Adventure in Mawanella!

Alagalla Mountain Range

Why Visit?

Alagalla Mountain Range Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Journey to the Summit

Start your exhilarating adventure to the Alagalla Mountain Range by catching an early train from Colombo to Ihala Kotte, the nearest station to the mountain. The scenic train ride itself is a prelude to the natural beauty that awaits. Upon arrival, begin your hike from the station, which serves as the base point. This moderately challenging trail stretches about 5 kilometers, promising captivating views of paddy fields and the rural landscape.

As you ascend, the path steepens, winding through lush forests that teem with birdlife and occasional wildlife sightings. The hike takes roughly 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace. The summit offers a panoramic spectacle of the surrounding plains, the distant Knuckles Mountain Range, and on a clear day, the Adam"s Peak. Spend time soaking in the serene views and capturing photographs.

Day 2: Explore the Surroundings

After a restful night camping under the stars, wake up to a misty morning. Start your day with a light trek to explore nearby attractions. Visit a local village to learn about the traditional lifestyles of the inhabitants and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea.

Later, venture to the nearby Pilikuththuwa Rajamaha Viharaya, an ancient cave temple complex known for its historic value and intricate murals. The temple is less than an hour’s drive from Alagalla and offers a spiritual counterpoint to the physical challenge of the previous day’s hike.

Interesting Facts

- Alagalla Mountain Range is also known as "Potato Range" due to its unique shape.

- It’s an important landmark in the development of Sri Lanka’s railway, offering one of the most picturesque train journeys in the country.

Tip

Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring a good camera to capture the stunning vistas and vibrant local life on your adventure through Alagalla Mountain Range.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

Why Visit?

A Thrilling Expedition to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Embark on a captivating journey to the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka, where the venerable Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) invites adventure lovers to delve into its rich tapestry of history, culture, and spirituality. This revered site houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, making it a pivotal landmark in Buddhist heritage.

Getting There

Kandy is well-connected by road and rail. Adventurers can take a scenic train ride from Colombo, which takes approximately 2.5 hours, offering lush views of the countryside and the bustling towns in between. Alternatively, hire a tuk-tuk from Kandy town for a local twist, zipping through vibrant streets to reach the temple.

Exploration Begins

Start your tour early to witness the morning rituals at around 5:30 AM, where the drumming ceremonies create an ethereal atmosphere. The architecture of the temple, with its intricate wood carvings and Kandyan art, tells stories of ancient craftsmen and the royal legacies of Sri Lanka.

Adventurous Insights

After soaking in the spiritual ambiance, gear up for a hike up Udawattakele Forest Reserve, located just behind the temple. This historical sanctuary offers trails that lead to panoramic views of the city and the temple below, perfect for those who crave a blend of adventure and serenity.

Engaging Activities

Conclude your visit by strolling around the Kandy Lake, crafted in 1807 by the last Sinhalese king. The tranquil waters juxtaposed against the bustling city life make for a reflective end to your adventurous day.

Interesting Fact

The temple"s annual Esala Perahera, a grand festival featuring dances, lavishly decorated elephants, and a replica of the relic, draws thousands of pilgrims and cultural enthusiasts from around the world.

Pack your spirit of adventure and respect for culture as you journey through the spiritual heart of Kandy, where every corner tells a story of devotion and history!

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Ramboda Falls

Why Visit?

Adventure Itinerary: Ramboda Falls, Sri Lanka

Morning: Arrival and Trek to Ramboda Falls

Begin your adrenaline-fueled day at Ramboda Falls, a stunning, multi-tiered waterfall located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s lush central highlands. From Kandy, take the A5 highway towards Nuwara Eliya. The journey of about 50 km is a scenic feast, with roads meandering through tea plantations and misty mountains. Stop at the Ramboda Pass, which offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and the valley below, a perfect spot for panoramic snapshots.

Once you arrive, gear up for a thrilling trek towards the waterfall. This hike isn"t just a walk in the park; it involves navigating through rugged terrains and dense underbrush, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear and carry enough water. The path can be slippery, adding to the adventure as you manoeuvre your way through nature’s obstacles.

