Every year we handover school items to rural school. Last time we went to rural school in Badulla. This time we choose Narangamuwa Primary School in Laggala Pallegama  to our project.  We left Maharagama on December 1st at 11.00 p.m. Our team comprises 11 persons with 2 vans. Around 5.15 a.m we reached to Riverston. At that time very cold & misty. Then we waited till 5.45 a.m & start journey to Riverston peak. It was new experience for us such journey in very cold & misty early morning. Around 7.00 a.m we were at Riverston peak & around 8.30 a.m we came back to main road. After that we went to Thelgamu Oya & having wash there. After that we went to Narangamuwa School & it took nearly 1 hour to Illukkumbura to school. When we went there the principle, teachers, school children & villagers waiting for us. They welcomed us warmly. They arranged ceremony to handover gifts. We handover school items, sweets to children & they were full happy. We handover School Name Board, computer , sports items & other school items to school. We gave gifts to Principle & teachers too. Pls see photos & it will tell whole story. They arranged simple & superb lunch for us.

After having lunch we took little rest & went to see Narangamuwa Lake. It was very beautiful place & water comes to lake by 3 “Diya Peeli”. It was very unique feature of this lake. We bath couple of hours there & after that we went to see village.We overnight stay at school hall & very cold at early morning.

Next day early morning we plan to go see few interesting places. We started our journey around 6.30 a.m. We arranged villager to provide our meals & guide us.His name was “Muthu Banda”. First we went to his house & had our breakfast. They were poor people but they treat us their maximum. Around 8.30 a.m we started our journey & first we went to see newly built “Kuti”. At that time monk leaves the place. “Kutiya” build in very beautiful place & ideal for meditation. Our 4 members stopped there & rest of the team started journey. After that we went to see Uyangomuwa Lake & “Rawana’s Garden”. Very little water there & few “Embul Dodam” trees in the area. After that we went to “Kapuwatugala Lena”. Only 3 of us able to reach to lena. Without rope it was bit difficult to reach. After few hours walking we reached to “Reassa”. From there we can get beautiful views & photos will talk rest. We waited nearly 1 hour there & decided to come back without going to “Meeriyagolla Peak” or “Lakegala” due to time we have. On the return journey we bath at beautiful rock pool. Water was very cool even at 1.00 p.m. After having bath we came to “Muthubanda” Mama’s house. Our other team members also came there. We had good lunch same as previous meals. After few hours we reached back to school. After thanks the Principle & “Muthubanda” Mama ,we packed our bags & left from village around 4.00 p.m. On the way we stopped at near Pallegama Bridge & we spent nearly hour in water. After that we started our journey back to home & we stopped at view point of “Pitawala Pathana”. After having beautiful evening views there we started our return journey. We came back to our homes around 12.00 a.m.

We completed another big project & big tour with lots of sweet memories.

Entrance to Riverston Peak

Around 6.00 a.m

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.	Thelgamu Oya

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.	Turning to Narangamuwa

Old Name Board

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Narangamuwa Primary School

School Children welcome us

The Priciple

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.	Principle with new Name Board

Little ones with their parents

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Distributing Gifts

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Handover Computer to School

Happy Faces with their gifts

.	Narangamuwa Lake

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“Diya Peella”

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Narangamuwa Temple

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.	Sleeping at night in School Hall

Morning Views

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Crossing the Stone Fence

“Pindapatha Kutiya”

“Muthu Banda” Mama’s house

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.	Newly built “Kutiya”

Inside the “Kutiya”

Around views from the “Kutiya”

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.	Resting place

.	Uyangomuwa Lake at “Rawana’s Garden”

.	Plucking “Embul Dodam”

“Lakegala” from “Rawana’s Garden”

Crossing water stream

“Kapuwatugala” Lena

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Coming down from Lena

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.	Showing “Maussa Kola” danger than “Kahabiliya Kola”

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.	Views from “Reassa”

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.	“Kapuwatugala Lene” from “Reassa”

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Surrounding Views

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The Drop

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“Clear & cool pool”

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“Muthu Banda” Mama’s Family

The villagers favorite “Thala Kola”

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We met Principle before leaving

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Pallegama Bridge

Having bath in river

Looking at Pitawala Pathana

Evening view’s

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Thanks for reading.

Sanjeewa

Year and Month	2016 Octomber 30th
Number of Days	One
Crew	Two-Chamara and My self
Accommodation	Not applicable
Transport	Bus, Three wheel and climbing
Activities	Hiking, Sightseeing and Photography
Weather	Excellent
Route	Colombo->Kandy->Ududumbara (උඩුදුම්බර) ->Uda Iluka (උඩඉලුක)->Velangolla Pathana (වෙලන්ගොල්ල පතන) ->Medakelle (මැද කැලේ)->Lihinikatiya (ලිහිනිකැටිය)->Batumulla (බටුමුල්ල)-> Udaththawa (උඩත්තාව)->Udawela (උඩවෙල) ->Hasalaka->Kandy->Colombo
Tips, Notes and Special remark	Start the journey in early morning. Threewheel charges from Ududumbara to Uda Iluka is varied. Average is Rs 800. Carry at least 2l per person. There are no water sources after the one at Mana patch till you get down to Udaththawa. Can’t recommend of approaching to water sources at Velangolla Pathana as elephants are roaming. Still this area is clean. Don’t pollute. It is better watch elephants from far. Velangolla Pathana is a nice place for camping. But be cautious about elephants. There is a significant drop to Medakelle side. But can go down through Mana bushes. This is not something to promote visiting wild elephants. It is a risky activity and you must have an escape plan in a case if an elephant chase you.
Related Resources	Back to Yahangala
Author	Niroshan and Chamara
Comments	Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread Searching Jumbos at Velangolla Pathana (1020m) Some photographs belong to Chamara Perera.

This was our back to back visit to Velangolla Pathana in order to view elephants. It was kind of a rare incident to watch elephants at high attitude. We have seen an elephant on Velangolla Pathana on our way to climb Yahangala. It was seen far and we have noticed it was not moving much. We were so curious on watching this elephant and planned a separate journey to visit the elephants at Yahangala Pathana.
But it was only Chamara and myself on the day of visiting Velangolla Pathana. As usual we started the journey early morning and reached Ududumbara. We had our breakfast from Ududumbara and hired a three wheeler to reach the trail head to Velangolla Pathana. We were familiar to the environment due to recent visit.
Chamara and myself reached Velangolla Pathana in 1hour time. Surrounding was bit gloomy compared to our Yahangala visit.
Velangolla Pathana spreads on right side of Yahangala. Basically it is covered with grass and Mana bushes. It is not a flat plateau. Velangolla Pathana has less tall trees except the mana patch. Our plan was to get down to Udawela side from Pathana and reach Hasalaka.

