This was our annual trip of school friends in 2008. One of our friends who works at CEB got an appointment as an Operation Engineer at Laxapana Power Generation Complex and he invited us to come there for 2008 annual trip since there are lot of things to see which we never experienced.

He arranged accommodation and other necessary things for us.

Day 1

We started our journey on 11th December around 5.00pm from Colombo. First day our destination was Laxapana Circuit Bungalow and we reached there by 11.00 pm with several stops in between; several security checkups were there since we were entering in to a high security zone and War was at peak during that time.

By the time we reached there we were very hungry and dinner was already waiting for us.

Kalugala Junction – Turn right from A07 Avissawella - Hatton road	“Laxapana” Circuit Bungalow
Seven Virgins – View from Laxapana bungalow

Day2

Because of our great friend we got a very rare & valuable opportunity which general public will never be allowed; which is a boat ride on “Maussakele” reservoir. This is the only reservoir in Sri Lanka which is directly fed from 4 waterfalls.

Hearing the specialty of the ride, we all got up early in the morning and got ready for the journey with great enthusiasm. We left the bungalow by 6.30am right after breakfast. It is about a 40 minutes drive from Laxapana to Maussakele through a narrow road (which is very similar to Riverston road from Mathale.) The fantastic view of “SAPTHA KANYA” (Seven Virgins) mountain range will be available throughout the journey. When we were reached Maussakele boats were ready for the journey.

There were 2 boats, 1 is from CEB and other is from SL NAVY. Since it is early morning the crowd who were in 1st boat got another rare opportunity. The water was so calm and they could see a clear shadow of Sri-Pada on water.

Mirror….

“Moussakele” in the morning

Entire boat ride was about 2 hours and we could see following water falls.

• Gartmore Ella (which can be seen from fishing hut as well
• Mooray Ella
• Lower section of Mohini Ella (on your way to Nallathanniya you could see the upper section on your right hand side.)
• Another anonymous waterfall

Rare Scenery : Gartmore Ella(Left), Moray Ella(Right)

1st one : Gartmore Ella

Closest Possible - Gartmore Ella

2nd one : Mooray Ella

Mohini Ella – Upper Section

3rd one : Mohini Ella – Lower Section

4th one : Anonymous, But beautiful

Other than that we could see closer view of Sri-Pada, the Kovil which was under the water, back side of the Maskeliya town and several tea estates. If you are travelling during the rainy season you could see several temporary waterfalls on surrounding mountains.

Closer View of Sri-Pada

After having this great boat ride we went to the “Saman Devalaya” which is next to Reservoir dam.

In the evening our plan was to visit Laxapana water fall.

Between Laxapana and Maussakale there is a junction called ‘Double Cut’ where the only ‘0th’ mile post in Sri Lanka is located.

The only ‘0’th mile post at “Double Cut” Junction

“Saptha Kanya” from another angle

The view of the area is breathtaking on your way to Laxapana, and you could clearly see the rock where the most tragic plan crash occurred on Saptha Kanya mountain range.

My father has gone to visit that ‘plane crash’ when he was young and he collected those newspapers for us to read in the future, and thanks should go to him!

Where the Plane Crash happened in 1974-12-04

My Father has collected all the News papers related to this accident (Click Image to Enlarge)

In the evening we went to visit Laxapana falls.

Laxapana falls in different angles	Laxapana falls in different angles
Laxapana falls in different angles	Breathtaking…

Day 3
The plan for the next morning was to visit Aberdeen falls. But suddenly our friend told that gates of “Canion” reservoir are going to open for an urgent maintenance work which will increase the water level of Laxapana falls. We cancelled all our plans and rushed to Laxapana before the gates are opened. But unfortunately we couldn’t reach the waterfall before that, but we could see the water flowing under the bridge which is located beneath the Seven Virgins mountain range and before the Laxapana falls.

We coudnt reach Laxapana Falls before it comes

Laxapana – After opening the gates

Laxapana – After opening the gates

Then we went to the “Aberdeen” falls and on our way back we stopped at Norton bridge town where you could visit another 2 important things.

1. The D. J. Wimalasurendra power plant (gratitude to father of hydro power in Sri Lanka)
2. Tyre of the crashed plane

“Aberdeen” falls

Nature Creations

Remainders of a Sarrowfull Memory

In the evening we went to Hatton to visit another 2 important places. Those are ‘Singimale’ tunnel (559.75m) which is the longest railway tunnel in Sri Lanka. This tunnel is at 5 minutes walk from Hatton station and you need to buy “Pandam” to walk through the tunnel. Houses at both the sides of the tunnel are selling Pandam(10/= each) for pedestrians. It was a very nice experience to walk in the tunnel with dim light.

The 2nd important thing is at the other side of the tunnel which is the largest tea plant in Sri Lanka. According to the worker we met there a single worker needs 1 full day to pluck tea from the entire tree. Weight of the crop would be around 20kg – 25kg at a time. But now this tree is abandoned.

Singimale Tunnel

After visiting all these places we came back to the Moussakale bungalow. During the night we had a singing session as usual before going to sleep.

School day Friendship

Next day morning we came back home and had a nice bath at Kithulgala.

Thank You!

This was one of the best hikes we experienced so far and on the other hand a good example on how the travelers will have to survive the consequences caused by unavoidable delays.

I have done the same hike in 2002 with my school friends and this is after 6 years of that.

