<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
	<title>Lakdasun Trip Reports Archive &#187; April</title>
	<atom:link href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/content/month/april/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://trips.lakdasun.org</link>
	<description>Travel Notes of Explorers of Sri Lanka</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Sun, 05 Feb 2012 15:52:47 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency>
	<generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1</generator>
		<item>
		<title>Explore the Grandeur of Ancient Galle</title>
		<link>http://trips.lakdasun.org/explore-the-grandeur-of-ancient-galle.htm</link>
		<comments>http://trips.lakdasun.org/explore-the-grandeur-of-ancient-galle.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 18 Jul 2011 16:36:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>dilshan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2011]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[April]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[History]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[One Day]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sand & Beach]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wet Zone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Folk Museum]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Galle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Galle Fort]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Koggala]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://trips.lakdasun.org/?p=8355</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Even though we live very close to the city of Galle, we didn’t explore the grandeur of the city very closely. So we decided to look close at the Galle Fort and explore the living beach of Koggala and Martin Wickremasinghe memorial folk museum.

We started our journey from Hikkaduwa railway station at about 8 am and got a bus to Koggala from Galle. We reached to the exciting beach of Koggala and had our breakfast at well maintained beach park about 9]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 15px;">
<table class="bordered">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Year and Month</strong></td>
<td>April,2011</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Number of Days</strong></td>
<td>One Day</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Crew</strong></td>
<td>6 (between 21-40 years of age) and 1 kid of 12yrs old</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Accommodation</strong></td>
<td>N/A</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Transport</strong></td>
<td>By Train to Galle, and by bus to Koggala<em> </em></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Activities</strong></td>
<td>Exploring the archeological values of Koggala, Photography</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Weather</strong></td>
<td>Bright, no rain at all</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Route</strong></td>
<td>Hikkaduwa -&gt; Galle -&gt; Koggala and return on the same route</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Tips, Notes and Special remark</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li>Photographing the exhibits in the folk museum is prohibited</li>
<li>You have to get the permission to take photos in advance.</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Author</strong></td>
<td><a title="View Dilshan's {Profile in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1217" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=1217&amp;referer=');">dilshan</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Comments</strong></td>
<td>Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread</p>
<ul>
<li><a title="Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=4321.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=4321.0&amp;referer=');">Explore the Grandeur of Ancient Galle</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p>Even though we live very close to the city of Galle, we didn’t explore the grandeur of the city very closely. So we decided to look close at the Galle Fort and explore the living beach of Koggala and Martin Wickremasinghe memorial folk museum.</p>
<p>We started our journey from Hikkaduwa railway station at about 8 am and got a bus to Koggala from Galle. We reached to the exciting beach of Koggala and had our breakfast at well maintained beach park about 9.</p>
<p><a name="pictures"></a></p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_8360" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0035.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8360" title="On the way to Galle" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0035.jpg" alt="On the way to Galle" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">On the way to Galle</p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_8361" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 298px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0053.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8361" title="Exciting beach of Koggala" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0053.jpg" alt="Exciting beach of Koggala" width="288" height="384" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Exciting beach of Koggala</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_8362" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 298px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0074.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8362" title="Exciting beach of Koggala" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0074.jpg" alt="Exciting beach of Koggala" width="288" height="384" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Exciting beach of Koggala</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The beach park is well maintained by the local government body. No garbage is seen on the beach and plenty of dustbins available. Water and toilet facilities are also in good condition.<br />
We could see numerous creatures on beach when we look closely.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_8364" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 320px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0135.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8364" title="Moving sea shell " src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0135.jpg" alt="Moving sea shell " width="310" height="261" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Moving sea shell</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_8363" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0094.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8363" title="Each and every sea shell moves!" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0094.jpg" alt="Each and every sea shell moves!" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Each and every sea shell moves!</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_8365" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0114.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8365" title="every sea shell moves" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0114.jpg" alt="every sea shell moves" width="400" height="367" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">every sea shell moves</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_8366" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0162.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8366" title="Crab on a mossy rock" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0162.jpg" alt="Crab on a mossy rock" width="400" height="278" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Crab on a mossy rock</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>After exploring the beach we entered to the Martin Wickremasinghe memorial folk museum. We were lucky to see the birth place of this great Sinhalese author in its original condition.</p>
<div id="attachment_8367" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 586px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0182.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8367" title="Martin Wickremasinghe memorial folk museum" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0182.jpg" alt="Martin Wickremasinghe memorial folk museum" width="576" height="253" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Martin Wickremasinghe memorial folk museum</p></div>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_8368" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0195.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8368" title="image019" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0195.jpg" alt="  " width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Ancestral home of Martin Wickremasinghe</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>There were numerous exhibits in the museum with a great archeological value. But unfortunately I’m not allowed to take photographs of them as it’s prohibited. We spent about 4 hours in the museum and then had our lunch in the museum premises. The water sources in the premises were quite dirty and unhygienic. So you are thoroughly advised to not to drink water from taps in the premises.</p>
<p>After having the lunch we moved to Galle by bus to visit the Galle Fort.</p>
<div id="attachment_8370" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 790px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0233.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8370" title="First glimpse of great fort!" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0233.jpg" alt="First glimpse of great fort!" width="780" height="133" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">First glimpse of great fort!</p></div>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_8371" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0252.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8371" title="VOC Symbol" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0252.jpg" alt="VOC Symbol" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">VOC Symbol</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_8372" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0261.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8372" title="Canon base in Fortress" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0261.jpg" alt="Canon base in Fortress" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Canon base in Fortress</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0301.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-8373" title="image030" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/image0301.jpg" alt="  " width="324" height="432" /></a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://trips.lakdasun.org/explore-the-grandeur-of-ancient-galle.htm/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Scenic Drive from Kundasale to Loolecondera</title>
		<link>http://trips.lakdasun.org/scenic-drive-from-kundasale-to-loolecondera.htm</link>
		<comments>http://trips.lakdasun.org/scenic-drive-from-kundasale-to-loolecondera.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Jun 2011 18:09:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>nipunu</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2011]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[April]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mountains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[One Day]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scenic Drive]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wet Zone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kandy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kundasale]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Loolecondera]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://trips.lakdasun.org/?p=7941</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[We started from Colombo at about 9 in the morning (we were got late due to some unavoidable reasons) and it was around 3 in the evening when we left from Kundaslae. Though it was just a ride of around 30km, it took almost 2 hours for us to reach Loolecondera from Kundasale because of the bad road condition and the weather. The luck was on our side as the masses of land were cleared just in the morning that day, if it wasn’t so we really would have been in serious trouble as there were no turning backs at some points of the route]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 15px;">
<table class="bordered">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Year and Month</strong></td>
<td>April 2011</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Number of Days</strong></td>
<td>One Day</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Crew</strong></td>
<td>
<div id="_mcePaste">5 (between 20-65 years of age,2 females)</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Accommodation</strong></td>
<td>N/A<strong><br />
</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Transport</strong></td>
<td>Car</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Activities</strong></td>
<td>Scenic drive, Photography</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Weather</strong></td>
<td>Misty, and Slightly rainy</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Route</strong></td>
<td>Colombo -&gt; Kandy -&gt; Kundasale -&gt; Galaha -&gt; Deltota -&gt; Loolecondera&nbsp;</p>
<p>We used this road from Kundasale as we had to visit some relations there. In comparison with the Peradeniya road this is a precise detour, but the tough road and the endless beautiful views makes it worth the journey.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Tips, Notes and Special remark</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li>If you are planning to use this route, avoid rainy months as the possibility of land slides is very high durind the first part of the route.</li>
<li>First part of the route (until you reach galaha) is real narrow and the road condition is real bad. Serious and good driving skills are needed.</li>
<li>It’s better if you can carry a stock of water at least for drinking purpose.</li>
<li>A <a title="View related Trip Report" href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/lulkandura-loolecondera-few-hours-with-the-pioneer-of-tea-planters-in-sri-lanka.htm" target="_blank">previous post of Viraj</a> was very helpful for planning the trip.</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Author</strong></td>
<td><a title="View Nipunu's Profile in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1481" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=1481&amp;referer=');">nipunu</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Comments</strong></td>
<td>Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li><a title="Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=4034.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=4034.0&amp;referer=');">Scenic Drive from Kundasale to Loolecondera</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p>We started from Colombo at about 9 in the morning (we were got late due to some unavoidable reasons) and it was around 3 in the evening when we left from Kundaslae. Though it was just a ride of around 30km, it took almost 2 hours for us to reach Loolecondera from Kundasale because of the bad road condition and the weather. The luck was on our side as the masses of land were cleared just in the morning that day, if it wasn’t so we really would have been in serious trouble as there were no turning backs at some points of the route</p>
<p><a name="pictures"></a></p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7942" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image001.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7942" title="Scenery captured on the first part of the route…" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image001.jpg" alt="Scenery captured on the first part of the route…" width="400" height="473" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Scenery captured on the first part of the route…</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7943" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image003.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7943" title="Scenery captured on the first part of the route…" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image003.jpg" alt="Scenery captured on the first part of the route…" width="400" height="467" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Scenery captured on the first part of the route…</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7944" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 404px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image005.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7944" title="More scenery" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image005.jpg" alt="More scenery" width="394" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">More scenery</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7945" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 404px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image007.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7945" title="More scenery" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image007.jpg" alt="More scenery" width="394" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">More scenery</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7946" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 318px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image009.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7946" title="image009" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image009.jpg" alt="  " width="308" height="400" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">  </p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7947" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image011.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7947" title="image011" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image011.jpg" alt="  " width="400" height="480" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">  </p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7948" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image013.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7948" title="More scenery" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image013.jpg" alt="More scenery" width="400" height="483" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">More scenery</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7949" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image015.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7949" title="image015" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image015.jpg" alt="  " width="400" height="475" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">  </p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_7950" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 760px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image017.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7950" title="endless views of knuckles mountain range" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image017.jpg" alt="endless views of knuckles mountain range" width="750" height="410" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">We were blessed with these endless views of knuckles mountain range through out the whole journey…</p></div>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7951" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image019.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7951" title="A little food for thought…" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image019.jpg" alt="A little food for thought…" width="400" height="406" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">A little food for thought....</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7952" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image021.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7952" title="Regional boundary" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image021.jpg" alt="Regional boundary" width="400" height="380" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Regional boundary</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>It was almost 5 in the evening when we reached Loolecondera estate entrance. Unfortunately we couldn’t visit our ultimate travel destination Taylor’s seat. The road inside the tea estate was in real bad shape due to heavy rain last night. The gate keeper told us that even a bicycle cannot reach it to the Taylor’s seat. However we took the liberty of walking inside the tea estate for few meters and turned back as the time was running out and it was getting dark. It was a real pity that we couldn’t visit Taylor’s seat.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7953" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image023.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7953" title="The road condition" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image023.jpg" alt="The road condition" width="400" height="490" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The road condition</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7954" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 393px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image025.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7954" title="The road condition" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image025.jpg" alt="The road condition" width="383" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The road condition</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7955" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image027.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7955" title="Tea plantation" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image027.jpg" alt="Tea plantation" width="400" height="474" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Tea plantation</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7956" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image029.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7956" title="Tea plantation" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image029.jpg" alt="Tea plantation" width="400" height="474" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Tea plantation</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7957" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 399px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image031.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7957" title="Beauty of a wild flower" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image031.jpg" alt="Beauty of a wild flower" width="389" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Beauty of a wild flower</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7958" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 399px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image033.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7958" title="Standing in motion" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image033.jpg" alt="Standing in motion" width="389" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Standing in motion</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_7959" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 760px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image035.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7959" title="Simply breath taking" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image035.jpg" alt="Simply breath taking" width="750" height="417" /></a>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><p class="wp-caption-text">Simply breath taking ......</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7960" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image037.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7960" title="image037" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/image037.jpg" alt="  " width="400" height="285" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">  </p></div>
<p><strong>Thank you very much for reading my trip report. Have a safe journey…</strong></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://trips.lakdasun.org/scenic-drive-from-kundasale-to-loolecondera.htm/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>“Galamuduna village (ගලමුදුන)”  through Udagaladebokka and return to Heenganga bridge &#8211; Knuckles Range</title>
		<link>http://trips.lakdasun.org/galamuduna-udugaladebokkawa-heenganga-knuckles-range.htm</link>
		<comments>http://trips.lakdasun.org/galamuduna-udugaladebokkawa-heenganga-knuckles-range.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 21 May 2011 03:04:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Malaka 333</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2011]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[April]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Camping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dry Zone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mountains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Natural Bath]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Three Days]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Trekking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Waterfalls]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Galamuduna]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hasalaka]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Heen Ganga]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hulugune]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kehelpothdoruwegala]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Knuckles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lakegala]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mahiyanganaya]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thelambugala]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thunhisgala]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Udagaladebokka]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Udaththawa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uhunugala]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Yahangala]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://trips.lakdasun.org/?p=7586</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The bus terminated at Pamunupura junction. Then we have to turn left and continue the journey by foot. The sight of Yahangala too away our tiredness all the time. It brought ice cool to our eyes. We stopped briefly at a point where a small water stream crosses the road and fall over cliff on the other side of the road. After 15 mins we restarted the journey. It was a heavy climb thereafter and after 200m we reached the Grama niladari office of the village. It was closed and we got some more rest there. The concreted road ended there and a foot path began.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 15px;">
<table class="bordered">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Year and Month</strong></td>
<td>April 2011</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Number of Days</strong></td>
<td>Three Days</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Crew</strong></td>
<td>
<div id="_mcePaste">6 (between 23-25 years of age), <a title="View Supun's profile in Lakdasun" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=519" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=519&amp;referer=');">Supun</a>, <a title="View Sandun's Profile in Lakdasun" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=318" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=318&amp;referer=');">Sandun</a>, Chitral, Udaya, Jeeva and Me</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Accommodation</strong></td>
<td><strong>Day1</strong>- Small hut on a tree&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Day2</strong>- Galamuduna village</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Transport</strong></td>
<td>Katubedda to Pamunupura by Bus&nbsp;</p>
<p>Pamunupura to Heenganga bridge (Ginipetti palama) by foot and then to Katubedda by bus.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Activities</strong></td>
<td>Wildlife, Photography, Hiking</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Weather</strong></td>
<td>Excellent in morning and rain in evening</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Route</strong></td>
<td>Katubedda -&gt; Colombo Fort -&gt; Kandy-&gt; Rajamawatha -&gt; Mahiyanganaya -&gt; Hasalaka -&gt; Udaththawa -&gt; Pamunupura -&gt; Udagaladebokka -&gt; Galamuduna -&gt; Hulugune -&gt; Ginipetti palama -&gt; Mahiyanganaya -&gt; Kandy (Via 18 turns) -&gt; Colombo -&gt; Katubedda</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Tips, Notes and Special remark</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li>It’s better if you can carry a stock of water at least for drinking purposed because this is the dry zone of Knuckles range</li>
<li>Leeches are there. But no harm like in wet zone of Knuckles</li>
<li>Wild elephants come to Udagaladebokka village and the chena cultivations during Harvesting season. Especially chena cultivations between Udagaladebokka and Galamuduna villages and paddy cultivations between Galamuduna and Hulugune villages. We were lucky not to meet them.</li>
<li>Most common route to Galamuduna village is Heenganga palama -&gt; Hulugune -&gt; Galamuduna. We used an uncommon route to reach Galamuduna. Galamuduna villagers are not using that route.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Thanks</strong></p>
<p>1. Buddhist society of University of Moratuwa for donation of Exercise books</p>
<p>2. Manjula for weather updates and help he gave us to select access route to Galamuduna village.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Author</strong></td>
<td><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px;"><a title="View Malaka's Profile in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=823" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=823&amp;referer=');">Malaka 333</a><br />
</span></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Comments</strong></td>
<td>Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li><a title="Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=3957.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=3957.0&amp;referer=');">“Galamuduna village (ගලමුදුන)” through Udagaladebokka and return to Heenganga</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p>We started our journey from Katubedda at about 7.30 in the night. The crew was six. We came to Colombo fort at 8.30 pm by bus. We caught 9.00pm Mahiyanganaya CTB bus and reached Weraganthota by 4.30 am. Due to road constructions in 18 turns (දහ අට වංගුව), our bus went through Rajamawatha. Because we traveled in the night we missed a lot of sceneries along the road. We had to wait until 6.00 am to catch a bus to go to Hasalaka. We had our breakfast at a friend’s home close to the town. Then we reached Pamunupura after one hour journey by bus from Hasalaka.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7660" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Udagaldebokkawa.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7660" title="Garmin Map" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/map2-thumb.jpg" alt="Garmin Map" width="400" height="493" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Garmin Map (Click Image to Enlarge)</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7659" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0017.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7659" title="Inch Map" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Map-thumb-1.jpg" alt="Inch Map" width="400" height="558" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Inch Map (Click Image to Enlarge)</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The bus terminated at Pamunupura junction. Then we have to turn left and continue the journey by foot.  The sight of Yahangala too away our tiredness all the time.  It brought ice cool to our eyes.</p>
<p><a name="pictures"></a></p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7587" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0056.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7587" title="Yahangala view from Udaththawa village" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0056.jpg" alt="Yahangala view from Udaththawa village" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Yahangala view from Udaththawa village</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7588" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0076.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7588" title="The sight of Yahangala" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0076.jpg" alt="The sight of Yahangala too away our tiredness all the time" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The sight of Yahangala too away our tiredness all the time</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><em>There are few folktales about this strange &#8220;bed like rock (යහන්ගල)&#8221;. One of them tells that during the Rama-Rawana war, after being hit by king Ravana’s arrow, Lakshmana (king Rama’s brother) leaned on this rock and was treated with medicinal plants brought by Hanuman. Close to Yahangala, Lakegala is believed to be the the place where king Ravana’s palace was situated.</em></p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7589" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0097.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7589" title="concreted road between paddy fields" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0097.jpg" alt="concreted road between paddy fields" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">First part of the journey was along a concreted road between paddy fields.</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7590" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0116.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7590" title="entering the Pallegaldebokka village" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0116.jpg" alt="entering the Pallegaldebokka village" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">After 1km, the road gradually started to climb. Now we were entering the Pallegaldebokka village. </p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>We stopped briefly at a point where a small water stream crosses the road and fall over cliff on the other side of the road. After 15 mins we restarted the journey. It was a heavy climb thereafter and after 200m we reached the Grama niladari office of the village. It was closed and we got some more rest there. The concreted road ended there and a foot path began.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7591" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0136.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7591" title="Time to rest" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0136.jpg" alt="Time to rest" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Time to rest……..</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7592" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0156.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7592 " title="Grama niladari office " src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0156.jpg" alt="Grama Niladari office " width="400" height="267" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">&quot;Grama Niladari&quot; office (click image to enlarge)</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The sight of houses gave us a safe feeling because directions to Udugaldebokka were known by villagers. We could see solar panels on few houses. After Pamunupura village CEB lines are not extended to supply electricity to this village.</p>
<p>The road ran through gardens of  village houses. Villagers helped us to find our way. Another heavy climb started and continued for more than 500m. After the heavy climb we got a 30mins rest at a wayside rest spot. This place was created by villagers to est during traveling to Udugaldebokka village. There onwards Chena cultivations started.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7593" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0175.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7593" title="The village….." src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0175.jpg" alt="The village - Pallegaldebokka" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The village…..</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7594" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0196.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7594" title="The temple of Pallegaldebokka village" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0196.jpg" alt="The temple of Pallegaldebokka village" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The temple of Pallegaldebokka village</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7595" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0216.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7595" title="A wayside rest spot…" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0216.jpg" alt="A wayside rest spot…" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">A wayside rest spot…</p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Thereafter the road goes through level surface. After about half an hour by foot we came to a small water stream. We got small rest there and started the journey. Just after the stream the road divide in to two paths and we selected left hand side one. That was because we wanted to visit Udagaladebokka village. Using right hand side path we could go to Galamuduna village without visiting Udagaladebokka village. After the Udugaldebokka village both roads join again. After the junction it was climbing…….. and climbing…&#8230;.</p>
<p>Time was passed 12 noon when we reached the first house in Udugaldebokka village . It meant that we had to speed up. Still we were quite tired. We took a small rest and continued.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7596" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0236.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7596" title="The road goes through level surface" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0236.jpg" alt="The road goes through level surface" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The road goes through level surface</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7597" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0257.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7597" title="The first house we met in the Udagaldebokka village" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0257.jpg" alt="The first house we met in the Udagaldebokka village" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The first house we met in the Udagaladebokka village</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The path continued through village houses and we came to a junction in few minutes. We got directions from villagers. To go further in to this village we had to go to left side and the other path was going to Galamuduna village through paddy fields and chena cultivations. We selected second one because time was limited.</p>