Yahangala becomes an acceptable tourist attraction

Following rituals before enter the forest. Photo belongs Chamara

On the way to Velangolla Pathana-Garandigala at back drop

At Velangolla Pathana. Two man team with back drop of Yahangala. Photo belongs to Chamara.

Get blessings from Gale Bandara Dewiyo. Photo belonges to Chamara.

View of Kehelpothdoruwegala from Velangolla Pathana

View of Knuckles peaks from Velangolla Pathana. Click credit goes to Chamara.

View of Balalgira from Velangolla Pathana. Click credit goes to Chamara.

Paddies of Uda Iluka. Click credit goes to Chamara.

Moving on Velangolla Pathana.

We always kept our path at the edge of Pathana to view the drop. Last time we have noticed the elephant at the middle of Pathana. We have passed small Pinus patch and reached almost flat grassy area. Suddenly we noticed an elephant at a drop with 15-20m gap. We were nervous and started to run back. But when we looked back we saw the elephant was also running away from us. It made to stop us and move towards the elephant. The elephant gradually hided into tree cover and we could see another one with this elephant.

We always kept our path along the edge of right hand side of Pathana.

Nice cross section of Velangolla. It shows the step ladder way of climbing Yahangala.

This shows our pathway along Velangolla Pathana.

The view towards Uda Iluka.

Chamara is enjoying the view.

Velangolla Pathana and Yahangala.

Velangolla Pathana and Yahangala

It was kind of a gloomy weather.

Foot pathways from Kalugala to reach Velangolla Pathana. We used one of these to descend in 2010.

Velangolla Pathana.

Velangolla Pathana. Click credit goes to Chamara.

Different appearance of Yahangala

At the edge

Pinus patch

Most beautiful section of Velangolla Pathana

Most beautiful section of Velangolla Pathana

Velangolla Pathana

Velangolla Pathana

Fresh elephant dung

Passing a small peak at Velangolla Pathana

Looked back…..

Typical plateau. This area is good for camping.

Typical plateau. This area is good for camping.

The descend of Pathana where we assumed to have elephants. Click credit goes to Chamara.

Coming across jumbo…… The elephant is also running away from us. Click credit goes to Chamara

The elephant is moving away from us… Click credit goes to Chamara.

Under the cover of trees. Click credit goes to Chamara.

Under the cover of trees. Click credit goes to Chamara.

Click credit goes to Chamara

The elephant roaming at Velangolla Pathana. Third encounter. Click credit goes to Chamara.

Second one out of three. Click credit goes to Chamara.

Hope these elephants have enough food and water at this Pathana.

Then we moved further and reached the other end of Pathana. Velangolla Pathana gradually connects with the low land from this side. On the other side we saw a
Chena with a small house. But there was a huge drop where we wanted to get down. We looked for a foot pathway to reach this Chena but it was not successful. Then we decided to get down through Mana bushes at the drop to reach Chena.

Nearby lake at Batumulla side. Photographed by Chamara Perera.

18 hair pin bends / photographed by Chamara Perera.

The drop to Batumulla side. Photographed by Chamara Perera.

The drop to Udaththawa side.

Pathana gradually connects with low land from this end.

Pathana gradually connects with low land from this end.

View of Yahangala and Kehelpothdoruwegala with Velangolla Pathana.

Incidental capturing….

Getting down through Mana patch

Mana and Velangolla Pathana

Where we were…..

This Chena belongs to Kiri Banda Mama (කිරි බණ්ඩා මාමා) who is 86years old. He lives here with her disabled daughter. They asked us to stop for “Kahata”/කහට but we politely refused it and got directions to Batumulla where we can get a bus. It was almost a descend from there to Batumulla. By one and half hour we reached Batumulla. We had a small wash from Batumulla hospital and hired a threewheel to Hasalaka.

The Chena at Medakelle

Reaching Chena

Posed for group photo. Belongs to Chamara Perera.

Small road named by his name.

Crossing the bridge

Map reading: Click to enlarge. Blue star shows our start from Uda Iluka. Black star shows Velangolla Pathana. Red star shows Medakelle village where we descend.

Thanks for reading

This was the second time I camped at Mahaeliya (Horton Plains). We started our journey from Colombo by Podi Manike train. Our crew was eight with three Boys and five girls. Train journeys always made me happy, Since we have reserved our tickets early we got managed to travel to Ohiya without any disturbance. some foreign friends there. We made Train arrived to Ohiya with half an hour delay. We got our Lunch at Ohiya. Than 11 KM Journey was by three wheeler.

Waruna – one of our travel mates got a chance to drive the three wheeler as well. That was the first time in his life, he drove a three wheeler. However, we managed to be at the main entrance around 4.00. After checking our backpacks, we went to the place we have planned to stay that night.

Famous bathalegala (Bibles rock)

Podi menike on the way

ON THE WAY

On the way

On the way

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After setting up tents we had a quick discussion what to do cause it was already late. We asked from others and they wanted to see the world end So we left the campsite with our lighting equipment. The walk was so slow at the beginning. If got late we had few challenges . There were leopards as well. With the discussions we got managed to visit Bakers fall though it was bit dark. Then we rushed towards WE anyway. And again, there was no one around and park was so lonely place at that time. we had a nice scenery of the Samber family. They were climbing a small mountain. She was red with the background that was awesome scenery we regret so much that we left our cameras back. We had a feeling that we have lost our way, but we had that gut feeling that we are following the correct path. So far were travelling like few small teams. Finally, we reached the world’s end that was the real worlds end feeling. lights were on in below cities. I can’t describe that feeling, it was fantastic. We returned to the campsite without any harm before it got too dark still it was so adventurous, Once we heard one animal moving in the jungle so closely.

The Valley

The site

View from the site

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At world’s end

World’s end at dusk

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Then we went to the campsite and had our dinner. as usual reason was the cook, Waruna me and Wasana also joined with him to finish the stuff, cause we knew we had to sleep before it get cold around.Waruna, rashan and myself slept in one tent and other two tents were for five girls.The next day we returned to Colombo with adventures and awesome memories. And photo credits must go to Waruna and Wasana

Dinner is being prepared

Morning view

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Breathtaking

The team

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December 11, 12 and 13^th were the days and it was a long weekend which was not to be wasted. Our decision was to go on camping in Udawalawe or in Wilpaththu but ultimately a decision was taken to go for Udawalawe. Waruna had high hopes about Wilpaththu but ……… bad luck.