We were planning to start our trip at 12.00Noon from Colombo. Due to some unavoidable situations it was delayed for 2 hours and finally we left Colombo by 2.00PM. We took the low-level road and unfortunately there was heavy traffic at Orugodawaththa since construction of the flyover was taking place and we had to wait almost 1 hour there. After so many delays we were able to come to Rathnapura by 6.30 PM and still had a lot of things to be bought from Cargills. By the time we started the journey again we knew that we won’t have time to cook our dinner and decided to buy dinner from Balangoda town.

We turned left from A4, Colombo – Badulla road to Hirikatuoya camp site somewhere around 162km post (1.5km – 2km after the Belihuloya Rest house) and from there we had another 5.7 km to our 1st day destination. But the time was 10.30PM.
After several obstacles we were able to reach our day 1 destination by 11.00 PM. By that time the care taker has gone home assuming that we would not arrive on that night.

.	From A4 road to camp site 5.7 KM

‘Hirikatuoya’ Camp Site

Scenery…

Next day morning our plan was to get the breakfast & lunch prepared with the help of the care taker. Since he was not there we had to go to the main road to buy food for both breakfast & lunch. Group of people went back to main road (A4) while others were getting ready for the great hike. Bad luck was at its worst for us during the trip. When we were coming back the wooden bridge between camp site and main road was repairing by estate workers and we had to wait there another 1 hour till they give us a temporary solution to pass it.

The Wooden Bridge, we were given a temporary solution	‘Hirikatuoya’, from misty mountains…
Marvelous creation of nature	Scenery on the way to Non Pareil tea factory

Finally we came back to camp site with necessary food items for the hike. Then all of us got in to the van and went up to the Non Pareil estate Tea factory. From camp site to tea factory was another 9km and view of the surroundings was fantastic.

Beyond this place vehicles are not allowed (with prior approval you can go if you have a 4X4 vehicle) and therefore we started our hike (We told driver to go to ‘Maha Eliya’ bungalow via Ohiya). From the tea factory it is 15km to World’s End. We started our hike at 11.30AM. Fortunately we met an estate worker and he said “මහත්තයා short cut වලින් ගියොත් 7km, මම පාර පෙන්නන්නන්.” But we didn’t believe him because reducing 8kms was not seemed to be possible.

Non Pareil tea factory, where we started our hike. From here 15km to World’s End	.
Breathtaking…	Little Break

After several hours we were able to reach Bekar’s bend and view from there is marvelous. In a clear day you can see up to the Southern coastal line.

The famous Bekar’s bend - Click Image to Enlarge

Clear view of Samanalawewa

At the ‘Nagrak’ we had our lunch. From ‘Nagrak’ there is another route to Bogawanthalawa side.

Where we had lunch

Breathtaking…

After having little rest at ‘Nagrak’ we started our journey and came to the upper end of the Non Pareil Estate.

“Garden of the God”, View from the garden of manager’s bungalow at upper end of Non Pareil Estate	Bloomed for Sun
Bloomed for Sun

From here the jungle is thick, and another 3km to go.

In thick jungle…

Above all…

After 5 hours of journey we were able to come to our destination. Estate worker was correct. We were able to reduced 8km using shortcuts.

Breathtaking…	Hills and Clouds
Climax….	The way behind. Non Pareil tea factory where we started our hike marked in red circle. Finally travel distance is 6.99km, walking time 2h & 24mins, Waiting time 2h & 44mins
We made it…

Have a safe and enjoyable trip!!!

Few of my friends decided to go on a trip to Badulla by train, in December 2008. We had to travel by the night mail train because we were not enough lucky to reserve tickets for an early one. We got into the train at Veyangoda station at about 9.15 pm on 19/12/2008.

It was 6.00 am the following day when we reached Pattipola which was the most elevated railway station from the sea level, in Sri Lanka.

The train was delayed at Pattipola until clearing of a fallen tree in between Pattipola & Ohiya stations.

Accommodation was arranged for us at Hali Ela, a small hilly town located few Kilometers off from Badulla. Therefore we got off from the train at Haliela at about 9.30 am.

The train was delayed at Pattipola until clearing of a fallen tree at the railway track

Haliela, memorizing a railway station in colonial era

Day 2: Journey to Dunhinda fall.

Rasika one of our friend in Badulla had arranged our accommodation at HaliEla. It was a very beautiful place surrounded by misty hills.

Having a short rest there, we decided to visit Dunhinda, the most popular waterfall in Sri Lanka. Since we used public transport service (Bus) that day, it was 8.30pm when we reached back.

Dunhinda, probably the most popular waterfall in Sri Lanka

Day 3: Journey to Bogoda Temple & railway node at Demodara.

At 8.30 am the vehicle was at our door step. Our first target was to see the oldest surviving wooden bridge of the world located at Bogoda where about 15km far from Badulla. As per the Loku Hamuduruwo (Chief Monk) there, the bridge was located at the ancient route from Badulla to kandy and it had been used as an Ambalama (a resting place for pedestrians / travelers) for hundreds of years.

Direction to Bogoda	the oldest surviving wooden bridge in the world
Walking through the bridge	The stream with ice-cooled water

There was a tunnel used by King Walagambahu and the temple claimed to be originated by him. How ever the Sangawasaya (building provided accommodation for Monks) said to be built in Kandy era.

Main entrance of the Sangawasaya ( Built in Kandy era )

House of statues which consisted an unusual “Makara thorana”

Afterwards we went to see the famous node of the railway track at Demodara. We could walk along the railway track to experience the excellence of locomotive engineering.