<p>Then the path was again between paddy fields.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7598" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0277.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7598" title="Local tobacco cultivation" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0277.jpg" alt="Local tobacco cultivation" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Local tobacco cultivation. We saw this type of fields at Galamuduna village as well</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7599" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0296.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7599" title="hut on tree" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0296.jpg" alt="hut on tree" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">hut on tree</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Every small hut on trees (අට්ටාලය) told us a sad story which is; during harvesting time wild elephants comes to destroy and eat the crop. During this period all the members of the farmer&#8217;s family come to this hut (අට්ටාලය) for two weeks or even a month to look after their crop. More than four members can stay there comfortably. During that season the village becomes an empty place.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7600" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0315.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7600" title="Uhunugala" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0315.jpg" alt="Uhunugala" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Uhunugala—The higher version of Uthuwankanda</p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>It was a great surprise for us to see that Uhunugala was identical to Uthuwankanda in Mawanella. It was also a landmark in our journey. The foot path goes on the right hand side close to the base of this rock.</p>
<p>After the village the path was between paddy fields and then small woods started. We were gradually climbing down. Throughout we heard strong sound of a water stream on our left hand side. We saw few foot paths to cross the stream, but according to villagers we should cross the stream only by a foot bridge (ඒදණ්ඩ). So we climbed down further and came to this place.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7601" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0334.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7601" title="First land mark reached" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0334.jpg" alt="First land mark reached" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">First land mark reached - the foot bridge (ඒදණ්ඩ)</p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Thereafter the path was through paddy fields and chena cultivations again. We were speeding up. After few minutes paddy fields were over and the foot path between old chena cultivations guided us.</p>
<p>Looked like this place had been a paradise for elephants just a week ago because we could see elephant dung everywhere in the fields. But in most places someone seem to have collected them into one place. According to spread of dung, I felt that wild elephants may have used this place as place to spend the night. It gave a very strange feeling to us. A huge open land without any sign of human presence multiplied that strange feeling. According to villagers Jumbos have left this area a week ago. Those words gave us strength to continue the journey.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7603" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0354.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7603" title="Path through paddy fields and chena cultivations" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0354.jpg" alt="Path through paddy fields and chena cultivations" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Path through paddy fields and chena cultivations</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7604" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0373.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7604" title="elephant dung" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0373.jpg" alt="elephant dung" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Elephant Dung</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7605" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0394.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7605" title="A Large open land without any sign of human presence" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0394.jpg" alt="A Large open land without any sign of human presence" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">A Large open land without any sign of human presence</p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Now the time was 1.00 pm. Climate was gradually changing to cloudy and clouds were becoming dark. We still had more than two hours to travel to our destination. We grouped into three and went to three directions to find a safe place to spend the night and to find water. As in other woods in Knuckles, mobile phone signals were there and it made our task easy.</p>
<p>After half an hour we were found our day one home…..a  Hut on a tree (Attalaya).</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7606" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0413.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7606" title="clouds were becoming dark" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0413.jpg" alt="Climate was gradually changing to cold and clouds were becoming dark" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Climate was gradually changing to cold and clouds were becoming dark</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7607" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0434.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7607" title="Hut on a tree (Attalaya). Hardly enough for six persons" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0434.jpg" alt="Hut on a tree (Attalaya). Hardly enough for six persons" width="400" height="267" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Hut on a tree (Attalaya). Hardly enough for six persons</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>We had to forget the tiredness and speed up our works. We prepared the hut for a night using raincoat of our tent and prepared our meals before rain came to us. We prepared everything before rain. But unfortunately we had to have our meals while it was raining. We felt that the Dhal curry with water was tastier!</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7608" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0454.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7608" title="prepared the hut for a night with using raincoat of our tent" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0454.jpg" alt="prepared the hut for a night with using raincoat of our tent" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">prepared the hut for a night with using raincoat of our tent</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7609" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0473.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7609" title="One second leisure time while busy at work……" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0473.jpg" alt="One second leisure time while busy at work……" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">One second leisure time while busy at work……</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7610" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0493.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7610" title="A place where sky and ground joined by water droplets" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0493.jpg" alt="A place where sky and ground joined by water droplets" width="400" height="267" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Rain!. A place where sky and ground joined by water droplets. </p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7611" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0513.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7611" title="Heavy rain at Ulhitiya reservoir side" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0513.jpg" alt="Heavy rain at Ulhitiya reservoir side" width="400" height="267" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Heavy rain at Ulhitiya reservoir side</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>We bathe in rain and got some rest in our new home. In the evening when the rain was over few villagers joined us ans we had some chat with them.</p>
<p>We had every facility in that hut. There was a fire place, firewood and a cloth rack. Then we had a good sleep also without any disturbance.</p>
<p>Early in the morning we prepared our meals and packed our things. We did not forget to enjoy the beauty of the new world.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7612" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0552.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7612" title="We had every facility in that hut" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0552.jpg" alt="We had every facility in that hut" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">We had every facility in that hut</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7613" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0573.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7613" title="Good morning" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0573.jpg" alt="Good morning" width="400" height="267" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Good morning</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7614" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0592.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7614" title="image059" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0592.jpg" alt=" " width="400" height="267" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text"> </p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7615" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0612.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7615" title="Yahangala and Kehelpothdoruwegala peaks" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0612.jpg" alt="Yahangala and Kehelpothdoruwegala peaks" width="400" height="267" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Yahangala and Kehelpothdoruwegala peaks</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7616" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0632.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7616" title="image063" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0632.jpg" alt="  " width="400" height="267" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">  </p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7617" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0651.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7617" title="above two peaks and Thelambugala peak" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0651.jpg" alt="above two peaks and Thelambugala peak" width="400" height="267" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">View of above two peaks and Thelambugala peak ( Right hand side small peak) </p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7618" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0671.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7618" title="Uhunugala zoomed" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0671.jpg" alt="Uhunugala zoomed" width="400" height="267" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Uhunugala zoomed--- villagers call this Kuvenigala as they believe that during early history Kuveni used this place as her administration base. </p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>While we were preparing our meals, another villager joined us. We shared our food with him and said good bye to our hut.</p>
<p>The path continued through chena cultivations. There was a lot of undergrowth covering the path due to low usage of it by people. For more than an hour we walked through guava bushed and woods. They gave our teatime break as well. After we passed two water streams we came to this stream in the below picture. It was somewhat large one. There was a small waterfall at the end of this. We got half an hour rest there.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7619" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0691.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7619" title="We said good bye to our hut" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0691.jpg" alt="We said good bye to our hut" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">We said good bye to our hut</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7620" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0711.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7620" title="There was a small waterfall at the end of this" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0711.jpg" alt="There was a small waterfall at the end of this" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">There was a small waterfall at the end of this</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>After few minutes and a small climb over a rock we got the sight of the Galamuduna village. After a 15mins climb down, we entered the village.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7622" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0731.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7622" title="First sight of Galamuduna village" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0731.jpg" alt="First sight of Galamuduna village" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">First sight of Galamuduna village</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7623" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image075.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7623" title="Warm welcome from Lakegala" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image075.jpg" alt="Warm welcome from Lakegala" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Warm welcome from Lakegala</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7624" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0771.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7624" title="we entered to the village" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0771.jpg" alt="we entered to the village" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">we entered to the village</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7625" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0791.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7625" title="Traditional plough using bulls" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0791.jpg" alt="Traditional plough using bulls" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Traditional plough using bulls</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>We talked with villagers and got permission to spend the night in the school building. There are about 50 students studying in the school and 5 teachers. But at that time all teachers had gone home due to April school vacation. We carried two boxes full of exercise books to donate to school children. Because there were no official in the school, we gave those to Grama Niladari office.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7626" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image081.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7626" title="The school building" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image081.jpg" alt="The school building" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The school building</p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>After small rest we got familiar with villagers and explored the beauty of the village. We met <em>Pe hami mama</em> (පෙ හාමි මාමා), the oldest person in the village. He described a lot of folk tales about the village and had sound knowledge about the history of the village. As per him the village divides into two parts called Galamuduna and Panwatta. There are 45 families who live in both parts. We were invited for tea and after that explored every corner of the small village.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7629" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image083.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7629" title="beauty of the village" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image083.jpg" alt="beauty of the village" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Beauty of the village</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7630" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image085.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7630" title="Pe hami mama (පෙ හාමි මාමා)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image085.jpg" alt="Pe hami mama (පෙ හාමි මාමා)" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Pe hami mama (පෙ හාමි මාමා)</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7631" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image087.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7631" title="invitation for tea " src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image087.jpg" alt="invitation for tea " width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Invitation for tea </p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7632" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image089.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7632" title="Thunhisgala" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image089.jpg" alt="Thunhisgala" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Thunhisgala</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7633" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image091.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7633" title="Roof covered by straw" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image091.jpg" alt="Roof covered by straw" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Roof covered by straw</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7634" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image093.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7634" title="We cannot see these thing" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image093.jpg" alt="We cannot see these things in most of the villages in our country" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">We cannot see these things in most of the villages in our country</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Just like the day before, weather was changing and we decided to have a bath before it rains. After bath we returned to the school.  After few minutes it started to rain and we got some good rest till 5.00pm.</p>
<p>Then we prepared our meals and had dinner. After deciding our next day plan we slept with nice memories of last two days.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7635" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image095.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7635" title="Lakegala covered in rain clouds" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image095.jpg" alt="Lakegala covered in rain clouds" width="400" height="267" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Lakegala covered in rain clouds</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7636" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image097.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7636" title="small stream was beside the school" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image097.jpg" alt="small stream was beside the school" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">This small stream was beside the school and villagers used it for every need of water. This is where we had out bath.</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7637" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image099.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7637" title="We prepared our meals and had dinner" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image099.jpg" alt="We prepared our meals and had dinner" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">We prepared our meals and had dinner</p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7638" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image101.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7638" title="Early morning…… beauty of Lakegala" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image101.jpg" alt="Early morning…… beauty of Lakegala" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Early morning…… beauty of Lakegala</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7639" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image103.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7639" title="Thunhisgala with morning sun" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image103.jpg" alt="Thunhisgala with morning sun" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Thunhisgala with morning sun</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7640" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image105.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7640" title="Part of Kalupahana" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image105.jpg" alt="Part of Kalupahana" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Part of Kalupahana</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7641" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image107.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7641" title="Breakfast in Preperation" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image107.jpg" alt="Breakfast in Preperation" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Breakfast in Preperation</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>After breakfast we started the return journey. As per yesterday&#8217;s decision our route was along the foot path to Heenganga bridge through Hulugune village. It was the common path to town from this village.</p>
<p>After passing houses, we came across a concrete foot bridge. There was a nice waterfall on right hand side of the bridge. We spent few mins there.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7642" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image109.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7642" title="Departure" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image109.jpg" alt="Departure" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Departure..</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7643" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image111.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7643" title="Concrete foot bridge" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image111.jpg" alt="Concrete foot bridge" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Concrete foot bridge</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7644" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image113.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7644" title="waterfall we met" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image113.jpg" alt="waterfall we met" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">1st waterfall we met - There was an access route to upper waterfalls near the base pool of this fall.  </p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>After this point the path goes along level surface.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7645" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image115.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7645" title="In honor of Kande Bandara (කන්දෙ බන්ඩාර) god" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image115.jpg" alt="In honor of Kande Bandara (කන්දෙ බන්ඩාර) god" width="400" height="267" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">In honor of Kande Bandara (කන්දෙ බන්ඩාර) god. Since wild elephants attack can happen after this point villagers do this for safety.</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7646" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image117.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7646" title="Another village with no human sign" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image117.jpg" alt="Another village with no human sign" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Another village with no human sign. People who lived in this village had left due to wild elephant threat</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Now we were climbing down another huge rock. A tributary of Heenganga slowly flow down along our left side. Some leech attacks were also experienced. We got some rest and continued the journey.</p>
<p>Then we reached a foot bridge just before the start of Hulugune village. We met few villagers who were going to Hettipola town at this point.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7647" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image119.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7647" title="A tributary of Heenganga " src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image119.jpg" alt="A tributary of Heenganga " width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">A tributary of Heenganga </p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7648" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image121.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7648" title="The bridge just before start of Hulugune village" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image121.jpg" alt="The bridge just before start of Hulugune village" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The bridge just before start of Hulugune village</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7649" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image123.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7649" title="Start of Hulugune village" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image123.jpg" alt="Start of Hulugune village" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Start of Hulugune village</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7650" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image125.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7650" title="Crossing Heenganga" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image125.jpg" alt="Crossing Heenganga" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Crossing Heenganga. It was more than 30m wide. Water level was above thigh level in some places. Crossing was not easy for us. </p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7651" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image127.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7651" title="Hulugune village" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image127.jpg" alt="Hulugune village" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Hulugune village. After this village road was concreted and motorable.</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7652" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image129.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7652" title="A brave lady" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image129.jpg" alt="A brave lady" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">A brave lady. She started to cross the river after us with a small boy on her one hand and the bag on her head. But she passed all of us and finished before us </p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>After few kms the road goes beside a canal. We could see the mountain range we passed, but all the time it was covered with clouds. After the next 2kms we came to our destination.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7653" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image131.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7653" title="We could see the mountain range we passed" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image131.jpg" alt="We could see the mountain range we passed" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">We could see the mountain range we passed</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7654" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image133.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7654" title="Ginipetti palama (ගිනිපෙට්ටි පාලම)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image133.jpg" alt="Ginipetti palama (ගිනිපෙට්ටි පාලම)" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Ginipetti palama (ගිනිපෙට්ටි පාලම) - Minipe canal with in the bridge (Inside the box) and Heenganga below it. </p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7655" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image135.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7655" title="Canal entering the box" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image135.jpg" alt="Canal entering the box" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Canal entering the box</p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The time was 12.30pm. After half an hour bus came and we were arrived Mahiyanganaya within 1.5 hour. We got our lunch there. Then we came to Colombo through 18 turns by bus. It was the end of another journey. </p>
<p>Thank you very much for reading my report. It will be helpful for planning your trip. </p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://trips.lakdasun.org/galamuduna-udugaladebokkawa-heenganga-knuckles-range.htm/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Jeep Track from Bambarakanda to Ohiya, a must do for the adventure seeker</title>
		<link>http://trips.lakdasun.org/jeep-track-from-bambarakanda-to-ohiya-a-must-do-for-the-adventure-seeker.htm</link>
		<comments>http://trips.lakdasun.org/jeep-track-from-bambarakanda-to-ohiya-a-must-do-for-the-adventure-seeker.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 09 May 2011 17:08:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>RangaC</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2011]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Adventure Drive]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[April]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dry Zone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mountains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Natural Bath]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scenic Drive]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Two Days]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Waterfalls]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bambarakanda]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bambarakanda Falls]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bambarakanda to Ohiya and Horton Plains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Devil's staircase]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kalupahana]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ohiya]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Udaweriya]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[West Haputale]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://trips.lakdasun.org/?p=7456</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The road conditions were pretty much the same if not worse for a fairly long distance and it was a very slow climb. On to your left was the precipice of the Bambarakanda and in certain places it was clearly visible. It’s important to engage 4X4 and be cautious on the steering. Thereafter we came to the infamous V-cut pass, where the first flat terrain is found after leaving the resort, and it was a perfect place to rest a bit and click on some beauty.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 15px;">
<table class="bordered">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Year and Month</strong></td>
<td>April, 2011</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Number of Days</strong></td>
<td>Two day Trip</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Crew</strong></td>
<td>4 (between 27-57 years of age)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Accommodation</strong></td>
<td><a title="More about Bambarakanda Rest in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=309.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=309.0&amp;referer=');">The Bambarakanda rest</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Transport</strong></td>
<td>Toyota land Cruiser BJ40</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Activities</strong></td>
<td>Adventure, Photography, off-road driving</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Weather</strong></td>
<td>Excellent, occasional mild showers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Route</strong></td>
<td>Colombo -&gt; Ratnapura -&gt; Balangoda -&gt; Belihuloya -&gt; Kalupahana -&gt; BambarakandaBambarakanda -&gt; Ohiya -&gt; Boralanda -&gt; Haputale -&gt; Ratnapura -&gt; Colombo</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Tips, Notes and Special remarks</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li>Pack some high calorie snacks, some glucose, and plenty of water.</li>
<li>Make sure the tires have good treads, as certain places get slippery if it rains, and it’s no place for trial and error.</li>
<li>Make sure the 4&#215;4 is in order, and that you have topped up required fluids.</li>
<li>Map/compass will surely come handy as chances of you getting correct information from locals is very minimum. The estate workers do not talk about distances in usual measurements like km’s etc and information could be very deceiving.</li>
<li>The trip from Bambarakanda could take hours so start early, as mist hovers into the mountains in the early afternoon.</li>
<li>It’s going to be slow and long, so have the proper mindset before setting off.</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Author</strong></td>
<td><a title="View the profile of RangaC" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=3976" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=3976&amp;referer=');">RangaC</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Related Resource</strong></td>
<td>1. Attraction: <a title="View Attraction Details: Bambarakanda – Waterfalls, Mountains, adventure and scenic beauty" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/attractions/attraction-05-bambarakanda-waterfalls-mountains-adventure-and-scenic-beauty.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/attractions/attraction-05-bambarakanda-waterfalls-mountains-adventure-and-scenic-beauty.htm?referer=');">Bambarakanda – Waterfalls, Mountains, adventure and scenic beauty</a>2. Trail Guide: <a title="View detailed Trail Guide" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/trails/trail-03-horton-plains-from-kalupahana.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/trails/trail-03-horton-plains-from-kalupahana.htm?referer=');">Scenic and adventure drive to Horton Plains from Kalupahana</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Comments</strong></td>
<td>Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread</p>
<ul>
<li><a title="Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=3921.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=3921.0&amp;referer=');">Jeep Track from Bambarakanda to Ohiya, a must do for the adventure seeker</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p>We started the much awaited trip to Bambarakanda on the 30th April from Colombo, and proceeded towards Ratnapura, where we stopped and got hold of some essential items for the journey. It was a nice and a sunny morning and we weren’t in a hurry as our plan for the day was to reach Bambarakanda and stay the day at <a title="More about Bambarakanda Rest in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=309.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=309.0&amp;referer=');">the Bambarakanda rest</a>. Just after passing the 171st kilometer post on the road we found the turnoff to Bambarakanda. A couple of kilometers along the way, the falls suddenly opened up in front of us.</p>
<p>We were greeted by Mrs. Mayakaduwa who runs <a title="More about Bambarakanda Rest in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=309.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=309.0&amp;referer=');">the Bambarakanda rest</a>, and after having a sumptuous lunch, we hiked to the base pool of the falls and had a very refreshing bath.</p>
<p><a name="pictures"></a></p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7457" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0015.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7457" title="We were greeted by Mrs. Mayakaduwa" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0015.jpg" alt="We were greeted by Mrs. Mayakaduwa upon arrival at the rest." width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">We were greeted by Mrs. Mayakaduwa upon arrival at the rest.</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7458" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0035.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7458" title="Smart aren’t we?" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0035.jpg" alt="Smart aren’t we?" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Smart aren’t we?</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The following day was a big day for us as we were getting ready to do the real adventure. We loaded breakfast packed by the lady onto the jeep and after checking the jeep on fluid levels etc, we set off towards Ohiya. Mrs. Mayakaduwa enlightened us on the trail and the surroundings before us setting off.</p>
<div id="attachment_7459" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0054.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7459" title="Need more oil? " src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0054.jpg" alt="Need more oil? " width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Need more oil?</p></div>
<p>Just meters away from the resort, the conditions of the road changed drastically, in to a broken rocky track with a fair ascent towards an unknown territory.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7460" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0074.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7460" title="Heading towards the unknown " src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0074.jpg" alt="Heading towards the unknown " width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Heading towards the unknown</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7461" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 370px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0095.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7461" title="The only vehicle on the track for the day. " src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0095.jpg" alt="The only vehicle on the track for the day. " width="360" height="480" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The only vehicle on the track for the day.</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The road conditions were pretty much the same if not worse for a fairly long distance and it was a very slow climb. On to your left was the precipice of the Bambarakanda and in certain places it was clearly visible. It’s important to engage 4X4 and be cautious on the steering. Thereafter we came to the infamous V-cut pass, where the first flat terrain is found after leaving the resort, and it was a perfect place to rest a bit and click on some beauty.</p>