Campsite was booked well in advance and all geared up for the trip. On 11^th morning we left Colombo. Had to stop at a few places to buy some stuff and food we needed and at around 1 we reached the park entrance. There was a little delay at the park office since there was a difficulty in finding a proper tracker to go to the campsite. We had plenty of time to get to the campsite hence we decided to go on a safari and get to the place around 5 o’clock.

Probably it should be the end of the dry season for Udawalawe according to the park officials as there was some considerable amount of rain in the last few days. But most of the areas in the park were dry and dusty. At the very start of the journey we saw two jumbos drinking water right ahead of us. One of them was standing on the road so we had to stop until they are done with drinking. After 10-15 minutes they slowly walked into the jungle and we continued our drive.

Jumbos enjoying some cold water

Driving on a dry lake

We spent 3-4 hours with the safari and the most common sights were elephants, Peacocks, buffalos, deer and crocodiles. Have to say that if you are a bird lover you will have plenty of opportunities to spot various numbers of birdies in the park including the fast and mischievous guy green bee-eater.

Such a poser

“Dude, we are hungry”

“What are you looking at human?”

Spot the croc!

As planned we reached our campsite around 4.30 pm. Away from civilization! Away from the concrete jungle! Campsite was so spacious and every moment spent here was like injecting stress relief medicine into you.

Pansadara campsite

We quickly set up the tent and went for a quick bath in the nearby Walawe River. According to our tracker, nearby area of the river is a normal bathing spot but not the area upstream or downstream. Even when you bath near the campsite river bank, you need to be in full alert.

Bathing in walawe river (Mahesh in action)

Lighted up the lanterns around the campsite and then prepared diner. Maggie noodles and sausages did the job more than enough. Hail chef. Laksri for the delicious first meal!

On the second day, we woke up early, had tea and left the camp for the safari part 2. While we were driving we suddenly saw someone or something crossing the road very quickly way ahead of us. From distance, to me, it looked like an elephant but once again it was so quick and lightning fast as it crossed the road. Our tracker also had noticed the scene and according to him those were two hunters who ran across the road into the thick greenery hearing the jeep sound! We had to go to the rangers’ office to report the incident.

We drove through the jungle without much luck and decided to go near Udawalawe reservoir where we spotted two jumbos, actually a little tusker and an elephant.

“Jeeps could roam in the reservoir area tracks freely now as the water level is very low but in the rainy season the complete area gets flooded and covered, there won’t be any tracks or safaris along these routes”- Mr. tracker

Udawalawe reservoir

These tracks are not available in the rainy season in Uda walawe reservoir

We had our breakfast near the Gonawiddagala bungalow, where visitors are allowed to get off their vehicles. Top part and the roof of the Gonawiddagala bungalow and part of the reservoir was visible from this place. Afterwards we drove back to the camp without any animal sightings.

Gonawiddagala bungalow from distance

Prepared our lunch which consisted of salmon, meat balls, rice and dhal. Hail Chef. Laksri once again! for the delicious meal. We spent a relaxing evening at the campsite that day. In addition to that, were able to spot a couple of huge crocs on the sandy river banks.

That night we lighted up a campfire in addition to the lanterns and had a chat until midnight. And on the next day we packed up to leave Pansadara.

Campfire

Camping Crew before departure

Cheers!

Refer Day 1 , Day 2-4 , Day 5 & Day 6

Next day morning we start our journey & first we went to Trinco Maritime & Naval Museum. It is very useful for school children to get good knowledge. We spent couple of hours there & went to Lankapatuna Samudragiri Viharaya. From Muthur to Lankapatuna 24 km’s there & the road in terrible condition. Around 11.30 a.m we reached to the Lankapatuna viharaya. After that we went to Seruwawila Mangala Raja Maha Viharaya. We left from there around 4.00 p.m & reached to Kantale around 5.00 p.m. Again we took some time to find a place to stay. Finally we found a place in front of Kantale Wewa. We went to Kantale wewa & spent big time in water. Read the next Trip Report to find details about our next destination from Day 8 onwards.

Day 7 ( 14.08.16 )

46.Maritime & Naval Museum

47.Lankapatuna Sri Samudragiri Viharaya

48.Black Beach – Lankapatuna

49.Seruwawila Mangala Raja Maha Viharaya

50.Kantale Wewa

Maritime Museum – Trincomalee

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.	Details about Trinco Harbour – click to enlarge

click to enlarge

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View of Trinco Harbour

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Lankapatuna Raja Maha Viharaya

Click to enlarge

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sthupaya

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Carving of Royal couple “Hemamala & Dhantha Kumaru”

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Views from top

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Jetty

Black Beach – Near Lankapatuna

Seruwawila Raja Maha Viharaya

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Ruins around Stupaya

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Pond

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Meditating Monks

Vihara Geya

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Kantale Wewa in the Evening

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Thanks for reading.

Sanjeewa

We all gathered near to the Pettah railway station at 4.00am and the bus left around 4.15am. We stopped the bus for breakfast after passing the Ratnapura and again we stopped the bus at Pambahinna junction to buy lunch packets. After that we came near to the Kalupahana junction by 11am and we started to walk from there to the 3rd mile post. All bags and tents were transported by three-wheelers separately and all the participants were able to come to the 3rd mile post within 40 minutes. After that we met our friendly guide Mr Ranjith and he was carried our heavy weighted tents and the rest of 6 tents were carried by the participants. We stopped at the bridge where we met the only water source during the journey at the base of Wangedigala trail. We had lunch over there and got refreshed by washing our faces. And then we started our trek at 12.30pm. Ranjith guided the journey and our members were located at the beginning and at the end.
We use the mud road as it is close to the pines forest. We took the first break at the famous stone at the pines forest. We saw the dried Bambarakanda waterfall and hidden Lanka waterfall clearly. After that we started our journey again. This route is the closest and easiest route to Wangedigala as we can go to the top quickly. However we came to the top of the Wangedigala around 3.30pm. And then Ranjith went as we hired him only for the Wangedigala. Before he leave he showed the dying water stream to Tony and our guys where it was located at the closed horse track. That was a small water stream and it takes 10-15 minutes to fill a 1Litre bottle. But in the evening our guys were able to create a dam over there by covering a raincoat and collect the water.

After the all participants came to the camping area we were started to build our tents. Finally we build 8 camping tents at the Wangedi Plains where we can see a 180 degree view towards Haputale, Idalgashinna, Devils Staircase and Horton Plains. That day is a luck day because there wasn’t any rain and there were billions of stars. The environment goes dark slowly and our guys create the massive camping fire 100ft away from the camping area. That fire was about 6ft tall and we grab many woods and pines leaves. By 7.30pm we all gathered around the camping fire and light up it. Some guys went to Wangedigala and spent some time with the stars and the darkness.

