Dhammika

Badulla, in Sri Lanka’s Uva Province, is home to a little-known jewel known as Madulsima. Locals love to go hiking and camping in the surrounding mountains, so this charming community is a popular destination for those outdoor pursuits. Madulsima Mini World’s End is the most visited site, yet few visitors know about its beauty.

The vast tea estates are a sight to see from this vantage point. The Roeberry Tea Estate owns the summit of this mountain. At its furthest point, you’ll find the Madulsima Mini World’s End. It’s one of the few really undiscovered jewels in Sri Lanka, far from the throngs of tourists that flock to the island’s more popular spots.

There are many reasons why you shouldn’t miss this fantastic place

It’s a small settlement in Sri Lanka’s Uva Province. The expansive plain that stretches from the mountain’s base to the east coast is the showpiece of Madulsima World’s End.

Mornings and nights are usually misty, but on bright days, you can get some good looks at the mountains between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The weather is usually pleasant.

Pitamaruwa Mini World’s End, as the area’s rich tea plantations are known, is the name given to this location. From here, the dried tea leaves are gathered and sent off to their final destination. According to urban legend, the area was rechristened “Pitamaruwa” because it served as a hub for the shipping and receiving of tea crates.

Location

The little settlement of Pitamaruwa is home to Madulsima Mini World’s End. A distance of sixty kilometers separates this quaint little town from the larger city of Badulla. From Passara, the location is 42 kilometers away, whereas, from the nearby town of Madulsima, it is just 18 kilometers. The distance to Colombo, the nation’s capital, is a significant 290 kilometers.

From Passara or Badulla, you may take a public bus to reach Madulsima. However, if you have access to a private vehicle, that is ideal. In certain areas, the roads are in terrible shape. Therefore, having access to a four-wheel car or bicycle will serve you well. The lush, verdant tea estates that line the path are a breathtaking sight. That’s a lovely bonus for your vacation. Getting the final few miles of your journey done on foot is highly recommended.

This strenuous hike is well worth the effort

The meandering roads to this incredible vantage point aren’t exactly user-friendly, but the reward is worth the effort. It’s a piece of paradise perched high in the clouds. Even though the region is usually shrouded in fog, the scenery is breathtaking when the skies are clear. From the foot of the mountain, visitors can see a broad plain that extends all the way to the eastern shore.

Getting on the lookout will make you feel like you’re floating on air. There are strong gusts here, so be cautious if you want to go out to the edge of the granite plateau.

There’s more you need to know, and we’ve got it

The region is characterized by a series of mountains covered with sparse, dry woods. The huge plain stretching from the foot of the mountain to the east coast is the most striking aspect of Madulsima World’s End. However, in Horton Plains, sightseers may look out over a wide variety of mountains and rock fragments from a high vantage point. The Uva Province Tourist Board is in charge of it.

At least four more popular lookout locations with steep, precipitous edges, often known as “mini World’s Ends,” may be found in the highlands of central Sri Lanka, in addition to the main World’s End site at Horton Plains. The names of these places are Deanston Mini World’s End, Pitawala Mini World’s End, Selagama Mini World’s End, and Madulsima Mini World’s End. The last two are found in the Dumbara Range’s hills. At the very extremity of the verdant Roeberry Estate tea estate is the Madulsima World’s End.

When to go to Madulsima for the best weather

Madulsima is most enjoyable during the month of August. simply because you will be able to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about getting soaked. The region is more likely to be covered with mist. Still, August is expected to have less foggy weather. Your vision will improve, allowing you to move around with less strain. The road conditions deteriorated significantly after leaving Cocolalla.

Final Thoughts

You should check out Madulsima Mini World’s End in Badulla. From that vantage point, you may take in an amazing panorama. Pitamaruwa Village is home to the beautiful Aradunu Ella Waterfall. You may also see DS Rock, another lovely peak, on your travels.