Demodara railway station	Walking along the railway track ( around the hill )
The railway station is located above this tunnel	Be aware of the railway time schedule….
The iron bridge at Demodara. ( Don’t get mess-up with famous nine arched bridge)	Foot path from rail track to the station.

Before having our lunch, we had a bath in the cool water stream at Hali Ela which was originated from cool & misty ranges at Bandarawela.

In the evening, as the last event of the day, we visited the famous Muthiyangana Viharaya Buddhist temple located at Badulla town.

Day 3: Exploring Bandarawela & Haputale.

Dowa temple at Bandarawela was our first travel location of the day. It could be identified as the most popular historic temple at Bandarawela.

Dowa temple @ Bandarawela

Statue at Dowa temple

Our next travel location was the Adisham.

Quote:
Adisham bungalow is located with a distance of 4km from Haputale, a misty town in the southern edge of the Central range of mountain in SriLanka. It was built by Sir Thomas Lister Villiers, who was a grandson of Lord John Russell, twice prime minister of Britain.

While Sir Thomas was being the chairman of George Steuart Company, he built the Adisham as his dream house in an idyllic site at Haputale, surrounded by virgin forest and commanding views across hills and valleys.

The house was designed in the Tudor style, on the lines of Leeds Castle in Kent, with stout granite walls of locally quarried stone, long, narrow turret windows and chimneys.The roof was covered with flat Burma teak shingles. The doors, windows, paneling, staircase and floors were all of Burma teak. The lay-out of the garden was also British.

Today’s Adisham is primarily a monastery, where a few monks follow a schedule of prayer, meditation, work and service.

The Adisham

Inside of the Adisham

Final travel location of the day was Lipton’s seat. We had to drive along the narrow & hilly road towards Dambetenna estate from Haputale.

An unpopular view point located very close to Dambetenna road at a distance of 1km from Haputale.	Towards Dambetenna
Tea…..	The path we came

Lipton’s seat was a magnificent viewpoint located about 10~12 km far from Haputale. ( in Dambethenna road )It was undoubtedly one of the best viewing points of Sri Lanka.

It was said that, this place was a favorite look-out point for Sir Thomas Lipton (the great tea planter) when surveying the surrounding region of his tea plantations.

It was told that on a clear day, a visitor can see 5 provinces of Sri Lanka. The panoramic view was out of this world and truly pleasing. Even on an average day you could see endless territory towards South, East and South West of Sri Lanka from this point.

Observation tower

Welcome to Lipton’s seat?

We visited there at about 1.30 pm. But we were not lucky enough to see any. The mist was thick to be cut with a Knife….! It is said that March & August were the best seasons to visit there.

Mist …

Misty Haputale town at 3.00pm

Finally we were dropped at the railway station – Badulla. We paid our tanks to the driver of the vehicle (he was the owner of the same), who played a grate role in a success tour. He was Maharoof. A genuine guy you would find at Haliela.

Terminal railway station at the upcountry rail track.

Thusitha, one of my friends worked in National Hospital-Colombo suggested to go on a trip to have a bathe in a waterfall. Buddhika & Saman also agreed with him. Mangala, a friend of Thusitha, in his work station was also agreed to join with us, as the tour-guide. He suggested visiting “Makeli Ella“water fall at Kukule ganga. Since the road was a rough one, my jeep was proposed as the vehicle. Finally the trip was arranged to go on the nearest Saturday, 15th of November 2008.

On that morning, it was 6.30am when we left from Veyangoda. Saman, Buddhika & myself were the initiate participants. We had to pickup Thusitha from Kaduwela & Mangala from Horana. How ever it was 10.00am when we reached Bulathsinghala, one of a remote town in Kalutara district. Since it was the last town we meet before our destination, we were busy to buy food & beverage for the day.

From Bulathsinghala, we turned to the Paragoda road. Since it was in a country side, the environment was much beautiful, clean & quite. Having a few minutes journey, we turned in to a narrow road, to visit to the “Pahiyan Lena” cave. That cave was located in nearly 250 ft. elevation from the average ground level. A stepped foot path was there to reach the cave.

It was believed that, because of the visit of well known Chinese traveler; Pahiyan monk, this was named as “Pahiyan cave”. But the remarkable thing with this cave was the found of skeletons of old human (37000 years old) along with utensils and rock tools. You can see some of them shown there. The rest had been sent to the museum at Colombo. There was a huge well as a result of archeological excavations. You could see the layers of different era, in the walls of that well. Other than that, there was a Buddhist temple with statues adjoin the cave.

A stepped foot path was there to reach the cave	There was a Buddhist temple adjoin the cave
There was a huge pit as a result of archeological excavations	Skeleton of an elephant

Afterwards we came down & had some herbal drink from the small canteen at the car park. In the next 20 minutes, we were back to the Paragoda road. With not less than 45 minutes drive we reached to a bank of a stream, where to be crossed by a Spa/Ferry. (See the photos / a new iron bridge was been built there)

we reached to a bank of a stream, where to be crossed by a Spa/Ferry

a new iron bridge was been built there

Our next location was the Kukuleganga reservoir. To reach there we had to pass the Makeli Ella waterfall (Our destination) & Kukuleganga Hydro – power station.

Unfortunately a huge earth-slip had been occurred few weeks ago, prevent our access. (Even our jeep was not able to win the barrier). Then we got out from the jeep & went up to the reservoir on foot.

Road side view	Even our jeep was not able to win the barrier
huge earth-slip had been occurred few weeks ago, prevent our access	Then we got out from the jeep & went up to the reservoir on foot.

In the next 30 minutes, we were back for Makeli Ella water fall.

