Ambagolla kanda (අඹගොල්ල කන්ද) is the other end of Galpadihela (ගල්පඩිහෙල) mountain range. It has a nice pointed peak providing 360 degree view towards surrounding, but it is situated 300m lower level compared to Galpadihela / Kosgolla (කොස්ගොල්ල) peaks (1106m). This peak is well seen when you drive along 18 hair pin bends.
It came to my list when we got down along Katalagolla stream. This peak is mentioned as Belumgala (බැලුම්ගල) in 1:50000 map but villagers don’t use that term. (What they mention Belumgala is a small view point come across along Galpadipela. Now this view point isn’t seen) I got to know it as Ambagolla on my way to visit this peak.

Ambagolla / Belumgala (circled), Galpadihela / Kosgolla (square) peaks and approximate path of Katalagolla Oya in 1:50000 map. Click image to enlarge.

How it is seen as an elephant from Kosgolla / Galpadihela Mountain.

As usual Nuwan joined with me from Kandy and we travelled along Kandy-Mahiyanganaya road to get down at Thammitiyana (තැම්මිටියාන). It is about one and half year after our visit to Katalagolla waterfalls. The routine tea shop was not there and new shop was built facing to A26 road. We have arranged a three wheeler to reach Kosgolla estate where we met a villager who surprised to see only two boys going to climb this mountain. According to him it’s name is Ambagolla.

Dry path at Kosgolla estate. This is more prone to get wild fire.

Under the shade

Crossing Katalagolla Oya

Crossing Katalagolla Oya

We have crossed Katalagolla Oya and followed the foot pathway to Galpadipela. It was a surprise only Nuwan was with me when we got down along Galpadipela and now to hike Ambagolla. Just before the descend we got a turn to left hand side. It is the ridge of Galpadihela mountain range extending to Ambagolla peak.
July month is well known for windy weather. We have faced extreme wind on our way to Ambagolla peak over the ridge. One side of the ridge is sloped to Mahiyanganaya area and other side is sloped to Katalagolla stream. It was a fight with the wind rather than a hike. Kosgolla peaks / Galpadihela was rising as a giant behind us. After about one hour journey we have reached the end of the ridge: i.e. Peak of Ambagolla Mountain. Following structures were noted in this journey: Rathna Ella, 18 hair pin bends, Kehelpothdoruwegala, Yahangala, Velangolla Pathana, Mahiyanganaya stupa, Kokagala, Dambarawa Lake, Rathkinda-Ulhitiya reservoir, Maduru Oya reservoir, Omanugala, Mahiyanganaya town, Mahaweli River, Sorabora Wewa, Ragala rock, Mahakudugala etc. The drop was like a world’s end and Kivula and Kandahena villages were situated immediately down the edge. We didn’t like to spend much time there as it is bit risky to stay with wind.

Seems we are entering to a new territory. Following rituals.

Mush rooms

Under the shade. There were few broken branches for evidence of wild elephants.

This is the same path to reach Galpadipela.

Now we are at the ridge of Ambagolla / Belumgala. It is sloped to Katalagolla Oya in one side.

Pride of Hasalaka-Rathna Ella

Eastern edge of Knuckles range: Kehelpothdoruwegala, Yahangala and Velangolla Pathana

Galpadihela / Kosgolla peaks. Note this is the continuation of same range.

Towards paddies at Mahiyanganaya

The area we have passed by threewheeler. Aliyakotagala is seen far behind.

We are in the middle of the ridge. Path is straightforward along the ridge.

We are in the middle of the ridge. Path is straightforward along the ridge.

Mahiyanganaya stupa and nearby lake.

Dambarawa Lake

Minipe Ela

Windy weather

Daha Ata Wanguwa (දහ අට වoගුව) zoomed…

The drop

Zoomed view of Kosgolla / Galpadihela Mountain

Towards Bibile

Standing is also a challenge in wind… What about hiking

Adapted for windy condition…

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The path along the ridge

Randenigala reservoir, Mahakudugala and Ragala rock. Couple of peaks next to Mahakudugala might be Hegasulla and Padipola.

Cave like structure

Another end of this range

This is the peak of Ambagolla peak / Belumgala

Some more to the end of the range

Rathkinda Ulhitiya kanda and Omanugala

Paddies

Paddies

Mahiyanganaya town and Sorabora Wewa

Longest river of Sri Lanka-Mahaweli River

Cascade of Katalagolla Oya

Another Galapitagala?? We had to walk below this rock arrangement to reach the end.

Reaching the end of the range…

Reaching the end of the range…

The drop towards Kivula and Kandahena

Zoomed view of Paddies

Zoomed view of Paddies

Zoomed view of Paddies

Bird’s eye view of the place of landslides happened at Kivula village in 2017. Happy to see they have repaired the irrigation canal.

Framed view of Galpadihela / Kosgolla Mountain

View towards Galpadipela / Kosgolla

Next part of the journey was to trek to Gurulupotha (ගුරුලුපොත) along Katalagolla Oya. I have done this trekking before when we visited Katalagolla cascades in 2017. In return journey we didn’t walk along the ridge and moved further down and directly reached Katalagolla Oya through Mana bushes. It was not a difficult task though we assumed. Here I would like to include all cascades formed by Katalagolla Oya.
We have noticed 15 cascades along the journey in Katalagolla Oya. Two of them situated above the foot path to Galpadipela. Rest are situated along Katalagolla Oya towards Kivula village.

Katalagolla cascades
Katalagolla Oya flows at the valley of Galpadihela /Kosgolla (don’t know it’s origin) then joins with Maha Oya to get maximum flow. We have noticed 15 cascades along the journey in Katalagolla Oya. We went upstream of Katalagolla Oya to reach Galpadipela and two of these cascades were noted along upstream. Rest are situated at downstream of Katalagolla Oya towards Kivula village. (There might be more along upstream, but this is what we could grab)

රැහැයියා

මලට බඹරෙකු සේ

Beautiful morning

Katalagolla Falls-1

Katalagolla Falls-1

Katalagolla Falls-2

Katalagolla Falls-2

Cascades of down stream
3rd cascade is situated just beneath the foot path to Galpadipela. 4th fall is also situated closer to 3rd one. After that Katalagolla Oya joins with Maha Oya to get additional water. Above mentioned four waterfalls are less than 10m in height. 5th, 6th and 7th waterfalls are situated close to each other and 7th is about 15m in height. After 7th fall, Katalagolla Oya entered fairly flat section and end up in forming 8th fall with acute drop. This is also fairly tall waterfall might be 20m in height. Then it gets a bend and 9th fall is formed during this turn.

Katalagolla Falls-3

Katalagolla Falls-3

Katalagolla Falls-4.

Katalagolla Oya gets additional water from Maha Oya.

Katalagolla Oya.

Katalagolla Oya.

The team. Photographer is Ashan.

Walking along the river bank

Walking along the river bank

Katalagolla Falls-5

Katalagolla Falls-5

Katalagolla Falls-6 side view of upper part

Full view of Katalagolla Falls-6

On top of Katalagolla Falls-7

Side view of Katalagolla Falls-7

Katalagolla Falls-7

Lower part of Katalagolla Falls-7.Note Ashan elated

Front view of Katalagolla Falls-7.