Elkaduwa, Matale, is home to the stunning artificial reservoir known as Sembuwatta Lake. The lake lies 1,140 meters above sea level and is surrounded by the Cambell’s Land forest reserve. Visitors may unwind in the peaceful, ethereal environment created by the lake’s hazy, cold surroundings, which are surrounded by pine trees and tea-covered hills.

The abundance of adventure sports, such as hiking, zip-lining, swan or motorboat riding, and canoeing, make the lake a favorite location for leisure and family tourism. However, due to its depth, the lake is off-limits for water activities like bathing and swimming (30–40 ft). To accommodate such activities, a special pool has been constructed.

So why should you go to this little-known part of Sri Lanka?

Activities like zip lining, swan gazing, and motorboat rides make the lake a popular destination for vacationers. The local pine forest is well-known for its excellent hiking opportunities. A vacation cottage, fully equipped with all contemporary conveniences, is available for overnight reservations.

The lake’s surroundings are stunning; the foggy, cold air, pine trees, and tea-covered hills all appear quite restful. It’s wonderful for those who like to take breathtaking photographs of Sri Lanka’s natural scenery. There’s little doubt that Sembuwatta Lake is a reflection of nature at its most gorgeous and that your time here will be well spent.

A little historical context

The land where the lake is now was utilized as a polo field by the British, who also began growing tea there. The lake was constructed to provide energy to a local tea industry, which had opened in 1949. The business closed decades ago, but the lake is still providing energy to the local homes.

What is the story behind the name?

An employee of the plant supposedly discovered the Sembuwa, a brass pot, in a nearby spring. A kovil was afterward constructed by his son at the site of the original spring, from whence he had departed the nation carrying the artifact. The kovil’s crumbling remains may be observed to this day. Sembuwatta, which translates to “Brass Pot Estate,” was subsequently bestowed on the neighborhood.

In 2005, the lake was transformed into a tourist attraction with the addition of summer cottages, a guest house, and a swimming pool. Elkaduwa Plantations is in charge of the plantation at the moment. Mr. Radley Dissage, the school’s superintendent, took the lead on this huge renovation.

What kind of entertainment options are there?

You may stay the night and really take in the natural beauty of the region, so it’s not simply a day trip. Cabanas and camping spots are provided for anyone who chooses to spend the night. You should know that it may be rather chilly there at night, so bring warm clothing.

1. Pine-forest Hike

You may also enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience by going on a trek through a pine forest. The large, deep pine forest on each side of the lake makes for fantastic hiking. This pine forest has become a popular location for nature photographers and filmmakers.

2. Date Night

Imagine for a moment what a fantastic and thrilling experience it would be to spend the night in a summer hut while the cool air of the lake blew through the open windows. You may reserve the lakeside for a barbecue. So that each party may relax in peace, each summer hut is reserved exclusively for them.

3. The Art of Birdwatching

Opportunities abound for anyone interested in birds. You may witness many different species of birds as you go through the pine forest and tea plantations.

4. Boat rides

You have the option of going on a boat trip to Sembuwatta Lake. This is an unforgettable experience since no other location can compare. Explore pine woods, tea plantations, misty mountains, and animals up close on your boat safari.

5. Swimming

Many eco-enthusiasts have fallen in love with the pool since it is constantly refreshed with pure spring water and is thus suitable for all ages.

6. Explore a Tea Plantation

The Elkaduwa tea estate offers a rare chance for individuals curious about tea culture to see the first steps of the process, starting with the harvesting of tea leaves. Elkaduwa tea plantation is surrounded by Sembuwatta lake.

Places to relax and enjoy the summer season, such as gazebos and benches dotted around a lake

Relax at one of the many lakeside bungalows or benches. During the summer, many people gather in small groups to dine, drink tea, and sing inside a secluded cabin in the woods.

7. Child-friendly recreational areas

The area around the pool is packed with fun things for kids to do. In this children’s play area, your kids may easily spend an entire day having fun.

How can I get there?