Makeli Ella waterfall was popular due to historic stories of a late hero, “Vidiya bandara” who lived in 1500s, Kotte era. The waterfall was a straight one which was not less than 20 meters height. The natural pond at the base of the waterfall seems to be very deep & deadly one where nobody allowed for bathe. Other than that, there was an observation platform for the safety of travelers.

But there was a quite safety natural pond over the waterfall. We went there & had a great bath. A number of endemic species of fishes & flowers are very common there. Since our camera was not waterproofed, we lost the chance to take their images. We were there until the dark came.

Makeli Ella waterfall

Top of the waterfall

When we reached back to the ferry/Spa, the spa keeper was ready to his last turn. If we missed, we might had to travel at least 60km more, to return our way back to home.

This is the continuation of Knuckles trip and you can check “Knuckles Mini Worlds End Travelogue for more information”

First day we stayed at Deanston conservation centre Dormitory and we covered Mini Worlds End. Our second day objective was to do the “Dothalugala Trail” and to stay at Dothalugala Dormitory.  As I stated earlier trip report we didn’t knew there was a camp site. Forest Dept officers were so friendly and they informed us there is a camp site and we told them that we didn’t carry tents to camp. We were lucky that camp site was not booked for that day and Forest Dept offered us a tent for a reasonable price. I would like to thank the officers and staff helped us for that wonderful camping experience.

am writing for the sake of people who has not camped there before. I didn’t want to share any of this information earlier, after I witnessed the harm people had done to the nature

But after being a member in Lakdasun Forum my conscience convinced me to help some people to experience what we experienced. So I am writing these to help people to experience & protect nature.

So Do me a favor.” Please protect Nature, Leave only Footprints”.

Early morning we got up and left to Dothalugala Camp Site. Dothalugala Cabin is 2Km from Deanston. The road is mortable but some parts the condition is not that good. So it is better if you can use a 4WD. Dothalugala camp site is around 750M away from Dothalugala Cabin. Forest Officers provided us a Villager / Guide.

Camp site name Board Near Deanston Conservation Centre

Head start for Camping

Please make sure to carry enough kerosene oil and lanterns, because you are entirely depending on it and there is no electricity available for nearly 2.5KM. When you need to charge you phones and Cameras you can head back to deanston (2.5Km + from campsite) and get it charged.

Hunnasgiriya – Loolwatta Road seen on the way to Dothalugala

Cloud or a Mountain??

We arrived Dothalugala Cabin around 9.30AM. We used Dothalugala Cabin Kitchen to prepare our breakfast and the Villager helped us a lot. Dothalugala Cabin features a very good kitchen. If you carry a burner you will be able to prepare a good meal here. But please note that if anybody booked the Dothalugala Cabin you will have to use Camping ground to prepare your meals.

After the breakfast we did the “Dothalugala Trail”, which will be my next travelogue. It took around 3 – 4 hours to complete the trail and it was a rewarding experience.

Dothalugala Camp Cabin

Dothalugala camp Cabin Kitchen

There are 2 water sources and one is at the entrance of Dothalugala cabin and next one is a man made water pipe on the Dothalugala Cabin site. It is a diversion of the first water source. Both are pure and drinkable.

We had a late lunch and went to explore the campsite. We had to go though a small forest patch and after that had to walk down some steps and we came to a junction which leads to Camp site, Bird Watching Deck and Natural Water Pool. (See pictures below)

In Forest Patch – Heading towards Camp Site	Climbing down steps – Heading towards Camp Site
Campsite Signboard	The Camp site

We were impressed after seeing the camp site. Forest Dept has done a great job creating the camp site. There were two camping ground which had cement foundation. Yet we had some leach bites… If you are planning to do camping in the rainy season and afraid of leach bites better be prepared. (Picture Above)

I like knuckles camp site because it is located in a unique location and have all the camping facilities needed. Most of All it features 2 Toilets 1 is on the camp site and the other one around 750M away next to Dothalugala Cabin. Also it has pure water source which is drinkable unlike Horton plains. When we camped there the temperature was 13 Celsius at night and 17 Celsius during the daytime.

First we collected firewood for our camp site and it was not that easy we had to struggle with the leaches. My crew was not afraid of leach which was an advantage while camping.

Collecting Firewood…

Preparing the campfire

After preparing the campfire we prepare the tent for overnight stay. We were tired after Dothalugala Mountain Trail, but still we didn’t feel tired because of the climate and the wonderful surroundings.

Getting Ready for Overnight Stay

Ready for Overnight Stay…

After preparing the tent and the campfire we decided to have a bath in the natural pool. It was a short walk from the camp site and a rewarding one.
Water was very cold and pure. I am highly recommending the bath in the Dothalugala Natural Water Pool.

Natural Water Pool

Hell Yeah!!!

The bath was a pleasant one and we captured the most memorable photographs of our life during the dusk. It was so beautiful and the beauty which photograph can not describe. Camp site was 399feet above sea level and we witnessed the beauty of the nature as its best.

Our theme song was “ Dampata Handawe, Hiru Basina Mey Yame” – S&R feat Teesha. (Pictures below will show why)

3900 Feet Above Sea Level

Me & My Fiancé - Dampata Handawe…

The camp site was so beautiful during the dusk and I don’t think camera has captured the beauty as seen by the naked eye.
It soon became very dark and we had to rely on lanterns and head torches. (The energizer head torch is widely available in supermarkets and highly recommended for camping.)
We headed back to the cabin to prepare dinner. We had fried rice and chicken along with seeni sambol. We had a delicious dinner and after that had some fun. We sang, danced and it was lot of fun.

