Lakdasun - Images of Sri Lanka » Natural Bath http://www.lakdasun.org Free Pictures, Wallpapers, Guides for Nature and Wildlife Enthusiasts Tue, 27 Dec 2011 03:06:15 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3 Kanneliya Rain Forest – the bio-diversity hotspot http://www.lakdasun.org/attractions/attraction-08-kanneliya-rain-forest-the-bio-diversity-hotspot.htm http://www.lakdasun.org/attractions/attraction-08-kanneliya-rain-forest-the-bio-diversity-hotspot.htm#comments Sat, 09 Jan 2010 17:30:57 +0000 lakdasun http://www.lakdasun.com/?p=585
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Kanneliya Forest Reserve located in the Galle district is the largest of the KDN, or Kanneliya-Dediyagala-Nakiyadeniya, forest complex. Kanneliya is regarded as one of the most biologically diverse areas in the country (as well as in the world). The bio-diversity of Kanneliya is considered richer, even compared to the world heritage rain forest “sinharaja”.Most of Kanneliya today is a forest that had recovered from selective logging that had happened in1970s.  The water flows in the forest are now recovering with a numerous numbers of streams adding life to the diverse vegetation and some what hilly landscape. These streams create several beautiful cascades in side the forest. They also provide ideal opportunities for nice cool dip in some of the purest streams in the whole world!

Getting There

Public access to Kanneliya is allowed through the forest department managed conservation center located close to Galle-Udugama-Neliwa road at Koralegama, Panangala.View Google Earth Trail Map
Access By Road
Route1: Colombo -> Kalutara (Katukurunda) [45km on A2] -> Nagoda [3km on B008] -> Mathugama [5km on B308 & 11km on B8] -> Horawala [5km on B3] -> Moragala [7km] -> Palewatta [8km on B3] -> Pitigala [10km on B3] -> Udugama [24km via Mapalagama] -> Panangala [6km on B156] ->Koralegama -> Kanneliya Conservation Centre [2km](approximately 125km)
Route2: Colombo -> Galle [120km on A2] ->Udugama [40km] ->Panangala [6km on B156] ->Koralegama -> Kanneliya Conservation Centre [2km](approximately 165km)
Route3: Colombo -> Kalutara (Katukurunda) [45km on A2] -> Nagoda [3km on B008] -> Mathugama [5km on B308 & 11km on B8] -> Horawala [5km on B3] -> Moragala [7km] -> Palewatta [8km on B3] -> Neluwa [30km] -> Thawalama[5km] -> Panangala [12km on B156] -> Koralegama -> Kanneliya Conservation Centre [2km](approximately 135km)
Public Transport in only up to Panangala.

Weather and Season

December to February Lower chance of rain. Streams generally rich after rain. Good time to visit Kanneliya for waterfalls.
March to April Less chance of rain. But water levels would also be less. Good time to visit Kanneliya for Hiking
May to July Higher changce of rain. Time your visit after high monsoon activity to see waterfalls in full flow
August, September Can be quite dry. Good for hiking but water levels will be low.
October, November Higher changce of rain. Time your visit after high monsoon activity to see waterfalls in full flow

Attractions and activities

  1. Hiking: There are two main trails that takes you deep in to the forest. Kabbale mountain trail takes you up to a summit point from where you can enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding. Trail to Narangas Ella goes deep in to the forest passing several points of interest such as the Giant Navada tree.
  2. Natural Bath: Streams flowing through Kanneiya offers many opportunities to take a dip in clean, cool waters. Popular natural pools include the pool in front of the Kanneliya conservation center, the pool behind the conservation center and a natural pool behind the Kanneliya Forest resort.

View Google Earth Trail Map

Accommodation Options

The best option would be to stay at the forest department dormitory right at the entrance to the forest. also there are few private eco-lodges close to Kanneliya.

Because of its proximity to Galle, you can stay in Galle and drive to Kanneliya. It takes less than an hour form Galle to reach there.