By 9.30 we all went to the respective tents and all the girls were located to two scout tents. We all had our dinner and went to sleep by 10pm. We had a good time during the night and some were waked up at 2am to see the stars falling/rain. By 5.30am we waked up and one by one went to see the dam and were surprised by seeing the water. There were enough water to wash our body too and one guy had a bath too. And some were gone to the jungle to catch rabbits too.

On the way to 3rd Milepost

At a bend

Observing the guests

Preparing to the adventure

Village Beauty

at the 3rd milepost

We are ready to the trek

Giving an introduction to the journey

We started it

Getting closer to the water stream

Moving to the jungle trek

The old bridge

Strcuked at the Mud area

jungle path

Small rest at the jungle path

Dried Bambarakanda girl

Beautiful Flowers

Entering to the Pines patch

Along the Pines forest

Resting place

We are on the track

First Group photo at the common resting place at Pines forest

Along the journey

Its time to a selfie

Resting

Resting

Resting

Trek is again started

The Wangedigala peak

Wangedigala peak zoomed

Came to the top of Wangedigala

Moving to the Camping area

Searching the path

Old is Gold

We prepared the Tents

We prepared the Tents

We prepared the Tents

Wangedikanda at the behind

A billion star hotel

Preparing the giant fire camp

Our Night Lamp

Plain at the top of Wangedigala

We build 8 tents

Making the dam from the little water source

Dam is ready for tomorrow morning use

Fire Camp Started

Fire at the bottom & Billions of Stars at the top

Tony in action

Just singing songs

Second Group photo at the night

Lovely capture

Haldummulla Beragala Area at Night

We had our breakfast and started Gommoli trek by 8.30. We reached to the Wangedi Kanda with in half hours and came to the Balathuduwa Mountain by 12.30pm. However there was a rain at Balathuduwa and due to the time and darkness we decided to get down from Balathuduwa to Wangeduigala base. As we didn’t carried our bags to this journey we were had our lunch which is similar to breakfast at camping site. After that we started to descend the Wangedigala at 2.30 pm and all participants reached to the Bridge by 5.30pm and had a cool bath over there. After that we all went to the Kalupahana junction by three-wheelers and came to Colombo by 1am on Monday.

All together there were 35 participants including with 2 participants over 55 year old. They are Tony and Ranjith who performed the whole journey without any help or any problem. Further there were 8 participants who had their first night camping experience from this journey. Wangedigala is a good place for camping and trekking as it gives a beautiful view over the mountains. Further we noticed that the old horse track which is closed 10 years ago is still in good condition to try a bike ride to the top of wangedigala. We met a person and he said that the road will start from 1.5km before the Kalupahana junction but there were some landslides at past hence this road closed. Because he is the person who carried “Mayim Kanu” to the top of Wangedigala by his Van 10 years ago.
We as the SOBASIRI TEAM, not doing these kind of events for money. We just join others to our own trip and give them a chance to feel the adventure, night camping and forest surviving experiences. We only collect some money from each participant for the transportation, and for the tents. Hence the cost per head is about Rs.1, 500/-. SOBASIRI TEAM is a five of people and we always highly care about the participants, there are two our members will take the lead and another 2 our members will come from the back and they will help to the people who get tired and further they will encourage the participants who is getting slow. And the other members will be at the middle of the journey to check whether all the people are in line with the journey. Before the journey we send an email to all the participants mentioning the nature of the journey and about the foods, water, bathing etc. and strictly not allowed liquor. Tony aiya (senior Lakdasun member) was participated for two of our events and he will witness for us.
Facebook – Travel in Sri Lanka-Sobasiri

Early Morning

Refreshin at the morning

Early morning

Moments of the Sunshine

Moments of the Sunshine

Moments of the Sunshine

Moments of the Sunshine

Moments of the Sunshine

Moments of the Sunshine

This is called feel the life

Morning Beauty

Priceless place

Devil’s Staircase and Ohiya side

Collecting water from the Dam

Feel the nature at a priceless place

Our destinations of the day, Left Balathuduwa Right Gommoliya

We at the top of Wangedikanda

Wangedi Kanda

Leading the path

To the Balathuduwa

On the way to Balathuduwa

Entering to the Forest of Balathuduwa

Pines Patch

Camping site at Balathuduwa

Along the forest

Bambarakanda Area

At Balathuduwa

On the way to Balathuduwa

Thick Forest

Balathuduwa bend

Non Pariel side

Trees in White background

Came out from the Balathuduwa forest

Final Group photo at Balathuduwa

In this report I will only discuss about said lake and the observation point. Other places we visited are too generic (Sri Dalada Maligawa & Bahirawa Kanda).

Mutukelina Wewa (lake) is situated in Pathahewaheta, Kandy (near Bellwood). It is really an amazing place. It is situated about 17km away (up to the hills) from Kandy city. It was not a planned destination. Due to some circumstances couldn’t find any accommodation nearby the city. Our accommodation (home stay) was in Moragolla. This place is nearby Moragolla. The owner of the house gave us the hint of this place and our hired driver took us to tha place.

Mutukelina is situated on top of a mountain (I don’t know an exact name of the mountain). It is a very small lake. And it is not so much attractive.

Mutukelina Wewa (Water level is dropped somewhat)

Our driver said that the lake is more beautiful when it is full.

There is a grassy summit at the lake. That is most important and most beautiful thing there.

Yeah, that’s where we are going

Travelers

When you get to the top you will be amazed by the view. It is really beautiful.

On top of the summit

The view I liked the most

A large area is visible from there. You can even see the Victoria Reservoir from there. See the below two images

Another view from there

The shadow of the hill

Sun is setting

View of the lake from the summit. It is much more beautiful, right?

Mountain, Cloud and the Moon

You can come to Moragolla and ask anyone how to go to the Mutukelina Wewa. But consider the things I mentioned about transportation above. The path is hard, but the effort is worth it.

Taken on the way down

An unknown peak near Bopaththalawa was initially introduced to Lakdasun by our loving friend Ashan. After that I thought to go there and we all gathered as a team on 19th Saturday near Pettah and travelled to Bogawanthalawa by a hired bus. There were 62 people participated to this event. As Ashan said an unknown peak we thought to named it as “Haritha Kanda” as per the meaning of that area. Hope you guys are agree to this name?