Head Chefs…

Cree Member Crying…

After 1 ½ Hours time around 10.30PM we returned back to camp site and it was the time for our Campfire!

Warmth!!!

Ceremonial Campfire Dance

We had a very good night sleep though it was cold. We got up early morning and went to near dothalugala cabin to see sunrise. If you can rise early you will be able to witness a memorable sunrise.

Dothalugala Sunrise…

Movie shoot in Dothalugala

After witnessing the most memorable sunrise we headed back to bird watching deck. Believe me if you are afraid of leach bites I don’t recommend you go there. There are LOT of leaches out there.

Getting to the Top…

Bird Watching Deck…

We stayed there for around one hour and then we walked along the small water source and came to many interesting places. But I am not going to add those pictures go explore and see… Later in the day we went exploring “Corbets Gap & Meemure Village” which will be a seperate trip report.

A crew Member found a Gem…

Me & My Team

Before we left Dothalugala we cleaned and collect all the garbage in to garbage bags and left it in the location, wildlife officials have prepared to dump garbage. I hope you all do the same…
Have a Safe Journey…..

We started the journey in the early morning from Colombo and we reached Kandy within three hours. We bought all the food items / kerosene oil from Kandy. We planned to stay first night in Deanston Conservation Centre and second night in Dothalugala Cabin and we had no idea that Knuckles has a camping site. If you need to book any of these places you need to book it from “Sampathpaya” Forest Department office and for that you will need a recommendation from a Forest Dept Official.

Then we continued our journey along Kandy – Mahiyangana Road (A26). On the way we stopped near Victoria reservoir to have our breakfast. (If you need to visit Victoria Dam you can visit it on the way but it is strictly prohibited to take photographs. Also do not forget to carry National Identity Card if you have an idea of visiting the Dam.)

When we passed Hunasgiriya town we came across the Hunnasgiriya – Loolwatta Junction.

Hunnasgiriya Sign Board on A26	Hunnasgiriya – Loolwatta Junction
Sceneries on the way to Deanston	Knuckles Sign Board just before the deanston frest office

Hunnasgiriya to Deanston distance is less than 8KM but the road condition was not that good and the van we traveled was driven by the owner so it took more time than we expected.

Anyway we arrived at Deanston around 11AM and we rested before trekking the Mini Worlds End Trail. There are no shops or places you can buy food so its better to buy vegetables / rice and etc from Kandy or Hunnasgiriya like we did. Deanston conservation centre has a cook and his food was delicious.

Deanston Conservation Centre

Tribute…

The above picture I have added as a tribute to the great man who came up with a great idea. This was a great service done by Forest Department.

By the way if you are traveling by bus you can take Mahiyanganaya bus, get down at Hunnasgiriya – Loolwatta Junction and from Hunnasgiriya take bus route 616 ( Hunnasgiriya – Loolwatta ) and get down at Deanston.

Route 616 – Hunnasgiriya - Loolwatte

Mini Worlds End Sign Board

After a good rest we started the Mini Worlds End trail. The trail starts from Deanston conservation centre. You will not need a permit or permission to do the trail. The Forest department has done some wonders by creating the conservation centre and you will be able to get information about Knuckles Range and the forest officers are very nice and informative.

First we went through a cement bridge and then after few meters we came across a small lake.

The Bridge

The Lake

hen we passed the lake we came across a very tiny forest patch. After that we came across a small fence and have to walk over to the other side and continue the trail.

Crew inside the Forest Patch

Walk over Fence

while we were passing this area we saw many “Binara Flowers”. It is known as a threatened endemic flower. (After reading the article I was so worried about the threat to the species and plants endemic to Sri Lanka.)

After climbing few steps and walking few meters we came across a trail through the pine trees

Getting the best Shot…

This point onwards most of the trail is going through pine trees and there are climbs and descends now and then Although trail is fairly flat throughout.

Reaching the end of the road…

We were lucky as we didn’t travel in the rainy season because of that leaches didn’t bother us while doing the mini worlds end trail.

When we reached Mini Worlds End it was sunny and we had the spectacular views. I am inserting few of the photographs in sake of people who hasn’t traveled there. I have some panoramas but I am not going to insert them as I encourage people to go and see.

View from Mini Worlds End	View from Mini Worlds End
Garandi Ella from Mini Worlds End - Zoomed	To Jump or Not to Jump…

We had some biscuits while we were at worlds end. We spent around one hour there and took the group photo. There is a very interesting dead tree on top of Mini Worlds End. On our way we collected garbage we spotted on our way in to a Garbage Bag.

The Dead Tree

Me and My Crew at Mini World's End

We returned to Deanston had our lunch and had some fun. There is a very interesting place if you need to have a bath. Water is crystal clear and Forrest officers have put their effort to build a natural pool. We visited pool area in the afternoon but we wanted to do something adventurous or might be stupid. We had a bath around 10PM and we walked the dead of the night using our head torches. It’s around 150M to the pool from conservation centre. We had no idea about the temperature of the water when we jumped in to the water it was FREEZING!

Spring Water Pool at Denston

Freezing!!!!

This is my last travelogue on Horton Plains. As I mentioned on earlier travelogues we wanted to cover Horton Plains in three days. We finally did it but we walked more than 40Km within three days. (Ouch … my leg)

I mentioned the incident we had on 1st Night in my Mini Worlds End, Worlds End, Bakers Falls Circular trail report.