<div id="attachment_7462" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 650px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0101.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7462" title="A small rest at the V-Cut pass" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0101.jpg" alt="A small rest at the V-Cut pass" width="640" height="360" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">A small rest at the V-Cut pass</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7463" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0121.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7463" title="It’s a peculiar place! " src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0121.jpg" alt="It’s a peculiar place! " width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">It’s a peculiar place!</p></div>
<p>The local elderly person we met there seemed to be very helpful in giving us information on the terrain ahead etc, however we later found that the information given was hardly correct. We actually later realized that even though many people talk about this track, not many people have actually done the track so it s more of what they have heard than what they really have seen.</p>
<p>Another land mark was just around the corner as we started from the V-cut pass, which was the feeder stream of Bambarakanda falls. We crossed the stream which flows across the track. A good place for some more clicking.</p>
<div id="attachment_7464" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0141.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7464" title="Crossing the Bambarakanda feeder! " src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0141.jpg" alt="Crossing the Bambarakanda feeder! " width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Crossing the Bambarakanda feeder!</p></div>
<p>The road conditions continued to be challenging, with hairpin bends with the same gradient of the track, and it was always rocky. The slow journey continued through many tea estates – four estates to pass till ohiya – where the sceneries are always in abundance.</p>
<p>The “West Haputale” sign board gave us the indication that we were closing in on the most awaited part of the track. From the start, it was self explanatory why they named that part of the track as devil’s stair case. It is a series of very sharp bends descending rapidly over a short distance. The drizzle made it even more challenging, and you truly start to praise the inventor of four wheel drive. Be careful here as a wrong decision on any of your pedals could cause serious situations.</p>
<p>Negotiating the bends was strenuous and we needed a small break, and the perfect place was right beneath the stair case, where the track becomes flat aside a huge boulder.</p>
<div id="attachment_7465" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 650px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0161.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7465" title="Just after negotiating the Devil’s stair case" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0161.jpg" alt="Just after negotiating the Devil’s stair case" width="640" height="360" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Just after negotiating the Devil’s stair case. She obviously looks tired..</p></div>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7474" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0182.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7474" title="The only sign board you would find for a long distance" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0182.jpg" alt="The only sign board you would find for a long distance" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The only sign board you would find for a long distance (Click Image to Enlarge)</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7467" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0202.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7467" title="Continue straight, not a place to turn" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0202.jpg" alt="Continue straight, not a place to turn" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Continue straight, not a place to turn</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>As we continued the journey we found an option of turning towards Ohiya &#8211; Horton plains road which was three kilometers long as opposed to the alternative route which was ten kilometers. As we were planning to return to Colombo the same day, we opted to take the shorter route with a view to saving time. The climb as well as the challenges kept on continuing. It became rockier too. The assistance given to us by Ganesh, a friendly local who offered his services as a guide was extremely important to us.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7468" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0221.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7468" title="Where have all the rocks come from?" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0221.jpg" alt="Where have all the rocks come from?" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Where have all the rocks come from?</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7469" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 370px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0242.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7469" title="Could it be steeper?" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0242.jpg" alt="Could it be steeper?" width="360" height="480" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Could it be steeper?</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_7470" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 650px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0255.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7470" title="Hold on tight brothers!" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0255.jpg" alt="Hold on tight brothers!" width="640" height="360" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Hold on tight brothers!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7471" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 370px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0262.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7471" title="Almost there!" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0262.jpg" alt="Almost there!" width="360" height="480" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Almost there!</p></div>
<p>We reached the Ohiya – Horton plains road near the 26th km post, and the rubber met some proper roads at last. After bidding farewell to Ganesh, we climbed down towards Ohiya, where we indulged ourselves in some Rotti, Seeni sambol and plain tea. The much awaited shop was a treat in itself as all of us were way too tired and hungry. The refreshments gave us a good boost to start our journey back home. We headed towards Boralanda, cut across to Haputale and headed home with some unforgettable memories of the infamous devil’s stair case. Nadeera, Harsha, Nava and I, along with my beloved old cruiser did it together as a team. We feel great about it!</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7472" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 239px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0275.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7472 " title="image027" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0275.jpg" alt="  " width="229" height="330" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">.</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7473" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 289px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0294.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7473 " title="image029" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0294.jpg" alt="  " width="279" height="403" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">.</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The locals &#8211; Ranjith, Ganesh and Ganesh’s pet dog – Thanks for the guidance guys!</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://trips.lakdasun.org/jeep-track-from-bambarakanda-to-ohiya-a-must-do-for-the-adventure-seeker.htm/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>A Two Day Trip to Anawilundawa, Rajanganaya reservoir &amp; Wilpttu National park</title>
		<link>http://trips.lakdasun.org/a-two-day-trip-to-anawilundawa-rajanganaya-reservoir-wilpttu-national-park.htm</link>
		<comments>http://trips.lakdasun.org/a-two-day-trip-to-anawilundawa-rajanganaya-reservoir-wilpttu-national-park.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 07 May 2011 14:57:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lakshaman</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2011]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[April]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Birds]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dry Zone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[National Park]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photograhy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Two Days]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wetlands]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wildlife]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Anawilundawa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Horse Mountain]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kudiramale]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Modaragam Aru]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rajanganaya]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wilpattu]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://trips.lakdasun.org/?p=7273</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Our first stop was at Kochchikade for our breakfast. After the breakfast we drove through Chillaw to Mundalama till we got to know that we missed Anavilundawa junction,  and return to Anavilundawa and turn to right (from Colombo to puttalm you have to turn left) at Anavilndawa junction, Nalladaran kattuwa,that was  just few meters before 90 km post. Any way we arrived to sanctuary at 9.00 A.M. That may be little late for bird watching any way we were lucky to watch lot of birds.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 15px;">
<table class="bordered">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Year and Month</strong></td>
<td>April, 2011 (15th &amp; 16th)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Number of Days</strong></td>
<td>2 days (1 night)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Crew</strong></td>
<td>04 (between 55- 45 years of age) and 03 (between 14-20 years of age) -2 Families</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Accommodation</strong></td>
<td><a title="More about Park View Holiday Bungalow in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=1692.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=1692.0&amp;referer=');">Parkview bungalow at Wilpattu</a>&nbsp;</p>
<p>2 Rooms with a double bed in each</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Transport</strong></td>
<td>Suzuki Swift car and Hundai Tucson suv vehicles&nbsp;</p>
<p>Wilpattu  trip with Amila’s safari jeep arranged by Bandara, Ex-caretaker of the bungalow. Full day trip from 6.00 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. 8000/=</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Activities</strong></td>
<td>Sightseeing, wild life, nature, relaxation, and Photography</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Weather</strong></td>
<td>First day was a gloomy day but not rainy and second day night was a heavy rainy night but that was our return journey</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Route</strong></td>
<td>Colombo -&gt; Negombo -&gt; Chillaw -&gt; Anavilundawa -&gt; Puttalam -&gt; Kala-oya -&gt; Wilpattu junction, Parkview bungalow&nbsp;</p>
<p>Park view bungalow -&gt; Kala-oya junction -&gt; Angamuwa wewa -&gt; Rajanganaya Resorvoir -&gt; and return to Bungalow.</p>
<p>Return  journey on same route.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Tips, Notes and Special remark</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li>Colombo to wilpattu junction road was very good condition, and from  wilpattu junction to park entrance 7.7 k.m  road was normal condition, you can travel this stretch also even a small car.</li>
<li><a title="More about Park View Holiday Bungalow in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=1692.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=1692.0&amp;referer=');">Parkview bungalow at Wilpattu</a> needs to be booked in advance through a bank deposit. Contact no. 077 4809113</li>
<li>Ex-Caretaker Mr.Bandara also nice guy, Tasty foods. The place and the location is good.</li>
<li>It’s better if you can carry a stock of water at least for drinking purpose.</li>
<li>Note: Special thanks to our trekker Mr. Jagath Nandana who has brought Harrisons Birds book and helped us to identify birds. He is an excellent trekker with wide knowledge of History, Wild life, botany and general knowledge.</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Author</strong></td>
<td><a title="View the profile of Wije" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=2689" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=2689&amp;referer=');"></a><a title="View the profile of viraj" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=618" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=618&amp;referer=');"></a><a title="View the profile of lakshaman" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=137" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=137&amp;referer=');">lakshaman</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Comments</strong></td>
<td>Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li><a title="Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=3908.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=3908.0&amp;referer=');">A Two Day Trip to Anawilundawa, Rajanganaya reservoir &amp; Wilpttu National park</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p>We started our journey at about 6.00 A.M on 15 th April from Colombo. Our crew consists of 07.  (4 adults of between 45-55 and 3 children between 14-20.)</p>
<p>Our first stop was at Kochchikade for our breakfast. After the breakfast we drove through Chillaw to Mundalama till we got to know that we missed Anavilundawa junction,  and return to Anavilundawa and turn to right (<strong>from Colombo to puttalm you have to turn left</strong>) at Anavilndawa junction, Nalladaran kattuwa,that was  just few meters before 90 km post. Any way we arrived to sanctuary at 9.00 A.M. That may be little late for bird watching any way we were lucky to watch lot of birds.</p>
<p><a name="pictures"></a></p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7274" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0031.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7274" title="Anawilundawa Sactuary" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0031.jpg" alt="Anawilundawa Sactuary" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Anawilundawa Sactuary</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7275" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0011.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7275" title="Anavilundawa" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0011.jpg" alt="Anavilundawa" width="400" height="267" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Anavilundawa</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7276" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image007.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7276" title="Anawilundawa" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image007.jpg" alt="Anawilundawa" width="400" height="267" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Anawilundawa</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7277" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image005.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7277" title="Chineese pond heron" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image005.jpg" alt="Chineese pond heron ?" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Chineese pond heron ?</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7278" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0111.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7278" title="Purple swamphen (Podu dam kithala)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0111.jpg" alt="Purple swamphen (Podu dam kithala)" width="400" height="272" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Purple swamphen (Podu dam kithala)</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7279" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0091.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7279" title="Purple swamphen (Podu dam kithala)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0091.jpg" alt="Purple swamphen (Podu dam kithala)" width="400" height="333" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Purple swamphen (Podu dam kithala)</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7280" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0131.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7280" title="Purple Heron (Karawal koka)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0131.jpg" alt="Purple Heron (Karawal koka)" width="400" height="315" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Purple Heron (Karawal koka)</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7281" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0151.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7281" title="Flock of Black headed Ibis" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0151.jpg" alt="Flock of Black headed Ibis" width="400" height="257" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Flock of Black headed Ibis</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_7282" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 610px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image017.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7282" title="Pheasant tailed Jacana ( Sawul penda Diyasana)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image017.jpg" alt="Pheasant tailed Jacana ( Sawul penda Diyasana)" width="600" height="297" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Pheasant tailed Jacana ( Sawul penda Diyasana)</p></div>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7283" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0191.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7283" title="Cotton Teal (Mal Seruwa)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0191.jpg" alt="Cotton Teal (Mal Seruwa)" width="400" height="279" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Cotton Teal (Mal Seruwa)</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7284" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image020.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7284" title="Nests of Black headed Ibis and Asian Open bills" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image020.jpg" alt="Nests of Black headed Ibis and Asian Open bills" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Nests of Black headed Ibis and Asian Open bills</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7285" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0211.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7285" title="Real national flower -Nil mahanel" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0211.jpg" alt="Real national flower -Nil mahanel" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Real national flower -Nil mahanel</p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>We proceed our journey again from Anavilundawa to Puttalam and we had our lunch at puttalam rest house.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7286" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0231.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7286" title="Wind power station at Puttalam" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0231.jpg" alt="Wind power station at Puttalam" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Wind power station at Puttalam</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7287" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0251.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7287" title="Puttalam Lagoon" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0251.jpg" alt="Puttalam Lagoon" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Puttalam Lagoon</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>After a tasty hot lunch from Puttalam rest house we proceed our journey directly to Parkview bungalow at Wilpattu, that was just about 200 meters away from the park entrance. The caretaker Mr. Bandara welcomed us and we gave our all dry rations to him with menu for the dinner, and next day breakfast and lunch. After having a nice cup of tea we decided to visit Rajanganaya reservoir in the evening. From the bungalow we returned through Wilpattu entrance, Wilpattu junction turn right and proceed to Kala-oya junction and turn left and went to Rajanganaya. The road is not so bad we can manage our vehicles for this trip.To go to Rajangane you have to pass small wewa called Angamuwa Wewa. The distance From Kala-oya junction to Rajangane is about17 k.m.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7288" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0271.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7288" title="Flood gates of Rajanganaya Reservoir" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0271.jpg" alt="Flood gates of Rajanganaya Reservoir" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Flood gates of Rajanganaya Reservoir</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7289" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image037.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7289" title="Rajanganaya Reservoir" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image037.jpg" alt="Rajanganaya Reservoir" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Rajanganaya Reservoir</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_7290" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 610px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image029.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7290" title="Rajanganaya Reservoir" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image029.jpg" alt="Rajanganaya Reservoir" width="600" height="337" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Rajanganaya Reservoir</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7291" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 610px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image031.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7291" title="Sunset from adjacent hill at Rajanganaya" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image031.jpg" alt="Sunset from adjacent hill at Rajanganaya" width="600" height="337" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Sunset from adjacent hill at Rajanganaya</p></div>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7292" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0391.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7292" title="View from the top of the adjacent hill at Rajanganaya reservoir" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0391.jpg" alt="View from the top of the adjacent hill at Rajanganaya reservoir and bund" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">View from the top of the adjacent hill at Rajanganaya reservoir and bund</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7293" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0351.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7293" title="Bund of the reservoir seen from the adjacent hill" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0351.jpg" alt="Bund of the reservoir seen from the adjacent hill" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Bund of the reservoir seen from the adjacent hill</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_7294" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image033.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7294" title="image033" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image033.jpg" alt="  " width="400" height="252" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">  </p></div>
<p>We returned to the bungalow from Rajanganaya at about 7.30 p.m . After a cool bath from bungalow we were ready for our dinner at 8.30 p.m .But just we sat for the dinner that unpleasant incident happened.</p>
<p>Next day morning Amila, the safari jeep driver came at 6.00 a.m and we packed and loaded our goods to our vehicles and hand over the room keys to wife of the owner. We parked our vehicles left side of the bungalow to keep parking space to people who reserved bungalow for next day and went the safari with Amila.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7295" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image049.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7295" title="Common sandpiper" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image049.jpg" alt="Common sandpiper - Wilpattu" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Common sandpiper</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7296" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image051.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7296" title="Yellow Wattled Lapwing and Golden Jackal" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image051.jpg" alt="Yellow Wattled Lapwing and Golden Jackal - Wilpattu" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Yellow Wattled Lapwing and Golden Jackal</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7297" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image053.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7297" title="Chestnut headed Bee Eater" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image053.jpg" alt="Chestnut headed Bee Eater - Wilpattu" width="400" height="286" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Chestnut headed Bee Eater</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7298" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image047.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7298" title="Need salt?" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image047.jpg" alt="Need salt?" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Need salt?</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7299" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image041.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7299" title="Oriental Darter (Ahikawa)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image041.jpg" alt="Oriental Darter (Ahikawa)" width="400" height="328" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Oriental Darter (Ahikawa)</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7300" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image048.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7300" title="Male Spotted Deer" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image048.jpg" alt="Male Spotted Deer" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Male Spotted Deer</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7301" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image042.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7301" title="Woolly Necked Stork (Paadili Manawa)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image042.jpg" alt="Woolly Necked Stork (Paadili Manawa)" width="400" height="316" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Woolly Necked Stork (Paadili Manawa)</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7302" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image057.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7302" title="Dancing star, Black winged Stilt (Kalupiya Ipilpawa)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image057.jpg" alt="Dancing star, Black winged Stilt (Kalupiya Ipilpawa)" width="400" height="295" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Dancing star, Black winged Stilt (Kalupiya Ipilpawa)</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7303" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image063.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7303" title="Am I beautiful?" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image063.jpg" alt="Am I beautiful?" width="400" height="252" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Am I beautiful?</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7304" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image061.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7304" title="Red wattled Lapwing" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image061.jpg" alt="Red wattled Lapwing" width="400" height="485" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Red wattled Lapwing</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_7305" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 610px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image059.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7305" title="Darling  get Down and Hurry up They will see us." src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image059.jpg" alt="Darling  get Down and Hurry up They will see us." width="600" height="213" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Darling  get Down and Hurry up They will see us.</p></div>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7306" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0451.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7306" title="Brahmini kite at top of the tree" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0451.jpg" alt="Brahmini kite at top of the tree" width="400" height="384" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Brahmini kite at top of the tree</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7307" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0431.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7307" title="Thani Aliya" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image0431.jpg" alt="Thani Aliya" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Thani Aliya</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7308" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 391px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image046.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7308" title="Chestnut headed Bee- eater" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image046.jpg" alt="Chestnut headed Bee- eater" width="381" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Chestnut headed Bee- eater</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7309" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 401px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image044.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7309" title="Singing green bee- eater" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image044.jpg" alt="Singing green bee- eater" width="391" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Singing green bee- eater</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7310" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image068.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7310" title="Pintail snipe (Ulpenda kaswatuwa) and Black winged stilt " src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image068.jpg" alt="Pintail snipe (Ulpenda kaswatuwa) and Black winged stilt " width="400" height="414" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Friends -  Pintail snipe (Ulpenda kaswatuwa) and Black winged stilt </p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7311" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image067.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7311" title="Our National bird may be most shy bird" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image067.jpg" alt="Our National bird may be most shy bird" width="400" height="451" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Our National bird may be most shy bird</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7312" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image069.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7312" title="Kudremalai (Kudremale)  Beach" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image069.jpg" alt="Kudremalai (Kudremale)  Beach" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Kudremalai (Kudremale)  Beach</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7313" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image073.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7313" title="Tambapanni -Copper colour soil at kudremalai beach" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image073.jpg" alt="Tambapanni -Copper colour soil at kudremalai beach" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Tambapanni -Copper colour soil at kudremalai beach</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7314" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image074.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7314" title="Kalpitiya sand islands from Kudiramalai (Kudiramale) beach" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image074.jpg" alt="Kalpitiya sand islands from Kudiramalai (Kudiramale) beach" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Kalpitiya sand islands from Kudiramalai (Kudiramale) beach</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7315" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image070.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7315" title="Crested Serpent Eagle" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image070.jpg" alt="Crested Serpent Eagle" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Crested Serpent Eagle</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7316" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image071.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7316" title="Lesser Adjutant" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image071.jpg" alt="Lesser Adjutant" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Tallest  bird in Sri-Lanka ?  Lesser Adjutant</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7317" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image072.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7317" title="Sambar Deer" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image072.jpg" alt="Sambar Deer" width="400" height="484" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Sambar Deer</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7318" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image076.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7318" title="Kok mota flowers" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image076.jpg" alt="Kok mota flowers" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Kok mota flowers</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7319" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image078.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7319" title="Kok mote wild life Bungalow" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image078.jpg" alt="Kok mote wild life Bungalow" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Kok mote wild life Bungalow</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7320" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image077.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7320" title="White rumped shama singing at opposite Kokmote bungalow" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image077.jpg" alt="White rumped shama singing at opposite Kokmote bungalow" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">White rumped shama singing at opposite Kokmote bungalow</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7321" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image079.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7321" title="Deer couple waiting to welcome us" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image079.jpg" alt="Deer couple waiting to welcome us" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Deer couple waiting to welcome us</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7322" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image082.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7322" title="Is this the development" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image082.jpg" alt="highway in the middle of Wilpattu national park" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Is this the development ? New highway in the middle of Wilpattu national park.  Sad, that is the way they think about wild life!</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7323" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image084.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7323" title="Siyambala fruits (Tamarindus Indica)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image084.jpg" alt="Siyambala fruits (Tamarindus Indica)" width="400" height="307" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Siyambala fruits (Tamarindus Indica)</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7324" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image086.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7324" title="Modaragam Aru" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image086.jpg" alt="Modaragam Aru" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Modaragam Aru -Only place inside Wilpattu park you can have a cool bath</p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Even after a 12 hour safari, this time also we were unlucky to see a leopard. After the safari we return to bungalow premises at about 6.30 p.m with heavy rain and directly proceed our return journey through same route and arrived to Colombo at 11.30 p.m.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://trips.lakdasun.org/a-two-day-trip-to-anawilundawa-rajanganaya-reservoir-wilpttu-national-park.htm/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Deanston, Mini World’s End and Everywhere Beautiful Along the way</title>
		<link>http://trips.lakdasun.org/deanston-mini-worlds-end-and-everywhere-beautiful-along-the-way.htm</link>
		<comments>http://trips.lakdasun.org/deanston-mini-worlds-end-and-everywhere-beautiful-along-the-way.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 06 May 2011 16:17:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>sasikasg</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2011]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[April]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dry Zone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mountains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Natural Bath]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photograhy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scenic Drive]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Two Days]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Deanston]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Deanston to Mini World's End]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dothalugala]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hunnasgiriya]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Knuckles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Loolwatta]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mini World's End]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://trips.lakdasun.org/?p=7237</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Afterwards we proceeded to Hunnasgiriya Town, from where we took the road to Loolwatta. The Deanston Conservation Centre is located about 8km away on this road.