Midday: Picnic and Exploration

As you reach the falls, indulge in a well-deserved break with a picnic by the water’s edge. The main attraction, Ramboda Falls, cascades from an impressive height of 109 meters, making it one of the highest waterfalls in Sri Lanka. The pool at the base of the fall is great for a refreshing dip, so don’t forget your swimwear!

Afternoon: A Closer Look and Return

After lunch, take a closer look at the smaller cascades and explore the surrounding flora and fauna. The area is known for its biodiversity, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some of the local wildlife.

Wrap up your visit in the late afternoon and head back towards Kandy or continue onwards to Nuwara Eliya, a charming colonial town just a few kilometers away. This adventure at Ramboda Falls is a must-do for those seeking to combine exhilarating physical activity with breathtaking natural beauty.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Natha Devale

Why Visit?

Adventure Itinerary: Conquering the Sacred and Serene Natha Devale

Day 1: Arrival in Kandy

Begin your adventure in Kandy, the pulsating heart of Sri Lanka"s cultural heritage. After settling into your hotel, prep for a sensory stroll around Kandy Lake, culminating in a sunset visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Delve into the rich history and witness the reverent evening puja (prayer) rituals.

Day 2: Natha Devale Exploration

Rise early and gear up for a morning trek to Natha Devale. Located just north of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, this is the oldest building in Kandy and a pivotal piece of the spiritual landscape. Dedicated to Natha, a god considered a future Buddha, the temple"s austere, ancient architecture against the backdrop of misty hills offers a mystical scene for adventure seekers.

Getting There: From your hotel in Kandy, a short tuk-tuk ride will get you to the vicinity of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth. From there, Natha Devale is a scenic five-minute walk through verdant temple grounds, dotted with frangipani and offering occasional glimpses of roaming deer.

On-Site: Engage with the locals and perhaps learn a bit of the Sinhala language to deepen your connection with the sacred surroundings. Explore the lower terraces for intricate carvings and the upper terrace for panoramic views of the city.

Day 3: Around Natha Devale

Venture beyond to Udawattakele Forest Reserve, just a 20-minute walk from Natha Devale. Ideal for nature lovers, this sanctuary offers well-marked trails, exotic flora and fauna, and historic cave dwellings used by monks. Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic amidst the calls of tropical birds and rustling leaves.

Departure

Conclude your adventure-filled stay with a deeper understanding of Kandy’s spiritual and natural beauty, carrying memories of its serene yet vibrant aura back home.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

World Buddhist Museum (International Buddhist Museum)

Why Visit?

Embark on a spirited adventure in the heart of Sri Lanka, where the serene World Buddhist Museum in Kandy offers a profound exploration of Buddhism"s global journey. Start your day with an invigorating climb up the verdant Udawattakele Forest Reserve, located just behind the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. This early morning hike not only energizes but provides panoramic views of Kandy and its tranquil lake, setting a reflective tone for the day.

Post-hike, make your way to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a short walk downhill. Here lies the World Buddhist Museum, nestled comfortably in the temple"s premises. Open from 8 AM to 7 PM, the museum is accessible for a small fee, which also covers entry to the temple complex. As you wander through, marvel at exhibits from over 17 countries, including Tibet, Japan, and Vietnam, each detailing the adaptation and spread of Buddhism through diverse cultures.

Engage with interactive displays and ancient manuscripts that tell tales of Buddhism"s rich heritage. Each room is a gateway to understanding how Buddhism molded the civilizations it touched, illustrated with artifacts, models, and detailed graphical presentations.

Don"t miss the scale model of Borobudur from Indonesia or the intricate thangkas from Tibet. These highlights not only reveal the artistic diversity within Buddhism but also its philosophical depth across different regions.

Conclude your tour with a peaceful walk around the Kandy Lake at sunset, reflecting on the day"s learnings and the peaceful teachings of Buddhism. The lake, created in 1807 by the last Sinhalese king, offers a tranquil end to an enlightening day.

This journey through Kandy’s World Buddhist Museum is not just a tour; it’s a pilgrimage through the heart of Buddhist philosophy and art, tailored for those who seek adventure both in terrain and in spirit.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.