Look for more accommodation options in this area at Lakdasun forum accommodation options board

Notes, Tips and Special Remarks

  1. A forest department guide will always accompany you on your hikes.
  2. Take only pictures, leave only foot prints
  3. Water levels in the waterfalls will significantly go down during dry months. Therefore if you want to see them in full flow, time your visit just after rainy season
  4. When it rains, some of the trails get infected with Leeches. Make sure that you are prepared. [Lear more about leech prevention]

Image Gallery
Panoramic view of Kanneliya and nearby forest complex (KDN) from the Kabbale Mountain
Panoramic view from the Kabbale hill. Trail to Kabbale is not too tough, and will let you enjoy the beauty of this forest first hand.
Light filters through the forest - Kanneliya Evening light lighting up fallen leaves - Kanneliya
After a rain in the forest in the afternoon, the sun breaks in, crating a magical feeling. Not only when light filters through the wet trees, it is also interesting to see it lighting up the fallen leaves on the ground too.
Anagimale falls Kanneliya Rain Forest The giant creeper - Kanneliya Rain Forest
Two, easy to reach attractions in the forest. The Anagimale falls is the easiest to reach. Just 2km from the gate on a broad trail, makes it very accessible.  Just 200m more on the main trail  from the Anagimale falls, lies the giant creeper.
Colourful canopy of the forest - Kanneliya
The forest canopy is as beautiful and diverse as what lies below. Different shades of green decorate the canopy which will look stunning when sun shines after a light rain in the rain forest
Anagimale falls Kanneliya Rain Forest Anagimale falls Kanneliya Rain Forest
The Beautiful Cascades of Anagimale falls. The streams have lost most of their water retaining capabilities due to de-forestation in 1970′s an therefore the true beauty of these waterfalls are rarely seen today. Situation is improving with the recovery of the forest but it is a living example to show how difficult it is to restore the delicate balance of nature once disturbed.
Fern on the boulder - Kanneilya Green Vine Snake - Kanneliya
I have met people who complain that the places like “Kanneliya” are “boring” and “Nothing much to see”. Well the truth is that there are a plenty of wonders to see but we simply ignore them in a hurry.After a good walk in Kanneliya, I would be really surprised if some one haven’t seen a few creatures like the vine snake pictured here and a plenty of beautiful formations of nature such as this “fern on the boulder”
Narangas Ella water fall - Kanneliya The Giant Navada tree - Kanneliya
Two other attractions of Kanneliya. You need to venture little deeper in to the forest to see the Narangas Ella. THe giant Navada tree is located at a short detour from the same trail.
Stream flowing through the forest - kanneliya Stream flowing through the forest - kanneliya
Water is synonymous with life. To the forest, streams add movement and create a sense of life. Water flowing in these streams are possibly the purest in the world with no contact with humans until they leave the forest.
Stream behind kanneliya forest resort
The Gentle Flow: A closer look at the gentle flow of a stream. While the attempt to capture the rhythm of the flow has paid off,  the feeling will never be complete without the  charming sound the water makes when it sneaks through the boulders.
Forest Department dormitory - Kanneliya Forest Department dormitory - Kanneliya
The forest department dormitory at Kanneliya – This is the best accommodation option, both economy wise as well as location wise
]]> http://www.lakdasun.org/attractions/attraction-08-kanneliya-rain-forest-the-bio-diversity-hotspot.htm/feed 0 Explore Fishing Huts – A Nature Lover’s Paradise http://www.lakdasun.org/attractions/attraction-02-fishing-hut-muskeliya.htm http://www.lakdasun.org/attractions/attraction-02-fishing-hut-muskeliya.htm#comments Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:00:11 +0000 lakdasun http://www.lakdasun.com/wp/?p=276
Directions to Horton Plains Activities possible at Horton Plains Accommodation close to Horton Plains Horton Plains Weather Pictures of Horton Plains Tips, Notes and Special Remarks
*** important Notice: There are several negative comments about the fishing huts on Lakdasun Forum ***

The Fishing Huts is a pair of beautiful log cabins situated on the edge of the Mooray Estate, Maskeliya, bordering the Peak Wilderness Sanctuary. Built by tea planters many years ago as a Trout fishing location, this wonderful place is one of the best hideouts in Sri Lanka for the adventurous nature lovers

Getting There
Journey to Fishing Huts from Colombo is also an exciting one. From Colombo reach Awissawella on High-level road (A4) and from Awissawella drive towards Hatton on A7 highway. This section of A7 winds though the beautiful Kelani Valley passing Kithulgala and then climbs up to Gingathehna pass and enters the central hills giving you an opportunity to enjoy some spectacular hill country landscapes.

