Yahangala/bed rock is the mountain with unique shape of a bed situated at eastern edge of Knuckles massif. This rock related to Rawana legend. King Rawana’s body was kept here for last respect following he became unconsciousness by arrow flew by Rama’s bow. Therefore it is called Bedrock / Yahangala. According to folk this rock is situated at “Gale Bandara Deviyange Adawiya”-ගලේ බණ්ඩාර දෙවියන්ගේ අඩවිය under his protection. My first experience of Yahangala goes back to 2012. It was a memorable journey of two days and we camped at Velangolla Pathana where elephants were roaming. Next day we climbed the mountain without any pre knowledge of the route. And we didn’t have enough water to fulfill our thirsty.
Year back I visited Velangolla Pathana to visit Kehelpothdoruwegala කෙහෙල්පොත්දොරුවේගල (1529m). Four years after I wanted to visit Yahangala as a one day trip as well as the guide of the team. This trip was successful as I knew the area very well, good preparation and excellent weather.

Different phases of Yahangala from different places

When my visit to Ulpathgama (උල්පත්ගම)…captured early morning

The appearance from Velangolla Pathana

Appearance of other side….Captured on my way to Kehelpothdoruwegala

Yahangala and Velangolla Pathana together

View of Yahangala from Kehelpothdoruwegala

View of Yahangala from Uda Galdebokka-උඩගල්දෙබොක්ක

View of Yahangala from faraway of Velangolla Pathana

We stayed previous day night at Kandy and got the bus to Ududumbara. From Ududumbara we got another bus to Dambagahapitiya and hired a threewheel to Uda Iluka where the foot pathway to Velangolla Pathana starts. We didn’t need to wait for the Kalugala bus from Ududumbara as it starts at 8.30am.
Anybody who needs to conquer either Kehelpothdoruwegala or Yahangala needs to reach Velangolla pathana first. There is a clear foot pathway with continuous ascend to Velangolla Pathana. First it goes through the forest patch and then comes to open with Mana bushes on either side.
After I hour of the journey we reached Velangolla pathana. There was a tap line crossing the foot pathway which is a good place to fill bottles.

The trail head

Starting the journey

This nice foot pathway to a house where small foot pathway starts to Velangolla Pathana

Part of the team

Through the village

Entering the forest

Going through forest patch

Finishing the forest patch

Boys enjoying the journey

The place where we stopped to fill water

Filling water. Click credit goes to Chamara.

Surrounding view

There is a small forest patch after Mana section.

View of Velangolla Pathana. This is the only high point you can see when you walk to Velangolla Pathana.

View of Velangolla Pathana.

Nawenagala in most left and Garandi Gala in most right

Velangolla Pathana/ Yahangala pathana is a nice almost flat area. The foot pathway continues as the foot pathway to Udagaldebokka. There is a small Dewalaya-Gale Bandara Dewalaya (ගලේ බණ්ඩාර දේවාලය) as the landmark. Right hand side is for Yahangala and left for Kehelpothdoruwegala.
We had our breakfast there and enjoyed the surrounding view. Yahangala and Kehelpothdoruwegala are seen as giants in Velangolla Pathana. Recently someone has burned Mana of this Pathana but there were fresh Mana at our visit probably due to rain. The welcome view of Yahangala at Pathana is discouraging due to it’s extreme rocky surface. I can remember our first attempt in 2012 we struggled with this rocky surface to reach the top.

This is the junction at Dewalaya.

Garandigala and might be the grove for Garandi Ella

Our target. This white line was our attempted route in 2012. But it is not possible to climb along this route.

Team at Velangolla Pathana. Click credit to Chamara

Team at back drop of Kehelpothdoruwegala. Click credit to Chamara

Velangolla Pathana/ Yahangala Pathana

Dreadful rock surface of Yahangala

It is not possible to go along this surface to reach the top.

The basic of Yahangala climbing is going on right hand side of the mountain along Velangolla Pathana and get on to the mountain along it’s back. When you go around the mountain you can walk closer to the rock but there is large number of boulders situated closer to the mountain. There was an unclear foot pathway as well. Then from back of the mountain you can climb up like stair case and get on to the peak of Yahangala. In 2012 it was kind of a difficult task as we were running out of water and thickly grown Mana bushes. But this time it was fairly easy.
It should be careful in walking at Velangolla Pathana due to roaming elephants. We have noticed one elephant and my next visit to pathana after one week we noticed three elephants.

You have to go on right hand side of the mountain first.