Fairly flat section of water stream.

Acute drop of the stream to form 8th fall. It reminds me infinity pool of Duwili Falls.

On top of 8th fall.

Katalagolla Oya-8th fall-Upper part

Full view of Katalagolla Falls-8.

Full view of Katalagolla Falls-8.

Fall-8 with low water level in my second visit.

Fall-8 with low water level in my second visit.

Katalagolla Falls-9.

Fall-9 with low water level in my second visit.

Katalagolla Falls-9.

Katalagolla Falls-9.

It’s me with 9th fall.

Fall-9 in my second visit.

Largest and biggest fall of this stream is number-10 which flows gently over a slab rock. (That’s why Ashan called it as a silky fall). We carefully descend on the side of the fall. It might be 25m-30m in height. After that Katalagolla Oya forms another five small to moderate size waterfalls. Out of them 12th fall is tall about 10-12m and it ends at a deep pool. (I couldn’t capture 14th waterfall). At the end Katalagolla Oya donates some water to irrigation canal runs to Kivula and Kandahena villages. I had a bath at the origin of this canal both times. It is unlikely to have further cascades along the downstream as it flows over fairly flat section.
We have reached Kivula village and Ambagolla peak is nicely seen over the village. It was about 3-4km walk to Gurulupotha from Kivula village to end the journey.

The drop before 10th fall. This slab rock was seen to Ambagolla Kanda.

10th fall-Largest

10th fall

Katalagolla Oya-10th fall

Katalagolla Oya-10th fall

Fall-10 with low water level in my second visit.

Katalagolla Oya gets a rest after acute drop.

Artistic

11th fall

11th fall

10th fall in my second visit.

10th fall in my second visit.

Chamara in action…

Katalagolla Oya in dry season

12th Cascade

12th Cascade

12th Cascade

Minor fall, not included in list.

Fall number-13

Fall number-13

Fall number-13

Fall number-15.

Fall number-15.

Fall-15 in my second visit.

දඩු ලේනා

Following the path of irrigation canal

අලි වැට

The area of landslides in 2017

The area of landslides in 2017

The place they repaired in 2018.

Where we were

Spiky Ambagolla Mountain

Spiky Ambagolla Mountain

කමත

Hetakatuegala

මහා මෑණියන්ගේ දේවාලය

Thanks for reading 

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

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

Kallebokka 360 View Point

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

Kallebokka Arial view

Kallebokka Estate

Knuckles Range

Land Mark 1

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

Short Route

hut in the view point seen from resting point

Scenic road

Final part at top

Summer hut at view point

In the hut

View point

View from the hut

View from the Hut

Kallebokka estate view

Knuckles range

Knuckles range

A peak near view point-can hike

The starting point from main road

Sembuwatta lake view

The Kallebokka Factory

.	Line houses-Kallebokka

Sembuwatta Lake

Sembuwatta

Team	Back at the starting point

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

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Name the peaks

Viewing the surrounding

No rules

Riders

An open place

A waterfall at Kendenuwara

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

Biso Ella

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

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

Biso Ella

Full view

Upper fall

Bottom view

Another view

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On the edge

view

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

Path

Ambokka

View

Name!

Hulangala Mini Worlds End

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

Hulangala MWE

team

Full view

Ariel Shot

.	Visitors from village

.	Peak we can hike.

Another view

Team

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

Day 1 map

Day 2 map

Year 2018 is not for instantaneous trips but to cover up long awaited dream hikes. Mandaram Nuwara to Piduruthalagala was once a dream since 2009 and Malaka’s report played a major part in it. Last year when I saw Chamitha’s journey and the bells started ringing in my ears and in real world Harinda started ringing my phone every once in two weeks asking me “when are we going to do this hike?”. My answer as always was “lets wait till things dry out a bit”. I wouldn’t waste my time explaining the beauty of Mandaram nuwara in this post because one needs to feel it in real life rather than reading it from someones blog. Getting permission was our main obstacle of the journey and Amila was the one who got us due permission from all 3 authorities. Please note getting permission from Forest department was mandatory but very difficult to get it.

It was time for us to implement our pre planned hike so we took off early as possible to reach Mandaram nuwara. While we were feeling sleepy we decided to have a quick tea somewhere after Kandy and more than the tea the verbal fight with the rowdy woman at the boutique waked us up to our pure sense. After an non-exciting adrenergic tea tasting session we took off towards Mandaram nuwara and reached there by 6AM. We had our breakfast at the morning shop and the food was hot and spicy which was indeed a great boost. We spent about 2 hours until the guides soughted out the preparation stuff before departing.

At around 7.30A.m we started walking uphill along a newly constructed road enjoying the stunning scenery around us. Our first target of the day was smiling at us and we were ready to conquer it. At one point we had to enter the forest and few hundred meters in to the forest we had our breakfast close to a miniature stream. Before the great ascent of Kodigaha kanda we had to cross the miniature stream which forms Kolapothana ella. The 1 1/2 hour hike from the base was an exhausting one but on a rainy day it would be a miserable encounter. The summit of Kodiya ara gala was a lovely vantage point and one could rest there for hours and hours just glancing towards the valley of infinity.

Kodiya ara gala

marching

Mandaram nuwara

Bowitiya

the valley to the summit

100’s of summits

flag post seen

Muhunu gala

worshiping

light

many breaks

Rhynchoglossum sp

crossing the stream

view while ascending

almost there

Wild veralu

the seed

wild berries

.	summit of Kodiya ara gala

pano

vantage point

Sinha gala

looking back down

flag post

the path we took

mandaram nuwara

the drop

we spent the night at the base of that gap

wow

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From Kodiya ara gala we headed towards Bera gahana ella and the path to it was bit tricky. There is only one point to descend if you are not returning back on the same path you climbed up. And at this point we valued the idea of including proper village guides in our team. Anura was the main guide with the instincts while Raja was the more responsible and planning guy out of these two throughout the journey.  At Bera gahana ella there were few visitors when we visited the place and they didn’t know that one needs prior permission from Forest department to reach any attraction within the Piduruthalagala forest reserve. One could appreciate the sound of a thumping drum from far away hence the waterfall got its name as “Bera gahana ella”.

collecting veralu seeds

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Bera gahana ella

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resting

lunch

From Bera gahana ella we had to climb a steep hill so before departing we had our pre cooked lunch. It took 1 hour for us to tackle this steep hill and reach Seethas herbal pond. Seethas herbal pond is a small pit in a stream where medicinal essence were poured in to it in a controlled manner (according to folklore ). It was a walk in a park from this point through 40′ tall Ashoka trees. Finally we reached our end destination for the day which was “Kansiya dowa cave” and adjoining it was the beautiful hidden virgin falls of “Hansiya dowa ella”. While some enjoyed the cold bath I decided to snap around before leaving with others to clean the cave. We cooked Noodles and made tea and decided to have an early nap. Please note there isn’t sufficient height to put up a tent so sleeping bags played a major role that day.

the steep climb from beragahana ella

sinhagala

seethas pokuna

medicine been pored in to seethas pond

where seetha had a bath

lost.

the team

Pasi gala

.	Hansiya dowa ella

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.	the cave we spent the night

preparing dinner

cave life

Next day early morning we woke up and started preparing the morning meal before packing up our stuff and deciding to leave. We started climbing uphill close to the waterfall and the loose rocks were the major obstacle of the day. One rock just brushed my knee and went tumbling down and I felt extremely lucky to survive it. We went across the huge wall to search for a point to reach the next level and if there wasn’t any guides with us we wouldn’t have found away even with the help of GPS. After a 3 hour difficult vertical hike we reached a Nelu section and at the end of it we saw the summit for the first time in our journey.