Our 2nd day objective was to do the Kirigalpotta Nature Trail and My Engagement on top of Kirigalpotta. But it previous night it rained….. Tent got damaged… didn’t have a good night sleep and crew members wanted to return home so we did Circular Trail. We finished the trail around10AM we had our breakfast on campsite and returned to the Van. But I had hope in getting Engaged on top of Kirigalpotta and I convinced my crew members to agree on doing the “Kirigalpotta Nature Trail” But they didn’t agree with me at first.

We were tired after walking nearly 10Km doing circular trail. Anyway at last four of the crew members (1 disagreed and stayed in the Van) agreed to do the trail. We started doing the trail around 11.45AM.

There is no special sign board to indicate “Kirigalpotta Trail”. So its better to ask from a wild life officer. Before starting the trail keep in mind that the trail is not so easy. So better be prepared to do the trail with people has who is physically fit and has positive thinking. (You might understand what I am talking about, when you are doing the trail)

Trail first starts behind visitor centre (note the restaurant) and will be moving through a Valley with a descend. While we walked along this path we were able to witness rare endemic wild flowers and once in a while we were able to notice elk herds. Please note that there are leopards in Horton Plains but unfortunately we didn’t see one.

This is the way ....

Herd od sambar Deer – Sorry didn’t have a good zoom cam

Maharath Mal - Indigenous Rhododendron

After this Valley we entered a forest patch with dead trees. This place looks extremely beautiful when there is mist. It felt like we were in a movie…

Entering the forest patch with dead trees

Are we on a Harry Potter Movie?

After passing forest patch with dead trees we arrived at a small stream. (You can fill your bottles and rest a while if you need. The water is so pure and cold.) We crossed the stream and we were headed to a dense forest patch.

Me & My fiancé crossing the stream

Inside the Forest Patch.

As it rained on night before the trail was wet particularly the forest patch was wet and slippery. We slipped many times and luckily we were able to escape with small scratches. After the forest patch we arrived at a open area with unique views.

Admiring the View

Crossing the Bridge

After the open area we came to a forest patch again and the place we entered the forest patch had some beautiful flowers which is known as “Nelu”. But this part was bit hard on us and wetness added more difficulty to the trail. But this path ended in open area and it was one of the most beautiful places which came along Kirigalpotta trail.

You see me you see me not…

The trail through the flowers was so beautiful…

After this beautiful area we were headed to another forest patch but this was different from what we came through and the end it starts the serious climb. On our way it started to rain and we had to use plastic bags to cover our cameras. But rain only lasted few minutes.

Me having Glucose…

We were dead tired and had what ever we can to refresh our body and mind. It’s recommended you carry some Glucose, Dates, chocolates to have on your journey and most of all some First Aid.

More to Climb…

We were pleased to know that Wildlife officials have recently cleaned the trail. On our way we saw some cigarette buds and we were very concerned about that and at the end of the journey we informed Officials. From this point onwards we had to climb continuously till the summit.

Base of Kirigalpotta

Base of Kirigalpotta

Though we were on the base of Kirigalpotta funny thing was we had no idea where we are climbing and we didn’t see Kirigalpotta Mountain at all. We reached K26 point according to Mithila’s travel guide which was 7700 feet (2345 M) and this place was 145 Feet below from the summit.

We missed the views because of the fog

We experienced strong wind at this point

I have no idea what I am pointing at!

Rain drops started dropping once in a while and according to Mithila’s trail guide I knew we are next heading for the 30’ rock both sides open to endless chasm and the summit covered with trees (which is not ideal for an engagement).

So I made up my mind to do the engagement at this place. It was quite flat and it was 7700 feet which was higher than the 3rd highest mountain (7440 feet) in Sri Lanka. So Venue was quite ok so here goes our Engagement.

This probably is the engagement conducted in the highest place in Sri Lanka. (7700 feet – 2346M, Might be a Sri Lanka Record)

The Ring – Palladium with Zircon	The Proposal
Engagement Ceremony – 2.58PM	Good Wishes!!

It was good that we conducted the ceremony at this place because after a while it started raining after the ceremony.

So we climbed the last bit with a great effort as it was slippery and unfortunately we couldn’t get and pictures because of the rain. I am hoping to go there next year on a Dry month and will post a complete travelogue with pictures of summit.

With this, I am concluding travelogues about Horton Plains. Next week I will be writing travelogues about Knuckles Camping, Dothalugala, Mini World’s End and Meemure…

Hope you enjoyed my travelogue…

Have a Safe Journey…..

We booked the camp site 3 from Wild life department which was the totally isolated from crowd but unfortunately when we reach there, the camp site numbers had been changed by Wildlife Dept. Earlier site number 2 had been changed to 3. We got the camp site in between the two (1&3 earlier).

This was a real disappointment but anyway its bit isolated from the bakers trek. So its better to call and find out before booking. Department of Wildlife – 0112560380 (Malabe) You don’t need any recommendations to book these camp sites unlike Forest Dept Camp Sites

Horton Plains Camp Site 3 – Earlier it used to be Camp Site 2

Setting up the Tent

Ready for the overnight stay

I am posting this travelogue for the benefit of people who has not done camping. People who has already camped in Horton Plains bear with me.

When you planning to camp in Horton Plains, keep in mind that you will need to walk at least 2Km to reach the campsite. So try to carry minimum equipment and food needed. In Horton Plains camp site you are allowed to use gas burners but Campfires strictly prohibited. Wildlife officers will warn that they will come to camp site at night to check but it won’t happen. Still I strongly recommend not lighting a campfire cause as it might fully burn down Horton plains.