Further Harinda also went to that place few weeks ago and I got correct directions from him. The days we planned our trip was under heavy rain. Hence I called to the Bopaththalawa Farm Manager and several hotels at Bogawanthalawa to know about the present situation at that time. Then I advised to all the participants to bring rain coats, sweaters etc. and be ready to get wet all the day. But fortunately there was not a single drop on that day. Here is the story about the first ever camping at Haritha Kanda.

We started our journey at 4.00am from Pettah and our route was Low Level Road, Hanwella, Avissawella, Hatton and Bogawanthalawa. We stopped our bus at Kithulgala for a little break and then stopped at Hatton town for breakfast. Finally we came to Bogawanthalawa around 12pm. After that we all gathered near Bogawana Estate name board and I gave a brief of the journey and showed them the Mountain where the Jacob’s ladder situated.

After that one of our friends took the lead of the journey and showed them the shortcuts where the 3km concreted road will reduce for 2km. It is a nice walk all the 62 participants walked along the narrow road and people are watching us as they have never seen this much of a crowd. Most of people don’t know about Jacob’s ladder. Finally we came near to the little bridge with the little hut where the road goes to the Asst Manager’s Bungalow. We went beyond that bungalow and entered to the final part of the tea estate. After that we started to climb along the Jacob’s ladder which is little bit difficult to tackle at some places and apart from that the road is clearly there. Do not ever hope any help from that Asst Manager’s Bungalow since he will not do any help for public even he doesn’t allow to park a motor bicycle at his bungalow.

Within 1 hour we came to the top of the plain where this place couldn’t see at the main road. Haritha Kanda is a hidden mountain at Bopaththalawa. We can’t see it from Bogawanthalawa. It’s a separate mountain situated on that plain. I don’t have expressions to tell you about the beauty of that mountain. Once we all came to the plain we started to climb “Haritha Kanda” and it was not looks like easy to climb. It will take around 1 hour to climb all 3 parts of the mountain and reach to the top. The top area is looks like Kirigalpotta and from there we could see Kirigalpoththa, Adam’s Peak, Piduruthalagala, Great Western and the virgin Horton Plains forest which is at the back of the mountain. We spend enough time at the top and got down to the plain at 5pm.

We thought to camp at the plain but it is not possible due to the mud area. The plain is filled with mud and totally wet. Then we separated to two teams and searched a place to camp. The other reason is Leeches are everywhere. We saw the “Paththara Rock” which is situated in front of the Haritha Kanda and the other little mountain which is looks like a bun. That place is a very dangerous area since there are plenty of vipers. Finally we meet the Asst Manager of Bopaththalwa NLDB farm and told our concern to him. He was so generous and kind. But finally around 6.30pm we all started to fix our tents at the corner of the Pines tree line. That is the only place where we saw less no of leeches. Finally we fixed 15 camping tents and we all gathered at the place and started to find wood and leaves for the fire camp.

There are some stories which are more funny and adventurable and couldn’t tell in this public forum. As per the people said we are the very first people who camped at Haritha Kanda and Bopaththalwa farm area. Haritha Kanda is not a property of NLDB and it’s under Forest Department. We took the permission from Forest Department and informed to the OIC at Bogawanthalwa Police about our night camp. We especially thanks to Mr Shanka the assistant Manager at NLDB farm who prepared Saman+Roti for all 62 people free.

We all started to sing songs and chat with each other, by 10pm suddenly we saw a Tractor coming to our side. It is like a film story, the tractor cames throught the muddy area where there is no any foot path even. They put the powerful head light to our side and stopped it nearby us. After that we recognized them, they came to support us. Usually there are plenty of Sambars and Leopards at night in this area. They are the people protecting the grass from the Sambars and Leopards too. Leopards are coming to hunt Sambars. They showed us the Sambars where they moving to haritha Kanda and Paththar rock side. It was a fantastic situation.

You can’t feel that, finally that Asst Manager came with a guitar and we all sing songs until mid-night. The tractor was at the fire camp with the powerful lights and from a side the Fire camp, and we 62 gathered as a circle. We didn’t care about the leeches and vipers. That is an unexpected camping night which we had as a memorable night.

By 12pm the tractor and the Mr Shanka went to their bungalows and all of the other participants also went to their camps. But the Sobasiri team and 5 of other friends were at the fire camp and sing some songs and share our experiences. And we make the official Tea around 1.30am (Tony know the story of this Tea making) and had it until 3.00am. As a policy we are not using liquor at our trips. So, all the participants had a good night under the heavy mist. We waked up at 6am and looking for the beauty of the environment.

By 7am we went to see the NLDB farm as invited by the Asst Manager. It was not at our schedule but we had a great time at the farm too. We knew end to end process of the NLDB farm, and I can tell like this about it. Use “Ambewela” products. Because all the milk are using only to Ambewela products. They do this work perfectly and clean. Those cows are looks like elephants. They are too big and too healthy. We were lucky to see the whole farm and the cows and the process of that place. There are only two male cows for those 600 female cows and I need to put a special note about the giant male cow in that farm, I never seen a cow like that. He is taller than 6-7ft and looks like an Elephant. He was very aggressive and not looked our side also. There are some funny stories about that giant and those are not good to tell in this forum.

Finally we again went to the camp site and we clean the area. We burned all the ploythine/ paper and garbage which we usually do after the camp site. We just kept our foot prints over there and left to the main road and we reached to the bus at 12pm and left to Colombo. Haritha Kanda is a hidden place as we named our event as “Hidden Paradise Exploring” hence we all should protect that virgin area.

Video- – https://www.facebook.com/SobasiriSL/videos/1322101881148051/
Facebook – Travel in Sri Lanka-Sobasiri