We had to take a quick descend to reach the “Lunu kola pathana” (a.k.a Pathaliya, Hae lunu pathana). We were exhausted and Harinda didnt take one step even from the place he sat down until we departed. There was a stream nearby and we refilled our bottles after having a slice of bread with cheese. We spent nearly an hour enjoying the view towards the summit before leaving this lovely mini plains.

good morning

walls

leaving early morning

Kodigala seen

marked

Kandapola potato farms

over the forest cover

Nelu stretch

finally the summit

towers seen through the mist

.	do you see him

at Pathaliya

cleared

.	Leopard poo

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the kill

the long rest

Haa lunu pathana

Plucking Haa lunu

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.	us before the final ascent

The last stretch which seemed to be an easy task was indeed a difficult one and thanks for the guides insticnts and gps we managed to tackle the bamboo forest and all other obstacles we came across. At some point we had to crawl through bushes & jump over fallen trees which was exhausting. Finally we reached out of the forest and started marching around the camp untill we reached the entrance where we introduced our selves. Since we had informed the relevant authorities prior to our visit it wasnt a problem at all. We then marched towards the summit where we took our group picture until our hired van from Nuwara eliya arrived.

obstacles

searching for a path through baamboo

mountain forest

creeping through bushes

yes we are there

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at the entrance

hakgala seen

mandaram nuwara seen

at the summit

Shanthipura

gregory lake

moon plains

We took a van to  Nuwara eliya which cost us about 2500/= and at Nuwara eliya we had a quick lunch and took the 4.30p.m bus to Mandaram nuwara via brookside. At Rajas place we had a bath and refreshed our selves with a cup of tea and said thank you to our faithful guides and departed towards our end destinations to end a yet another memorable hike.

In 2012 while we were exploring Rajagala we noted a prominent hill which locals called Balagala / Walimbe and after few map reading sessions we got to know that this was called Walimbe hela / Friars hood (because of the look of a hat of a priest). I was determined to conquer it and in 2014 I actually attempted it while I was turned back by a false 119 complain. Last year when Tharindu scaled the mighty peak for the first time my heart started pounding again with the ever lost desire surfacing back in to the scene. After contacting Tharindu we got in touch with Bandara who was the friendly village guy who provided all the logistics. As Bandara suggested we planned to hike the mountain during the evening hours and descend in the morning and the main reason for this was that we had to walk along the exposed rock and according to them there wernt any alternatives.

Map 1

map 2

map 3

We climbed along the blue line and came down along the yellow (image belongs to Onal)

We reached Gonagolla by 1P.m and had our lunch, also packed our night meals too so that we could save our time for the journey. We were introduced to the forest officials at Bandaraduwa and they were eagerly waiting to join us too. From here onwards it was a 4*4 ride(7Km’s) for me through the Kalugal oya reservoir project. The ride was not an easy one and Harinda had to get down to clear the path at many instances. We halted our vehicle close to “Wiyan bendi gala” and started to march on foot while others went further towards the rock with their bikes. The 1.8Km stretch was an easy walk though it was blazing hot. After halting the bikes we marched through the savanna area to reach the forest patch found below the rock.

as seen from Rajagala

standing out

the giant of east

as seen from Bandaraduwa

ready to go

target

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The forest cover was a blessing for us and we also came across few water streams where there was plenty of fish species to our surprise. In 30 minutes we reached the base of the rock and the daunting height of it was going to be a challenging one. According to the locals this was the only path to the summit but I knew from my map reading knowledge that there should be another.  It was 4.45P.m and we had to get to the summit before we loose light so it was a 4*4 climb from this point on wards. Despite the risk of getting water blisters we opted to climb up without shoes because we believed in our barefoot grip rather than the shoe grip. The initial steps felt ok with the angle of the rock been 45° but gradually the slope was getting tilted towards the worst and looking back down scared the spirit out of our body hence requiring more and more psychological breaks. Harinda decided to hang on to the rope which Gune held on the other end purely as a psychological booster rather than a support role. When the degree of incline turned close to 70° we decided to head towards a forest patch and ascend along it. After a small forest patch it was the final ascend and the time was 10 past 7P.m, the head lights were at work and the ropes were hanging, we only had to hang on to it and climb up the last bit of rocky wall before we reached the summit. I do not recommend climbing along this path on an afternoon, if someone faints it would be the end of his life.

Since it was already mid night the stars had appeared and the lights lit up all around Digamadulla was simply the sight we needed to glance at and rest our tired soles. The pre cooked Dinner packets vanished in to thin air and we were ready to sleep under the 5 Billion stars.

fresh water

the deadly slope

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on the way scenery

Thoppigala

Narakamulla

Rukam

Pulukunawa side

the path

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Omanugala

Dimbulagala seen faintly

Kapapu gala

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last part

green pit

සැප නින්ද

night sky

Next day morning was bit gloomy but yet we could easily identify the landmarks around Digamadulla. We noted many lagoons of the eastern shores , Rukam lake, Unnachchiya lake, Ampara tank, Kondawatwana tank, Himidurawa tank, Iginiyagala reservoir, Iginiyagala peak, Wadinagala, Govinda hela, Walasa gala, Dora ira, Pahankudawa, Kokagala, Rambaken oya, Nuwaragala, Ethabendigala, Ulhitiya, Maduru oya, Omanugala, Thoppigala, Narakamulla, Pulukunawa, Dimbulagala, Kuda walimbe and many more landmarks. There were two points of ruins and one seemed to be remains of a ancient sthupa.

good morning

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tea

looking at his home

Nuwaragala side

.	Ampara forest reserve

shadow of Walimbe

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kokagala and rambaken oya

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Inginiyagala, walasgala, govinda hela and wadinagala seen

Dora ira

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.	Ulhitiya seen over Nuwaragala

group at summit

Kalu gal oya project

ruins

wow

senanayake reservoir seen

Unnachchiya reservoir

ampara, himidurawa, kondawatuwana tanks

lagoons of the east

Nawagiri aru

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Though the guides wanted to descend along the same route we insisted on taking an alternative path and we guided them towards a tree line which ran towards the base of the rock as seen on satellite maps. In no time we were jumping from one branch to another and descending down and finally we reached the rock where we started our proper ascent. After a quick rest we headed back to a stream at the base of the mountain where we prepared a Manyok meal as lunch.