Coming down along Velangolla Pathana

Coming down along Velangolla Pathana

Velangolla Pathana

Fresh Mana

Going down. It was bit difficult due boulders situated closer to the rock.

Posing

Elephant Dung. Click credit to Chamara.

Go around the mountain. Click credit to Chamara

The cave we found on our way to Yahangala. This might be a good place for camping.

We have reached the tail of the Mountain. Note there is clear foot pathway. Click credit to Chamara.

View of Velangolla Pathana Click credit to Chamara.

Jumbos in Pathana Click credit to Chamara.

Climbing started. Click credit to Chamara.

Waiting for others. Click credit to Chamara.

Tail of the mountain. Click credit to Chamara.

This is the route how you get on to the top. We got this picture of Yahangala in our next week visit to Velangolla Pathana. Click credit to Chamara.

We have reached the peak in around 2hours time. Top of Yahangala is a flat area with no big trees like it’s name bed rock. There are small bushes spread over hundred of acres of the top. It is an ideal place for camping but can except extreme wind during night. We walked over the top and had some clicks. It provides 360 degree view over surroundings from top of Yahangala. One side you can see Velangolla Pathana and it’s peaks. There is a drop from Velangolla pathana towards . Hasalaka and the plain next to eastern border of Knuckles massif could be seen over there. Other structures were Kehelpothdoruwegala, Lakegala, Garandigala, Thelambugala, Hetakatuwegala and Galpadihela. Minipe Lake, Mahaweli River, Hasalaka Lake and Sorabora Wewa were also seen.
After enjoying the view we started return journey. We were able to reach Uda Iluka by 5.30pm but no buses were operating from there to Ududumbara at that time. Luckily we got return bus to Dambagahapitiya and returned to Ududumbara by two three wheelers. It was a nice one day hik

Top of the mountain. Click credit to Chamara.

Top of the mountain. Click credit to Chamara.

Top of Yahangala. Click credit to Chamara.

Top of Yahangala. Click credit to Chamara.

View of Lakegala/ Gal Thuna. Click credit to Chamara.

The highest point of Yahangala with it’s drop. Click credit to Chamara.

Kehelpothdoruwegala. Click credit to Chamara.

The team on top of the mountain. Click credit to Chamara.

The drop… Click credit to Chamara.

The lake at Ulpathgama. Click credit to Chamara.

Coming down. Click credit to Chamara.

Coming down. Click credit to Chamara.

Fascinating view at the edge of Yahangala

Having a rest

Sun set at Velangolla Pathana

Team at the end after successful climb except myself

Thanks for reading

This was my 11^th visit to Sri pada and third off season hike. No matter how often I visit this sacred mountain I never get enough as this Sri pada Sanctuary is the best place on earth by means of bio Diversity and uniqueness. If I say one should hike this holly peak to experience the real beauty and the mystery in off season, it would be a controversial statement. Though my statement is 100% true if a brainless, irresponsible person do this hike in off season it would be a disaster for this precious area. Even your breath is a pollutant to this sensitive eco system, then what about polythene, plastic etc.. So my sincere request for the hikers not to harm this beautiful place any means. Remember leave only foot prints and take only photographs

Since our crew was only two I thought of doing this as one day hike. Then problem aroused what we are going to do next day as it was a free day for both of us. Then I remembered the beautiful peak bopaththalawa which I was planning to do from a long time. While Most of the people rest for weeks after a hike to Sri pada, my friend Thenuka accept the challenge to climb Bapaththalawa very next day. So we successfully did both peaks in two consecutive days followed by a scenic drive to Balangoda. So here is the story of our journey.

I left home around 5.00 am and reached Avisawella 7.00 a.m. Thenuka came from his car around 7.15 and we drove towards Nallathanni. Drive was in a slow side as we were not in a hurry. We reached Nallathanni around 10.00 a.m. and parked vehicle at Nagawiharaya (where a tall Buddha Statue stands) we started the hike from Nallathanni Bridge around 10.15 a.m. I‘ll let pictures to tell the remaining story

Thenuka at Nallathanni Bridge

Water falls were bit dried

Makara thorana

We met this fellow at makara thorana

Seasonal cascades

Red Bridge

Steps to Japanese peace pagoda

Japanese peace pagoda

Yaka Endu Falls

Steps To Heaven

Seetha gangula

Seetha gangula

There is a resting place / Shop at this point in the season

mist

I Love Mist

At gettham Pahana

By Road to Ratnapura Trail

Some rest before the last climb

Ehala Kanuwa

Bhagawa Lena

Sri pada Summit

We Reached the Summit at 1.145 p.m. Spent nearly a half an hour. Met the Priest in charge of the temple and had few discussions. Then return Back . We were at Nallathanni around 5.00 p.m.