The place is accessible by bus. To reach Hunnasgiriya either the Colombo to Kandy, Kandy to Mahiyangana bus combination or the Colombo to Mahiyangana bus should be taken. After getting down at Hunnasgiriya 616 Hunnasgiriya – Loolwatta bus must be taken. However this bus only operates. It leaves the Teldeniya depot at 12.30pm each day (Information can be obtained by calling the teldeniya depot).]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 15px;">
<table class="bordered">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Year and Month</strong></td>
<td>April 2011</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Number of Days</strong></td>
<td>Two Day Trip</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Crew</strong></td>
<td>5 – 3 males, 2 females (Ages24-25)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Accommodation</strong></td>
<td>Deanston Conservation Centre</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Transport</strong></td>
<td>Car</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Activities</strong></td>
<td>Hiking, Sightseeing, Photography</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Weather</strong></td>
<td>Overcast but perfect</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Route</strong></td>
<td>Colombo -&gt; Kandy -&gt; Hunnasgiriya (A26 Colombo Mahiyangana Road about 46km Kandy) -&gt; Deanston Conservation Centre (on Hunnasgiriya- Loolwatta Road 8km)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Tips, Notes and Special remarks</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li>The Deanston Conservation Centre should be booked well in advance from <a title="View related discussion in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=300.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=300.0&amp;referer=');">forestry department</a></li>
<li>There is also a campsite about 2km away from the conservation centre, with a spectacular view</li>
<li>It is a pretty easy drive to the Deanston Conservation Centre, but the Mini World’s End is only accessible by foot, Dothalugala is Trail is accessible by foot or by 4&#215;4</li>
<li>The place is accessible by bus, the details are in the report</li>
<li>Since the presence of leeches is pretty high on the trails use <a title="View related resource in Lakdasun" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/tools-tips/leeches-preventive-socks-repellents-treatments.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/tools-tips/leeches-preventive-socks-repellents-treatments.htm?referer=');">leech repellents or leech socks</a></li>
<li>Take bottles of water there are no water sources on the trails</li>
<li>Don’t be lazy to follow the trails, because the views are spectacular</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Author</strong></td>
<td><a title="View the profile of sasikasg" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=3893" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=3893&amp;referer=');">sasikasg</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Related Resource</strong></td>
<td>1. Attraction: <a title="View more information about the area" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/attractions/attraction-06-knuckles-south-deanston.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/attractions/attraction-06-knuckles-south-deanston.htm?referer=');">Knuckles South – Deanston, Corbett’s Gap &amp; Traditional Villages</a>2. Trail Guide: <a title="View complete trail guide" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/trails/trail-16-Mini-worlds-end-nature-trail-knuckles.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/trails/trail-16-Mini-worlds-end-nature-trail-knuckles.htm?referer=');">Mini world&#8217;s end trail from Deanston</a></p>
<p>3. Trail Guide: <a title="View related trail guide in Lakdasun" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/trails/trail-15-dothalugala-nature-trail-knuckles.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/trails/trail-15-dothalugala-nature-trail-knuckles.htm?referer=');">Dothalugala Nature Trail – Knuckles Range</a></p>
<p>4. <a title="View Tread on Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=300.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=300.0&amp;referer=');">Contact Numbers of Forest Department and Wildlife Deparment for Reservations</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Comments</strong></td>
<td>Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread</p>
<ul>
<li><a title="Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=3907.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=3907.0&amp;referer=');">Deanston, Mini World’s End and Everywhere Beautiful Along the way</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p>We started from Bambalapitiya Area and left Colombo at about 6.30am picking some of the crew on the way. We had breakfast from one of the many good places near Warakapola. Along the way we stopped at Kadugannawa and at the Road Construction Museum for some photos.</p>
<p><a name="pictures"></a></p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7239" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image003.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7239" title="The Bible Rock and the Temple - Kadugannawa" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image003.jpg" alt="The Bible Rock and the Temple - Kadugannawa" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The Bible Rock and the Temple - Kadugannawa</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7238" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image001.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7238" title="The Road Construction Museum" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image001.jpg" alt="The Road Construction Museum, Kadugannawa" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The Road Construction Museum (This is the first time any one of us got down at the place)</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>We stopped at Kandy to buy all our supplies, since it is necessary to take all the food items and kerosene to the Bungalow, due to all the stops it was about 11am when we reached Kandy. It is better to take all the supplies from here as there are no shops near the Deanston Area. (Hunnasgiriya town is the last place for resources, where a Fuel station is also present, but petrol is in short supply).</p>
<p>The A26 highway from Kandy to Mahiyangana is pretty scenic. We stopped at the Moragahamula Bride to have lunch. We had lunch on the abandoned old bridge which can be seen a little away from the main road. We also explored the surrounding area after lunch.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7241" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image011.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7241" title="The main road from the place we had lunch" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image011.jpg" alt="The main road from the place we had lunch" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The main road from the place we had lunch</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7240" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image009.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7240" title="The 180 degree reverse from previous photo" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image009.jpg" alt="The 180 degree reverse from previous photo" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The 180 degree reverse from previous photo</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7242" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image015.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7242" title="Our Ride" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image015.jpg" alt="Our Ride" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Our Ride</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7243" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image013.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7243" title="Exploring the Surrounding Area" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image013.jpg" alt="Exploring the Surrounding Area" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Exploring the Surrounding Area</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Afterwards we proceeded to Hunnasgiriya Town, from where we took the road to Loolwatta. The Deanston Conservation Centre is located about 8km away on this road.</p>
<p>The place is accessible by bus. To reach Hunnasgiriya either the Colombo to Kandy, Kandy to Mahiyangana bus combination or the Colombo to Mahiyangana bus should be taken. After getting down at Hunnasgiriya 616 Hunnasgiriya – Loolwatta bus must be taken. However this bus only operates. It leaves the Teldeniya depot at 12.30pm each day (Information can be obtained by calling the teldeniya depot).</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7244" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image021.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7244" title="Along the Hunnasgiriya - Loolwatta Road" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image021.jpg" alt="Along the Hunnasgiriya - Loolwatta Road" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Along the Hunnasgiriya - Loolwatta Road</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7245" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image019.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7245" title="Along the Hunnasgiriya - Loolwatta Road" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image019.jpg" alt="Along the Hunnasgiriya - Loolwatta Road" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Along the Hunnasgiriya - Loolwatta Road</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The Deanston Conservation Centre is a well maintained place. They have bunk beds to accommodate 10 people, and toilets in good condition. Clean bed sheets and pillow cases are provided for a small fee. There is also a cook, and cooking utensils including gas. However electricity may not be available during the whole day if there isn’t sufficient rain fall. During the time we visited electricity was available only from 6pm to 11pm. Kerosene lamps are available.</p>
<p>Since Mini World’s End is most beautiful at dawn we left the Bungalow at about 6am to start on the trail. The trail is well marked; therefore you would have to put in some effort if you are planning to get lost. After a cement bridge, a small lake and a forest patch, we had to go over a small fence to enter a trail through the pine trees. This trail leads straight to the Mini World’s End.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7246" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image024.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7246" title="we left the Bungalow at about 6am " src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image024.jpg" alt="we left the Bungalow at about 6am " width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">we left the Bungalow at about 6am</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7247" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image023.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7247" title="The trail is well marked" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image023.jpg" alt="The trail is well marked" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The trail is well marked</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7248" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image025.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7248" title="The View from Mini World's End" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image025.jpg" alt="The View from Mini World's End" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The View from Mini World&#39;s End</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7249" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image026.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7249" title="The View from Mini World's End" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image026.jpg" alt="The View from Mini World's End" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The View from Mini World&#39;s End</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7250" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image028.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7250" title="The View from Mini World's End" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image028.jpg" alt="The View from Mini World's End" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The View from Mini World&#39;s End</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7251" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image027.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7251 " title="image027" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image027.jpg" alt="  " width="400" height="295" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">.</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7252" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image032.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7252 " title="image032" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image032.jpg" alt="  " width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">.</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7253" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image030.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7253 " title="image030" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image030.jpg" alt="  " width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">.</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The view from Mini World’s End was pretty spectacular as shown in the photos. It is best to reach the viewpoint as early as possible as the view gets obstructed when too much sunlight is present.</p>
<p>After having breakfast at the Deanston Conservation Centre we took the trail to Dothalugala. There is a great natural pool formed by a falling waterfall there. A campsite has also been constructed with an elevated concrete foundation. Deanston Conservation Centre rents tents at Rs. 700 per day as well. The scenery is very beautiful. The hike to dothalugala is about 2.5km, the hike is moderately tough and again the presence of leeches was high. The campsite can also be reached by a 4&#215;4.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7254" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image034.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7254" title="Bathing at the Natural Pool" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image034.jpg" alt="Bathing at the Natural Pool" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Bathing at the Natural Pool</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7255" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image035.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7255" title="image035" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image035.jpg" alt="Bathing at the Natural Pool" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Bathing at the Natural Pool</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7256" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image036.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7256" title="Bathing at the Natural Pool" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image036.jpg" alt="Bathing at the Natural Pool" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Bathing at the Natural Pool</p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7257" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image040.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7257" title="Sceneries along the Dothalugala Hike" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image040.jpg" alt="Sceneries along the Dothalugala Hike" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Sceneries along the Dothalugala Hike</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7258" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image038.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7258" title="Sceneries along the Dothalugala Hike" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image038.jpg" alt="Sceneries along the Dothalugala Hike" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Sceneries along the Dothalugala Hike</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7259" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image039.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7259" title="Sceneries along the Dothalugala Hike" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image039.jpg" alt="Sceneries along the Dothalugala Hike" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Sceneries along the Dothalugala Hike</p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Afterwards we returned to Deanston Conservation Centre. After lunch (lunch was deliciously prepared and we too were pretty hungry after the hikes) we started our journey back.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7260" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image045.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7260" title="Around the Bungalow" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image045.jpg" alt="Around the Bungalow" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Around the Bungalow</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7261" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image043.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7261" title="The Place we stayed at" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/image043.jpg" alt="The Place we stayed at" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The Place we stayed at</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://trips.lakdasun.org/deanston-mini-worlds-end-and-everywhere-beautiful-along-the-way.htm/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Hike to Bambarakanda &amp; Lanka Ella waterfalls</title>
		<link>http://trips.lakdasun.org/hike-to-bambarakanda-lanka-ella-waterfalls.htm</link>
		<comments>http://trips.lakdasun.org/hike-to-bambarakanda-lanka-ella-waterfalls.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 21 Apr 2011 17:08:49 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>KasunDes</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2011]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[April]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dry Zone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mountains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Natural Bath]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photograhy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scenic Drive]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Two Days]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Waterfalls]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bambarakanda]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bambarakanda Falls]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kalupahana]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lanka Ella]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Top of Bambarakanda Falls]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://trips.lakdasun.org/?p=7119</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Our journey started from around 4.30 in the morning and we proceeded to Rathnapura where had the breakfast. After the breakfast we went to the Rathnapura Maha Saman Dewalaya. We spent a little time there and hit a road again. We went along A4 highway until we came to the Kalupahana junction and took a left turn towards the Bamabarakanda. After proceeding about 4.5 km we had the 1st sight of the Bambarakanda fall at a distance.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 15px;">
<table class="bordered">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Year and Month</strong></td>
<td>April 2011 (2nd &amp; 3rd)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Number of Days</strong></td>
<td>Two Day Trip</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Crew</strong></td>
<td>14 (between 22-28 years old)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Accommodation</strong></td>
<td><a title="More information and contact details of Bambarakanda rest on Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=309.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=309.0&amp;referer=');">Bambarakanda Rest</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Transport</strong></td>
<td>Mini Bus (force Tempo Traveler)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Activities</strong></td>
<td>Hiking, sightseeing, Photography, leisure</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Weather</strong></td>
<td><strong>Excellent</strong>No rain at all, bright and sunny.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Route</strong></td>
<td>Colombo -&gt; Rathnapura -&gt; Belihuloya -&gt; Kalupahana Junction(Return on the same route)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Tips, Notes and Special remarks</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li>Take some water when you go for the hike. There are few streams on the way but at some distance.</li>
<li>Some snacks would be needed</li>
<li>Bring back all plastic and polythene; do not put them here and there</li>
<li>Bamabarakanda fall is free of litter at the moment. Make sure it remains the same</li>
<li>Balangoda will be the last major town you pass by, so make sure you buy all what you need from Balangoda or Rathnapura</li>
<li>You don’t need a guide to go to the Bambarakanda falls and Lanka Ella. But For Lanka Ella ask the route from a local person and <strong>Do exactly as they sa</strong>y. Beyond Lanka Ella you may need a guide</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Author</strong></td>
<td><a title="View the profile of KasunDes" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1039" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=1039&amp;referer=');">KasunDes</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Related Resource</strong></td>
<td>1. Attraction: <a title="More information about Bambarakanda and the area around" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/attractions/attraction-05-bambarakanda-waterfalls-mountains-adventure-and-scenic-beauty.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/attractions/attraction-05-bambarakanda-waterfalls-mountains-adventure-and-scenic-beauty.htm?referer=');">Bambarakanda – Waterfalls, Mountains, adventure and scenic beauty</a>2. Trail Guides</p>
<ul>
<li><a title="View Lanka Ella Trail Guide" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/trails/trail-11-lanka-ella-falls-bambarakanda.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/trails/trail-11-lanka-ella-falls-bambarakanda.htm?referer=');">Trail to Lanka Ella Falls from Bambarakanda, Kalupahana</a></li>
<li><a title="Top of Bambarakanda Falls Trail Guide" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/trails/trail-12-top-of-bambarakanda-falls.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/trails/trail-12-top-of-bambarakanda-falls.htm?referer=');">Trail to The Top of Bambarakanda Falls, Kalupahana</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Comments</strong></td>
<td>Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread</p>
<ul>
<li><a title="Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=3869.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=3869.0&amp;referer=');">Hike to Bambarakanda &amp; Lanka Ella waterfalls</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p>Our journey started from around 4.30 in the morning and we proceeded to Rathnapura where had the breakfast. After the breakfast we went to the Rathnapura Maha Saman Dewalaya.</p>
<p><a name="pictures"></a></p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7120" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0042.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7120" title="Rathnapura Maha Saman Dewalaya" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0042.jpg" alt="Rathnapura Maha Saman Dewalaya" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Rathnapura Maha Saman Dewalaya</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7121" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0021.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7121" title="Rathnapura Maha Saman Dewalaya" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0021.jpg" alt="Rathnapura Maha Saman Dewalaya" width="400" height="242" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Rathnapura Maha Saman Dewalaya</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>We spent a little time there and hit a road again. We went along A4 highway until we came to the Kalupahana junction and took a left turn towards the Bamabarakanda. After proceeding about 4.5 km we had the 1st sight of the Bambarakanda fall at a distance.</p>
<div id="attachment_7122" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0061.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7122" title="View of the waterfall from the road" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0061.jpg" alt="View of the waterfall from the road" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">View of the waterfall from the road</p></div>
<p>Then we went to the Bambarakanda Rest and started our hike to the Bambarakanda falls. We took the directions from the caretaker lady at the Bambarakanda Rest. It was not a long and tiring hike, and at the end it was a pleasant surprise to see the natural base pool and have a cool bath, a direct shower from Sri Lanka’s highest waterfall. <img src='http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':-)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7123" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0082.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7123" title="Wild flowers on the way to the waterfall" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0082.jpg" alt="Wild flowers on the way to the waterfall" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Wild flowers on the way to the waterfall</p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7124" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0101.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7124" title="The base pool " src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0101.jpg" alt="The base pool " width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The base pool at the waterfall where you can have a direct shower from the waterfall (very exciting experience and no danger at all)</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7125" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0122.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7125" title="This is what you will see when look up from the bottom of the waterfall" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0122.jpg" alt="This is what you will see when look up from the bottom of the waterfall" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">This is what you will see when look up from the bottom of the waterfall</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>After having a nice cool dip in the water we decided to head back to our lodging place to watch the WC final match.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7126" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 393px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0142.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7126" title="Climbing down from the waterfall" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0142.jpg" alt="Climbing down from the waterfall" width="383" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Climbing down from the waterfall</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7127" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0162.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7127" title="The view of the waterfall " src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0162.jpg" alt="The view of the waterfall from the dining hall of Bambarakanda Rest" width="400" height="328" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The view of the waterfall from the dining hall of Bambarakanda Rest</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>On the next day morning we started our journey to the Lanka Ella and to the top of Bambarakanda. We took directions from the caretaker lady at Bambarakanda Rest. Now this was a bit harder journey compared to the previous day’s one, but still wasn’t too difficult.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7128" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 383px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0182.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7128" title="Through the pine forest…" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0182.jpg" alt="Through the pine forest…" width="373" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Through the pine forest…</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7129" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0202.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7129" title="Be cautious" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0202.jpg" alt="Be cautious when you walk through the pine forest" width="400" height="294" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Be cautious when you walk through the pine forest as the dry pine leaves can be very slippery….it’s very steep and rocky, can be dangerous if you slip.</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7130" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0222.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7130" title="Out of the pine forest and through the grass lands…" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0222.jpg" alt="Out of the pine forest and through the grass lands…" width="400" height="286" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Out of the pine forest and through the grass lands…</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7132" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0262.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7132" title="On the way to Lanka Ella" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0262.jpg" alt="On the way to Lanka Ella" width="400" height="279" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">On the way to Lanka Ella</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7131" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0242.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7131 " title="Two slopes…two shades…." src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0242.jpg" alt="Two slopes…two shades…." width="400" height="280" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Two slopes…two shades….</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7133" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0282.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7133" title="Ahhh… the 1st sight of Lanka Ella…" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0282.jpg" alt="Ahhh… the 1st sight of Lanka Ella…" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Ahhh… the 1st sight of Lanka Ella…</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7134" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0301.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7134" title="The spectacular “Lanka Ella”" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0301.jpg" alt="The spectacular “Lanka Ella”" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The spectacular “Lanka Ella”</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7135" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0321.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7135" title="The base pool at Lanka Ella" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0321.jpg" alt="The base pool at Lanka Ella" width="400" height="301" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The base pool at Lanka Ella which is shaped like the map of Sri Lanka (Avoid getting into this pool at any cost… heard it is very deep and dangerous. According to the villagers no one have returned from it)</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7136" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 408px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0341.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7136" title="Yet another unique creation of mother nature…" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0341.jpg" alt="Yet another unique creation of mother nature…" width="398" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Yet another unique creation of mother nature…</p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>After spending some time at the Lanka Ella we headed to the top of Bambarakanda falls. We had to return through the path we took to Lanka Ella some distance, turn left and climb more through the pine forest. Now this was the hardest part of the hike, but still not too tough. After climbing uphill we were at the summit level of the waterfall</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7137" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0361.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7137" title="The side view of the Bambarakanda Falls" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0361.jpg" alt="The side view of the Bambarakanda Falls" width="400" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The side view of the Bambarakanda Falls</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7138" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0381.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7138" title="The waterfall and the natural pool on top of the Bambarakanda falls" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0381.jpg" alt="The waterfall and the natural pool on top of the Bambarakanda falls" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The waterfall and the natural pool on top of the Bambarakanda falls</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7139" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0401.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7139" title="Getting ready for going down 790 feet" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0401.jpg" alt="Getting ready for going down 790 feet" width="400" height="301" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Getting ready for going down 790 feet - The cascading point of Sri Lanka’s highest waterfall… (Going to the edge would be dangerous, so mind your step)</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7140" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0421.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7140" title="View from top of the waterfall towards Haputhale mountain range" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0421.jpg" alt="View from top of the waterfall towards Haputhale mountain range" width="400" height="298" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">View from top of the waterfall towards Haputhale mountain range</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Spending some time at the top of Bambarakanda we decided to go for a bath. This time we went to a place which we were told by our lodge’s caretaker lady, a natural pool kind of a place down the stream. This meant we had to climb down the hill and go through the village…</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7141" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0441.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7141" title="Through the village and paddy fields…" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0441.jpg" alt="Through the village and paddy fields…" width="400" height="290" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Through the village and paddy fields…</p></div></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7142" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0461.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7142" title="The bathing place" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0461.jpg" alt="The bathing place" width="400" height="495" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The bathing place… Didn’t look exactly like how it was described by that lady… but still it was a beautiful place to have a dip.</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_7143" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0481.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-7143" title="Flowing down to join the “Walawe” river…" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/image0481.jpg" alt="Flowing down to join the “Walawe” river…" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Flowing down to join the “Walawe” river…</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://trips.lakdasun.org/hike-to-bambarakanda-lanka-ella-waterfalls.htm/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Hidden beauty of Seven falls (ඇලි හත), an Exciting hike through peak wilderness sanctuary in search of hidden seven waterfalls (Udamaliboda/Deraniyagala)</title>