In particular, the section of Sembuwatta Lake Road that extends beyond the factory on the Wattegama-Elkaduwa-Matale road (B461) is in very poor shape and makes it difficult to reach the lake. From the main road to the lake, it is around four kilometers along this small and twisting path. At the Elkaduwa Tea Factory, located about 3 kilometers away, there is a little office where you may purchase tickets.

Buses and coaches with a length of at least 54 feet, such as the Leyland brand, belong here. Beyond this point, small cars may drive up to the lake and park securely on the lake grounds. The road’s limited width makes it particularly difficult to navigate during peak holiday travel times.

In Pussellawa town, in the Kandy district, there is an amazing mountain with a height of 1518 meters called Peacock Hills. “Monaragala” is the name that the natives give to this mountain. Because of its resemblance to a peacock, the peak that is now known as “Peacock Hill” was originally given the name “Monaragala.” When seen from a greater distance, the hill does not seem to have the form that one would expect it to have. At the very pinnacle of the mountain, there is a prominent ridge that is followed by another ridge that branches out from it. This section is reminiscent of the neck and the head of a peacock perched above a mountain.

You’ll need to continue moving along the rock and then make a little descent before you can reach it. The most breathtaking view may be had from the highest point on the slope. From that vantage point, though, hills are descending in all three directions. It is in your best interest to proceed with extreme caution due to the limited space.

Why should you make the trip to Sri Lanka to see this undiscovered treasure?

Peacock Hill Mountain is one of the most spectacular standpoints in Pussellawa, and it provides an incredible perspective of most of the mountains and towns that are in the surrounding area. From this mountain, you may get a sense of the splendor of Gampola Town, Pussellawa Town, and other nearby cities. 

Peacock Hill’s history

A historical past is associated with Peacock Hill as well. Because Prince Gemunu spent 12 years in a hamlet named Kotagepitiya in Kotmale, which was located at the base of this mountain, this settlement represents a significant turning point in the storyline of his life. One of the best-known rulers in the annals of Sri Lankan history is Prince Gemunu, who would eventually become King Dutugemunu.

Following his flight to Kothmale in response to his father’s dispute, King Dutugemunu remained in hiding. He is remembered fondly by the people of the kingdom to this day for his role in unifying the country in earlier times. In addition to this, it is stated that he worked as a farmer and a herder in that hamlet and that he often brought his poultry and other fowl to Peacock Hill.

The Hike Up Peacock Hill

Because you can approach the mountain’s base more directly, the trek is not difficult. Once you have parked your car at the trailhead, you will begin the ascent of Peacock Hills, which will take around half an hour and take you through a forest of pine trees. If you make it to the peak, you’ll be treated to a stunning panorama over the countryside and other settlements.

The summit of this mountain is occupied by communication towers, yet the viewpoint offers a breathtaking panorama of the region in all directions. To climb to the top of the hill through the transmission towers without first obtaining authorization to do so is not required.

Climbing the mountain in a vehicle

The ascent up the mountain may be done in two different ways. The first lane is open to travel by any kind of vehicle, including automobiles, vans, motorbikes, three-wheelers, and so on. Follow the signs towards Pussellawa, and after passing the Doragala Tea Factory, go on the Kotmale Mahaweli Stupa Road to get to the town. The summit of the mountain is accessible by car for anyone interested. It would take you around 30 minutes in a car to go to the peak of the mountain from here.

The breathtaking viewpoint from up above

From the vantage point of the hilltop, you may take in the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding areas, including all of which are located in the very stunning Highlands. The Kotmale Reservoir is located in the same general area, also on one side of the cliff. Additionally, the valley of Kotmale Oya seems to be quite lovely.

The road to Nuwara Eliya, which traverses the mountains, may be found on the other side of the valley. The spectacular panorama may be seen from the town of Pussellawa, which is located close by, as well as from Gampola, which is located farther away. Therefore, it is beneficial to go on a hike up Peacock Hill.