Bells

Full view of the temple

Descending

Beautiful Flora

He was waiting for us

Peace pagoda far away

Tree shade

Gentleman and the Dog

Yaka Hendu Falls

Virgin forests

Calm and strange

Reaching the Base

Then we drove towards Bogawanthalawa. Reached our Resting place around 7.00 p.m. They could provide us accommodation but no food. So we had to go to a nearby place to have dinner which is nearly 400 m away from our rest. They also provide accommodation. So I recommend that place to stay cos you get both in one place. But remember facilities are very basic so not to recommend for a family stay in both places.

We woke up around 6.30 a.m. and had breakfast from the same place we had dinner. Then we drove towards Bogawanthalawa.

I will give the direction to the Bopaththalawa peak now. Remember some pictures were taken on our way back so don’t be confused with the images . Just follow only the land marks accordingly.

Our Resting place

Our Transport Mode

Place where we had meals. Delusions meals at affordable rates. And basic accommodation suitable for group of boys. Just call them and check the availability

Here we go

First land Mark. Turn Left from this Board. You have to go to Lynsted managers Bungalow which is nearly 3 km away from here

You will meet this junction.. Choose Right uphill Road ( remember the photo was taken on our way back )

Then You will reach this name board. You have to go straight ( remember the photo was taken on our way back )

The Map

Beautiful Estate Roads.. Stick to the main path without turning to by roads

Beautiful Tea Country

Scenic Tea Lands

Here is the place we parked the vehicle. You Have to Turn left from this bridge

Take the foot Path to slanted left. The straight path will take you to bungalow

Take left path

Walk along the foot path

Jacobbs ladder begins. Climb is much intense now

If you reach here before 8.00 a.m. you can walk with estate workers so that you will not miss the path

Taking Some rest

At one point trail splits. Path to right will lead you to the farm. Thenuka is showing the path to Peak

The Bopaththalawa peak seen. Remember you have to skip this path too and try to make your own path to climb the mountain

There is no specific path . Use your common sense. We chose this way.

Nearby mountain

Starting the hike

If you meet this then think you are going in the correct direction

Rabbits

On the way

Beautiful Scenery

Mist had invaded

Beautiful Scenery

Tricky point

Bopath thalawa farm Zoomed

Climb is getting Harder

More to climb

Mist

Our Target

Well done. Took nearly two hours ..

Views from Top

On the Top

More views

When we descend the views got more clearer

When we descend the views got more clearer

Serpents ????

flora

flora

Getting down

Leopards ?????

Mission Completed. We were at base around 12.00 noon

Ladies plucking tea leaves

After coming to Bogawanthalawa we preferred some snacks as lunch. Then we drove towards Balangoda via Scenic Road. We all reached our homes before 6.00 p.m.

Balangoda- Bogawanthalawa Road

Tea is everywhere

Road through jungle

Pines

View point on the way

Name Boards

Good Bye

Thanks for reading

We start our journey on Sunday 4.30 a.m & we reached to Koggala around 6.00 a.m. First we went to see Aranya premises. It was situated in very beautiful place & surround by river. Kuti build on the river bank & facing river side. Important thing was Crocodiles coming to aranya premises & they informed us not to go close to river.  “Katina Perahera” started around 9.00 a.m & after that “Katina Poojawa” started. After finished all religious work we left from there around 1.30 p.m. After that we went to “Martin Wickramasinghe” Museum in Koggala. There was lots of things to see . It is very good place for school children.We spent around 2 hour’s there & after that we went to see Galle Fort. On the way we went to see Air Force Plane at Koggala. We spent good time in Galle Fort & we started our return journey around 5.00 p.m. We reached home around 7.00 p.m & we completed another trip with lots of happy memories.