After few kilometers passing Ginigathhena, take the right turn towards Norton Bridge (Sri-Pada road). You can enjoy the breath-taking views of Seven-Hill mountain range (Saptha Kanya) on your way to Norton Bridge. Passing Norton Bridge town, drive towards Maskeliya. At Mausakelle on Norton Bridge – Maskeliya road, again turn right towards Nallathanni- Delhousie Bazaar. Few kilometers before Delhousie Bazaar, turn left towards Mooray estate.

Once you enter Mooray estate, the last and most exciting section of the journey begins. The estate road will quickly turn in to a dirt track which winds through the estate, with breath-taking views over the Mausakelle reservoir, spectacular Adam’s Peak waterfalls and the peak wilderness sanctuary. It may not be possible to tackle this track with a car. You will need something with a little bit more ground clearance (A van would do fine).

Weather and Season
Best time to visit fishing huts is Late December to April. July and August will also be ok. May-June, September through November there is a very high chance of raining in the area.

Attractions and activities

  1. Hiking: There are several hiking trails in the area. You can climb Adams Peak, a hike of about two and a half hours to the summit. There are two water falls which you can reach by walking along the streams flowing through the forest. Just staying at the huts and enjoying the scenic beauty of the location it self will be extremely relaxing.
  2. Birds watching – If you are a keen bird watcher, peak wilderness sanctuary is one of the best areas in Sri Lanka to observe birds.
  3. The Baththulu-Oya river – The view all around is unbelievably beautiful, with the montane forest surrounding the area and the river below. Swimming is possible in the river if you can handle the temperatures. Rafting in the clear waters of Baththulu Oya is also full of fun.
  4. Waterfalls – On your way to Fishing Huts from Colombo, it is possible to visit three beautiful water falls. They are Aberdeen Falls (Turn right just before Ginigathhena town, a few kilometers drive and walk of about another kilometer), Laxapana falls (Turn right towards SevenHills farm, few kilometers from NortonBridge on Norton Bridge – Maskeliya road and then a 300m walk), Mohini falls (on the road side passing Mausakelle reservoir)

Accommodation Options
Two simple log cabins have been constructed in the banks of Buththulu-Oya, one of the main feeders of Maskeli Oya which in turn forms Kelani River. Be prepared for the basic nature of the accommodation. Each log cabin has two bedrooms, with attached toilets, a dining area and a kitchen. A cook is available but provisions should be taken with you. Each hut can accommodate six to seven people. There is no electricity but hurricane lamps are provided.

Fishing huts is owned and managed by Maskeliya Plantations Limited. Reservation can be made at Maskeliya Plantations Limited office located in Arpico Complex, Navinna, Maharagama.

Tel:011 4310500 and ask for Maskeliya Plantations

Notes, Tips and Special Remarks
  1. Remember to wake up early in the morning and explore the surrounding. The best scenery can be witnessed as the first rays of the day hits the tea fields and the forest covered mountain peaks including Adam’s Peak

Image Gallery
Mausakelle reservoir at sun rise Rafting in Baththulu Oya. Take your own inflatable raft or you can have some fun with the Barrel-Raft available at the location. (Photo: Haritharan)
Breath-taking views of the peak-wilderness sanctuary from Mooray estate View from the Hut Number 01. You don’t have to do anything else. Just sit back and relax
Adam’s peak falls crashing in to Maussakelle reservoir Far away from civilization. A night at Fishing huts without electricity!
Crystal Clear water of the river (Baththulu Oya) exposes rocks below and creates a beautiful pattern with light rays dancing over waves A pleasant surprise after a challenging hike. One of the two remote waterfalls that can be reached from Fishing Huts
Hike to one of the remote water falls of Baththulu Oya. This approximately 1km hike is a challenging but extremely rewarding walk along Baththulu Oya through the dense forest. (Photos: Haritharan)
If you visit fishing huts, remember to wake up early in the morning and explore the surrounding. Otherwise you will miss these spectacular views of sunrise over Adam’s peak and the lush green tea fields. (Photos: Pulathisi)
View of one of the log cabins (Hut No 1) hanging over Baththulu Oya. (Photo: Haritharan)
Visit us on the way: The Three waterfalls that you can visit on your way to Fishing Huts. From Left: Aberdeen Falls (Ginigathhena), Laxapana Falls (Norton Bridge), Mohini falls (Mausakelle)
]]> http://www.lakdasun.org/attractions/attraction-02-fishing-hut-muskeliya.htm/feed 0 Knuckles South – Deanston, Corbett’s Gap & Traditional Villages http://www.lakdasun.org/attractions/attraction-06-knuckles-south-deanston.htm http://www.lakdasun.org/attractions/attraction-06-knuckles-south-deanston.htm#comments Sun, 19 Apr 2009 10:34:42 +0000 lakdasun http://www.lakdasun.com/wp/?p=254

