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.