“Weduwa Aranya” Name Board

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Koggala Air Force Camp

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Early morning views of river

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“Kakulu Benayak”

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sthupaya

“Budumedura”

“Bodhiya”

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.	“Awasa Geya”

Kuti in the Aranya

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Katina Perahera

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.	Martin Wickramasinghe Museum

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.	Carving of King Rawana

.	Different types of carts

.	Elephant Cart

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boats

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Home of Martin Wickramasinghe

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Martin Wickramasinghe’s Room

tomb

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“Sekkuwa”

Airplane near the Air Force Camp

inside the plane

.	Beach near the Camp

.	Entrance of Galle Fort

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Views from the Fort

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Thanks for reading

Sanjeewa

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. Shantha-0712249760 (phone may not work due to low signal in this 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

Kalinga Island is located in the center of Mahaweli River at the boarder of the Wasgamuwa NP & it consists of 7 islands. The main island harbours ruins of a forgotten era. It’s said that princes of Kalinga sailed upstream along Mahaweli River to the interior of the country and this mini island was once believed to be their ship manufacturing yard. Also in text it has mentioned that King Parakramabahu sent ships to invade Burma from this point. The archeology evidence found on the island suggests that on a later date a Buddhist monastery has been constructed on this land.

The map (click to enlarge)

the huge island (click to enlarge)

Actually the chief organizer was Amila but he had to return back to Colombo for a personal reason. Anyway we proceeded as planned and NG & Yohan also planned to join us. On the previous day we reached Damana wewa and found a guide, we also informed the local DWC officer of Damana wewa. Next day morning we met each other at Siripura and reached the elephant fence at Damana wewa where we halted our vehicles and started marching.

As we crossed the elephant fence we came across a mini canal called “Kalinga Yoda Ela” which was done by the kings to diverted water from Mahaweli River at the southern tip of Kalinga Island by damming the river. Parallel to the canal the great river of Mahaweli could be found and there were few fishermen who were trying to earn something to tackle their day to day lives. Walking along the shores of Mahaweli we started crossing the river by first reaching one of those miniature islands. The main island was seen on the opposite bank and one could not say it’s an island because it looked just like the main land. The crossing towards the island was very tricky where at some points the water level were up to our chest height. The most challenging aspects were the slippery bed rocks & the rapid tides.

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“Kalinga Ela apparently starts about 1km upstream of the island of Kalinga Nuwara in Mahweli river left bank, with a 20m wide entrance and between that and Amban Ganga, within the Wasgomuwa National Park, some 2km stretch of the channel is visible still (personal comm.- J. Balasooriya). The map of Elahera (#43) of 1:50000 scale shows an irrigation canal between Amban Ganga and Mahaweli Ganga but without a proper beginning. It is just above the 40m contour and some 4km long. It enters Dedarane Wewa after 1.5km and leaves on its other side and then meets Nabunagas Kotaliya Ela (some 200m before Amban Ganga) which feeds Dastota Wewa located below the 40m contour.

There is a strong possibility that this canal could be the same Kalinga Ela. The same map shows a canal leaving the right bank of the Mahaweli River some 500m above Kalinga Nuwara which continues all the way to Dimbulagala, and names it Kalinga Yoda Ela (that is referred to as Gomathie Ela by Balasooriya, 2004).”

on our way along the elephant fence

crossing kalinga yoda ela

mahaweli

the island seen

crossing over

After all of us got to the shores safe and soundly we started to trek in to the island. Ruins were found mainly on the highest points of the island well cleared from high flood levels of river Mahaweli. The monoliths we came across were all less than 2 feet and scattered all over the island. We reached an interesting point where rows of rocks were placed towards the Wasgamuwa side of the island. This site seemed to be where the ships were launched in to the river. Other interesting findings we came across were a huge building which was dug up, a large excavated (by thieves) pagoda and few moon stones with elephant carvings. This large island needs proper protection and restoration because of its uniqueness and we hope someday the department of archaeology would take some interest in such a valued site like this. On our way back we had a nice dip in a mini river which traverses the island and it was equal to a paradise for our tired souls.

the island forest

one straight kumbuk tree

along a mini stream traversing the island

piece of korawak stone

plenty of monoliths

more

human interventions

tall trees in the island

note the base

taking the elephant path

twins

kaluwara

urinary stone

a monolith

rocks plated like a stairway… may be the ships which were built were pushed to the river along this

the plated rocks

other side of the island

wasgamuwa side

one long monolith

bricks

work of nidan horu

a huge sthupa dugged to the base

a huge brick

the buried moonstone

two elephants on a moonstone

note the two elephants

part of a moonstone

parts of tile

see the carvings showing the importance of the location

faded carving

තිඹිරි

another korawak stone

mahaweli river seen

paradise

paradise indeed

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lovely location

Crossing back to the main land was with many slips and falls across the river which left us with some unforgettable experiences. To finish off the day we had a wonderful “Game Batha” (which was homemade) at a miniature hut in the middle of a “Chena” where the breeze brushed off our sweat. After thanking the local guides and the DWC officer we left towards Sripura to head towards our own destinations.

crossing back to the main land

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many falls

on a mini island

the island land is seen on the right

fisherman

plenty of mini islands

returning back

having lunch (Photographer NG)

Ridiyagama Safari Park was declared open in March 2016. Construction of the project started in 2008 and first phase was completed at a cost of Rs.2,600 Million and opened for public on 28.03.2016.