Begining of the Journey at Hatton-Balangoda road

Bogawana Tea Factory

Our Target

On the way to Lysnted Estate

Protect the environment

We are on the way

The only bridge we meet

Around the tea estates

Working Life

Map on the way – click to enlarge

Using Shortcuts

Nature Advise

Lonley Planet

reached our target

bit of the concrete road

Life

Surrounding

Tea Lives

Trying small adventures

End of the road, Final identification

Asst Manager Bungalow, foot pathway was situated beside this

Jacob’s Ladder

Mountaineering

More to go

Working on the track

Obstacles on the way

More to go

Came to the plain

They are on track

Water source at the plain

Mist is coming

Natural Environment

How they feel it

Haritha Kanda

Mist is coming to Haritha Kanda

Resting at the base of Haritha Kanda

The Muddy plain with plenty of leeches

There are too many vipers on this small oval shape mountain

At Heaven

Its coming

On the way to the Top of Haritha Kanda

On the way to the Top of Haritha Kanda

On the way to the Top of Haritha Kanda

On the way to the Top of Haritha Kanda

Girls are on the track

Resting and Climbing

Snake type climbing

No Words to say

Near the Heaven

More to go

Difficult path

This is real process of climbing

Resting

Coming from the Heaven

Bogawanthalawa area at the mist

How it shoulkd climb

Little more to the top

The Top

Photo at White Background

at the top

at the top

The only Friend we met

The only Friend we met

Selfie at the top

We at the top

On the way to Camp Site

The Haritha Kanda

To the camp site from another foot path

To the camp site from the path near to the Oval Mountain and Paththara Gala

To the camp site from the path near to the Oval Mountain and Paththara Gala

Preparing tent

Preparing the homes

Fire Camp

Starting to Celebrate

The best suprise at the night

The Farm Crew with the machine

This is at 2am

The Team with them

Spending the Night at Heavy mist

They are leaving

On the way to the farm

Our homes

At the heaven

These are only Pines trees at this area

On the Grass and under the clouds

Path to the farm

The Pure clean Products

Sobasiri Team

Group Photo near Haritha Kanda

Thanks for reading

As per my experience, Devil’s Staircase road is the most hardest, dangerous and beautiful road in Sri Lanka. I knew about this on 2012 and I was lucky to visit there at the beginning of 2013. I got little information about this route conditions from Viraj Rathnapitiya and Dinesh Dekker in that time. Then we four got ready to face the challenges about our Motor bicycle tyres.

On that day we came from Visari Ella, Diyaluma, Beragala road and entered to the Bambarakanda road by 10am. However we started our journey from Kalupahana junction and proceed up to Bambarakanda fall, we spend little time there as one of our guys didn’t see this fall before. After that we started the Devil’s ride. On that time the whole route was gravel, uncomfortable and ugly road. Sometimes we had to ride over the 6-8inch highest stones. There is an area where named as a dangerous area since there might be patches on the tyres. We were slowly passed that area and entered to the V-cut. We had a small rest and took some photographs.

After that we again started the journey and successfully crossed the Bambarakanda water stream. That was a lovely experience since I still remember that our new guy how faced to that. Again we ride over mountains, gravel roads and came near to a small village. There we saw a beautiful waterfall at the dead end and took some photos and had another rest.

Again we started our journey and reached to Udaweriya by passing the Devil’s part and talked with a villager about the facilities in this area. That time the Udaweriya hospital was working like a dead man. Finally now we know that hospital was close down forever. There are 2-3 schools and around 250 children with 1400 population for the entire 16km area. There are no common facilities and their main occupation is tea plucking.

This road is having beautiful environment and sceneries as this was situated over too many of mountains and near to the HP boarder. Leopards Sambars, Wild boars are common animal lives in this area. There are no any specific camping place on this road and people can choose their own camping place but with own risk. Most suitable vehicles are motor bikes, 4×4 vehicles and Lorries; hence the duration for the entire route will be around 4-5 hours. If you want to walk along the road it will take about 7-9hours. If someone looking for a real hike, this might be the ideal solution for that.

Starting the journey

Side view of Bambarakanda

Wangedigala and Gommoli mountains

The best medium to the trips

Through the hard points

V-cut

Entrance to the Bambarakanda fall

Roadside beauty

Crossing the stream which carrying water to the Bambarakanda

Crossing it

Another person ready to cross it

Crossing the stream

Searching for the difficult points

We crossed it

Towards Giniseelin estate

Near to Nagadowa fall

Capturing beauties

Gommoliya can see

Endless road

Along the journies

Mountains over the mist

Village part of the Estate

A Junction

Roadside waterfalls

Through Devils Staircase

Towards southern side

Towards Idalgshinna side

Roadside waterfalls

Roadside beauties

Path

Along the way

Difficult points

Beautifull places

To the Udaweriya Estate

Rural lives

At the mist

The Church at the Udaweiya

Namboard

Udaweriya Tea Factory ruins

Udaweriya Tea Factory ruins

Udaweriya Tea Factory

My machine

Mother Mary Statue at a bend

Protection at this Rural villages

A kovil

Tea + Mountains + Mist

Towrds the Factory

More to go

Tea Estates

Nature

Beautiful mountains

The path we came

Close to the Worlds end junction

Gravel road is over

Where we came across

Over the mountains

Udaweriya village

The old nameboard

team without me in 2013

Sidupiyanila is a catholic seminary where they train students who are at their final stage of being a priest. This place was the home for our first trip as well as for 4 another trips. They don’t have any room facilities for the public and that is not a place to visit for a holiday. There is a beautiful waterfall at the behind of their land and we have climbed that waterfall too. (Trip Report)

On this day we left from Sidupiyanila around 9am near to the Bandarawela railway station. Then turned to nearby road at the station which goes to Lipton Seat. There are name board at some junctions hence it is not difficult to find the correct road from the number of by roads. This route is about 7-10km journey goes around too many tea estates. Sometimes you might get surprised by seeing some towers at the highest points where you could not saw on the way. At a place we have to buy tickets and again near to the Lipton seat we again have to buy tickets. On that time there was a lightening accident at the top of Lipton Sat and a foreigner was died there.

It is true that we can see 5 provinces at this place up to Hambantota Harbor too. But that is as per the weather condition of the day. Do not go there on rainy days since that place was very popular for lightening. We spend 1-2 hours around there and had some short eats at the retails shop over there. After that we got down from Dambetenna side to Haputale by seeing “Obada Fall”.