		<link>http://trips.lakdasun.org/exciting-hike-peak-wilderness-sanctuary-seven-waterfalls-udamaliboda-deraniyagala.htm</link>
		<comments>http://trips.lakdasun.org/exciting-hike-peak-wilderness-sanctuary-seven-waterfalls-udamaliboda-deraniyagala.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 26 Nov 2010 17:17:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Charith Eranga</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2006]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[April]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Camping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mountains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photograhy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rain Forest]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Two Days]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Waterfalls]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wet Zone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Deraniyagala]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dikelidanda]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ihala Maliboda]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Maliboda]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Naya Ganga]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Peak wilderness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Seven Falls]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uda Maliboda]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://trips.lakdasun.org/?p=5218</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Seven waterfalls (ඇලි හත) is a collection of seven waterfalls at the upstream of Seethawaka ganga (tributary is called Naya ganga). Even though the access route is from Deraniyagala, seven falls belongs to Nuwaraeliya district and also all seven falls are inside the peak wilderness sanctuary. This exciting adventure will take you out of busy homosapiens to calm and cool virgin green forest with pure water streams. This story begins by year 1992, when I was around 10 years old I could barely remember one of my uncles told a story about hiking “Eli hatha” which was an epic adventurous tour with full of fear, courage and excitement]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 15px;">
<table class="bordered">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Year and Month</strong></td>
<td>April, 2006</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Number of Days</strong></td>
<td>2 day trip (could be 3 days depending on where you start)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Crew</strong></td>
<td>8 (between 23-25 years of age)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Accommodation</strong></td>
<td>Camping</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Transport</strong></td>
<td>From Deraniyagala to Udamaliboda SLTB Bus (or minivan) followed by walking</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Activities</strong></td>
<td>Waterfall hunting, Camping, Photography &amp; Hiking</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Weather</strong></td>
<td>Excellent<strong>January-April</strong>: best time<strong>Avoid heavy rainy seasons:</strong> April/May, July, September-November</p>
<p>Check the weather from locals. Since this is a journey all the way along the stream,  rain should be avoided</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Route</strong></td>
<td>Avissawella -&gt; Dehiowita -&gt; Deraniyagala -&gt;UdamalibodaAvissawella-Deraniyagala= 22 km, Deraniyagala-Udamaliboda= around 16 km</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Tips, Notes and Special remark</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li>Most important thing is that you should be at Udamaliboda at least before 8.00 am to get through all seven falls and to reach the top in a single day.</li>
<li><strong>Method 1</strong>: Buses up to Uda-Maliboda (First start at 6.15 am from Deraniyagala, Second around 7.30 am) Again to cover all 7 falls in the first day you need to get 6.15 am bus, worst case 7.30 am)</li>
<li><strong>Method 2</strong>: If you have a personal you can directly reach Udamaliboda, leave the vehicle at a local residence and start the journey.</li>
<li><strong>Method 3</strong>: Climb up to the 5th fall on the first day and the rest of the falls second day. This method would be good for someone comes from <span style="color: #ff0000;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">outside Deraniyagala</span></span>.</li>
<li><strong>Method 4</strong>: Find accommodation in a guest house for first night before the hike.</li>
<li>Make sure you bring all plastic back.</li>
<li>Have some <a title="Learn More about Leech Protection" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/tools-tips/leeches-preventive-socks-repellents-treatments.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/tools-tips/leeches-preventive-socks-repellents-treatments.htm?referer=');">Leech protection</a>. This is not a must since most part of this journey would be along the stream.</li>
<li>Water: streams can supply enough</li>
<li>Ask for directions from locals, but after 1st fall you need to manage your own. You just need to follow the stream.</li>
<li>Even though the route is not easy less possibility of getting lost. Guide is not a must but one would feel safer and reduce the adventure.</li>
<li><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>Most Important:</strong></span> <strong>Water levels can rise anytime. (sometimes 10 feet) Avoid camping on stream</strong></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Related Resources</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li><a title="View details of guides who can help you in this hike" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=1506.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=1506.0&amp;referer=');">Guide for the Udamaliboda-Sripada trail/ Eli hatha hike</a></li>
<li>Trip report: <a title="View Related Trip Report" href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/explore-the-beauty-of-seven-water-falls-udamaliboda-deraniyagala.htm" target="_blank">Explore the beauty of seven water falls (ඇළි හත) – Ihala-Maliboda (Udamaliboda), Deraniyagala</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Author</strong></td>
<td><a title="View Charith Eranga's Profile in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=760" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=760&amp;referer=');">Charith Eranga</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Comments</strong></td>
<td>Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread</p>
<ul>
<li><a title="Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=2801.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.org/forum/index.php?topic=2801.0&amp;referer=');">Hidden beauty of Seven falls (ඇලි හත), an Exciting hike through peak wilderness</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p>Seven waterfalls (ඇලි හත) is a collection of seven waterfalls at the upstream of Seethawaka ganga (tributary is called Naya ganga). Even though the access route is from Deraniyagala, seven falls belongs to Nuwaraeliya district and also all seven falls are inside the peak wilderness sanctuary. This exciting adventure will take you out of busy homosapiens to calm and cool virgin green forest with pure water streams.</p>
<p>This story begins by year 1992, when I was around 10 years old I could barely remember one of my uncles told a story about hiking “Eli hatha” which was an epic adventurous tour with full of fear, courage and excitement.</p>
<p>The idea of hiking Eli Hatha was deep inside my mind for years and years which came out to real in 2006 with the help of my friends.</p>
<p>We (the crew) came to Deraniyagala by the day before the hike. The first bus from Deraniyagala to udamaliboda starts at 6.15 a.m. It was 8 people and backpacks filled with food. We came to Udamaliboda around 7.30 a.m. It was a bright sunny morning with no sign of rain clouds. But rains can be expected at any time since it (April) was the starting period of showers.</p>
<p><a name="pictures"></a></p>
<div id="attachment_5219" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image00112.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5219" title="Udamaliboda final bus stop" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image00112.jpg" alt="Udamaliboda final bus stop" width="400" height="301" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Bus is Ready for departure at Udamaliboda final bus stop (samupakara Handiya)</p></div>
<p>From Udamaliboda we headed to the first fall. Directions were found with the help of local residents. In first 15 &#8211; 30 minutes of walking you will find the intersection for Adams peak trail (Uda Maliboda). After one to one and half hours walking the first glimpse of the first fall can be observed. Crew members were got excited with the beauty of first fall.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_5220" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image00311.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5220" title="Starting" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image00311.jpg" alt="Starting" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Starting</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_5221" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image00511.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5221" title="Water" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image00511.jpg" alt="Water" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Water</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Before starting the hike let’s look at the 1:50000 map for the seven falls.</p>
<div id="attachment_5222" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 610px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image00711.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5222 " title="1:50000 map for the seven falls" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image00711.jpg" alt="1:50000 map for the seven falls" width="600" height="450" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">1:50000 map for the seven falls (Click map to enlarge)</p></div>
<div id="attachment_5223" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image00911.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5223" title="First glimpse of the fall one" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image00911.jpg" alt="First glimpse of the fall one" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">First glimpse of the fall one</p></div>
<p>A mini hydro project is undergoing around first and the second falls. You can take the trail made by those workers up to the 2nd waterfall.</p>
<p>After the second fall you have to find your way. We always tried to hike along the stream. Sometimes we had to go through the forest, but didn’t go away far from the stream.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_5224" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image01110.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5224" title="Fall number 1 " src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image01110.jpg" alt="Fall number 1 " width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Fall number 1</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_5225" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0138.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5225" title="Fall number 2" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0138.jpg" alt="Fall number 2" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Fall number 2</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Fall number 3 was hard to access; therefore we decided to proceed to number 4</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_5226" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0158.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5226" title="Fall number 3" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0158.jpg" alt="Fall number 3" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Fall number 3</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_5227" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0177.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5227" title="Fall number 4" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0177.jpg" alt="Fall number 4" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Fall number 4</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_5229" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0196.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5229" title="Rocks are rocking" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0196.jpg" alt="Rocks are rocking" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Rocks are rocking</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_5228" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0216.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5228" title="Green" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0216.jpg" alt="Green" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Green</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_5230" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0237.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5230" title="Line of thirst" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0237.jpg" alt="Line of thirst" width="400" height="301" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Line of thirst</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_5231" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0257.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5231" title="Cascades" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0257.jpg" alt="Cascades" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Cascades</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_5232" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0277.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5232 " title="Fall number 5" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0277.jpg" alt="Fall number 5" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Fall number 5 - Hiking all the way up to fall number 5 is not difficult</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_5233" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0296.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5233" title="Falling (Fall number 6 and 7)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0296.jpg" alt="Falling (Fall number 6 and 7)" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Falling (Fall number 6 and 7)</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The most tricky and difficult part was climbing from 6 to top. And it’s very hard to access fall number 7. We climbed these two falls at once from the <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="color: #ff0000;">left</span></span> side of the stream.</p>
<p>At the top, the stream becomes calm and quit. We decided to camp at the top<br />
<strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"> Warning:</span></strong> it’s too too risky to camp on the stream in any season.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_5234" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0316.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5234 " title="Morning" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0316.jpg" alt="Morning" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Morning</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_5235" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0335.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5235" title="Cascades at the top of the seventh fall" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0335.jpg" alt="Cascades at the top of the seventh fall" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Cascades at the top of the seventh fall</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Hiking down</span></strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong><br />
In the second day we started coming back. We took the same route used for climbing up for all the way back. Coming back from seven to five is bit difficult. It just took four to five hours to reach the fall 1(starting point). According to the <a title="View Related Trip Report" href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/explore-the-beauty-of-seven-water-falls-udamaliboda-deraniyagala.htm" target="_blank">previous report on eli hatha</a> there is an another footpath. You can decide which way you could take depending on the crew and the time factor.</p>
<p>We did not know anything about the trail which has mentioned in his report. And also there were no guides with us.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_5236" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0355.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5236" title="Bambaragala will be on your left at the top of the seventh fall" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0355.jpg" alt="Bambaragala will be on your left at the top of the seventh fall" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Bambaragala will be on your left at the top of the seventh fall</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_5237" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0375.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5237" title="Silence" src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0375.jpg" alt="Silence" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Silence</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_5238" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0395.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-5238" title="All the way back " src="http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/image0395.jpg" alt="All the way back " width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">All the way back</p></div>
<p><strong>Return back:</strong><br />
The bus service from Udamaliboda to Deraniyagala in the late afternoon could not be guaranteed. If you are seeking public transportation, there will be tea transporters and minivans which could help you reach Deraniyagala. A minivan would be the best option from Udamaliboda to Deraniyagala. The last CTB bus leaves from Deraniyagala to Awissawella at <span style="color: #ff0000;">8.00 pm</span>. If you miss the 8.00 O’clock bus you need to hire a van up to Avissawella.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://trips.lakdasun.org/exciting-hike-peak-wilderness-sanctuary-seven-waterfalls-udamaliboda-deraniyagala.htm/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Explore the beauty of Pulmoddai and Arisimalai Beaches</title>
		<link>http://trips.lakdasun.org/explore-the-beauty-of-pulmoddai-and-arisimalai-beaches.htm</link>
		<comments>http://trips.lakdasun.org/explore-the-beauty-of-pulmoddai-and-arisimalai-beaches.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 15 Aug 2010 16:48:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Malaka 333</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2010]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[April]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dry Zone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Natural Bath]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photograhy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sand & Beach]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Two Days]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Arisimalai]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Batticaloa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pulmoddai]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://trips.lakdasun.com/?p=3946</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I started the journey from Colombo at mid night and arrived at Trincomalee at 6.30am in the following morning. At 8.00am there was a bus to Pulmoddai and I got in to that bus. After three hours I got down at Pulmoddai town. On the way I saw three great bridges that were newly constructed (Irrakkandi, Kuchchaveli and Yaan oya). I was unable to photograph those because the bus was fully crowded.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 15px;">
<table class="bordered">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Year and Month</strong></td>
<td>April 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Number of Days</strong></td>
<td>Two Day Trip</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Crew</strong></td>
<td>2 (Dhananjaya and me)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Accommodation</strong></td>
<td>quarters of Mineral Sands Lanka Limited.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Transport</strong></td>
<td>From Colombo to Pulmoddai by Bus and then to Mineral Sand Lanka Limited  and to the beach by foot.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Activities</strong></td>
<td>Photography, Bathing in the sea</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Weather</strong></td>
<td>Rained bit in first day and after that it was ok.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Route</strong></td>
<td>Colombo -&gt; Dambulla -&gt; Trincomalee -&gt; Pulmoddai and return on the same route.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Tips, Notes and Special remarks</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li>Whether  you go by bus or by your own vehicle, the above route is suitable. Good road conditions.</li>
<li>We couldn&#8217;t find any other  place to accommodation in Pulmoddai other than staying at the Mineral Sand lanka limited</li>
<li>You can visit Mineral Sands Ltd, but you have to get approval a week in advance.</li>
<li>It’s better if you can carry a water bottle for drinking.</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Author</strong></td>
<td><a title="View Malaka's Profile in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=823" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=823&amp;referer=');">Malaka 333</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Comments</strong></td>
<td>Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread</p>
<ul>
<li><a title="Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=2209.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=2209.0&amp;referer=');">Explore the beauty of Pulmoddai and Arisimalai Beaches</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<div id="attachment_3947" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 710px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0012.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0012.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3947" title="Map" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0012.jpg" alt="Purple:Pulmoddai beach         Green:Arisimalai beach     Orange:Path to Arisimalai beach" width="700" height="375" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Purple:Pulmoddai beach         Green:Arisimalai beach     Orange:Path to Arisimalai beach</p></div>
<p>I started the journey from Colombo at mid night and arrived at Trincomalee at 6.30am in the following morning. At 8.00am there was a bus to Pulmoddai and I got in to that bus. After three hours I got down at Pulmoddai town. On the way I saw three great bridges that were newly constructed (Irrakkandi, Kuchchaveli and Yaan oya). I was unable to photograph those because the bus was fully crowded.</p>
<p>At Pulmoddai town, I met my friend and we went to the Ilmanite factory (Mineral sands Lanka limited) premises. My friend was working there at the time and I had got the permission to visit the factory premises. In the afternoon I visited the factory, but they did not allow us to take photographs inside the factory premises.</p>
<p>In the evening two of us went to Arisimalai beach. It was very calm place with a small crowd.</p>
<p><a name="pictures"></a></p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3948" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0032.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0032.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3948" title="Arisimalai Beach- A pool created by rocks" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0032.jpg" alt="Arisimalai Beach- A pool created by rocks" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Arisimalai Beach- A pool created by rocks</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3949" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0052.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0052.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3949" title="“Arisi” is rice in Tamil" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0052.jpg" alt="“Arisi” is rice in Tamil. “Malai” is mountain in Tamil.  Arisimalai – The mountain full of rice  " width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">“Arisi” is rice in Tamil. “Malai” is mountain in Tamil.  Arisimalai – The mountain full of rice  </p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3950" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0072.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0072.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3950" title="Close view- the beach is filled with “Samba rice”. The sand like rice" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0072.jpg" alt="Close view- the beach is filled with “Samba rice”. The sand like rice" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Close view- the beach is filled with “Samba rice”. The sand like rice</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3951" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0092.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0092.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3951" title="When I walked on the beach I felt walking on a rice mat" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0092.jpg" alt="When I walked on the beach I felt walking on a rice mat" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">When I walked on the beach I felt walking on a rice mat</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3952" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0112.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0112.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3952" title="Arisimalai" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0112.jpg" alt="Arisimalao" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">According to legend, with the hair relic of lord Buddha, Thapassu and Bhalluka brothers left India in their ship. The ship was full of rice to be told in Sri Lanka. The ship was caught in a cyclone and drifted close to Pulmoddai where it hit a rock. The damaged ship drifted to this beach with rice. Therefore the beach was called “Arisimalai”. Two brothers survived reached inlands through “Yan Oya” and made “Girihandu Saaya” near Thiriyai.</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3953" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0132.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0132.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3953" title="Rocks in the Arisimalai beach" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0132.jpg" alt="Rocks in the Arisimalai beach" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Rocks in the Arisimalai beach</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3954" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0152.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0152.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3954" title="The Beach where Yan oya meets the ocean " src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0152.jpg" alt="The Beach where Yan oya meets the ocean " width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The Beach where Yan oya meets the ocean </p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3955" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0172.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0172.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3955" title="Wow… It feels like real rice" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0172.jpg" alt="Wow… It feels like real rice" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Wow… It feels like real rice</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>After enjoying a bath, we came to Pulmoddai beach passing the rocky beach.</p>