The Park comes under Department of National Zoological Gardens.

The total extent of park is 500 acres.

The first phase in extent of 200 acres which is opened for public consists of

16 acre service area

35 acre lion enclosure

54 acre elephant enclosure

80 acres of herbivorous animals

According to the Department information, the second phase of the park will include

# Bengal Tiger Zone

# Leopard Zone (Hopefully not from Horton Plains)

# Sloth Bear Zone

# Asian Herbivore zone

# African Herbivore zone

# Australian Zone

# Cheetah Zone

# Small Animal Kingdom

# Reptilliam

# Butterfly Garden

# Animal Breeding & Conservation Center

# Camping site and Circuit Bungalows (Good News)

# Leisure Area o Kids

We left Warana by 7.00 in the morning and reached Tangalle Navy Base for a safe sea bath and lunch.

GOOD PLACE FOR A SAFE SEA BATH

After the sea bath and lunch, the group moved to Hummana to see the famous blow hole in action.

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UNIQUE LANDSCAPE

AWAITING THE GIANT TO AWAKE

.	MIGHTY BLOW

CALM AS NOTHING HAPPENED!!!!

After this wetting episode, the group proceeded to Rediyagama Safari Park at correct time around 3.00 pm. We were lucky enough to get two busses exclusively for our group and very knowledgeable guides.

We spend a memorable two hours in the park.

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BUS PROVIDED BY ZOO

INSIDE THE BUS

LION ENCLOSURE – THEY WERE AT TOUCHING DISTANCE

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SHOWING OFF THE STRENGTH

ROYAL KING OF THE JUNGLE

INNOCENT HERBIVORES

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.	NON STOP PECKING

SHY HIPPO

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.	UNUSUAL COMBINATION

.	SCRATCHING TIME

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.	ELEPHANT ENCLOSURE

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End of the Report

Thanks lot for reading it.

Hanthana is the most popular hiking place among University students. Normally Social Trips and Batch trips are planned to hanthana due to less travelling time. It is my long term dream to hike Hanthana. With the aid of trip reports on Hanthana in Lakdasun we planned this trip.

Hanthana can be hiked from various routes;

1. 4^th Mile Post at Kandy-Uduwela (Hanthana road)
2. Heerassagala – Amaya Hills
3. Peradeniya University – Upper Hanthana Lodge

Sarasavigama- Hadabima janapadaya

Map – click to enlarge

The Shortest and easiest is the 4^th Mile post path. So we selected the 1^st option.

All of us gathered at Kandy clock tower by 6:30 and had our breakfast at nearby hotel. We lucky enough to catch the Kandy – Uduwala bus started journey at 7 am. By 7.25 am we were at 4^th milepost where the trail starts.

The Clock tower of Kandy

Statue of Lieutenant General Denzil Lakshman Kobbekaduwa

Dalada Veediya

The Trail head – Towers at 1st and 2nd Peaks are visible.

Team at the trailhead

On the way to 1st peak

From the trail head we reached our 1^st peak within 30 minutes. It’s less than a kilo meter hike. There are telecommunication towers located in the first and second peaks. Also sanitary and drinking water facilities are available at these peaks as there are individuals who resides there to maintain and monitor these towers.

Towers at 1st peak – Peak 2 visible

A good view

Peak 2 in the background

Samasara kanda-Aranayake zoomed

Gatambe Junction – Gannoruwa road

Half-way to 2nd peak

A viewing point

The team-Selfie

There are good views from the first peak. We can see the Kandy city area, Peradeniya, Gatambe, teldeniya areas from this peak. Hiking the second peak won’t take much time it’s about 100 meters. The second peak also gives you an elevated views of the surrounding.

Close to 2nd peak

2nd peak

Greeny paradise.

The Rock phase

To the edge of the rock

The way we came

.	Beautiful path

Beauty

The Hanthana range

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To reach the other part we have should descend along the rock and take the forest path. The path is clearly visible and not a difficult task.

Entering the forest patch

Came out.