optional path to descend

it was steep too

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a stream

lunch

improvised

products

end product

Finishing the Manyok meal we started walking back towards our vehicle and after leaving our bags behind at the jeep we walked 300m’s further towards “Wiyan Bendi gala”. Wiyan bendi gala had a huge cave where we noted ancestral paintings and modern day vandalized paintings. I must say this is a lovely place to camp because there was a nice stream flowing by the cave too. From Wiyan Bendi gala we headed back towards Bandaraduwa where we thanked our guides and forest officials before departing back to our homes. On the way we didn’t forget to have a dip in Navakiri aru tank too.

looking back

home

happy chaps

common sighting

Wiyan bendi gala

wiyan bedi gal lena

vedda paintings

mixed with modern day vandalism

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bye bye

dip at navagiri aru

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

Family situation in 2017 October Month

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Showing his injuries

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Their New House on March 21018

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With our main Gift

Happy Faces

Kadiragala Raja Maha Viharaya ( Built by King Walagamba )

Wariyapola > Piyumgalla Road

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

Entrance

Steps to Vihara Maluwa

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Stupaya

Entrance to Vihara Geya

Inside the Vihara Geya

Bodhiya

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Devalaya

Pokuna

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.	Stupaya & Buddha Statue on Top

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Views from the Top

Ruins of Old Stupaya

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Kebellelena Raja Maha Viharaya ( Built by King Walagamba )

Wariyapola > Wellegala Road

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

Climbing was very difficult due to very hot weather.

.	Old Dhamma Shalawa

1st Bodhiya near Entrance

Large Pond in the Temple

Steps to Top

2nd Bodhiya on the Rock

Vihara Geya

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Beautiful Creation Built in Small Lena

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Views from there

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Beautiful Pond – Nice Shape

Views from Top

.	Abounded Kuti

Another pond

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

Thanks For Reading!

After having a little rest from Knuckles forest we started a hike to a lesser known mountain in Gomaraya. The name of the mountain is “Kandasamigala”. A separate full report will be publishing in future about this untouched trek.

Apart from that we were able to explore some hidden waterfalls in between Knuckles 5 peaks foot path and Kandasamigala. Our journey started from Gomaraya town and proceed along the road goes to Knuckles View Holiday Bungalow and Knuckles Plantation Bungalow. Then we go to the end of the road and entered to the forest along a water stream. Then we climbed the Kandasamigala and got down to the upper part of the stream which we followed at the beginning.

While we getting down from the mountain I saw a beautiful waterfall through the thick forest and started to go there through the manna bushes and forest patch. After a one hour hike we were able to come to that waterfall.

The first waterfall we saw is about 5m height and 8m widest. Water is falling from the above rocky plain through giant rock faces. And there is a small pool at the base and the water is falling again by making the 2nd waterfall which is quite different to the first one. 2nd fall is also height about 5m and widest the same. It is very beautiful and the whole area was covered by forest. After that we get down through the same stream about 600m and saw the 3rd waterfall. It has about 4 lines of water falling to the base and it is about 7m height. And the water is making another waterfall about 10m distance from the 3rd fall and that is the highest fall we saw in this chain. Unfortunately we cannot get down to the stream since we were at the top of the fall and we have to go the other side.  But however we saw that waterfall and it’s about 15m high by climbing a tree and hanging on tree roots. Hence couldn’t able to capture any photo.

However after that we came to the same route where we divided to the forest patch and the stream.

First Fall

Another view of it

2nd Fall

Another view of it

Lower part of the 2nd fall (1)

Lower part of the 2nd fall (2)

Some small casecades (1)

Some small casecades (2)

3rd Fall

Another view of it

Beautiful stream

The story of a Thick forest

Its going to the Gomaraya

Beautiful Environment

Once we completed our hike we left from Gomaraya to Rangala and stopped at the famous pool near the bridge.

Warning Board at the Pool

The area belongs to Gomaraya Estate

The Dead Pool

The Bridge over the stream

Someone is bathing

We at there

Its beautiful

The lower part of the stream

mountain goats found near Rangala road

Tried to have a closer capture

Google Earth Map Gomraya Falls

Google Terrian View (Purple Line is our Route)

Thanks for reading !

When I was at a family trip on December 2016 to Ambewela and Hakgala area we used Rendapola road to reach Hakgala easily. Then I saw this beautiful mountain which looks like had an easy hike from Rendapola road.

However I discussed this with my friend at Nuwaraeliya and we planned to visit this on June 2017. As he got information we used Hewenakumbura road near to Keppettipola junction at Badulla-Nuwaraeliya road. Then we came near to the mountain by asking the information from the villagers. Then at a point we met the useful person who has been there a month ago. He showed us the footpath where it started. Hence we parked our bicycles and started the hike.

Footpath is much clear as it was through a forest and we saw that most of people use this path to collect wood for their daily needs. Soon after one hour we were able to reach the peak where we identified a flag on the top of the peak. This is like the border mountain from Nuwaraeliya side to Welimada because there were no such big mountains through Welimada to badulla area. We could see a clear view for a long distance. And we identified Rahangala, Udamala, Nasdanda and Thotupola mountains as well as Hakgala from the back of us.

There is a small plain at the top of the mountain and easily people can have a camping night here. We saw some ruins of a camping fire and realized that some people came to this place earlier.

There is another way to come to this mountain and it is from Rendapola road. Once you came through Rendapola road you will see the turning point for Jetwing Warwick bungalow, and then use that junction to park your vehicles and enter to the nearby forest patch which is at the back of some village homes. That route will be much easier to walk than we had a climb here.

However we spend about one hour and got ready to get down from the same route. This forest patch is much similar to the Horton plains environment. This mountain is still like virgin, hence be responsible to protect the environment.

Saman Deviyo and Samanala Kanda

Holy peak seen to the place where we spend last night in 2016, Single tree is in right side

Towards Ambewela

Products of Ambewela

First view of the mountain in 2016

View from Rendapola road

Google Street View from Hewenekumbura Road

Closer view from Rendapola road

Starting of the hike

Clear footpath through the silent forest

Little more to the peak

Another view of the peak

Another view of the peak

At the top of the peak

Mountains towards Badulla

Rahangala, Nasdanda and Udamala Mountains

Towards Welimada area

Hakgala Mountain

The flag at the top of the mountain

Above 1800m at Palgasthanna Mountain

Panos

Ambewela Farm

Pano view of the range

Thanks for Reading…

The map

It was a gloomy day but we wanted to go somewhere and decided to head towards Polgahawela and climb the highest peak of the region which was Yogamukanda. One could easily see this 413M mountain to Alawwa- Polgahawela road. After having breakfast we took the Epa kanda road which is found close to the railway crossing on Kurunegala road. After traveling few Km’s we had to halt our car and take a foot path which was shown to us by a villager. The path ran through the mountain and at one point we came across an abandoned house which was a major land mark since the path runs behind this house. After a 45 minute hike we reached the rocky outlook point just below the TNL towers.

It was the first scenic point towards Polgahawela where one could view plenty of trains along Polgahawela line. Also one could easily view Alagalla, Handurukanda, Belgoda, Kurunegala side and Alawwa region from this point.