How to Make Your Way to Peacock Hill

Approximately 40 kilometers outside of Kandy proper, near the village of Pussellawa on the A5 road leading to Nuwara Eliya, is where you’ll find Peacock Hill. After traveling past the Doragala villages and through the Kotmale Dam near Ulapane, visitors may reach Peacock Mountain in a matter of minutes.

The shortest and most direct path is the road that goes from Mahaweli Seya to Kotmale. The road, on the other hand, is in really bad shape. Nevertheless, you have the option of traveling by car. After reaching the end of the road, the hill’s summit may be reached 200–300 meters more or less directly ahead.

Sri Lanka is a popular vacation destination due to its beautiful beaches and verdant hill country, both of which are home to a variety of well-known attractions. These attractions are open to tourists and provide many photo ops for those interested in capturing the island nation of Sri Lanka’s natural splendor. However, the island is home to many more stunning hidden caches. Dolukanda is among Sri Lanka’s many wonderful, undiscovered treasures.

Dolukanda is most famous as the location of the Dolukanda Raja Maha Viharaya in Hiripitiya, a hamlet in the Kurunegala district. There are old stories that involve this peak. Lord Hanuman is credited with bringing the Great Himalayan Mountain. It is also said that when he was carrying it, a piece or pieces fell on the summit of Dolukanda.

Why visit the unexplored Dolukanda?

Unspoiled and boasting some of Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking scenery, the Dolukanda mountain range is still mostly undiscovered by tourists. The 600-meter-tall Dolukanda Mountain in the Kurunegala region is a well-known herbal paradise with significant historical and archaeological significance. This peak is also known as Dolukanda Sanjeewani because of its connection to the Sri Lankan leg of the Ramayana Trail, the famous Indian epic.

Herb woods abound on the mountain, and their mystical, all-curing plants are a major draw for visitors. Numerous ruins, said to date from the time of King Walagamba, may be seen atop Dolukanda, giving it even more historical significance in Sri Lanka. On top of Dolukanda lie both a Buddhist temple and a forest cave, which served as a place of meditation and residence for the monks who resided there.

Hike to Dolukanda

The old Buddhist temple of Dolukanda Temple may be seen on the hiking path up the mountain. Once the temple’s guard monk has been notified, you may begin your ascent of the mountain. Because of the difficulty of this path, it is recommended that you seek the assistance of a local guide. The following fantastic locations and sights are visible from the top of Dolukanda:

• Ambalangala
• Kalugala and Bowitiya plains
• Raksha Muna, Hulang Kapolla, and Cave
• Weheragala, whose highest point and ruined pagoda
• Herbal forest, where a number of herbal plants can be seen
• Ancient palace remains may be seen in Maligathenna.
• Ponds: Dunkei Pokuna, Watakei Pokuna, Kaludiya Pokuna

There is a lot of gum on the slopes of Dolukanda that you will encounter. Huge herbaceous plants and rust-colored trees may also be seen there. Unique plants like Gardi Raja are included in this group. It’s worth noting that the herb is parasitic, meaning it must be grown on another plant. The black stone remnants scattered here and there show that there really were once structures here. The destruction of several priceless artifacts at the hands of robbers.

There are bubbling springs that bubble up from the base of the cliff face. You can drink the water without any problems. You may refill your water supply this spring if you find yourself in a bind when adventuring above the tree line. The reason for this is that at the peak of Dolukanda, there is no potable water to be found.

Stunning scenery at Dolukanda

If you work hard enough to reach the peak of Dolukanda, you’ll be rewarded with a magnificent view. From up there, you can see breathtaking vistas. Without a shadow of a doubt, this location is an ideal backdrop for stunning Instagram photos. Seeing this incredible “diamond in the rough” will allow you to appreciate Sri Lanka at its most breathtaking.

Cave of Dolukanda

One may find a woodland cave near the peak of Dolukanda where the monks used to dwell and practice their religion. You might call it a natural setting.