Shiny

Clear path

We are following

The Way back

Ratnasiri Wickramanayake Training Centre

Resting time

Rest of the range

Path from Upper hanthana lodge joins here

Good place for camping

Police Barracks

After this point the footpath directs to the tea estate through a forest patch. at the mid of this forest patch we met some members of the University explorers club members and they directed us with the path to Katusu konda which is our final destination. The weather was challenging us very often. so we hurried up folloed the path to the top. We did see the non-other than mist on top.

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The drop

mist

mist

water drops

Colorful flowers

Variety

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Can you see the difference?

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Katusu kondha

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Nothing is visible

The were able to reach katusu kondha at around 2pm. Unfortunately we could see nothing due to misty weather. In few minutes its started to rain. So we rushed in to the cave located closer to Katusu kondha.

At the cave

path

Somebody camped here

Way to Sarasavigama… Descending

Spending some time at the cave we decided to go the the Sarasavigama at around 3 pm. With the rain and misty conditions we couldn’t find the path to Sarasavigama. However, with the help of GPS and Maps we got the navigation. Nothing is visible due to mist. There are rocky phases in the path descending through these a very dangerous. There are very slippery in the rain. So we tried alternated paths. It took around 2 hours to descend this 2 km path.

At around 5pm we reached Sarasavigama and able to catch the bus to Kandy with the help of a threewheeler. by 5:30pm we were at Peradeniya.

At the end it was a new experience and Enjoyable trip!

Thanks for reading..

Click map to enlarge. Red star shows the entry point to Walawe River over the bridge and black star shows Duwili Falls. We have walked upstream along this section.

Kalthota Junction. Kalthota Mountain is seen behind.

Kalthota Mountain

Entry point to Walawe River

It is the end of B528 road. Bodagam-Hambegamuwa-Kalthota road.

Just before enter the river

Towards the Anicut

Think about environment

Walawe River and crossing anicut

Team except me

First impression of broad Walawe River

Walking along parallel to the River in it’s left bank

Walking along parallel to the River

Walking along parallel to the River in it’s left bank

A water stream flows to Walawe River

The canal at left bank

Diversion of water into the canal

Crossing the river again

Crossing the river again

Walking over boulders is not an easy task

Kind of deep section of the River

Minor cascade

Minor cascade

Minor cascade

Just before climb the minor water fall

Slow part of the River

A wide section of the Rive

Nuwan is waiting for us. This is the place we had our food

Ideal place for rest

Restart the journey after refresh with food

Always to be cautious with walking over slippery rocks

Beautiful Walawe River

This was kind of steep section and we had to move to River bank.

Acute steepness into the River

Significant waterfall-1

Significant waterfall-1

One of the obstacles we had to overcome

Significant waterfall-2

Significant waterfall-2

Reaching the beauty-Kalthota Duwili Falls

Reaching the beauty-Kalthota Duwili Falls

Reaching the beauty-Kalthota Duwili Falls

Watching this 40m tall beauty from ground level was an amazing experience. We climbed the small rock in left hand side and reached the proper view point of Duwili Falls. Then enjoyed the pilot view of Duwili Falls and returned the starting point by a vehicle. The journey was ended with the dip at Walawe river and taste lunch from Nuwan’s place.

Classic view of Kalthota Duwili Falls

Classic view of Kalthota Duwili Falls

Side view of Kalthota Duwili Falls

We had a day. Click credit-Kasun.

Thank you for reading. Have a safe journey

This trip was happened in January 2013. I wanted to go the highest mountain in Sri Lanka and at that time I knew that is not allowed due to high security reasons. However I directly called Ministry of Defense office and explain them about my requirement. After that I send a request letter with names, NIC no of my friends and the motor bicycle numbers too. On the same day within 2 hours they faxed my confirmation letter which is under ministry letter head and with the director’s signature. After that I was awaited for that day where I can be at Piduruthalagala.

On that day we four left from Colombo via Avissawella to Hatton and then turned to Nuwaraeliya road which is more familiar to our rides. However on that day we spent 3 hours to reach Nuwaraeliya from Hatton due to the maintenance of the road. On that days Hatton-Nuwaraeliya road is like a hell, too narrow and gravel type road. That day there were big traffics due to renovations of the road and now you all can see a beautiful carpet road which will take around 1 and half hour to Hattoon-Nuwaraeliya.