Yogamu kanda seen from mahamewuna asapu road

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orchid on a cactus

abandoned

foot path to the towers

just before the towers

towards Polgahawela station

To reach the next observation point we had to past the towers and enter the forest patch. Towards the left there is a lovely view point towards Waduwawa and Mahameuwnawa side.

the forest patch

lush green

TNL towers

team

pano

Polgahawela Mahameuwnawa

Towards Waduwawa

Alawwa rock

lovely

the view

Passing the forest patch one could reach the other side of the rock which is large open rocky area towards Waduwawa and Wadakada.

rocky side

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yakdessagala

Kurunegala

Medagama side

importance

Handurukanda and belgoda

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After hanging around a bit we came back along the same route and headed towards our other destinations of the day.

Back to the first view point

Polgahawela town

Handurukanda side

other towers of the range

Alagalla covered

Alawwa

lovely

towers got cleared

.	Crystal clear

looking back

Dambulla rock

In 2017 I went passing Dambulla many times and on all of those occasions I was wondering if I could get a birds eye view of Dambulla from Dambulla rock. On our way from Kumbukgete after picking up Anupama we went passing Kumbuk wewa and on our way we came across a small Gal len viharaya called Janananda Gal len viharaya (7.629970, 80.458518 ). When we reached Dambulla it was around 9am and we started looking for a suitable place to climb.

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entrance

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bo tree with ruins

Though the temple side seemed to be the easier approach we taught it would attract too much of an attention and would end in a bad way. So we took the path which runs behind the Rangiri Dambulu national school. The initial path was along the rocky ridge where we had to enter a small forest patch at the end. From here onwards we had to crawl with caution until we reached the summit.

The summit had ruins of 4 sthupa’s and few kema’s. The 360 view which it provided was worth the crawl. From the summit one could easily view Dambulla town, Kandalama, Erawugala, Dambulla stadium, Ibbankatuwa wewa, Galgiriya, Kahalla, Kithulhitiyawa, Murungahiti kanda, Sigiriya, Pidurangala, Menikdena , Arangala, Wehigala pathana, Yakkuragala, Dahiya kanda, Beliya kanda and many more.

After descending under the red hot sun we headed towards Dambulu Somawathiya Archaeology site.

Dambulla rock western approach

relatives

on the way scenery towards kandalama

initial part

more to climb

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the tricky part

මෙහෙන් නම් යන්න බැහැ වගේ

on the top

Dambulla town

.	Dambulla stadium

pano

Galkiriyagama range

the long range seen far away is Kahalla range

kithulhitiyawa is the large mountain and the one towards the left is murungahitikanda

two giant rocks

kandalama

erawugala

Lenadora and menikdena

Dambulla somawathiya seen at the base

Beliyakanda

A6

Ibbankatuwa reservoir

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ruins of 3 sthupas

a sthupa

pond no7

Yakkurugala range

Dahiya kanda

behind yakkurugala is Gedaragalapathana

.	getting down

Dambulla somawathiya

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Ending the brief visit at Dambulu Somawathiya we headed towards Madatugama where we had lunch. Our next target was never heard off before but could be easily seen from A9 road. To conquer it we had to use Google maps throughout the hike. Passing Madatugama we went towards Aswedduma and from there we reached Elagamuwa wewa by foot while searching for a suitable place to climb. We climbed along the rock from the Northern side and in no time we were at the top. The summit was not an easy place to hang around specially with the heavy winds. There was a ruined pagoda on the summit just like any dry zone prominent rocky hill in the country. There was a kema and other ruins which we had to take another route to approach those. Instead of running around we sat down and watched how a city girl in her early twenties enjoyed running around a “Niyara”. While descending we found a steep but yet a quick route to come down.

Murungahiti kanda

Murunga hiti kanda

Elagamuwa wewa

steep ascent

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.	ancient wall

barricade covered with grass

beliyakanda

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Aswedduma

more to climb

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fishing

summit view

beauty of aswedduma

ancient pagoda and ritigala seen far away

rain is coming

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Ritigala

Kotagala temple

inamaluwa range

summit view

note the shower at kala wewa

<3	Dambulla rock

ancient pond

slope to be tackled

looking back up

where we had a bath

There was a near by canal with 1 foot of water where we had a quick bath before departing. Not so far away from this mountain there was another temple on a extensive rocky area which we decided to visit since the location looked interesting. It was an easy climb to Kotagala Piyangala RMV( Location ) and tough there were plenty of places to explore we didn’t have time to do so. Ending our brief visit we headed back towards our destinations to end a successful day of exploring.

Climbing Kotagala temple rock

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bo tree

top of kotagala

මුරුන්ගාහිටි කන්ද seen from kotagala

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kandalama range

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image house

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a cave

pagoda

The inch map

Gongalla WE

Both of us badly needed to go on a road trip and due to the unfortunate situation around Central province we had to take a huge detour to reach our destinations. We knew nothing about whats happening in the country because we were caught up in a curfew and news sources were been cut off was a terrible experience. Any how we decided to go head. On Day one we reached Watawala and spent the night at Watawala inn.

Next day early morning we took off towards Thalawakele where we took the Nawalapitiya road to reach Queensberry Tea factory at Dimbula-Pathana. The first destination of the day was a mini WE which I noticed while gazing over Devon falls on many occations and after some map reading I had located the location as Gongalla mini WE. I was told that this location was known by many local citizens but a totally foreign place to others. Passing Queensberry tea factory we entered Kolapatna estate (Gongalla division) and followed the estate road untill we reached the foot path towards the mini WE. The estate ride was a scenic one and I would love to drive along this road on another day without any hesitations. There was a 300m hike through the Eucalyptus where one would come across a newly built hut. The guys at the hut became furious after seen us and asked us to get out of the estate at that instance. We were told that no one is allowed to enter the estate without prior approval. But after a calm chat we were allowed to look around and spend some time.

the mini WE seen from Nawalapitiya rd

the drop

the estate rd through Kolapatna estate

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.	reaching the destination

the foot path

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what a location

SD on a promoting project

The view From Gongalla mini WE was one of a kind. One could view Kotagala, The Dell,  Elabedda range, Great western, Pundalu oya, Kothmale oya and reservoir, Piduruthalagala, Kikiliyamana and Meepilimana range, Peacock hills, Beramana, Ravanagoda and many more. The A.S.D of the division was now friendly with us and we were invited come on another day if we wished to. Saying good bye to them and after a final apologization we headed back towards Hatton.

the view towards great western and Pundalu oya

Peacock hills seen

Great western

Kothmale oya at Medakumbura

Kikiliyamana and meepilimana range

Lindula – thalawakele side

lot to explore

the stage

Kotmale reservoir

Kotagala

Dell with the towers and Elabedda range

Towards Ravanagoda

.	Kothmale valley flowing to reach Kothmale reservoir

pano

Towards Beramana

the drop

Kothmale valley

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Summit of Sri Lanka

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the hut

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halted

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From Hatton we left towards Maskeliya  where we took the Lakshapana road. At one point we took the road through Maussakele tea factory which was a winding road through the tea estate until we reached legendary Ravana gala with the aid of GPS. The local kids who came to show us the road wernt helpful at all in finding the proper route. After a 4Km ride we reached the rocky area which is believed to be an airport of King Ravana and the parallel ingrowings are believed to be dug by Ravanas chariot. The local kids who accompanied us didn’t forget to play Bat and ball at the rocky play ground. After hanging around for a while we started descending back to Lakshapana road where we said good bye to the young ones before starting our long departure drive towards home sweet home.