<p>It was late evening and fishermen had started to move out for fishing in their boats. The sand was totally black with valuable minerals like Ilmanite, Magnetite and Rootile. Those finer sands are separated based on density difference and Magnetic properties.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3956" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0192.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0192.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3956" title="the beach was totally black " src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0192.jpg" alt="the pulmudai beach was totally black " width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">the beach was totally black </p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3957" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0212.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0212.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3957" title="The rock border of Pulmoddai and Asirimalai beaches." src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0212.jpg" alt="The rock border of Pulmoddai and Asirimalai beaches." width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The rock border of Pulmoddai and Asirimalai beaches.</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3958" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0232.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0232.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3958" title="Deserted fishing sheds" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0232.jpg" alt="Deserted fishing sheds. Because this is “Warakan” season only few fishermen stay in these sheds" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Deserted fishing sheds. Because this is “Warakan” season only few fishermen stay in these sheds</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3959" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 343px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0252.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0252.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3959" title="There were two light towers to show the path to incoming ships" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0252.jpg" alt="There were two light towers to show the path to incoming ships" width="333" height="499" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">There were two light towers to show the path to incoming ships</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Ship must navigate between the two towers. Otherwise it will hit the rocks. There is Only one lane to enter the Pulmoddai jetty because of these large rocks. It is like a small natural tunnel in the sea. Only one ship can go at a time. After an LTTE attack in 1997(8th September) a ship drowned on its way. Because of that wreck, no ship can come to the jetty to load sand now.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3960" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0272.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0272.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3960" title="Two of us at the beach just before we jumped on to water!" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0272.jpg" alt="Two of us at the beach just before we jumped on to water!" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Two of us at the beach just before we jumped on to water!</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3961" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0292.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0292.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3961" title="Evening at Pulmoddai beach" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0292.jpg" alt="Evening at Pulmoddai beach" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Evening at Pulmoddai beach</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Pulmoodai also a very calm beach with light waves and is suitable for safe bathing. Next day morning was very colorful at the beach. But the cloudy sky did not allow the capture of any scenic image of the dawn.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3962" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0312.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0312.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3962" title="Dawn of a new day" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0312.jpg" alt="Dawn of a new day" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Dawn of a new day</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3963" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0332.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0332.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3963" title="Pulmoddai jetty" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0332.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Pulmoddai jetty – It was damaged due to an LTTE attack. Now people use it for fishing.</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3964" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0352.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0352.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3964" title="On the jetty" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0352.jpg" alt="On the jetty" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">On the jetty</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3965" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0372.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0372.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3965" title="Only a moment………" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0372.jpg" alt="Only a moment………" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Only a moment………</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3966" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0392.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0392.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3966" title="A swallow nest in the wall of the jetty  " src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0392.jpg" alt="A swallow nest in the wall of the jetty  " width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">A swallow nest in the wall of the jetty  </p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3967" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0412.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0412.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3967" title="From the jetty" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/image0412.jpg" alt="From the jetty" width="400" height="266" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">From the jetty</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>After bathing in the sea I visited the laboratories of the factory. At 2.00pm I left there and came to Trincomalee and then  to Colombo.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://trips.lakdasun.org/explore-the-beauty-of-pulmoddai-and-arisimalai-beaches.htm/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Sripada via Deraniyagala, Uda-Maliboda Trail</title>
		<link>http://trips.lakdasun.org/sripada-via-deraniyagala-uda-maliboda-trail.htm</link>
		<comments>http://trips.lakdasun.org/sripada-via-deraniyagala-uda-maliboda-trail.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 06 Jul 2010 16:22:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>mithila</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2010]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[April]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mountains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photograhy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rain Forest]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Three Days]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wet Zone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Adam's Peak]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Deraniyagala to Sripada]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sri Pada]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sripada-hatton]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://trips.lakdasun.com/?p=3435</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[After completing the three most traveled trails (Hatton-Nallathanni, Rathnapura-Palabaddhala and Kuruwita-Erathna) to SriPada my focus shifted towards the lesser known ones. The Uda-Maliboda trail from Deraniyagala was on the top of that list. I was looking out for more details on this trail and that is when the topic came in to discussion on the forum in the threads - Trail to Sri Pada from Uda Maliboda, Deraniyagala and Trail to sri pada to udamaliboda - Thanks to the discussions there I got all the information required and was wating to find some time to do the walk.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 15px;">
<table class="bordered">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Year and Month</strong></td>
<td>April 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Number of Days</strong></td>
<td>Three Day Trip</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Crew</strong></td>
<td>Its complicated ! &#8211; numbers varied from 8 &#8211; 16 depending on the phase of the trip including &#8220;Thihela&#8221; and &#8220;Thisath&#8221; who were just few months oldonly 12 people climbed Sri Pada (of course &#8220;Thihela&#8221; and &#8220;Thisath&#8221; stayed back with amma&#8217;s and achchi&#8217;s at Clune&#8217;s)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Accommodation</strong></td>
<td>First Night &#8211; <a title="More about Clunes Villa in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=527.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=527.0&amp;referer=');">Clunes Villa, Dehiowita</a>Second Night &#8211; took a short nap at the make shift shop at Galwangediya</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Transport</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li>Drove to Dehiowita (Clune&#8217;s Villa) from Colombo.</li>
<li>On the following mornign took the bus from Dehiowita to Deraniyagala and hired a Van to reach Pandeniya trail head.</li>
<li>Some unexpected road work made it impossible for the van to go all the way to Pandeniya which forced us to start walking earlier than expected. Luckily a canter truck came to rescue and dropped us at the trail head.</li>
<li><strong>The the next 17 km, our poor legs elevated us all the way to the Sripada summit and brought us back down to Nallthanni.</strong></li>
<li>From Nallathanni back to Clunes on Public transport and drove back to Colombo.</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Activities</strong></td>
<td>Hiking</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Weather</strong></td>
<td>It was quite all right, except the heavy rains experienced while on the most difficult part of the trail from Pandeniya to Kuruwita road.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Route</strong></td>
<td>Colombo -&gt; Dehiowita -&gt; Deraniyagala -&gt; Uda-Maliboda -&gt; Dik-ellekanda -&gt; Pandeniya -&gt; Heenpiduruthalawa -&gt; Sripada -&gt; Nallathannni -&gt; Hatton -&gt; Dehiowita -&gt; Colombo<a title="Download Google Earth Trail map of the trip" href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/kml/dehiowita-deraniyagala-sripada-nallathanni-hatton-dehiowita.kmz" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/kml/dehiowita-deraniyagala-sripada-nallathanni-hatton-dehiowita.kmz?referer=');">Download Google Earth Trail Map</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Tips, Notes and Special remarks</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li>Start from Pandeniya as early as possible</li>
<li>Remember that it is a 8km tough walk to reach the Erathna trail from Pandeniya, not 5km as indicated in the board.</li>
<li>Be rational when making decisions about crossing rivers on Deraniyagala route. Spending the night in the forest is not as bad as loosing your life to a rapid!</li>
<li>Leeches are there in thousands in Deraniyagala trail, <a title="Leech protection tips from Lakdasun" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/tools-tips/leeches-preventive-socks-repellents-treatments.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/tools-tips/leeches-preventive-socks-repellents-treatments.htm?referer=');">be prepared</a> for them.</li>
<li>Water is plentiful in Deraniyagala route but not so plentiful in Hatton route. So carry a small water bottle.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Photography by</strong>: Mithila, Prabhath and Maduranga</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Author</strong></td>
<td><a title="View Mithila's Profile on Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=1&amp;referer=');">Mithila</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Related Resource</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li>Trail Guide: <a title="Related Trail Guide in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/trails/deraniyagala-udamaliboda-ihala-maliboda-trail-to-sri-pada-adams-peak.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/trails/deraniyagala-udamaliboda-ihala-maliboda-trail-to-sri-pada-adams-peak.htm?referer=');">Deraniyagala, Udamaliboda (Ihala-Maliboda) Trail to Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak)</a></li>
<li>Trail Guide: <a title="Related Trail Guide in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/trails/trail-18-kuruwita-erathna-trail-to-adams-peak-sripada.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/trails/trail-18-kuruwita-erathna-trail-to-adams-peak-sripada.htm?referer=');">Kuruwita Erathna Trail to Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak)</a></li>
<li>Trail Guide: <a title="Related Trail Guide in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/trails/hatton-nallathanni-trail-to-sri-pada-adams-peak.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/trails/hatton-nallathanni-trail-to-sri-pada-adams-peak.htm?referer=');">Hatton, Nallathanni Trail to Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak)</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Comments</strong></td>
<td>Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread</p>
<ul>
<li><a title="Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=2004.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=2004.0&amp;referer=');">Sripada via Deraniyagala, Uda-Maliboda Trail</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p>After completing the three most traveled trails (<a title="View Trail Guide" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/trails/hatton-nallathanni-trail-to-sri-pada-adams-peak.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/trails/hatton-nallathanni-trail-to-sri-pada-adams-peak.htm?referer=');">Hatton-Nallathanni</a>, <a title="View Trail Guide" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/trails/trail-01-palabathgala-rathnapura-adams-peak.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/trails/trail-01-palabathgala-rathnapura-adams-peak.htm?referer=');">Rathnapura-Palabaddhala</a> and <a title="View Trail Guide" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/trails/trail-18-kuruwita-erathna-trail-to-adams-peak-sripada.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/trails/trail-18-kuruwita-erathna-trail-to-adams-peak-sripada.htm?referer=');">Kuruwita-Erathna</a>) to SriPada my focus shifted towards the lesser known ones. The Uda-Maliboda trail from Deraniyagala was on the top of that list. I was looking out for more details on this trail and that is when the topic came in to discussion on the forum in the threads &#8211; <a title="View Related Discussion in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=655.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=655.0&amp;referer=');">Trail to Sri Pada from Uda Maliboda, Deraniyagala</a> and <a title="View related discussion in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=1063.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=1063.0&amp;referer=');">Trail to sri pada to udamaliboda</a> &#8211; Thanks to the discussions there I got all the information required and was wating to find some time to do the walk. Finally the trip reports by Ashan (<a title="View Related Trip Report" href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/uda-maliboda-deraniyagala-erathna-trails-to-adams-peak.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/uda-maliboda-deraniyagala-erathna-trails-to-adams-peak.htm?referer=');">Uda Maliboda &amp; Erathna trails to Adams Peak</a>) and Charitha (<a title="View Related Trip Report" href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/sri-pada-via-udamaliboda-trail-deraniyagala.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/sri-pada-via-udamaliboda-trail-deraniyagala.htm?referer=');">Sri Pada via Udamaliboda trail, Deraniyagala</a>) pushed me to the point of no return and I started planing for the trip at the tail end of this years season <img src='http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':-)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p>Since I wanted to take the little one also as far as possible (not that far this time as he was only 3 months) the trip was planned to be a 2 night trip. We reserved<a title="More about Clunes villa" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=527.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=527.0&amp;referer=');"> clune&#8217;s villa at Dehiowita</a> and reached there on the Friday night. Leaving the kids, moms and grand parents there, the hiking group left clunes at 6.30 a.m. the following morning.</p>
<p>Clune&#8217;s villa is located in the Thalduwa Estate about 3km from the A7 main road. It took us nearly half and hour to reach the main road.  About 10 minutes later we boarded a &#8220;Deraniyagala&#8221; bus coming from Awissawella.</p>
<p><a name="pictures"></a></p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3442" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/1.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/1.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3442" title="Walking through the Rubber Estate" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/1.jpg" alt="Walking through the Rubber Estate" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Walking through the Rubber Estate .. if you are late you have to run <img src='http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':-)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3443" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/2.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/2.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3443" title="Deraniyagala Bus" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/2.jpg" alt="Deraniyagala Bus" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Deraniyagala Bus approaching...luckily we did not waste any time waiting for it.</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>By 8.00 a.m. we were at Deraniyagala. There were six more members waiting there with a van to take us to the trail head at Pandeniya. There is 21km to the trail head from Deraniyagala. You can find public transport to cover about 15km out of this up to the Uda-Maliboda tea factory. We chose not to take a risk with public transport because we very well knew that we had no time to waste. We had to start from the trail head as early as possible to avoid having to spend the night in the middle of the peak wilderness sanctuary <img src='http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':-)' class='wp-smiley' /> . Therefore after a quick breakfast at a Bakery nearby, we boarded the van and headed towards uda-maliboda.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3444" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/3.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/3.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3444" title="Gemi Rasa" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/3.jpg" alt="Gemi Rasa Bakery - Deraniyagala" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">&quot;Gemi Rasa&quot; Bakery, close to the bus stand, Deraniyagala.</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3445" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/4.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/4.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3445" title="Breakfast" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/4.jpg" alt="Breakfast at Deraniyagala" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">String hoppers, bread, parippu hodi &amp; pol sambal .... yum yum yum</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The van started to move along the narrow winding roads, climbing hills for the most part, towards uda-maliboda, Dik-eli-Kanda area which borders the peak wilderness sanctuary. The scenery along this road was magnificent.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3446" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/5.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/5.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3446" title="udamaliboda drive" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/5.jpg" alt="Udamaliboda drive, deraniyagala" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Magnificent scenery along the way to trail head</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3447" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/6.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/6.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3447" title="Clear water Stream" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/6.jpg" alt="Clear water Stream deraniyagala" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Many unbelievably clear streams and rivers like this one were seen on the way</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Passing the Uda-maliboda tea factory, the van took a sharp right turn towards Dik-eli-kanda village at the border of which the trail head is situated. 2.5km before the trail head, we faced an unexpected problem. A set of villagers have decided to repair a deteriorated section of the road (which is now in quite bad shape) and had dug a drentch in the middle of the road to install a humepipe. There was not way that the van could have passed that point. Suddenly we felt that our hike got lengthen by 2.5km. Without wasting any more time, the group started walking towards the trail head.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3450" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/7.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/7.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3450" title="Road work" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/7.jpg" alt="Road repair work - Udamaliboda" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">2.5kms got added to our hike in a matter of minutes <img src='http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':-)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3451" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/8.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/8.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3451" title="Walking to trail head" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/8.jpg" alt="Walking to adam's peak trail head Udamaliboda, Deraniyagala" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Without wasting time, we started to walk towards the trail head</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>After waitng for about half and hour, and may be walking 500m, we were lucky to be picked up by a canter truck. Without second thoughts we all jump in to the load area of the truck which took us to the trail head in no time.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3453" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/9.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/9.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3453" title="Truck" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/9.jpg" alt="Picked up by a canter truck" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">We were lucky to be picked up by a canter truck</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3454" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/10.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/10.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3454" title="At the trail head" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/10.jpg" alt="at the trail head sripada trail from udamaliboda deraniyagala" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">By 11.30 in the morning, we started our walk from the Pandeniya river crossing</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>As you can see in the above picture, there is a board with directions and distances at the trail head, on the bank of the Pandeniya river. To enter the trail, you have to cross the Pandeniya river at this place. While the board is useful to locate the trail head, later we found out that the distances indicated in that proved to be some what off</p>
<div id="attachment_3455" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/11.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/11.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3455 " title="Board at the trail head" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/11.jpg" alt="Distance board at the trail head neat pandeniya river" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Actually there is 12km to SriPada from here. Distance to Erathna road is 8km. Deraniyagala in only 21km as opposed to 24km indicated here.</p></div>
<p>At 11.30 in the morning, we started our walk from the Pandeniya river. As per the board, it was only 5km to Erathna road. Our first target was to reach Erathna road before dusk. We knew very well (thanks to Charitha) that if we don&#8217;t reach Erathna road before it is dark we will be stuck in the middle of the jungle for the whole night. Still it was just 5km as per the board so we had plenty of time in hand. Therefore we leisurely crossed the river and started walking in to the thick forest on the opposite bank</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3456" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/12.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/12.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3456" title="Crossing Pandeniya River" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/12.jpg" alt="Crossing Pandeniya River" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Crossing Pandeniya River</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3457" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/13.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/13.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3457" title="Pandeniya Rivera" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/13.jpg" alt="Pandeniya Rivera" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Beautiful view of Pandeniya River seen as we crossed the it.</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The trail was tough as expected. There were steep ascends to tackle and the underfoot conditions were rough. Leeches were there in thousands if not in millions <img src='http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':-)' class='wp-smiley' />  The area is rich in water flow. As we climbed up and around the Heen Piduruthalawa mountain, we crossed a countless number of streams of all sizes. The walk was tiring but wasn&#8217;t too bad until it started to rain somewhat hard. Even though we went prepared for the rain, it multiplied the leech density and made the trail slippery making it even tougher for us to tackle.</p>
<p>From the past trip reports, we knew that we have to cross the upper reaches of Kuruganga at a point closer to the Erathna trail so that was the major milestone we all were hoping to reach as early as possible. We knew that from there it was only about 1km to the Erathna trail so as per the calculation done based on the distances indicated in the direction board at the trail head, the kuru ganga (or seetha gangula) was only 4km away.</p>
<p>After some walking, the ODO meter of my GPS indicated 4km without any signs of the river. It ticked 5km and 6km still with no river of the expected size in the vicinity. By this time it was later afternoon and we had only few hours of day light left. Did we miss the trail by any chance? Some level of doubt came to our minds. We had two options, either we could continue along the trail or turn back. We quickly concluded that turning back will not us take us back to civilization before it is dark. Also the geography and the water flow we encountered and the terrain ahead suggested that we are heading a shallow valley where there is a high possibility of finding a fair size river flowing along that. So we decided to continue.</p>
<p>With in the next half and hour, we reached the Kuruganga. I could recognise the place immeidately thanks to the pictures posted in the trip reports I read before the hike. Everyone was so happy that we reached our first major milestone. The GPS read 6.9km at this point.</p>
<p>The continuation of the trail on the other side of Kuruganga is not right opposite to the point we reached the river. Again thanks to the trip reports we knew this in advance and managed to locate the continuation of the trail on the opposite bank about 25m upstream without any problem.</p>
<p>Once on the opposite bank, it was an easy walk up to the Erathna trail. By the time we reached Erathna Trail it was almost dark. The total distance read 8km from the trail head which proved to us that the board at the trail head was wrong. It was a close call <img src='http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':-)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3460" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/14.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/14.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3460" title="Thick Forest" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/14.jpg" alt="Thick Forest of Deraniyagala Sripada trail" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The trail was through the tick forest from the very begining</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3461" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/15.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/15.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3461" title="Not Many Easy Sections" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/15.jpg" alt="Deraniyagala Udamaliboda trail to Sripada" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">There weren&#39;t many easy sections like this</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_3462" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 610px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/16w.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/16w.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3462" title="Water Fall" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/16w.jpg" alt="Water fall in Udamaliboda Trail to SriPada" width="600" height="337" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The area was rich in waterflow. There were many streams and waterfalls like this one</p></div>
<div id="attachment_3463" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 610px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/17w.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/17w.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3463" title="Difficult Walk" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/17w.jpg" alt="Difficult walk over wet rocks deraniyagla trail to Sripada" width="600" height="337" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">There were many smaller streams to cross between the two major rivers. With the rain it became somewhat a difficult task.</p></div>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3464" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/18.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/18.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3464" title="Raining in Thick Forest" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/18.jpg" alt="Raining in thick forest, deraniyagala trail to SriPada" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">When it rains inside the thick forest, the forest became gloomy and somewhat spooky <img src='http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':-)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3465" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/19.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/19.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3465" title="Natural Water" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/19.jpg" alt="Drinking from a stream Deraniyagla trail to Sripada" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Natural drinking water, straight from the source minus the plastic bottle</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3466" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/20.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/20.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3466" title="Crossing Kuruganga" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/20.jpg" alt="Crossing kuruganga or seethagangula on Deraniyagla Trail" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Finally, crossing seethagangula (kuruganga) just over 1km to Erathna trail from here.</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3467" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/21.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/21.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3467" title="At Erathna Trail" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/21.jpg" alt="At Erathna Trail to Sripada" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">It was almost dark when we reached Erathna Trail. It was not an easy walk</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Once on the Erathna trail, it was a continuous climb. At least now the trail is broad, supported and lit up. So we reduced our phase and reached the Galwangediya rest place at around 9.30 p.m. As it was the final climb (Mahagiridamba) that was remaining from this place, we decided to grab something to eat and have a rest until early hours of the following day so that we can reach the summit on time to see the Sunrise.</p>