After we had our breakfast at Nanuoya we stopped our bicycles at the main entrance check point of the Piduruthalagala, We showed them the letter and they took our mobiles and cameras. However I was able to keep my camera secretly with me. One of my friend already contacted a known officer who lived at the camp on the top. Hence we meet him at the top of the mountain and he took us to see the whole area where public cannot go and he allowed me to take photographs of them too.

We spend more than 3 hours and had some tea and biscuits from him and walked around the camp site and we went inside of the satellite rooms and those are not captured by us. Reaching to the mountain from the base check point is about 7km and it is too difficult to use 2nd and 3rd gear at most time. Whole the road is concreted and 10ft wide road. Those days there were small Bankurs on the way of the road and we saw some sambar, wild boar too.

Now anyone can go to this mountain without any prior approval from the ministry. But motor bicycles and three wheelers cannot go on that road due to the protection of the people from Leopards, Wild Boars.

Facebook – Travel in Sri Lanka-Sobasiri

Passing Thalawakale

Windsurfing clouds

The Giant in Sri Lanka

Piduruthalagala Mountain

On the way to the summit

Wide roads with misty environment

At the top of the mountain

Misty environment

Team at the highest point

Piduruthalagala forest reserve

Mist is coming

Beauty at the top

Beauty at the top

Beauty at the top

They help us to see more inside of the towers

Communication Towers

Going to the Satalite room

We were lucky to see this place

Towers covered by the mist

Dissapeard

Getting down to the base

15ft wide road

Ready to the actions

Nuwaraeliya city

Having a small rest

Environment is like on the way to Horton Plains

Had a wonderful day

End of the tour

Giant rocky plains

Again long awaited August vacation came. We decided to arrange a tour like last year we do. Our plan was first visit to Anuradhapura & arrange other places later. This time also no one willing to join with us because they knew that this also big tour. We start our trip on 8th morning. This time we went via Giriulla. First we went to see Dambadeniya Viharaya & ruins. We spent nearly 3 hours there & went to Padeniya Viharaya. It also nice place & lot of things to see. Around 2.00 p.m we reached to our relative’s house in Kalankuttiya. We took little rest & after that we went to near by water canal. We had a good time there. We stay 1 night there & next day we start our journey from there. Pls read the next Trip Report to find details from Day 2 onwards.

Day 1 ( 08.08.16 )

1.Dambadeniya Raja Mha Viharaya & Ruins

2.Padeniya Raja Maha Viharaya

Dambadeniya Viharaya

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Stupaya

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.	Entrance to Maliga Gala ( Ruins )

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.	Important place

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.	Mugunuwenna Pokuna

.	Mawee Pokuna

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Views from Belumgala

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Padeniya Raja Maha Viharaya

Entrance to Maluwa

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Stupaya

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Vihara Geya

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.	Wood Carvings

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Anciant Store “Gabadawa

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Thanks for reading.

Sanjeewa

Refer Day 1

Next day morning we start our journey & went to Anuradhapura. On the way we went to Awkana Raja Maha Viharaya. Around 3.00 p.m we reached to Anuradhapura. First we arrange room & went to Isurumuniya Temple & Ran Masu Uyana. From next day morning we started our journey. We covered lot of places in Anuradhapura. We also went to Thanthirimalaya Raja Maha Viharaya. We stay 4 days in Anuradhapura. Read the next Trip Report to find details about our next destination from Day 5 onwards.

Day 2 – 4 ( 09.08.16 – 11.08.16 )

3.Awkana Raja Maha Viharaya

4.Isrumuniya Viharaya

5.Ran Masu Uyana

6.Mayura Piriwena

7.Sri Maha Bodhiya

8.Maha Vihara Dana Shalawa

9.Ruwanweli Maha Seya

10.Mirisawetiya

11.Thuparamaya

12.Padalanchana Stupaya

13.Jethawanaramaya

14.Sandakada Pahana

15.Kuttam Pokuna

16.Gal Palama – Malwathu Oya

17.Kiribath Vehera

18.Gal Palama – Hal Panu Ela

19.Vijayarama Archaeological Site

20.Pankuliya – Ashokaramaya

Army Rocket Regiment Camp – Galnewa

Kalankuttiya Wewa

visitor

“Kadupul Mal”

Entrance to Awkana Viharaya

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.	Isurumuniya Viharaya

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Entrance to Ran Masu Uyana

Royal Pond

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.	Checking Important Place

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.	“Gal Asanaya”

.	Carving of Elephants

Another Pond

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Details about Carving

Details about Carving

.	Mysterious Carving of symbols

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.	Mayura Pirivena

.	Sri Maha Bodhiya

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.	“Bath Oruwa”