my guides playing cricket

the airport

imprints of the mythical aircraft

more imprints

.	water source

parked at rawana gala

exploring

maussakele dam

Maussakele

Hegasulla is a pointed mountain situated in VRR (Victoria- Randenigala-Rantambe) reserve closer to Randenigala reservoir. Approach to this mountain is from an isolated village called Theripaha which is situated 17km from Neeldandahinna.
People say the Lord Buddha has come to place his sacred foot print on top of this mountain but villagers at Theripaha were working at paddy fields on the poya day. Then he has changed his mind and placed the sacred foot print on Sri Pada.
Hegasulla is a peak of a range and another peak is mentioned there as Agassula in 1:50000 map. I never knew about this mountain and credit should go to Ashan to mention about Hegasulla.
It is a bit challenge to finish this journey in one day by travelling from Colombo. I have selected overnight bus from Colombo to Neeldandahinna and got down there at 3.30am. After waiting some time at Neeldandahinna bus stop we hired a three-wheeler to reach Theripaha early morning.
Theripaha was sleeping when we reached there. Hegasulla Mountain was nicely seen with sunrise. After having a tea with crispy patty from Theripaha we got directions from few villagers.
First it was a journey through bushes and bare lands in the village. There were number of foot pathways and at the end we have reached an elephant fence which might be the border of forest and village.

Hegasulla Mountain in 1:50000 map (circled). It is mentioned as Agassula in map. Arrow shows the road between Hegasulla village to Mahaweli Raja Mawatha. But there is no such records of that kind of a road. Black star shows our start at Theripaha village. Red star shows our end at Mahaweli Raja Mawatha along Mala Oya. Click image to enlarge.

Hegasulla-This was taken on or way to Padupola plain

Start the journey early morning

Nuwan and Wikum were members of this time

Passing the village

Walking through bushes

Close up…

Wikum and Nuwan

We came across few view points

Theripaha village

Narangala

ගදපාන

Close up….

Close up….

Close up….

There were number of foot pathways to confuse us

Neptis hylas / Common Sailor

Bathing in sun rays

Bathing in sun rays

Reaching the elephant fence

After crossing the elephant fence it was kind of a proper hike to the peak. As usual I got assistance of Google map. First we hiked through a dry grassy land and then crossed a forest patch. As we were instructed before, Elephant dung were seen in this grassy area. End of the grassy land was a flat area with good surrounding view.

Hiked along the grassy patch

Hiked along the dry grassy patch

At the end of dry grassy patch

Enjoying the view….

Isolated Theripaha village

Paddies at Theripaha

Towards Mandaram Nuwara

It’s Kukulagala

Through the forest patch

Rest of the hike was happened along the ridge of the range which was sloped to either side. Though villagers advised us about windy weather it was a low wind day. It was nice to hike through short Mana bushes. After about two and half hours (from Theripaha) we have reached the top of Hegasulla Mountain. It has a splendid view towards Randenigala. Randenigala reservoir with islands, hills beyond Randenigala and mountains between Randenigala were seen clearly, Narangala, some hills of Uva province, Loggal Oya reservoir, Uma Oya, Dambarawa Lake, Galpadihela range were also seen in one side. In a clear day you can see Namunukula and Madolsima range beyond Narangala. (I have noted it in my second visit).
Other side is marked by Kukulagala, Hills of Mandaram Nuwara, and Mahakudugala etc.

Get on to the ridge of the range

When looked back….

There were number of false peaks

Perfect weather for a hike

Standing front of Hegasulla peak

This is our track

The slope…

The slope

Hills of Uva

Spiky point…

After coming half of the way

Another set of Paddies

Macro

The slope

The slope

Heading to the peak

Heading to the peak

Heading to the peak

On top of Hegasulla peak

Randenigala reservoir

Randenigala reservoir

Narangala

Golden eggs

Uma Oya

Uma Oya

Loggal Oya reservoir

Towards Hills of Mandaram Nuwara

Highest point of Hegasulla

There were another set of hills in between Hegasulla and Randenigala reservoir. The plain on right hand side of these hills called Madathenna (මඩතැන්න). There is a beautiful plain beyond these peaks called Padupola (පදුපොල). (It was my second journey). The drop between Hegasulla and these peaks prevented us to visit there. After enjoying the beautiful view from Hegasulla Mountain we headed to Theripaha. Return journey was made in about 1hour.

Beyond Hegasulla-Another set of hills. Galpadihela range is seen far away.

Zoomed view of peaks between Hegasulla and Randenigala

I love to walk over there. Galpadihela range is seen in right corner.

Madathenna

Galpadihela / Kosgolla range zoomed

The drop

At drop….

Back from the edge

On top of Hegasulla

On top of Hegasulla

Towards Theripaha and the area we have passed

Beautiful Theripaha village

The team on top of Hegasulla peak

There were two options to leave Theripaha village: either following of same route we came or reach Raja Mawatha from Theripaha. There is a clear road indicating at 1:50000 map from Theripaha to Raja Mawatha, but it doesn’t exist now. Villagers have reached Mahiyanganaya via this path. (But this foot path and the road showing in map is different.) Mala Oya flows to Randenigala reservoir following the same route showing at 1:50000 map.
We have decided to get down to Raja Mawatha by walking along Mala Oya.

Along Mala Oya to Raja Mawatha
Mala Oya origins from Theripaha and drains to Randenigala reservoir with it’s short course of 3-4km. As it becomes dead in drought season, called Mala Oya. Walking along Mala Oya seems the shortest way to reach Raja Mawatha from Theripaha. Villagers take about 1hour to reach Raja Mawatha along Mala Oya but we took about 4 hours to complete the journey.
Initially there was a clear foot path on side of Mala Oya then it vanished. Then we get in to the water stream. Main obstacle was to get down from Hathbinnan Ella (හත්බින්නන්  ඇල්ල)

The gravel road from Theripaha to Hegasulla wasama village

Get into Baby Mala Oya

There is a clear path with the water stream at village area

End of village area-crossing Elephant fence

Get into Mala Oya

We were able to visit two significant waterfalls and three/ four minor cascades in this journey. Hathbinnan Falls is the major fall made by Mala Oya. It is about 25-30 m in height flows in two steps. Second part is the tallest one with acute drop. The journey along Mala Oya halts at Hathbinnan Falls due to acute drop. Villagers mentioned about few creeps grow on side of the fall to get assistance. But I feel it as a risky move and searched for alternative path to get down. Nuwan and Myself hiked up along left bank and followed 70 degree angle to reach the base of the fall. It was a strenuous activity but Wikum used creepers to get down as he is cleverer than us.