The rhythem of the world

The rhythem of the world

The rhythem of the world

The rhythem of the world

The tallest tree in Bandarawela

At the Seminary

Morning Sunshine

Rabbits

Sidupiyanila Seminary

Sidupiyanila Seminary

Sidupiyanila Seminary

Beautiful Flowers

Beautiful Flowers

Beautiful Flowers

Beautiful Flowers

Beautiful Flowers

On the way to the Lipton Seat

Road to the Lipton Seat

Obada Ella

Obada Ella

Over the mountains

Towards Dambetenna Estate

Directions

Greeny Estates

Tea Factory

Lipton Seat nameboard

More to go

More to go

More to go

We at there

Welcome to the LS

At Lipton Seat

Nameboard – click to enlarge

Towards Hambantota

Greeny Mountains

Greeny Mountains

On the Way to Bandarawela via Dambetenna

On the Way to Bandarawela via Dambetenna

On the Way to Bandarawela via Dambetenna

On the Way to Bandarawela via Dambetenna

Roadside Gap

Towards Badulla

The Team

Connecting Lives

Year and Month	2016 November 13th
Number of Days	One
Crew	05-Prabath, Kaweesha, Nirosh, Chamara and Myself
Accommodation	Previous day night at Kalpitiya beach Second day night at a rented home near Thalawila church
Transport	By walking and three wheeler
Activities	Beach walking, Sightseeing and Photography
Weather	Excellent
Route	Kalpitiya (කල්පිටිය)->Kudawa (කුඩව)->Kandakuliya (කන්දකුලිය)->Mudalaipalai (මුදලිපාලි)->Thalawila (තලවිල)
Tips, Notes and Special remark	Start the journey as early as possible. You can buy food stuff from Kalpitiya town. And can hire a threewheel from Kalpitiya town to Kudawa beach. Better apply a sun cream and wear a cap or hat for sun protection. Wear long sleeve top. No need to get permission to stay at beach. Mosquitoes are the real trouble if you camp on the beach. Better use mosquito repellents. Walking sandal is the best for beach walk. It is difficult to recommend bear foot for walking. When you walk just talk with villagers and people. Then you can get more information. Need about 1.5l of water per person and can be refilled during walk. Having one or two packets of ORS is an advantage. What you can get from beach walk: Can enjoy the life at sea shore, different landscapes with beach, little creatures at beach, sun set and sun rise. There are enough things to capture. Better arrange a place at Thalawila in advance if you plan to stay overnight there. It might be difficult in finding a place from Thalawila during season. (August)
Author	Niroshan
Comments	Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread Beach walk from Kalpitiya to Thalawila

Beach walk/Beach hike is something new for my travel vocabulary but waited to do. We have included it as a part of our three days trip at Kalpitiya. It was a Chamara’s idea. Our plan was to do the stretch of beach from Kalpitiya to sacred St. Anne’s church Thalawila.
Following our one day visit to Baththalangunduwa (බත්තලoගුන්ඩුව) we reached Kalpitiya town in the evening. Then we collected things for camping and reached Kudawa beach. It was around 7pm when we reached beach and lost the hope of seeing sun rise from west cost. We had a small doubt regarding beach camping at Kudawa. Though we carried the tent it was not useful and spent the night at fishermen hut situated at Kudawa beach.
We woke up next day early morning and started the walk along the beach.

These were highlights of the beach walk and enjoy my photographs.
1. We started the walk from Kudawa at 6.30am and ended up at Thalawila at 3.30pm. Total distance was 23.6km. We used the three wheeler for about 7km.

2. There is a high security zone belongs to Sri Lanka air force from Kandakuliya to Mudalaipalai. People are not allowed to walk along the beach through this section. We didn’t know it till we reached the border. (Actually we were told by some villagers but we thought it can be negotiating by talking). Then we bypassed our journey to land side and found the shortest way to get back to beach avoiding high security zone.
What we were told this area is used by Sri Lankan air force to blast bombs and artily. Remained bomb particles can harm people.

3. We came across two difficult sections where we had to go through lagoon water to join with other side. One is near the fishermen village just before Kandakuliya which is situated closer to a lagoon. We had to cross the lagoon where we had water till my chest. Luckily a villager has shown the direction to cross the lagoon.
Second place was just before Thalawila beach. But it was a narrow section which can be crossed easily.

5. Walking in the landside bit troublesome. We had to repeat our answers to same questions in many times. Main problem was all the village dogs barked at our dog and it drew attention of villagers towards us. Though we tried to chase our dog back, it was not successful.

6. People at land side of Kalpitiya area were so helpful and they gave directions to reach the beach back. But we gradually understood it is not worth to walk through villages without any places to be visited. Then we decided to get a service of a three wheel. We could successfully pack all five into one three wheel.

This is our workout. Total distance was 23.6km. We went 7km by three wheeler.

Sun rise

Sun rise at Kalpitiya-Kudawa beach. Wind mills also can be seen at back drop.

Fishermen hut we stayed last night

Preparing fishing nets on holiday

Starting the journey

Five man team

Along the beach with backpack

Boats with various colors….May be belong to Ashan….

Puffer fish/ blow fish පේත්තයා / කටු පේත්තයා

Few words about Puffer Fish
There are more than 120 species in the world mostly in tropical and subtropical ocean water. They eat mostly invertebrates and algae. Almost all Puffer fish makes poison which is lethal to fish and makes them foul tasting. The amount of toxins found in one puffer fish is enough to kill 30 humans and there is no an antidote. Amazingly, the meat of some puffer fish is considered a delicacy. Called fugu in Japan, it is extremely expensive and only prepared by trained, licensed chefs who know that one bad cut means almost certain death for a customer. In fact, many such deaths occur annually.

Boats with various colors… As it was a Sunday less fishermen at work

Boats with various colors…

Foot print….

Came across at beach

Painted boat house as a restaurant

Doggies at beach

Fishermen village at Kandakuliya

ගල්මාලුවා

There were enough hotels facing to Kalpitiya beach

They have landed

As it was a Sunday they spend time for repairing fishing nets

Crossing to lagoon….

We had to cross this small lagoon to reach other side of the beach

Sky-Beach-Lagoon from bottom to top

Crossing the lagoon and reaching other side of the beach

Donkeys at beach

Team…We had our breakfast here. Apart from our team this dog also joined with us. It came with us till we get into the three wheeler.

The beach was calm and quiet at this area.

We tried to keep our pace always closer to sea. Because it is easy to walk.

Enjoying the journey

Enjoying the journey

Permanent member at sea shore

Kalpitiya beach with sea

Four in one line

The place where we had to divert from beach to land side. This is the beginning of high security beach zone of Sri Lankan air force.

Alone at beach….

Turned to land side….

Towards land side….

He was a wonderful dog. All the way came with us.

Having a rest at land side…Ice packets are one of my favorites

Donkeys at Kalpitiya

Walking at land side…Like walking in a sub desert.

Walking at land side…Like walking in a sub desert.

Border of a large estate. There were a lot at this area.

Second difficult place at lagoon in crossing-Kappalady Lagoon.

Back to beach. Now Thalawila beach is seen far away.

Members of the beach

A mosque under renovation creates some archeological picture at beach.

A mosque under renovation creates some archeological value at beach.

It is a reserved area for kite surfing.

Narrow pathway at beach

Last stretch of walking…..

Reached Thalawila beach.

It is the oldest Catholic shrine in Sri Lanka.

St. Anne’s church Thalawila.

St. Anne’s church Thalawila. This tower works as a light house to direct fishermen.