Prepare yourself intellectually for Dolukanda

• The pools of water near the peak of Dolukanda should not be used for bathing.
• You should bring as much water as you think you’ll need.
• Go up to Dolukanda, and be sure to tell Thero about the temple there.
• Seeking out a local resident for direction is a smart move.
• Avoid venturing too close to the edge of the granite plateau or climbing to the peak when the winds are strong.

Instructions on how to go to Dolukanda

The North Western Province is home to Dolukanda Mountain, namely the Kurunegala District. You may go to Dolukanda in two different ways. From the Muththettugala Junction, go south on Dambulla Road until you reach Wellawa Ganewatta Road. From there, you may see the Dolukanda Temple. The temple is a good place to begin the ascent of Dolukanda.

You might also take the Madagalla Road from Ibbagamuwa and exit at the Godagala junction if you go north on the Kurunegala-Dambulla Road. Following that, you’ll be able to make your way through the picturesque paddy fields of Doluwa and on to Dolukanda.

What’s the ideal time to visit Dolukanda, and what’s the climate like?

In most cases, the climate in this general region is warm and humid. Hiking in Dolukanda may be difficult owing to the terrain and weather, and it’s recommended that you have a guide along since the trails aren’t always easy to follow.

Trincomalee’s Koneswaram Temple is a major Hindu shrine that has had its share of good and bad times, particularly during the tumultuous times of European colonization. The temple, which can be seen inside the ancient Fort Frederick, is the ideal representation of the island’s distinctive culture within the context of the European architecture and design of the fort.

The Importance of the Temple, in Relation to Colonialism

One of the most significant Hindu temples in the whole nation, the Koneswaram Temple is regarded as one of the Pancha Ishwarams (one of the five abodes of Lord Shiva). Since its origin, the temple has thrived because successive governments have taken care to safeguard it. These include the Anuradhapura Kingdom, the Chola Empire, etc.

There were numerous irreplaceable artifacts lost when the “Temple of a Thousand Pillars” was looted and destroyed by Portuguese colonists in the 17th century.

Present-day visit to the Koneswaram Temple

The finding of important artifacts at the bottom of the bay, as well as the uncovering of the original remains, attest to its splendor. Photographer Mike Wilson and science fiction novelist Arthur C. Clarke discovered them. Wilson and Clarke discovered masonry, idol figures, carved columns with floral insignias, and elephant head sculptures in 1956 when they were scuba diving. The mythical Swayambhu lingam, a huge stone phallus/obelisk claimed to have originated on a Tibetan mountain top, was also recovered by them.

Reinstallation of the original components was finished in 1963 after extensive restoration work. The area has been revitalized, and new, ultra-modern buildings have been constructed there. Although the new structure cannot compare to the temple that was there before 1624, it is nonetheless an impressive sight for both Hindus and non-Hindus. Every day, tens of thousands of worshippers and curious onlookers go to this magnificent temple.

The temple is nestled in a highly scenic environment

The view of the rising sun from the temple walls is breathtaking. Near the bottom of the steps leading up to the temple from the beach is a massive golden statue of King Ravana, who is worshiped beside the Svayambu Lingam. Devotees have thrown hundreds of coins at the statue’s feet, which rest on a metal pedestal.

The Koneswaram Temple Chariot Festival takes place in April and lasts for 22 days. The primary objective of the celebration is to get both the community and the gods ready for Puthandu, which is the beginning of the Tamil new year. The holy water is used to wash the gods and other festival items and then sprayed on the worshippers. Additionally, Navratri and Shivratri are two festivals that are celebrated with great fervor in this region.

Kanniya Hot Springs is a place with hot wells situated in Kanniya in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, and is just 8 kilometers from Trincomalee Railway Station. When vacationing in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, it’s common for people to visit the area around Trincomalee. Seven of the square wells are situated close to one another. Since their depth is just three to four feet, the bottom of the wells is easily seen. It would take at least ten to fifteen buckets to completely deplete the well’s water supply. Although the temperature is generally rather high, it does fluctuate significantly from one spring to the next.