At Horton Plains you have to be careful with fire. Once some people have caused a fire in Kirigalpotta area. Also some areas of Horton Plains has been burnt several times according to the information we got from wildlife officials.

Getting water for cooking

One of the two Head Chefs

Keep in mind that, it’s very difficult to use a gas burner if there is strong wind. It happened to us and better to take something to cover the wind if that occurs. Also keep some backup instant food in case if it rains.

By the way, the ost beautiful camp site I ever stayed on is in Knuckles and will add it with the “Dothalugala Travelogue “

There is a toilet available in the camp site but it is not in usable condition. Commode was full of sand when we checked it. So you will have to be “natural”!

Lighting the Lantern

Best morning tea I ever Had…

We had instant noodles as breakfast as it was easy to prepare. Anyway we had rice with 3 curries for dinner..

At Last… some Breakfast

Matrix Movie shoot at Horton Plains...

Leaving only foot prints (..and bringing everything else back!)

Take garbage bags so you can collect all garbage and can put in to the cement garbage can.

The guy below helped us to carry our equipments he was very strong and I am inserting his picture as a tribute to him. You can get help from a villager, ask from a Wildlife Officer. Villagers work at Horton Plains and HSBC pay 100 rupees per day for collecting garbage in Horton Plains.

Venkadaswamy – the Hercules

Me & the Crew with Wild Life Officials

This is a continuation of a 4 day trip. We camped First Night and before going to sleep our objective was to complete the “Kirigalpotta Trail” on next day. It was a special trail because I was planning to get engaged on top of kirigalpotta.

But unfortunately there were heavy showers at night with extreme wind conditions. Our tent got damaged. Water came in to the tent and we had to take a decision and there were no alternative other than returning back to our Van. It was 11.30PM and we started walking on the rain to the Van. Phew! This was a once in a lifetime experience. I don’t think anybody have ever walked around 12AM inside Horton Plains.

Anyway we didn’t sleep whole night as it was uncomfortable inside the van and early morning most of my crew wanted to return home. So I managed them to agree on doing the World’s End, Bakers Falls circular trail.

We went to the cafeteria around 5.30AM and had a hot cup of tea before starting the circular trail. We started the trail around 6AM.

Cold Misty Road..

Early Morning Giving a Head Start

The World’s End from a Distance

As the Most traveled trail in Horton Plains you all might know the condition of the road. It is not very good and if there is rain be careful stepping on to rocks.

Road through the Forest

Pretty Neat Road, Isn't it!

If you are taking children / elders better be supportive on this part of the road. Also as Mithila said on his trail guide “Don’t start walking this trail after 2 p.m., especially if you are accompanied by children/elderly persons. As sun goes down thick mist and darkness can make this trail quite hazardous.”

Arriving at Mini World End

Text on the Board at Mini World's end - See below

” Welcome to Little World’s End. Here you can lookout for the first time and see the distant view of the south east of Sri Lanka. The cliff is about 270 M in height. In about another 0.5M you will arrive at Worlds End, which is roughly three times as high.”

Please be careful if there is Mist and Extreme wind conditions. I’m going to insert some of the Views of Mini Words End for those who haven’t been there.

Mini World’s End View

Mini World’s End View

The above pictures were taken 7.55 AM if you can come early you will be able to experience the views without mist.

More views from Mini World’s End

After Mini World’s End we headed to see the World’s End. As I recall there are 2 roads but both of them meets at one point. We took the route which leads through a edge of a mountain. Don’t recommend for elders / children cause it has some continues climbing to do… (See the picture below)

We chose this road which has some climbing

While traveling on the road we chose, we lucky to see the vertical view of Worlds End.

We arrived at Worlds End around 8.30AM. We were Lucky cause we were able to enjoy the full view of Worlds End without mist.

Worlds End

Sign board at world's end - Text Below

” WELCOME TO WORLDS END. FROM WORLDS END YOU CAN LOOK DOWN A CLIFF SOME 870M IN HEIGHT AND ON A CLEAR DAY SEE ALL THE WAY TO SEA. IMMIDIATELY BELOW ARE TEA ESTATES AND KIRIKETI OYA, A SMALL STREAM THAT RUNS INTO THE WALAWE GANGA. THE RIVER RUNS ACROSS THE PLAINS OF THE DRY ZONE AND IN THE DISTANCE YOU CAN SEE TWO RESERVOIRS, THE CLOSER BEING THE WALAWE RESERVOIR IN UDA WALAWE NATIONAL PARK. UDAWALAWE AND HORTON PLAINS ARE LINKED BY THIS LIFELINE OF WATER. WITHOUT THE WATER FROM THESE COULD FORESTS UDA WALAWE WOULD NOT ABLE TO NURTURE, ITS MANY SPECIES, PARTICULARLY THE ELEPHANTS. THIS IS CONNECTIVITY THAT NATIONAL PARKS HELP TO PROTECT.”

More views from World's End

Sitting on the Edge…

After getting some photographs we continued the trail to Bakers Falls. There is no specialty or attractions on the way to Bakers. But the walk through the plains is beautiful. Also we saw some construction works going through inside plains. Also Wildlife Dept has constructed some resting places / toilets along the path.

Path Towards Bakers. ”Aa Mage Ketei Yayuthu Maga Durai….” Theme song for the journey..

Path Towards Bakers

Baker's Falls

From Trail guide : “As you walk about 100m more, you will see a beautiful pond/pool with a small man-made bunt. This is called “The Chimny Pool”. Passing the Chimny pool, continue to walk along the trail through the plain. This section of the trail goes along the stream.”

