Hidden in the far reaches of Siyambalanduwa, where the land grows wild and time feels suspended, stands a sleeping giant — Govinda Hela. A monolithic rock scarred by centuries of history, crowned by drifting clouds, and whispered about in legend. During the colonial era, the British called it “Westminster Abbey”, not for any religious connection, but because its…
Category: Sri Lanka
Scenic Views and Surroundings. Pekoe Trail 17. Hali Ela Sri Lanka
We kicked off Stage 17 of the Pekoe Trail just after 6:20 a.m., fueled by excitement, good company, and the cool, sweet air of Demodara. But before taking even one step, we paused for a bit of Sri Lankan magic: the moment the iconic blue train snaked its way (sharp on time at 6:24 a.m.),…
The Soul of Sembuwatta. Elkaduwa Sri Lanka
After a couple of hours of twisting uphill from Kandy, we finally arrived at what felt like the edge of a storybook, Sembuwatta Lake. Tucked away in Elkaduwa, Matale, and perched at a breezy 1,084 meters above sea level, Sembuwatta is one of those places that makes you pause, and remember how beautiful Sri Lanka…
Hiking Against the Forecast. Pekoe Trail 21 Kandapola Sri Lanka
Stage 21 of the 300km Pekoe Trail is typically hiked from Uda Pussellawa to Kandapola, but for our adventure, we decided to do it in reverse—to avoid much of the climb. Covering a total distance of 19 kilometers over seven hours, this hike turned out to be a journey of changing landscapes, local hospitality, and…
Mountain Diaries
Exploring the Majestic Mountains of Sri LankaMountain climbing is more than a hobby for me—it’s a journey of endurance, connection, and discovery. Each ascent presents challenges of steep trails and rocky terrain, accompanied by the reward of fresh air and breathtaking views. Reaching the summit offers a sense of triumph, as each peak carries its…
Sunrise Safari. Yala National Park Sri Lanka
A morning safari at Yala National Park is an adventure like no other, and Fiona, Kumi, and I are excited to immerse ourselves in the wonders of the wild. The day starts early, with our safari jeep pulling out of the Hilton Yala driveway at 5:15 am sharp, ensuring we reach the ticket gate at…
Ropes and Rocks: The Ultimate Mountain Experience. Arangala Sri Lanka
The journey begins early on this Sunday morning and the air crisp and refreshing as we set out from the Arangala Forest Lodge. I’m filled with excitement, unsure of exactly what awaits on the climb ahead to the top of the Arangala Mountain, but certain it’s going to be a challenge. We, my brother Arittha, Avi…
A Hike of Unexpected Twists: Pekoe Trail Stage 3 Loolecondera Sri Lanka
Our day begins in the sacred city of Kandy at 5 a.m., where we arrived just yesterday afternoon. With backpacks stuffed with breakfast, lunch, plenty of water, and snacks, we reach Loolecondera Tea Estate two hours later by hired van, the starting point of Pekoe Trail Stage 03, considered to be the hardest of the…
Pada Yatra: A Journey of Faith and Perseverance. Kumana Sri Lanka
It’s 4:30 in the morning, and Arugam Bay, located in Sri Lanka’s southeast coastline is cloaked in the pre-dawn darkness. The air is filled with a mixture of anticipation and quiet resolve as we gather our belongings. Ashan, from Little Adventures, the inspiration and organizer of this walk has arrived to pick us up. Our…
Wild and Wonderful. Wasgamuwa Sri Lanka
The journey from Atenwala to Wasgamuwa brings us through some amazing countryside. The roads are almost deserted with the majority of people beginning to observe the age-old rituals that define this auspicious week. We will be spending the (Sinhala and Tamil) New Year weekend in Wasgamuwa. It is time to visit the Wasgamuwa National Park. …
Mihipedia.lk 