.	“Ruwanweli Maha Seya”

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.	Thuparamaya

.	Ruins around Thuparamaya

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.	Pada Lanchana Stupaya

Jethawanaramaya

Sandakadapahana

.	Kuttam Pokuna

Advanced Technology they used

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.	Gal Palama – Malwathu Oya

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.	Ruins around Kiribath Vehera

Kiribath Vehera

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Gal Palama – Hal Panu Ela

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Stupaya

Ruins of Buildings

Vijayarama Archaeological Site

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.	Entrance to Ashokaramaya ( Pankuliya )

.	Samdhi Pilimaya

Sandakadapahana

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Ruins of Buildings

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Day 2 – 4 ( 09.08.16 – 11.08.16 )

21.Thanthirimalaya

22.Lankaramaya

23.Eth Pokuna

24.Sandakada Pahana – Abayagiriya

25.Muragala – Rathnaprasadaya

26.Hora Yantharaya

27.Samadhi Pilimaya – Abayagiriya

28.Gal Mandapaya ( Baron’s Pavillion )

29.Sangamiththa Stupaya

.	Bodhiya at Thanthirimalaya Viharaya

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.	Ruins of Buildings

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.	Views of Pond

.	Route to Caves

.	Paintings in the Cave

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.	Lankaramaya

Ruins around Lankaramaya

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.	Eth Pokuna

.	Views of Eth Pokuna

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.	Mura Gala at Rathnaprasadaya

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Sandakadapahana at Abayagiriya

“Hora Yantharaya”

Gal Mandapaya ( Barons Pavillion )

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.	Samadhi Pilimaya at Abayagiriya

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.	Ruins around Abayagiriya

.	Bath Oruwa in Dana Shalawa

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.	Sangamiththa Stupaya

This important place forgot by many people

Refer Day 1 , Day 2-4

Next day morning we start our journey & went to Trincomalee. On the way we went to Kiralagala Site. Before Horowpothana town we have to turn left & have to go few  km’s to site. It is very important & very beautiful place. Its main attraction was very beautiful & massive pond. It was well planed & massive Arama complex. After that we plan to visit first on Thiriyaya. We went on Gomarankadawala – Thiriyaya road. Our aim was visit other less visited important places in this route. First we visit to Rangiri Ulpatha Viharaya & Hot water well. We have to go 5 km’s from the main road to this site. Lot of ruins every where & Archeological Department not yet discovered it. Hot water well also nearby this site. Water also not very hot. This area is very remote & highly threat from wild elephants. Next we visited to Surulumahamuniyawa Viharaya & Pahalagama Archeological site. Those two places also very nice & less visited places. After that we went to Thiriyaya – Girihandu Seya. Road to Thiriyaya is very remote & we met only few people in that road. Around 3.30 p.m we reached Thiriyaya Temple. It is the first stupaya in Sri Lanka. We spent nearly 2 hours there & went to Nilaweli. On the way we went to Samudragiri Pichchamal Viharaya. It is situated in very beautiful location. We spent nearly one hour there & went to Nilaweli. We spend some time to find place to stay. Finaly we found a place & we stay there after end of very busy day. Read the next Trip Report to find details about our next destination from Day 6 onwards.

Day 5 ( 12.08.16 )

30.Kiralagala

31.Gomarankadawala Hot Water Well

32.Rangiri Ulpatha Raja Maha Viharaya – Gomarankadawala

33.Surulumahamuniyawa Raja Maha Viharaya

34.Pahalagama Ruins

35.Girihandu Seya – Thiriyaya ( Nithupathpana )

36.Samudragiri Pichchamal Viharaya – Kuchchaweli

Sign Board of Kiralagala

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Giant Pokuna

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Gomarankadawala Rangiri Ulpatha Raja Maha Viharaya & Hot Water Well

Ulpatha starting from here

Hot Water Well

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Entrance to site

Stupaya

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.	Surulumahamuniyawa Viharaya

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ruins

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Stupaya

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.	Pahalagama Archaeological Site

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Stupaya

ruins

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Bodhigaraya

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Girihandu Seya ( Nithupathpana )

click to enlarge

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Gal Palama

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Watadageya

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Watadageya

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“Sellipiya”

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click to enlarge

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Ancient Dageba on the top

Steps to top

Details about this place

click to enlarge

Stupaya

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Navy Radar Point also there

Carving of Stupa

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.	Beach near Viharaya

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