුෂ්කරතා ඒ සියල්ල ගැන අපි කියනවට වඩා පහසුයි ඔයාලා වාරේ එරත්න පාරෙන් යද්දී දකීවි, එකෙන් ඔයාලට තේරේවි අපේ සෙට් එක කාපු කට්ට. සෙනසුරාදා දවල් 12 ඉදන් පටන් ගත්ත වැස්ස රෑ 9 වෙනකන් විතර තිබ්බා, බදු අරන් අපේ සෙට් එකට සීත ගඟුල පනින්න බැරිව පැයක් විතර හිටිය. පස්සේ අනිත් ටීම් එකෙත් සහය එක්ක කට්ටිය එගොඩ වුනා. කොහොමහරි එක එක ජාතියේ අත්දැකීම් ලබමින් ඉරිදා හවස 3 වෙනකොට ඔක්කොම වැඩ ටික ඉවර කළා. පස්සේ ගල්වන්ගෙඩිය ඉඳන් ම එක්ක තව දෙන්නෙක් එකින් එක Check කරමින් පල්ලම් බැස්සා උදේ ඉඳන්. රෑ 7 වනකොට අන්තිම කණ්ඩායම විදිහට අපිත් අඩවි කන්දට ළඟ වෙලා අපේ වැඩසටහන සාර්ථක ලෙස අවසන් කළා.

Teams with their Work files (2)

Teams with their Work files (3)

Teams with their Work files (4)

Teams with their Work files (5)

This is how they carried heavy items

This is how they carried heavy items

This is how they carried heavy items

This is how they carried heavy items

This is how they carried heavy items

This is how they carried heavy items

This is how they carried heavy items

Bins

With Erathna Siripa Service PHI

Fixing the first board at the trail head at PHI office

Fixed the first board at the trailhead at PHI office

Its fixed

Ready to go

Cleaning of Jambolagahayata Ambalama

Cleaning of Jambolagahayata Ambalama

Cleaning of Jambolagahayata Ambalama

Cleaning of Jambolagahayata Ambalama

Fixing the Second board at Jambolagahayata Ambalama

The Second board at Jambolagahayata Ambalama

Raining start at the beginning

Walking further

Walking further

Walking further with their work files

Cleaning of Dimondgala Ambalama

Cleaning of Dimondgala Ambalama

Cleaning of Dimondgala Ambalama by these university students who came to support us

Cleaning of Dimondgala Ambalama by these university students who came to support us

Cleaning of Dimondgala Ambalama

Cleaning of Dimondgala Ambalama

Cleaned Dimondgala

Fixing of Third board at Dimondgala

Its fixed

Beautiful Dimondgala

We are leaving from DS crew at Warnagala Ambalama

Fixing of the Fourth board at Warnagala Ambalama

Fixing of the Fourth board at Warnagala Ambalama

Great Western Grama Niladari Madusanka with Kuruwita Divisional Secretariet team

Its fixed

Hard Working

Fifth board at Rata Balana Gala (2)

Its Fixed

Cleaning of Seetha Gagula Ambalama

Crossing Seetha Gagula

Crossing Seetha Gagula

Crossing Seetha Gagula with the Sixth board

Fixing of the Sixth Board

Its Fixed

Cleaning of Seetha Gagula Ambalam

Cleaning of Seetha Gagula Ambalam

Cleaning of Seetha Gagula Ambalam

Cleaning of Seetha Gagula Ambalam

Hanging the Flags at Seetha Gagula

Hanging the Flags at Seetha Gagula

Hanging the Flags at Seetha Gagula

Set of a team at Seetha Gagula

Hanging Flags from Seetha Gagula to Warnagala

Hanging Flags from Seetha Gagula to Warnagala

Seetha Gagula Ambalama

Hanging Flags from Seetha Gagula to Warnagala

Board 7th at Medahinna Ambalama

Fixing bins at Demala Mala Hinna

Board 8th at Demala Mala Hinna Ambalama

Some old items we found

A Team at Gal Wangediya

Board 9th at Idikatupaana Ambalama

Another team

Fixing the 10th board at Galwangediya

The Board 10 at Galwangediya Ambalama (End of Erathna Trail)