One of a minor cascade of Mala Oya

Along Mala Oya

Reached the top of Mala Oya. Note it has two acute drops in both sides. We were able to get on the left bank to descend

Hathbinnan Falls

Top of Hathbinnan Falls

Hathbinnan Falls

After crossing Hathbinnan Falls we want to fasten the journey as we were behind the time. Though Oya has low water level going down was not easy due to acute drops. And we have to be cautious about wild elephants. Fortunately though we noticed elephant dung, we didn’t come across elephants. After about 4 hours we have reached Mahaweli Raja Mawatha. It was the end of another beautiful one day trip. This journey has exposed me to another unknown area and opened up some new travel destinations.

Another minor cascade

Further down along Mala Oya.

Further down along Mala Oya.

Further down along Mala Oya.

Second significant waterfall in Mala Oya. Like to name it as Mala Oya Falls.

Second significant waterfall in Mala Oya-This is about 10m in height but might be a wide fall with full phase. This is upper part.

Second significant waterfall in Mala Oya-This is about 10m in height but might be a wide fall with full phase. This is upper part.

Refreshed after a bath

This is the place we came out

Mahaweli Raja Mawatha

Hegasulla in Google map when we were there. Mala Oya is also showing

Thanks for reading

In Sri Lanka there are one great world’s end and few Mini world’s end. Mini world’s end list is extending now as finding of new places. This is about Karagasthenna Mini world’s end. This mini world’s end was hidden for most of human eyes. We didn’t know about such a mini world’s end till we reach closer to it. Actually we were searching for a mountain with acute drop and slab rock noted in our visit to Hawarimana peak (I will come with separate report about Hawarimana hike). This was the only thing we noted at the end of strenuous hike to Hawarimana. We called it “Thatta Kanda”-තට්ට කන්ද and our journey was to searching for it from Karagahathenna side.

Map reading told us the road to Karagasthenna towers. I have been this road before as well. Peaks around Matale were clearly seen on our way. We deviated from main road to Karagasthenna abounded line houses. On our way we have noted a road side beauty. I would like to name this silky waterfall as Karagahathenna Falls (කරගහතැන්න ඇල්ල) with 15-20m height. (This might be more seasonal as I have noted low water level in my second visit) There are only one or two people live at Karagasthenna line houses as others were removed due to threatened landslides. One estate worker mentioned the place we were searching is called as a world’s end. Journey started then.

Scenic road to Karagahathenna

Scenic road to Karagahathenna

View towards Matale

Makulussa zoomed

Wilshire and Etipola zoomed

Ambokka and Selagama Mini WE

Maussakele Kanda with towers. I have identified this as Laggala peak in my Karagasthenna trip. It should be corrected.

Get into the estate road surrounded by pinus

Towards eastern plain

Maningala

Karagasthenna Falls-road side beauty

Karagasthenna Falls-Falls in two steps. 15-20m height.

Karagasthenna Falls-closer view

Karagasthenna Falls

Karagasthenna Falls

Pathana situated closer to village

Sudu Kanda-Minneriya (second line of mountains) and Dimbulagala-far away

Estate road to Karagasthenna line houses

Paddies at Puwakpitiya

Karagasthenna abounded village

Karagasthenna abounded village

Karagasthenna abounded village

“එළුවන් කන්නයි මo ආවේ”

Address of line house

As usual Google map was our guide. We walked and hiked along Karagasthenna tea estate and after about 1-1.5 km distance tea estate was over. But road continues and ended up at an opening area, this might be the latter part of abounded tea estate. It was a winding road around hills in this opening area. “Thatta Kanda” was seen far away with a flag pole. The last part of the path was well paved between short bushes.

This over grown tea estate is an evidence of lack of human visit. The giant mountain with misty cap is called Gonamaduwa Kanda.(ගෝණමඩුව කන්ද)

View of Pitawala Pathana

Abounded estate road with back ground of hills

Karagahathenna towers

Peak with greenish cap….

Delicate

Looking for Jambola.

Cross section of Knuckles massif over forest line

This part has just a foot pathway

Wild beauty

Part of abounded tea estate

Perfect weather

Tea estate is over now. Foot pathway through bushes.

“Thatta Kanda” is close by.

“Thatta Kanda” is close by.

Path to heaven

Karagahathenna towers in back drop.

What we identified as “Thatta Kanda” is locally named as a Mini world’s end. It has a significant sharp drop towards Galboda village side (what we noticed at Hawarimana peak). But there is another place with good view and sharp drop at the base of this blunt mountain. I would like to name it as view point-1.

Beautiful scenery from View point-1.

Base of this mountain provides nice view towards Rajarata.

Enjoying the view….

It is the observation point of largest reservoir of SL-Moragahakanda reservoir.

Wild cattle

Surrounding view…

Surrounding view…

Nicely paved foot pathway to Mini world’s end.

View point-1.

It was a short hike from view point-1 to the Mini world’s end where flag pole is placed. Karagahathenna Mini World’s end like the observation point of the largest reservoir of Sri Lanka-Moragahakanda reservoir (මොරගහකන්ද ජලාශය). Other than that, you can watch Rathkinda-Ulhitiya reservoir with it’s hill, Maduru Oya reservoir, Omanugala, Dimbulagala, Parakrama Samudraya etc. Behind and lateral to Kulasinghe reservoir (Moragahakanda reservoir) isolated hills of Dambulla were seen: Erawula Kanda, Galkoth Kanda, Yakkuragala, Dambulugala and Gedaragala Pathana / Wahigala Pathana. Next bunch of hills were peaks around Naula-Manikdena with Lenadora, Kadigala, Arangala and Bowathenna reservoir. Karagahathenna peak with towers, Hawarimana peak (හවරිමාන කන්ද) and Sandamadala were immediate neighbors of Karagahathenna Mini world’s end. Some peaks of Kurunegala district were also seen including Beliya Kanda, Karanampotha Kanda, Kahalapalle Kale range and Dolukanda etc. As I mentioned earlier Gonamaduwa Kanda and some giants of Knuckles range were standing in front of the Mini World’s end.

Omanugala and Rathkinda Ulhitiya Kanda are seen. The reservoir next to Rathkinda-Ulhitiya Kanda is Rathkinda-Ulhitiya reservoir. Water body next to Omanugala is Maduru Oya reservoir.

Dimbulagala is seen. Sudu Kanda at Minneriya is at left corner of the picture while Parakrama Samudraya is in between Dimbulagala and Sudu Kanda.

Hills of Dambulla: Dambulugala, Yakkuragala, Erawulagala and Wahigala Pathana / Gedaragalapathana.

Erawulagala is zoomed.

Yakkuragala is seen behind Wahigala Pathana / Gedaragala Pathana.

Wahigala Pathana / Gedaragala Pathana range.

Manikdena, Beliya Kanda, Kadigala and Kahala Pallekale range.

Arangala / Naula rock with Bowathenna reservoir.

Manikdena zoomed. The water body behind Manikdena might be Ibbankatuwa reservoir.

Moragahakanda reservoir with it’s dam

This is the ultimate view from Karagahathenna Mini World’s end.

Acute drop from Mini world’s end.

The drop and water stream in between two hills.