 

Enjoying at Thalawila Beach

Enjoying at Thalawila beach

Further photos: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1408420965842426.1073742023.100000236098375&type=3
Thanks for reading

Sri Lankan rail tracks run in different environmental locations of the country where you can have different experiences with rail walk. Rail hike along central part gives maximum beauty of the country and costal rail walk is totally different from it. We thought of doing a rail walk in dry zone mainly rail tracks runs through forests. Total credit should go to Chamara as he was so enthusiastic on doing this. We selected the section of Colombo-Batticalo line from Habarana to Minneriya where Kaudulla (කවුඩුල්ල) and Minneriya national parks are at direct touch with the rail line. It was an amazing experience of meeting wild elephants along rail track.

I met Ashan and Chamara at Habarana junction. Habarana station is situated about 3km from Habarana town. Habarana is the junction of Trincomale and Polonnaruwa road. But Galoya junction is the point where Trincomale and Batticalo rail tracks meet. We travelled to Habarana railway station by three wheeler and started the journey towards Gal Oya junction.

As soon after get into the railway track we have noticed a board shows elephant crossing. This is the area you can get maximum amount of Elephants cross along the railway track. Therefore they will get more accidents with train and deaths. Following the rain surrounding was greenish. Colombo Trincomale road also runs parallel to the railway line with few meters apart but later separated well from the railway track.

Most of the times this railway line was almost flat and can view another 1-2 kms well. It rarely had bends not like Udarata railway line. Till we reach Hatharas Kotuwa there were no houses and same scenario was detected in between Hatharas Kotuwa and Galoya Junction.

Starting at Habarana

Colombo-Trincomale road crossing the railway line at Habarana

Train schedule at Habarana station

Warning at the beginning

Nice flat railway line

Randomly placed…

It was greenish on either side with Mana and bushes

They were two chaps walking with me…

Newly placed sleepers

Most of the time you can view the distance for another 1-2kms.

Wood sleepers make the journey fast…

Something fun…..

They put all boards at one place….

Old elephant dung….

Another elephant crossing….

At a break…

Old bridge..

Still Trincomale road is parallel to rail way track

Mana on either side

Always there are milestones and Kilometer posts on either side of the railway line.

The only house was found closer to the railway line. This is a store/rest room of CGR.

Now they are posing….

“Udaya Devi”(උදය දේවී) has passed us….

Trio of the journey…

Snapped at ground level…..

We have come across elephants in different occasions between Habarana and Galoya. They were noticed far front as well as behind us. Once a jumbo has crossed in front of us. Third time an elephant was eating closer to railway line without moving even though it has seen us. It made us bit anxious and wanted to bypass the railway line. Later we have decided to proceed along the railway line while watching his reaction towards us. Luckily he didn’t take any action against us.

First elephant encounter at distant vicinity.

Jumbo is crossing the railway track

Jumbo is crossing the railway track

He got scared by seeing us

Scary faces after seeing the elephant closer to railway line.

They were thinking whether to bypass the railway line.

The jumbo who was at closer to railway line.

The jumbo who was at closer to railway line.

The jumbo who was at closer to railway line.

Heroes after crossing jumbos

If you are not capturing things when you go, it is such a boring thing to walk along railway line.

Star tortoise. (තාරකා ඉබ්බා) It was a common finding along railway line.

Awaiting ….

Kilometer post

Might be following an accident

Tree house at Chena. It is a sign that we are closer to human inhabitants.

Reaching Hatharas Kotuwa station

Smiley faces…

We have refreshed our selves at Hatharas Kotuwa with cool drinks (The villagers at Hatharas Kotuwa buy drinking water). Safari jeeps were passing to Kaudulla Park with tourists. It is not a safari season in other years but it is a good advantage to them due to drought. The section between Hatharas Kotuwa to Gal Oya junction was same as previous stretch. As it was the evening of the day we expected to view more and more elephants. Unfortunately it didn’t happen. We reached Gal Oya junction just before Mahawa train departures. The lake at Gal Oya junction adds extra beauty to rail track. It is a nice place for bird watching at evening.
We found a three wheel from Gal Oya junction and travelled to Colombo-Trincomale road to catch a bus to Habarana. It ends 16.3k journey along rail track from Habarana to Gal Oya junction.

Railway crossing after Hatharas Kotuwa

Railway crossing after Hatharas Kotuwa

Over the line….

Reaching Gal Oya junction railway station

Reaching Gal Oya junction railway station where Trincomale and Batticalo railway lines separate

The gap….

Slow train travels to Mahawa (මහව)

Though we plan to catch the train we missed it….

Parked at Gal Oya junction railway station

Trio at Galoya Junction Railway station

Towards Minneriya. This is the road between Minneriya and Hatharas Kotuwa.

Gal Oya Junction Lake. Mountains in Minneriya can be seen beyond the lake.

Gal Oya Junction Lake-sun set over it.

The rail track over the lake

Birds of same line…

Pelicans

Work out report at the end of the day. 16.3kms.

Rail walk from Gal Oya junction to Minneriya
This rail track goes through Kaudulla National Park to get touch with Minneriya railway station. The distance between these two stations is 8.1km. We thought it might be another opportunity to visit wild elephants if walk along this section as well.
This journey was arranged in a separate day and I ask two of my colleagues to join with me in an evening. We started from Minneriya station (as it is easy to travel from Polonnaruwa) and walked till Gal Oya junction.
Though we expected elephants it didn’t happen. Forest was on either side of the railway line and no human traces were found till Gal Oya junction railway line.
I could enjoy the evening beauty of Gal Oya junction Lake again.

Work out of the day. The rail track goes through Kaudulla NP.

Starting at Minneriya railway station

This was parked at the entrance of Minneriya rail way line

Beginning of the rail walk for the day.

Companions of the journey. Lalinda and Chanuka

Road side beauty

Iron bridge just next to Minneriya Station.

The bridge at Colombo-Polonnaruwa road. Minneriya Lake is seen over the bridge.

Slow train to Mahawa passing us.

Slow train to Mahawa passing us.

Birds gathering

Designed by wires

Straight railway line

Warning about elephants

Foot prints of jumbos

Good for screen saver

Limitation of speed due to elephant crossing

Forest was on either side of the railway line.

Met another Star Tortoise. Don’t know why they are common here

Railway track gets a bend

Photography at ground level….

I like this color combination

It was nice to walk along rail track with greenish surrounding

A mile post

Designed by current wires

Another bend

Reaching Galoya Junction Lake

Reaching Galoya Junction Lake

Cormorant

Enjoying sun set

A Group of birds made the sky beautiful

A Group of birds made the sky beautiful

Sun set over Gal Oya Junction Lake.

Safari jeep crossing the railway line

Thank you