<p>3.30 in the morning the following day, we started the final ascend. We reached the summit just in time to witness the sunrise. It was a cloudy day and therefore the sunrise was not seen clearly. Still once the surrounding was fully lit-up, were able to witness an unbelievably beautiful sight of the clouds moving around the forest covered mountains creating a magical display.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3469" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/22.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/22.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3469" title="Started early hours" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/22.jpg" alt="climbing mahagiridamba sripada early morning" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Early hours of the following day, we started the final lap to the summit</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3470" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/23.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/23.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3470" title="Dawn from Sripada" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/23.jpg" alt="Dawn as seen from Sripada" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The twilight zone, Bena Samanala and kunudiya parwatha are the two prominent peaks.</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3471" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/24.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/24.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3471" title="The veil of clouds approaching" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/24.jpg" alt="The veil of clouds approaching the mountains sripada" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The veil of clouds approaching......</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3472" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/25.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/25.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3472" title="Its all covered in a matter of minutes" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/25.jpg" alt="Its all covered in a matter of minutes" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Its all covered in a matter of minutes</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3473" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/26.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/26.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3473" title="Display Starts" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/26.jpg" alt="Display of clouds Sripada adam's peak" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The display starts with clouds rolling over forest covered peaks</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3474" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/27.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/27.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3474" title="The Spectacular display continues" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/27.jpg" alt="The Spectacular display continues" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The spectacular display continues.......</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3475" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/28.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/28.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3475" title="Until everything goes under the sea of clouds again" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/28.jpg" alt="Until everything goes under the sea of clouds again" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Until everything goes under the sea of clouds again</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3476" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/29.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/29.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3476" title="Display is over in a matter of minutes" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/29.jpg" alt="Cold clear morning at adam's peak summit" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Display is over in a matter of minutes. Its all clear and COLD now</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>at around 7 in the morning we started our descend along the Hatton route. We reached Nallathanni around 1 p.m. and got in to a Hatton bus. From Hatton we managed to get in to a crowded bus heading Colombo, got down at Dehiowita and reached Clune&#8217;s around 6.00 p.m. On the same night we reached Colombo at around 9.00 p.m.</p>
<div id="attachment_3478" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/30.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/30.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3478" title="we started our descend along the Hatton route" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/30.jpg" alt="we started our descend along the Hatton route" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">we started our descend along the Hatton route</p></div>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3477" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/31.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/31.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3477" title="Bird's eye view of the hatton route" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/31.jpg" alt="Bird's eye view of the hatton route from the adam's peak summit" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Bird&#39;s eye view of the hatton route from the adam&#39;s peak summit. The tiny temple in the bottom right is the &quot;Sama Viharaya&quot; up to which point it is a tough descend on this route.</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3479" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/32.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/32.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3479" title="Sama Viharaya" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/32.jpg" alt="Sama viharaya on Hatton Route" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Sama Viharaya marks the end of the tough descend along the Hatton route. From here its an easy walk to Nallathanni. If you climb along this route, this is where the real ascend starts</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><strong>a short video clip created by Maduranga.</strong></p>
<p><object width="480" height="385" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/DtZ8C57S7bE&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><embed width="480" height="385" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/DtZ8C57S7bE&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1" allowFullScreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" /></object></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://trips.lakdasun.org/sripada-via-deraniyagala-uda-maliboda-trail.htm/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Aberdeen – The most beautiful location in the valley of Kehelgamuwa oya</title>
		<link>http://trips.lakdasun.org/aberdeen-the-most-beautiful-location-in-the-valley-of-kehelgamuwa-oya.htm</link>
		<comments>http://trips.lakdasun.org/aberdeen-the-most-beautiful-location-in-the-valley-of-kehelgamuwa-oya.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 22 May 2010 16:12:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>viraj</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2010]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[April]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mountains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Natural Bath]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[One Day]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photograhy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Waterfalls]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wet Zone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Aberdeen Falls]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dehigasthenna]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ginigathhena]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Norton Bridge]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://trips.lakdasun.com/?p=3124</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Our van moved slowly since the road was narrow and hilly. The condition of the road was un-expectably good. (It seemed to be repaired recently). The sky was covered with crowns of wet zoned trees. We had moved more than 3km. along a by road starting from Ginigathhena. In the next moment, we were free from the shades of trees and came to an open area surrounded by a tea plantation. Then we notice a silver string laying on black dress in a distance. That was the Aberdeen fall; the most beautiful place in the Kehelgamuwa River]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 15px;">
<table class="bordered">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Year and Month</strong></td>
<td>April, 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Number of Days</strong></td>
<td>One Day</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Crew</strong></td>
<td>8 (between 4 -45 years of age) 3 female</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Accommodation</strong></td>
<td>N/A</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Transport</strong></td>
<td>Van ( Nissan vannete)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Activities</strong></td>
<td>Photography, Exploring waterfalls, Natural bathing</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Weather</strong></td>
<td>Sunny morning with rainy afternoon</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Route</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li>Colombo / Veyangoda -&gt; Ginigathhena -&gt; Ella-uda road -&gt; Dehigasthenna village -&gt;trekking for a distance of 2km</li>
<li><strong>Alternative Route</strong> Colombo -&gt; Nortonbridge -&gt; Kalaweldeniya road (3rd mile post) -&gt; trekking for a distance of 1km</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Tips, Notes and Special remarks</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li>If you wish to use the route we used, the existing road condition is not too bad. It can be managed even by a car with high ground clearance. (Marui 800 is ok. It has an average ground clearance, but short wheel base</li>
<li>It’s wise to <a title="Learn more about Leeches – Preventive Socks, Repellents and Treatments" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/tools-tips/leeches-preventive-socks-repellents-treatments.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/tools-tips/leeches-preventive-socks-repellents-treatments.htm?referer=');">be prepared for leech attacks</a>.</li>
<li>Keep at least an umbrella with you because it’s possible to have sudden rains though the day seems to be sunny.</li>
<li>It’s better if you can carry a stock of water at least for drinking purpose.</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Related Resource</strong></td>
<td>Trip Planing Thread &#8211; <a title="View Related Discussion in Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=1572.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=1572.0&amp;referer=');">Aberdeen fall</a>Discussion: <a title="View related discussion: Waterfalls near Sri Pada on Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=420.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=420.0&amp;referer=');">More waterfalls around Sri Pada area</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Author</strong></td>
<td><a title="View Viraj's profile in Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=618" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=618&amp;referer=');">Viraj</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Comments</strong></td>
<td>Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread</p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a title="Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=1805.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=1805.0&amp;referer=');"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Aberdeen &#8211; The most beautiful location in the valley of Kehelgamuwa oya</span></a></span></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p>Our van moved slowly since the road was narrow and hilly. The condition of the road was un-expectably good. (It seemed to be repaired recently). The sky was covered with crowns of wet zoned trees. We had moved more than 3km. along a by road starting from Ginigathhena. In the next moment, we were free from the shades of trees and came to an open area surrounded by a tea plantation. Then we notice a silver string laying on black dress in a distance. That was the Aberdeen fall; the most beautiful place in the Kehelgamuwa River. <a name="pictures"></a></p>
<div id="attachment_3125" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0017.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0017.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3125" title="junction where this information board was located" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0017.jpg" alt="First we turned from the junction where this information board was located, but a villager asked us to use Dehigastenna road starting from Ginegathhena town. " width="400" height="287" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">First we turned from the junction where this information board was located, but a villager asked us to use Dehigastenna road starting from Ginegathhena town.</p></div>
<p>The place where the fall was visible in distance was known as the “Hulan wanguwa” (windy bend). We were waiting there for 15 minutes, and left for Dehigastenna village because we could not find wind even at windy bend.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3126" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0038.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0038.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3126" title="we were free from the shades of trees and came to an open area in a tea plantation" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0038.jpg" alt="we were free from the shades of trees and came to an open area in a tea plantation" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">we were free from the shades of trees and came to an open area in a tea plantation</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3127" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0058.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0058.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3127" title="we notice a silver string laying on black dress in a distance" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0058.jpg" alt="we notice a silver string laying on black dress in a distance" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">we notice a silver string laying on black dress in a distance</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3128" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0078.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0078.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3128" title="That was the Aberdeen fall" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0078.jpg" alt="That was the Aberdeen fall; the most beautiful place in the Kehelgamuwa River" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">That was the Aberdeen fall; the most beautiful place in the Kehelgamuwa River</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3129" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0098.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0098.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3129" title="The worse area of the road was not more than 100m in length" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0098.jpg" alt="The worse area of the road was not more than 100m in length" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The worse area of the road was not more than 100m in length</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Dehigastenna junction was only consisted with 2~3 boutiques and a bus halting shed. Only one boutique was opened. When I asked for blue-soap, the merchant replied not to worry of leaches in such a sunny day. (At the end of the day, we realized that he was wrong. if we were on his words, we would be in a grate trouble)</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3130" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0118.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0118.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3130" title="Dehihasthenna" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0118.jpg" alt="Dehihasthenna" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Dehihasthenna</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3131" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0138.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0138.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3131" title="There was a stepped path down wards led to the temple" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0138.jpg" alt="There was a stepped path down wards led to the temple" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">There was a stepped path down wards led to the temple</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>There was a stepped path down wards led to the temple. We took the same. As usual, dog guides (two) were there. It was a grate help to us since we had to turn to a foot path in the next five minutes. It took nearly 45 minutes in that trekking to reach the base of the waterfall.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3132" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0158.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0158.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3132" title="Walking…walking…." src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0158.jpg" alt="Walking…walking…." width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Walking…walking….</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3133" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0178.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0178.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3133" title="we had to turn to a foot path in the next five minutes" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0178.jpg" alt="we had to turn to a foot path in the next five minutes" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">we had to turn to a foot path in the next five minutes</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_3134" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0198.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0198.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3134" title="A bridge on our way" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0198.jpg" alt="A bridge on our way" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">A bridge on our way</p></div>
<p>This water fall was located in the Kehelgamuwa mountain range. The stream given the birth to this water fall was known as the Kehelgamuwa oya. Afterwards it joined with the Maskeli River, main tributary of the Kelani River. The falls was cascaded in to several parts. To get the full view you had to see it from a distance (Such as Hulan wanguwa). At the base, you could view the final cascade on a colorful rock face like a lined painting.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3135" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0218.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0218.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3135" title="First sight of the water fall" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0218.jpg" alt="First sight of the water fall" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">First sight of the water fall</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3136" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0238.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0238.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3136" title="Base pool" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0238.jpg" alt="Aberdeen Base pool" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Base pool</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3137" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0258.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0258.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3137" title="The poor waterfall" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0258.jpg" alt="The poor waterfall" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The poor waterfall</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3138" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0277.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0277.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3138" title="Close up of the upper part of the final cascade" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0277.jpg" alt="Close up of the upper part of the final cascade" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Close up of the upper part of the final cascade</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Norton bridge reservoir built over the Aberdeen waterfall under the Laxapana project had decreased the water flow of Kehelgamuwa River significantly. As a result of that, the poor waterfall had become thin like an Indian saree in that much of dry season.</p>
<div id="attachment_3139" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0297.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0297.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3139" title="Aberdeen fall" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0297.jpg" alt="Aberdeen fall" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Aberdeen fall</p></div>
<p>The base pool was partly filled with sand. Since the quick sand action could be occurred, it was not safe for bathing in the base pool or walking in the edges of sand even in dry seasons. Having local’s opinion, we went to the middle of the base pool walking in the sallow water along the middle of the harden sand. It was a nice photogenic moment.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3140" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0317.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0317.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3140" title="Colorful rock face like a lined painting." src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0317.jpg" alt="Colorful rock face like a lined painting." width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Colorful rock face like a lined painting.</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3141" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0337.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0337.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3141" title="we went to the middle of the base pool walking" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0337.jpg" alt="we went to the middle of the base pool walking" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">we went to the middle of the base pool walking in the sallow water along the middle of the harden sand</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The waterfall could be accessed from both banks of the valley. There was an observation platform for who accessed from Norton bridge side.</p>
<div id="attachment_3142" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0356.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0356.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3142" title="observation platform " src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0356.jpg" alt="There was an observation platform for those who accessed from Norton bridge side" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">There was an observation platform for those who accessed from Norton bridge side</p></div>
<p>Since our Lakdasun friends warned us, we were not tried to dip in the base pool. But in the next moment, a heavy shower occurred to get all of us wet. The water flow increased rapidly. Since a thunder occurred nearby reminded us to take our move, we started walking upwards in rain.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3143" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0376.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0376.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3143" title="It was a nice photogenic moment" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0376.jpg" alt="It was a nice photogenic moment" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">It was a nice photogenic moment</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3144" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0396.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0396.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3144" title="Just before our move" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0396.jpg" alt="Just before our move" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Just before our move</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Reaching Dehigastenna back, we offered some foods &amp; biscuits to the guide dogs who were with us even in that rain. Actually they were real friends of human being.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3145" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0415.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0415.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3145" title="Dehigastenna" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0415.jpg" alt="Dehigastenna" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Dehigastenna</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3146" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0435.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0435.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3146" title="Two guides " src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0435.jpg" alt="Two guides " width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Two guides <img src='http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':-)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3147" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0455.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0455.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3147" title="Valley of Kehelgamuwa oya" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0455.jpg" alt="Valley of Kehelgamuwa oya - On our way back to Ginigathhena" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Valley of Kehelgamuwa oya - On our way back to Ginigathhena</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_3148" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0474.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0474.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-3148" title="Valley of Kehelgamuwa oya 2" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/image0474.jpg" alt="Valley of Kehelgamuwa oya - On our way back to Ginigathhena" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Valley of Kehelgamuwa oya - On our way back to Ginigathhena</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://trips.lakdasun.org/aberdeen-the-most-beautiful-location-in-the-valley-of-kehelgamuwa-oya.htm/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Heaven On Earth (Knuckles &#8211; Illukkumbura, Reverstan)</title>
		<link>http://trips.lakdasun.org/heaven-on-earth-knuckles-illukkumbura-reverstan.htm</link>
		<comments>http://trips.lakdasun.org/heaven-on-earth-knuckles-illukkumbura-reverstan.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 02 May 2010 15:32:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>ashan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2010]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[April]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Birds]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dry Zone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mountains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[National Park]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Natural Bath]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photograhy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scenic Drive]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Two Days]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Waterfalls]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bambarakiri Ella]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Etanwala]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Illukkumbura]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Knuckles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pitawala]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pitawala Pathana]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Raththota]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ratninda]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ratninda Ella]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Reversturn]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wedda Pani Ella]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://trips.lakdasun.com/?p=2807</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I was bit worried because I couldn’t do a trip to knuckles but luck was on my side our guys decided to go on a trip &#038; asked me a place to go  ! After doing the reservations from Baththaramulla we left on an early morning from Colombo to reach Mathale at around 10a.m where we bought all the stuff we needed &#038; lunch packets. We then continued our journey towards Rattota in search of Bambarakiri Falls (fed by water streams of knuckles mountain range).]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 15px;">
<table class="bordered">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Year and Month</strong></td>
<td>April, 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Number of Days</strong></td>
<td>Two day trip</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Crew</strong></td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Accommodation</strong></td>
<td><a title="Read more about Telgamuoya forest bungalow in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=1659.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=1659.0&amp;referer=');">Telgamu oya forest bungalow</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Transport</strong></td>
<td>Hired van</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Activities</strong></td>
<td>Hiking, Photography &amp; Waterfall hunting!</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Weather</strong></td>
<td>Clear sky’s until 12 noon afterwards on and off showers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Route</strong></td>
<td>Colombo -&gt; Mathale -&gt; Rattota -&gt; Reverstan -&gt; Illukkumbura-&gt; Telgamu Oya-&gt; Rathninda -&gt; Etanwala -&gt; Pitawala -&gt; Mathale -&gt; Colombo</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Tips, Notes and Special remark</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li>Do not carry Plastic items (Minimize), Make sure you bring back everything you took</li>
<li>Ask directions from locals if necessary!</li>
<li><a title="Learn More about Leech Protection" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/tools-tips/leeches-preventive-socks-repellents-treatments.htm" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/tools-tips/leeches-preventive-socks-repellents-treatments.htm?referer=');">Leech protection</a> needed</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Photographs</strong> by Group Members</p>
<p><strong>Special Thanks</strong> to <a title="Mithila's Profile in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=1&amp;referer=');">Mithila</a> &amp; <a title="Weli's profile in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=49" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=49&amp;referer=');">Weli</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Related Resources</strong></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li>Discussion: <a title="View Related discussion in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=738.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=738.0&amp;referer=');">knuckels trip</a></li>
<li>Discussion: <a title="View Related discussion in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=544.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=544.0&amp;referer=');">Reverstan, Pitawala Pathana, Maningala, Thelgamu-Oya &amp; Sera Ella</a></li>
<li>Discussion: <a title="View Related Discussion in Lakdasun forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=739.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=739.0&amp;referer=');">Capacity of Illukkumbura Forest Dormitory</a></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Local Guide: <a title="View more information about a local guide in the area" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=1662.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=1662.0&amp;referer=');">Sarath Dasanayake &#8211; a guide available at illukumbura bunglow</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Author</strong></td>
<td><a title="View Ahsan's profile on Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=473" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?action=profile_u=473&amp;referer=');">Ashan</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Comments</strong></td>
<td>Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum on the thread</p>
<ul>
<li><a title="Discuss this trip report, provide feedback or make suggestions at Lakdasun Forum" href="http://www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=1678.0" target="_blank" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/www.lakdasun.com/forum/index.php?topic=1678.0&amp;referer=');">Heaven On Earth (Knuckles – Illukkumbura, Reverstan)</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p>I was bit worried because I couldn’t do a trip to knuckles but luck was on my side our guys decided to go on a trip &amp; asked me a place to go <img src='http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':-)' class='wp-smiley' />  ! After doing the reservations from Baththaramulla, we left on an early morning from Colombo to reach Mathale at around 10 a.m. where we bought all the stuff we needed &amp; lunch packets.</p>
<p>We then continued our journey towards Rattota in search of Bambarakiri Falls (fed by water streams of knuckles mountain range). The fall is close to the Ilukumbura road near the Bambarakiri Falls bend, which is 1-2Km past Rattota town. There is another waterfall called Kuda Bambarakiri fall which can be reached after crossing over the suspension bridge and traveling further 50meters to the right side! Please do note 17 have lost their lives at this location. After enjoying the view of Maha(10m) &amp; Kuda Bambarakiri(6m) Falls we left towards Reverstan.</p>