An Overview of the History of the Kanniya Hot Water Wells

The history of the Kanniya hot water springs dates back to the time of King Rawana, according to information boards scattered throughout the area. According to legend, King Ravana launched countless fountains by piercing the ground with his sword. From the start, the water was hot, marking the origin of the current hot springs.

The area has been claimed by some as part of the Buddhist monastery’s complex, where Buddhist monks formerly practiced. Some ancient ruins may be found here and there. Warfare appears to have been the cause of the loss of many historical items.

Kanniya Trincomalee’s geothermal springs: hydrogeological features and characteristics

Natural springs with hot water are known as geothermal springs. Connections between the hydrological and atmospheric cycles and the global lithosphere are made possible by hydrothermal systems. In most cases, heat sources, groundwater, and reservoir rocks are responsible for the formation of hot springs.

The Kinniya spring water has surface temperatures that fall between 30 to 37 degrees Celsius, making it a warm spring. The pH range of the spring water is 6.7 to 7.3, which indicates that it is slightly basic. At 25 degrees Celsius, there is only a small range (288–428 S/cm) in the conductivity of the Kinniya hot springs. The Madunagala springs produce water with surface temperatures ranging from 34 to 46 degrees Celsius, making them warm thermal springs.

Information for Those Considering a Trip to the Kanniya Hot Springs

• At the location, there is a supply of regular buckets that visitors may use to take showers in. However, because it is often packed, you may have to wait in line for your bucket. The easiest way to prevent this is to just carry your buckets with you.
• It is important to remember to wear suitable clothing if you plan on going to any of the hot springs. The act of nudity or wearing swimwear when in public might be problematic.

All in all, Kanniya hot water springs are a great place to visit for all those visiting Trincomalee. The place has the element of history mixed with nature’s magic.

A seventeen-mile distance separates Kumana Village from Kudumbigala Monastery, which is located eleven miles from Panama. King Devanampiyatissa of Sri Lanka ordered the construction of the Kudumbigala monastery complex in 246 BC. In the beginning, it served as a haven for Buddhist monks seeking solace from the bustling city. Over 200 of the monastery’s rock caves have been uncovered by archaeologists. 

Kudumbigala Monastery and Its Significance

In Sri Lanka, this spiritual ground has immense significance since it was blessed by the hands of around 12,000 eminent Arahants. During the time of King Kavantissa, the Chethiya Pabbata Viharaya was supposedly constructed and presented to the Maha Sangha. This temple is now known as the Kudumbigala Thapowanaya Sanctuary. 

It is reported that General Nandimithra, who helped King Dutugemunu unite the land, restored it sometime later. Placed smack in the center of a thick forest, this region is mostly composed of big boulders and rocky outcrops. Comparable to India’s Dharmarajika Stupa, the Chethiyagiri Stupa is also built on a cylinder. Nandimithra, one of the ten great giants, is said to have left this inscription in a cave belonging to King Dutugemunu. 

What remains at the site to this present day? 

A strange sense of oddness permeates the area, and the many ruins provide evidence of extensive natural and human-caused damage. The civil war that raged in the nation for more than 30 years is also said to have done significant damage to the complex’s ruins. There are also many caves on the grounds, and several archaeological digs have been conducted in the area. 

Many new historical discoveries were made possible by the decipherment of the stone inscriptions when they were discovered and translated. It is possible to witness the remnants of an old dagoba on Kudumbigala, a massive rock, as well as the natural stone chem that has been used to store water since ancient times. Kudumbigala, with its 700–800 acres of ancient remains, is also undeniably a special place to explore in the Eastern Province. This is due to the shrine’s dry zone location, which is far away from any populated areas. Thambugala Anandasiri Thero, according to legend, restored and safeguarded the holy site in 1954 after it had been vandalized. 

Tend to your spiritual needs with some quiet reflection

Calming vistas of lush vegetation provide the perfect backdrop for some quiet reflection. In the distance, on a clear day, is Okanda Beach. The Kudumbigala Monastery Tour is an excellent way to combine sightseeing with a glimpse into the rich religious traditions of the nation.