Chimny pool - This stream is one of the main tributaries of Belohul-Oya which in turn feeds the Walawe River

Chimny pool

I have posted another travelogue about camping in Horton Plains so it will be a new experience for those who haven’t camped inside Horton Plains.

Thank you very much for reading my Trip Report. I hope it will help planning your journey.

We started the journey from Colombo around 8AM and the crew was four. We used a Suzuki Swift as our transportation.

The drive to Balapitiya was quite effortless and the Galle road was in pretty good shape. Although it is good be sure to stay in the speed limit. Because occasionally you find traffic cops waiting for you to speed!

On our way stopped to get blessings from “Kaluthra Temple”

Interior of Kaluthara Temple

We arrived at Balapitiya around 11AM and got quotations from many places and lowest quotation we got from “ Jayantha Boat Service” . It was Rs2000 for the full boat ride and their contact numbers are 091-2257638 / 077-9823999 and ask for Mr:Jayantha De Silva

The Crew Just Before the Boat Safari

Few of the 64 islands in Madu Ganga

Islands cover 915Ha altogether and there are 64 islands of various sizes. The average depth is 3 meters.

We couldn’t believe our eyes it was so beautiful and a rewarding experience. The largest island is known as “Ma Doowa” which is the largest inhabited island within the country and about 300 families live there. The smallest is called “Satha Paha Doowa”. According to folklore this islet had been purchased for five cents but some say the name has derived due to its shape.

Satha Paha Doowa – The smallest Island in Madu Ganga

Bridge connecting “Ma Duwa” to Balapitiya

We stopped near the Bridge connecting “Ma Duwa” to Balapitiya and it is wide enough to travel in a 3 wheeler. But it is a great creation and it is the longest bridge I have seen in Sri Lanka.

Madu Ganga has high ecological, biological and aesthetic significance, being home to 303 species of plants belonging to 95 families and to 248 species of vertebrate animals. It might be one of the last remaining tracts of pristine mangrove forests in Sri Lanka.

Entering Mangrove Forest

Nature as its best - inside mangrove forest

It is a different world there inside mangrove forest

We also visited the The Kothduwa temple, or Koth Duwa Raja Maha Viharaya located on Kothduwa Island on the Maduganga River. It is a unique experience and monks use boats for transportation. As we heard The Buddhist Amarapura Nikaya sect had its first upasampada (higher ordination ceremony) on a fleet of boats anchored upon it in 1803.

Koth Duwa Temple

Steps In to the Water

Wow… an Incredible Place…. Isn’t it?

On Our journey we were able to see some traditional fisherman and traditional Fishing Kraals (ja-kotu) set up to trap lagoon prawns.

“ Ambu Daru Raka Ganna Apata Malu Laba Denna Deviyane Apa Rakaganna”

Also we were fortunate to witness a demonstration of peeling cinnamon and producing cinnamon oil. You will be able to buy cinnamon related products but it is damn expensive. Ask the boatman if you like to see a demonstration and he will take you to the island.

The Art of peeling Cinnamon	I am the King of the World…
Taking a Boat Trip..	Madu Ganga Meets the Ocean

Thank you very much for reading my Trip Report. I hope it will help planning your journey.

We started the journey from Colombo. We used a Nissan Caravan as our transportation. First day we stayed at Havaeliya and next day morning we started the journey towards Horton Plains. You will need to purchase a ticket before entering Horton plains. Our main target was to cover most of Horton Plains within three days and First day we planned to treak to the top of Totupola kanda. When we arrived at Horton Plains it was cold and Misty.

Horton Plains Pattipola Entrance

Misty…. Isn’t it??

Vehicle we used for our journey

We asked a wildlife officer where the Totupola Kanda is and he asked us couple of questions before giving the directions. Wildlife officers in Horton Plains are very concerned about the Nature and now they have completely stopped use of polythene inside Horton Plains. We should be thankful for the effort.

We saw the sign board directs to the Totupola Kanda trek, but most of the people comes to Horton Plains was unaware about Totupola Kanda. May be it is for Good…

If you are visiting totupola kanda for the first time keep in mind that these are virgin forests and vegetation and don’t try to spoil it by throwing garbage, polythene and etc…

Thotupola Kanda Sign Board…

Where is the Trail?

Totupola Kanda trek is fairly easy though it’s the 3rd Highest Mountain in Sri Lanka. But some places it harder to find the road as road not been cleared for months and very rarely people visit this beauty.

While trekking you will be able to experience the most unique beauty of Nature.

Beauty of the Nature - Thotupola Kandas Nature Trail

Trekking through the Forest

Some parts of the trek seems like you are in a Mystic World. It is so beautiful and a rewarding experience

Scary Isn’t It?	Hmm.. are we heading to a mistic world?
Are We there Yet?	Nade Gura

Though it is dense forest in some places we didn’t had any problem continuing the journey. Then we got the first glimpse of the peak, then only we realized that we have come almost all the way.

First Glimpse of the Summit

Approaching the Summit...

After reaching the top 7440 feet still we were not sure it is the highest point and we called ( Mobitel, We Care Always ) Horton Plains Office and told we are in this place and there is a lonely tree and etc… and they told we have reached the Top.

Earlier we thought we climbed the wrong peak…

7440 Feet at the Summit of Thotupola Kanda

Me & the Crew at the summit of Thotupola Kanda

Thank you very much for reading my Trip Report. I hope it will help planning your journey.
Have a Safe Journey…