After months of planning, it is time to climb the Narangala mountain, and little do I know, this will be one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life. During the initial planning, and closer to the day, I am getting more and more disheartened that this mountain is going to be a bore. But…
Category: Sri Lanka
Discovering the Pekoe Trail 01. Hanthana Sri Lanka
It is an early morning start from Colombo and we reach Kandy in time for a hearty breakfast, before we embark on the Pekoe Trail. As an avid hiker and determined to make the most of my 60s, I can’t resist the opportunity to explore this much talked about 300-kilometer Pekoe Trail and document my…
Hiking the Pekoe Trail 06. Watagoda Sri Lanka
As I step onto the Pekoe Trail 06, I’m immediately struck by the beauty that surrounds me. Towering trees loom above me, casting dappled shadows across the winding path ahead. My hiking companions and I set out from Watagoda, eager to explore the 14.8 kilometer trail that will lead us to Kotagala.
Back on the Trail. Pekoe Trail 05 Sri Lanka
It is four days since my last Pekoe Trail, but I am here again, lacing up my travel boots and readying for Pekoe Trail 05. I have high hopes for an exciting adventure, although the reality of the journey may be far from my expectations.
Taking on a Challenge. Pekoe Trail 02 Sri Lanka
After a restful night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, we set out with eager hearts and renewed energy to conquer the Pekoe Trail 02 from Galaha to Loolcondera, a distance of 14.6 kilometers. Known for its ‘moderately challenging’ terrain and breathtaking vistas, this trail was divided into two sections: Galaha to Deltota and Deltota to…
Stairway to a Stronghold. Yapahuva Sri Lanka
It is the steep and formidable stone stairway that makes this fortress unique. The stone steps are narrow (in width) and are at a 70-degree angle reaching up to a height of about 92m (300ft). Although I am not scared of heights, I am careful climbing up because a misstep would mean an unnecessary tumble….
Ancient Architectural Wonders. Rajagala Monastery. Sri Lanka
Imagine over 500 monks living and meditating silently in a thickly forested, 1,600 acre, mountainous monastic retreat which has architecturally faultless waterways, drip ledges, stairways cut into stone, naturally ‘air conditioned’ caves, toilets, monuments, artefacts and other cool stuff. Now imagine all this happened over 3000 years ago! This is Rajagala, a sprawling Buddhist monastery…
Star Beds and Bush Baths. Belihuloya Sri Lanka
COVID-19 disrupted a lot of my travel plans throughout 2021. The frequent lockdowns and travel restrictions meant that pre-booked destinations had to be postponed indefinitely. One of which was my trip to the Ahaspokuna in Belihuloya where I was to go in April 2021. Now, nine months later, I am finally on my way. There…
One of a Kind. Kudumbigala Forest Hermitage Sri Lanka
It is easy to miss the inconspicuous turn off to the Kudumbigala Archaeological Site on the main road en route to the entrance of the Kumana National Park. However, the Kudumbigala rock can be seen from this far, standing like a sentinel overlooking the Park below. Even from this distance, the ancient cylindrical dome can…
Loving the Lichen. Sinharaja Rainforest Sri Lanka
Scrambling through the Sinharaja Rainforest is not just about plucking slimy leeches off my clothes. Once I perfect the art of annihilation or flicking them away, it is good to enjoy and appreciate the amazing foliage around me, especially the colourful and intricate lichen. The Sinharaja Rainforest is an amazing bio hotspot and unique lowland…
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