Cleaning of the route on the second day

Cleaning of the route on the second day

Cleaning of the route on the second day

Cleaning of the route on the second day

A Team at Uda Maluwa

Last Team after cleaning the route on second day

First Board at the Trail Head

Second Board at Jambola gaha yata Ambalama

Third Board at Dimondgala Ambalama

Fourth Board at Warnagala Ambalama

Fifth Board at Rata Balana Gala

Sixth Board at Thummodara/ Seetha Gagula

Seventh Board at Medahinna Ambalama

Eighth Board at Demala Mala Hinna

Ninth Board at Idikatupana/ Gaththampana

Tenth board at Gal Wangediya Ambalama

Notice Boards, we fixed at every Ambalama (2-4 each Ambalama)

Covers for the Large Bins which are we kept at 15 places throughout the route. (3 type of bins at a one place) Covers for the Large Bins which are we kept at 15 places throughout the route. (3 type of bins at a one place) Covers for the Large Bins which are we kept at 15 places throughout the route. (3 type of bins at a one place) Sticker for the bin covers

GPS Location of the Mountain – 7.043268, 80.844389

Mahakudugala is a beautiful mountain situated near Ragala. It was located in Mahakudugala estate which is owned by State plantation. The trail head of the mountain is at the Forest office, Halgranoya. Since our crew was 10 members, we requested special permission from the Forest Dept head office through Kandy Regional office and we were lucky to have it without any delay.

In my previous list of mountains, Mahakudugala was located on the 11th. But when I updated my list I saw that there were few mountain summits taller than Mahakudugala. Hence at present Mahakudugala Mountain (2101m) is at the 15th place of my list of mountains. Since we have a friend at Nuwaraeliya, we planned everything smoothly and informed the forest office about our visit and we reached the trail head in the early morning.

The footpath is clear and it is about 60-90 minutes hike along with the forest patch and you can easily reach to the base of the summit rocky plain. And there is about 10m stretch which should go carefully because the slope of that edge is nearly 80 degrees. However, we were able to reach the summit within an hour and we spent a few times over there. Piduruthalagala mountain range was fully covered by mist and I have seen Knuckles 5 peaks, Alugal Kanda, Dumbanagala from the north side of the mountain.

Remember, the original route is starting from the Forest office of Halgranoya hence if you wish to hike from there you should take prior permission from the regional office. Or else you can climb this mountain from Mahakudugala estate side and it will be also as same. There are some folks related to the dead body of King Ravana and there are few caves near to the main road of Mahakudugala Estate.

Thank You !
Sobasiri Team ©

Mahakudugala on Metric Map

Halgranoya Forest Office

Nilakshana is posing

Journey Started

We took the lead

Pines Forest

Darkness in the morning

Sachithra taking a rest

More to go

Green Styles

Time for a group photo

A small cave we met

Evidence of cloud forests

They are generating pure oxygen

Something reminded to Charitha

Fresh and pure

So Sensitive

We are inline

Flowers

A view at a open sky

This is the difficult part

Ragala Mountain side

They are Fresh

Supporting to others

Colorful Nature

Here, we came to the top

So, Colorful

At the edge

Time for our photo

The rocky plain

Shadows under the clouds

Piduruthalagala side

More flowers

There were many types of flowers

Niorsh is thinking

Piduruthalagala got clear

At the edge

Nature

Colors of Nature

Nirosh is there

It’s a nice place

Mahakudugala Estate

Malith is thinking

Summit place

Nature

Getting down

Again we are supporting

Difficult part was wet

Pines patch

Akila, Malit and Me

Returning journey

Mahakudugala Mountain

Captured on the main road

Pano 1

Pano 2

Pano 3

Thank you for reading !