<p><a name="pictures"></a></p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2809" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/1-Suspension-bridge-near-Ba.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/1-Suspension-bridge-near-Ba.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2809" title="Suspension bridge near Bambarakiri Falls" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/1-Suspension-bridge-near-Ba.jpg" alt="Suspension bridge near Bambarakiri Falls" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Suspension bridge near Bambarakiri Falls</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2810" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/2-Maha-Bambarakiri-EllaRat.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/2-Maha-Bambarakiri-EllaRat.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2810" title="Maha Bambarakiri Ella(Raththota)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/2-Maha-Bambarakiri-EllaRat.jpg" alt="Maha Bambarakiri Ella(Raththota)" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Maha Bambarakiri Ella(Raththota)</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2811" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/3-Maha-Bambarakiri-EllaRat.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/3-Maha-Bambarakiri-EllaRat.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2811" title="Maha Bambarakiri Ella(Raththota) close up" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/3-Maha-Bambarakiri-EllaRat.jpg" alt="Maha Bambarakiri Ella(Raththota) close up" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Maha Bambarakiri Ella(Raththota) close up</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2812" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/5-Kuda-Bambarakiri-EllaRat.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/5-Kuda-Bambarakiri-EllaRat.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2812" title="Kuda Bambarakiri Ella(Raththota)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/5-Kuda-Bambarakiri-EllaRat.jpg" alt="Kuda Bambarakiri Ella(Raththota)" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Kuda Bambarakiri Ella(Raththota)</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_2813" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/4-lower-part.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/4-lower-part.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2813" title=" lower part" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/4-lower-part.jpg" alt=" lower part" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text"> lower part</p></div>
<p>The 1.5Km walk was an easy walk but unfortunately the scenery was not clear because of the mist! I was really looking forward to feel the breeze at the Reverstan “Hulang Kapolla” but it was not much windy like the previous visit! We rushed back quickly because it started to drizzle and off we went towards Pitawala. We had to abandon our plans to visit Pitawala Savanna because of bad weather conditions. We reached Telgamu Oya bungalow at around 2p.m and had a good rest after having lunch. The thought of bathing in the Telgamu Oya was shattered with the continuous rain, in the end it was a wise decision (after few hours the river was roaring in high velocity). Rest of the day was spent solely by resting (Lazy crew)</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2814" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/6-Path-to-the-topof-Reverst.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/6-Path-to-the-topof-Reverst.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2814" title=" Path to the topof Reverstan" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/6-Path-to-the-topof-Reverst.jpg" alt=" Path to the topof Reverstan" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text"> Path to the topof Reverstan</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2815" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/7-Sadagala-mountain-range.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/7-Sadagala-mountain-range.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2815" title="Sadagala mountain range" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/7-Sadagala-mountain-range.jpg" alt="Sadagala mountain range" width="400" height="267" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Sadagala mountain range</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_2816" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 729px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/8-Scenery-from-the-top-of-R.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/8-Scenery-from-the-top-of-R.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2816" title="Scenery from the top of Reverstan" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/8-Scenery-from-the-top-of-R.jpg" alt="Scenery from the top of Reverstan" width="719" height="371" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Scenery from the top of Reverstan</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2817" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 730px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/9-More-peaks.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/9-More-peaks.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2817" title="More peaks" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/9-More-peaks.jpg" alt="More peaks of the Knuckles Range" width="720" height="261" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">More peaks of the Knuckles Range</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2818" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 728px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/10-Maningala-seen-from-Reve.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/10-Maningala-seen-from-Reve.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2818" title="Maningala seen from Reverstan" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/10-Maningala-seen-from-Reve.jpg" alt="Maningala seen from Reverstan" width="718" height="220" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Maningala seen from Reverstan</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2819" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 729px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/11-Rathinda-Etanwala-padd.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/11-Rathinda-Etanwala-padd.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2819" title="Rathinda &amp; Etanwala paddy fields" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/11-Rathinda-Etanwala-padd.jpg" alt="Rathinda &amp; Etanwala paddy fields" width="719" height="205" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Rathinda &amp; Etanwala paddy fields</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2820" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 728px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/12-anothe-view-of-Rathinda-.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/12-anothe-view-of-Rathinda-.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2820" title="anothe view of Rathinda &amp; Etanwala paddy fields" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/12-anothe-view-of-Rathinda-.jpg" alt="anothe view of Rathinda &amp; Etanwala paddy fields" width="718" height="264" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">anothe view of Rathinda &amp; Etanwala paddy fields</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2821" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/13-Pink.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/13-Pink.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2821" title="Pink" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/13-Pink.jpg" alt="Pink" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Pink</p></div>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2822" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/14-The-tower-at-the-summit-.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/14-The-tower-at-the-summit-.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2822" title="The tower at the summit point" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/14-The-tower-at-the-summit-.jpg" alt="The tower at the summit point Reverstan Knuckles" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The tower at the summit point</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2823" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 336px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/15-macro.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/15-macro.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2823" title="Macro" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/15-macro.jpg" alt="Macro" width="326" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Macro</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2824" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/16-Telgamu-Oya.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/16-Telgamu-Oya.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2824" title=" Telgamu Oya" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/16-Telgamu-Oya.jpg" alt=" Telgamu Oya" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text"> Telgamu Oya</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2825" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 399px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/18-Telgamu-Oya-@-Dawn.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/18-Telgamu-Oya-_-Dawn.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2825" title="Telgamu Oya @ Dusk" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/18-Telgamu-Oya-@-Dawn.jpg" alt="Telgamu Oya @ Dusk" width="389" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Telgamu Oya @ Dusk</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_2826" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 399px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/18-Telgamu-Oya-@-Dawn1.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/18-Telgamu-Oya-_-Dawn1.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2826" title="Telgamu Oya @ Dawn" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/18-Telgamu-Oya-@-Dawn1.jpg" alt="Telgamu Oya @ Dawn" width="389" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Telgamu Oya @ Dawn</p></div>
<p>Next day at around 6 a.m, I got in to a three-wheeler and went in search of two waterfalls with the aid of the forest guide to Rathninda village. I strongly recommend visiting Rathninda village as early as possible because the views are spectacular! I really loved the view of the paddy fields at the base of Maningla &amp; the distant view of “Thun His Gala” &amp; “Sadagala” mountain range. The road condition is not good after Rathninda but there is another road close to Illukumbura which is shorter and under repair these days.</p>
<p>My first destination was “Wedda Peni Ella” (5m tall, formed by Telgamu Oya which starts from Kirigalpoththa) which is in Etanwala just below the bridge! There is no clear path to the base and there are plenty of leeches.</p>
<p>Afterwards it was Rathninda falls that was on my list which is found just before Rathninda , it is a water stream starting from the Kirimatiya mountain and is about 30meters tall the upper part cannot be visualized to the base of the fall! Unfortunately the waterfall was bit dried up so couldn’t capture the full flowing fall <img src='http://trips.lakdasun.org/wp/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_sad.gif' alt=':-(' class='wp-smiley' />  . Please note it will be a problem in the future because they are building a private hotel for foreigners and do not allow people to access this waterfall trough their land (I talked myself in). In that case you will have to go upstream from the stream which passes the road! After the early morning adventure I returned back at 8a.m. and had to take a tough decision in choosing between Sera Ella (3hour journey) or Pitawala (1 hour journey) because our guys wanted to leave as early as possible.</p>
<div id="attachment_2827" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/19-On-the-way-to-Rathninda.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/19-On-the-way-to-Rathninda.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2827" title="On the way to Rathninda" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/19-On-the-way-to-Rathninda.jpg" alt="On the way to Rathninda" width="400" height="259" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">On the way to Rathninda</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2828" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 730px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/20-As-seen-from-Rathninda.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/20-As-seen-from-Rathninda.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2828" title="As seen from Rathninda" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/20-As-seen-from-Rathninda.jpg" alt="As seen from Rathninda" width="720" height="315" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">As seen from Rathninda</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2829" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/21-Pitawala-pathana-seen-fr.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/21-Pitawala-pathana-seen-fr.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2829" title="Pitawala pathana seen from Rathinda" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/21-Pitawala-pathana-seen-fr.jpg" alt="Pitawala pathana seen from Rathinda" width="400" height="296" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Pitawala pathana seen from Rathinda</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2830" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 728px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/22-Didnt-have-a-good-camera.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/22-Didnt-have-a-good-camera.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2830" title="Didn't have a good camera" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/22-Didnt-have-a-good-camera.jpg" alt="Didn't have a good camera" width="718" height="315" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Didn&#39;t have a good camera</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2831" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/23-Below-the-Etanwala-bridg.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/23-Below-the-Etanwala-bridg.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2831" title=" Below the Etanwala bridge" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/23-Below-the-Etanwala-bridg.jpg" alt=" Below the Etanwala bridge" width="400" height="255" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text"> Below the Etanwala bridge</p></div>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2832" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/24-Top-of-Wedda-Pani-Ella.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/24-Top-of-Wedda-Pani-Ella.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2832" title="Top of Wedda Pani Ella" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/24-Top-of-Wedda-Pani-Ella.jpg" alt="Top of Wedda Pani Ella" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Top of Wedda Pani Ella</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2833" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/25-Wedda-Pani-Ella-Etanwal.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/25-Wedda-Pani-Ella-Etanwal.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2833" title="Wedda Pani Ella( Etanwala)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/25-Wedda-Pani-Ella-Etanwal.jpg" alt="Wedda Pani Ella( Etanwala)" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Wedda Pani Ella( Etanwala)</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2834" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 391px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/26-Rathinda-Ella-distant-vi.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/26-Rathinda-Ella-distant-vi.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2834" title="Rathinda Ella distant view" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/26-Rathinda-Ella-distant-vi.jpg" alt="Rathinda Ella distant view" width="381" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Rathinda Ella distant view</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2835" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/27-Rathinda-Ella-distant-vi.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/27-Rathinda-Ella-distant-vi.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2835" title=" Rathinda Ella distant view(Zoomed)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/27-Rathinda-Ella-distant-vi.jpg" alt=" Rathinda Ella distant view(Zoomed)" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text"> Rathinda Ella distant view(Zoomed)</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2836" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/28-Rathinda-Ella-lower-part.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/28-Rathinda-Ella-lower-part.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2836" title="Rathinda Ella lower part" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/28-Rathinda-Ella-lower-part.jpg" alt="Rathinda Ella lower part" width="400" height="438" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Rathinda Ella lower part</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2837" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/29-Rathinda-Ella-lower-part.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/29-Rathinda-Ella-lower-part.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2837" title="Rathinda Ella lower part(zoomed)" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/29-Rathinda-Ella-lower-part.jpg" alt="Rathinda Ella lower part(zoomed)" width="400" height="362" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Rathinda Ella lower part(zoomed)</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Since the skies were clear we decided to go to Pitawala and the 750meter walk towards Mini Worlds end was worth and the view was spectacular. I was looking for a distant waterfall which is said to be seen from Pitawala Pathana called Pathana Ella (100”) but couldn’t locate it! According to the guide it is a very difficult hike!</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2838" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 381px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/30-big-foot.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/30-big-foot.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2838" title="big foot" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/30-big-foot.jpg" alt="big foot" width="371" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">big foot</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2839" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 339px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/32-Scenic-Pitawala.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/32-Scenic-Pitawala.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2839" title="Scenic Pitawala" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/32-Scenic-Pitawala.jpg" alt="Scenic Pitawala" width="329" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Scenic Pitawala</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_2840" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 726px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/31-Pitawala-Savanna.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/31-Pitawala-Savanna.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2840" title=" Pitawala Savanna" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/31-Pitawala-Savanna.jpg" alt=" Pitawala Savanna" width="716" height="333" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text"> Pitawala Savanna</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2841" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 729px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/33-Maningala-seen-from-Pita.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/33-Maningala-seen-from-Pita.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2841" title="Maningala seen from Pitawala" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/33-Maningala-seen-from-Pita.jpg" alt="Maningala seen from Pitawala" width="719" height="340" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Maningala seen from Pitawala</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2842" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 729px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/34-Knuckles-mountain-range-.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/34-Knuckles-mountain-range-.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2842" title=" Knuckles mountain range with the Reverstan tower in its second peak" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/34-Knuckles-mountain-range-.jpg" alt=" Knuckles mountain range with the Reverstan tower in its second peak" width="719" height="319" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text"> Knuckles mountain range with the Reverstan tower in its second peak</p></div>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2843" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/35-The-Peak.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/35-The-Peak.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2843" title="The Peak" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/35-The-Peak.jpg" alt="The Peak" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The Peak</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2844" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/36-An-obsevation-deck.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/36-An-obsevation-deck.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2844" title="An obsevation deck" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/36-An-obsevation-deck.jpg" alt="An obsevation deck" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">An obsevation deck</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_2845" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 728px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/37-View-from-Mini-worlds-en.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/37-View-from-Mini-worlds-en.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2845" title="View from Mini worlds end @ Pitawala" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/37-View-from-Mini-worlds-en.jpg" alt="View from Mini worlds end @ Pitawala" width="718" height="405" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">View from Mini worlds end @ Pitawala</p></div>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2846" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/38-another-cliff.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/38-another-cliff.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2846" title="another cliff" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/38-another-cliff.jpg" alt="another cliff" width="400" height="319" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">another cliff</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2847" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/39-good-for-rock-climbing.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/39-good-for-rock-climbing.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2847" title="good for rock climbing" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/39-good-for-rock-climbing.jpg" alt="good for rock climbing" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">good for rock climbing</p></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2848" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/40-another-observation-poin.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/40-another-observation-poin.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2848" title="another observation point and scenery" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/40-another-observation-poin.jpg" alt="another observation point and scenery" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">another observation point and scenery</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2849" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/41-Trees-were-so-small.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/41-Trees-were-so-small.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2849" title="Trees were so small" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/41-Trees-were-so-small.jpg" alt="Trees were so small" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Trees were so small</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_2850" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 729px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/42-Wonderfull-sight.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/42-Wonderfull-sight.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2850" title="Wonderfull sight" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/42-Wonderfull-sight.jpg" alt="Wonderfull sight" width="719" height="372" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Wonderfull sight</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2851" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 729px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/43-feel-like-flying.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/43-feel-like-flying.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2851" title="feel like flying" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/43-feel-like-flying.jpg" alt="feel like flying" width="719" height="389" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">feel like flying</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2852" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/44-More-peaks.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/44-More-peaks.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2852" title="More peaks" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/44-More-peaks.jpg" alt="More peaks" width="400" height="273" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">More peaks</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2853" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 729px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/45-Simply-fantastic.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/45-Simply-fantastic.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2853" title="Simply fantastic" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/45-Simply-fantastic.jpg" alt="Simply fantastic" width="719" height="365" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Simply fantastic</p></div>
<p>After returning back to the bungalow we had a nice time at Telgamu Oya followed by a nicely cooked lunch! I found a hidden waterfall which ends up at Telgamu Oya just 50meters upstream on the left bank from where the bungalow is. We left the bungalow at around 1p.m. On the way just before Reverston We stopped at a bend where you can see a wide range of Mountains, Ex: Lakegaka(far away) , Maningala, Kalupahana, Thun His Gala, Sadagala, Kirigalpoththa, etc  and we even spotted Kalupahana Dhuvili Elli crashing down in many steps.</p>
<div id="attachment_2854" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/46-A-small-waterfall-ending.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/46-A-small-waterfall-ending.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2854" title="A small waterfall ending at telgamu oya" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/46-A-small-waterfall-ending.jpg" alt="A small waterfall ending at telgamu oya" width="400" height="267" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">A small waterfall ending at telgamu oya</p></div>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2855" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/47-The-hidden-waterfall.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/47-The-hidden-waterfall.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2855" title="The hidden waterfall" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/47-The-hidden-waterfall.jpg" alt="The hidden waterfall" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The hidden waterfall</p></div></td>
<td>
<p><div id="attachment_2856" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 385px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/48-The-hidden-waterfall-upp.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/48-The-hidden-waterfall-upp.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2856" title="The hidden waterfall upper part" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/48-The-hidden-waterfall-upp.jpg" alt="The hidden waterfall upper part" width="375" height="500" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The hidden waterfall upper part</p></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div id="attachment_2857" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 729px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/49-So-natural.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/49-So-natural.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2857" title=" So natural" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/49-So-natural.jpg" alt=" So natural" width="719" height="366" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text"> So natural</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2858" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 727px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/50-Scenic-Knuckles-mountain.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/50-Scenic-Knuckles-mountain.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2858" title="Scenic Knuckles mountain peaks seen from the road" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/50-Scenic-Knuckles-mountain.jpg" alt="Scenic Knuckles mountain peaks seen from the road" width="717" height="252" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Scenic Knuckles mountain peaks seen from the road</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2859" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 410px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/51-The-Illukumbura-road.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/51-The-Illukumbura-road.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2859" title="The Illukumbura road" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/51-The-Illukumbura-road.jpg" alt="The Illukumbura road" width="400" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The Illukumbura road</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2860" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 730px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/54-Pitawala-pathana-on-the-.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/54-Pitawala-pathana-on-the-.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2860" title="Pitawala pathana on the left" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/54-Pitawala-pathana-on-the-.jpg" alt="Pitawala pathana on the left" width="720" height="378" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Pitawala pathana on the left</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2861" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 730px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/55-Panorama.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/55-Panorama.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2861" title="Panorama" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/55-Panorama.jpg" alt="Panorama" width="720" height="187" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Panorama</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2862" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 728px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/56-Maningala-Dhuvili-ella-.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/56-Maningala-Dhuvili-ella-.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2862" title="Maningala, Dhuvili ella and Thun his gala" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/56-Maningala-Dhuvili-ella-.jpg" alt="Maningala, Dhuvili ella and Thun his gala" width="718" height="369" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Maningala, Dhuvili ella and Thun his gala</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2863" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 730px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/57-My-favourite-Maningala.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/57-My-favourite-Maningala.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2863" title="My favourite Maningala" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/57-My-favourite-Maningala.jpg" alt="My favourite Maningala" width="720" height="405" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">My favourite Maningala</p></div>
<p>Hope you’ll enjoyed reading my travel reports during the past few months. This is the final report from me for a while. I will be back! Adios!!!</p>
<div id="attachment_2864" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 610px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Details.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Details.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2864" title="For more details " src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Details.jpg" alt="For more details " width="600" height="600" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">For more details (Click Image to Enlarge)</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2865" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 610px"><a href="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/0-The-Map.jpg" onclick="pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/0-The-Map.jpg?referer=');"><img class="size-full wp-image-2865" title="The-Map" src="http://trips.lakdasun.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/0-The-Map.jpg" alt="Map Kuda Bambarakiri Ella, Reverstan Peak, Pitawala Savanna, Rathninda Falls, Wedda Peni Ella " width="600" height="350" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Dark blue=Kuda Bambarakiri Ella | Light Blue=Maha Bambarakiri Ella | Red=Reverstan Peak | Green=Pitawala Savanna | Purple=Rathninda Falls | Orange=Wedda Peni Ella | Brown=Hidden waterfall near Telgamu Oya bungalow</p></div>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://trips.lakdasun.org/heaven-on-earth-knuckles-illukkumbura-reverstan.htm/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss>