Hawarimana (Right one)

Sandamadala

Sandamadala and Galboda village

Road to Galboda village

Dolukanda

? Karanampotha Kanda

Gonamaduwa Kanda. It obstructs the view of Riverstone.

Giants of Knuckles.

Simply speaking it is a Mini world’s end with 360 degree view and good view point towards dry zone hills. Foot pathway extended beyond Mini World’s end but we didn’t try on it.

At Karagahathenna Mini world’s end. It is the view point-2. It has a space for camping as well. But wind and overcast might be the problem.

At Karagahathenna Mini World’s end with fabulous view.

Facing to Hawarimana

Team except me at Karagahathenna Mini World’s end.

The foot pathway and view point-1 from Karagahathenna Mini World’s end

They are enjoying the view

Nuwan is posing…

We enjoyed the clear view from Karagahathenna Mini World’s end. On our way back we just stepped on to the “Pathana” next to abounded Karagahathenna village. It is also a good view point towards Knuckles range and elephant dung was found there. It was the end of exploring of another unknown destination

Selfie at view point-1.

On our way back…

Pitawala Pathana

Pathana next to abounded Karagahathenna village.

View of Gonamaduwa Kanda and Maussakele Kanda

Elephant dung at Pathana.

View of Maningala from Pathana.

View of Thunhisgala from Pathana.

Painted kovil

Back to the place where we parked our bikes.

Thanks for reading

After visiting at Karagahathenna Mini World’s end, I was dreaming to camp there to enjoy the sunrise. This time Keshan, Nalinda and Prabath joined with me instead of previous group. As we didn’t have a specific task on 1st day we leisurely reached the World’s end around 5/6pm. On our way we were able to enjoy the view of Knuckles massif, paddies at Puwakpitiya area. Our last water spot was the stream closer to line houses. Though we planned to camp at World’s end it was not possible due to extreme windy condition. We selected a place with surrounding forest cover closer to Mini World’s end.

Starting the journey

Paddies at Puwakpitiya

Keshan is showing the surrounding beauty

Giants of Knuckles- Lakegala, Gomabaniya and Thunhisgala

The path we came…

Capturing of road side beauty….Karagasthenna Falls

Abounded Karagasthenna line houses

Abounded Karagasthenna village

Enjoying the beauty

Through the tea patch

Wild beauty

Path to Mini WE

Entering to hidden paradise

Entering to hidden paradise

At Mini World’s end view point-1

The place we selected to camp was covered by the forest in three sides and gave appropriate protection from wind. It was not hard to make a fire with aid of wind. The night was not cold as we expected. Wind was so powerful in night time and we were afraid of moving with the tent.

Our bonfire

Fire, Tent and Hearth….essentials of camping

Cooking…

Beyond the tent

Early morning before the sunrise we have walked to Mini WE. We enjoyed the sun rise from view point-1. It was utterly difficult to stand there and capture due to fast wind. Sun rise was not much beautiful as we expected due to few rainy clouds. After waiting for sun rise we have moved to view point-2. Last time we didn’t walk much beyond this view point-2 towards Karagahathenna towers.

Eastern sky before the sun rise. Omanugala and Rathkinda-Ulhitiya peaks are seen.

Eastern sky before the sun rise

Eastern sky before the sun rise. Dimbulagala is seen well.

Capturing moments…

Glistening of water at Moragahakanda reservoir

Moragahakanda reservoir with lights over the dam…

Sun rise over eastern sky…

Sun rise over eastern sky…

Sun rise over eastern sky…

Sun rise over eastern sky…

Photo of getting a photo

No other way of establishing the camera than this.

Early morning view from Karagahathenna MWE

It’s me enjoying the view. Actually no need this posture if there is no wind.

Filtering….

Now eastern sky is brightening with sun rise

Now eastern sky is brightening with sun rise

Adapted for wind

Close up of Omanugala and Rathkinda-Ulhitiya Kanda. If you look closely can see Thoppigala as well.

Hawarimana and Sandamadala peaks

Sandamadala close up view

Hawarimana close up view. This is the peak we have reached. Note there is no view point on top.

Greenish forest coverage of Hawarimana

Peaks beyond Sandamadala….towards Dambulla and Galewela

Bowathenna reservoir

Mini World’s end-2 with early morning view

Mini World’s end-2 with early morning view

The drop

The drop

Foot path and view point-1

We walked beyond view point-2.

We walked beyond view point-2.

Path in heaven. I still wander how it was made

Our team except me

ගදපාන මල්

I was bit curious to explore the foot path beyond this site. We have walked further along the path and noted it extends to another abounded tea estate. And there is a small water stream is situated somewhere down to view point-2. But it is polluted by cattle. We said good bye to this beautiful place and returned to camp site to pack our stuff.

Foot path / estate road beyond Mini World’s end.

It extended to another abounded tea estate

Returned to mini world’s end

Returned to mini world’s end

Pathway….

Sandamadala, Arangala, Kadigala and Manikdena

Paddies at Galboda village

Returned to camp site

Trekking from Karagasthenna to Sera Ella
This is something planned by myself when I first heard about foot path from Karagasthenna to Puwakpitiya. It was the second part of our trip. We followed our way back to abounded line houses and searched for someone to get information about this foot pathway. Luckily there were old couple and husband voluntarily came to show us the pathway. (I can’t remember his name).
According to this old man there are two foot pathways: one with acute descend and short time and other one with vice versa. He guided us along longest one where first we crossed sloping “Pathana” (where we visited last time as well) and then got into forest patch. It took us one and half hours to reach Puwakpitiya and we said good bye to our guide who went back by another route due to wild elephants. Villagers from Puwakpitiya use this path to reach Karagasthenna to send their cattle. On our way we have noticed a fallen tree attacked by a wild elephant.
There was another 1.5km walk to the Puwakpitiya road. Once we reached there, we hired a three wheeler to visit at Sera Ella.

Back to line houses and get ready for part-2.

Starting the journey…

Crossing Pathana

Cattle…Eager to look at us

Cross section of Knuckles massif from Pathana

There were some Mana at last section of Pathana.

I love this short Mana

Sometimes this foot pathway was not clear. It was important to have a guide here.

Forest pathway

සමනළ තටු

Forest pathway

Forest pathway

Forest pathway

Following rituals. We are leaving forest

Attacked by elephants

Elephant fence…

Reaching Puwakpitiya

Though Sera Ella had less water level compared to my previous visit it was still beautiful. Last time we have trekked from Puwakpitiya to Kambarawa by a foot path but now it is vanished by Moragahakanda reservoir. There were number of notices around Sera Ella to protect it. We spent the time only to get snaps and returned to a branch of Thelgamu Oya to get a bath. Then our target was Hettipola-Matale bus which reached Illukkumbura at 2pm.
It finished two days trip to Karagasthenna and Puwakpitiya.

Beautiful Sera Ella

Beautiful Sera Ella

Low water level

Famous cave behind the fall

Famous cave behind the fall

Thanks for reading

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

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

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

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

Yatigal oluwa purana gale bandara devalaya

the cave behind the devalaya

the cave behind the devalaya

another cave

front view

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

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

steps of bambaragala rmv

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main cave

bambaragala cave