Directions to Horton Plains Activities possible at Horton Plains Accommodation close to Horton Plains Horton Plains Weather Pictures of Horton Plains Tips, Notes and Special Remarks

Knuckles mountain range, situated in the north-east of central hills in Sri Lanka, is one of the most important natural sites in the country. The vast mountain range consists of 34 peaks in total, with five peaks resembling the shape of a knuckle. The unique location of this mountain range places it in the path of both monsoons. Coupled with the presence of a large number of mountain peaks and valleys, the entire region is unbelievably diverse in terms of climate, terrain, vegetation and obviously, animal life.

One of the access routes available to explore this unique site is to enter the southern region of Knuckles from Hunassgiriya, the highest point of the Kandy – Mahiyanganaya road [A26]

Getting There

Entrance to this part of the Knuckles range is through Hunassgiriya pass located on the Kandy – Mahiyanganaya road, 52km from Kandy. View Google Earth Trail Map
Directions: Reach Hunassigiriya via Colombo – Kandy[A1] – Hunnasgiriya[A26] , take the left turn from Hunassgiriya towards Loolwatta. This narrow road winds through the knuckles range and go deep in to it up to Meemure village.
Total distance from Kandy to Hunnasgiriya is 52km. From Hunassgiriya to Meemure there is 34km. Hunnasgiriya –> Deanston[8km] –> Loolwatta[7km] -> Corbett’s Gap[4km] -> Meemure[15km]
Roads are paved all the way from Colombo. Condition of the road stretch from Hunnasgiriya turn off can vary from good to bad depending on the level of maintenance. Generally this stretch can be tackled by an ordinary car up to the Corbett’s gap. A vehicle with reasonable ground clearance will have not problem all the way up to Meemure village.

Weather and Season

December to February Moderate chance of rain. Good time to visit This area of Knuckles.
March to May Lower chance of rain. Good time to visit This area of Knuckles.
June to September Strong winds particularly at Corbet’s Gap. chance of Rain is very low. Good time to visit This area of Knuckles.
September to November High possibility of Rain.

Attractions and activities

  1. Beautiful Landscapes - Just walking or driving along the Meemure road from Hunnasgiriya will give you an ample opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of the mighty Knuckles range from many different angles. Several special scenic locations worth mentioning are the Corbet’s Gap, Deanston, Kobonilla Village and Meemure Village. View Scenic locations in Google Earth Trail Map.
  2. Hiking: Experiencing climate change as you walk. “Walking” through different “climate zones” may sound odd but that is something you can experience in Knuckles. Start from the high altitude of Corbett’s gap and walk up to Meemure village. This 15 km walk will take you though from cool, high-altitude climate to dry low altitude climate. You will be surprised to see the vegetation changing around you as you walk. Popular hiking trails in the area include Trail to Mini world’s end from Deanston, Trail to Dothalugala from Deanston, Trail to Nitro Caves from Corbtt’s Gap, Trail to Augallena cave via Thangappuwa from Corbett’s Gap, Trail to Kalupahana from “Meemure” village.
  3. Camping:  There is a forest daprtment camp site at Dothalugala. Apart from that, there are many locations in the area where you can setup a nice camp blending with nature. Always speak to local people and inform them about your presence if you chose to camp near a village.
  4. Natural Bath: Cool Bath in crystal clean waters of rivers and streams such as “Deanston falls at Dothalugala”, “Heen ganga at Kayikawela village”, “Meemure Oya” in Meemure village.

View Google Earth Trail Map

Accommodation Options


There is a forest department facility located at Deanston (8km from Hunassgiriya) where there is a basic forest lodge and a camp site.

You can also set up your own camp in one of the traditional villages.  Meemure Village and banks of Heen Ganga River at Kiyikawela are two such location.

There are a number of private Eco Lodges scattered in the area.

Look for more accommodation options in the area at Lakdasun forum accommodation options board

Notes, Tips and Special Remarks

  1. One of the important points to remember when visiting this area is that even though this area of knuckles is a protected zone it is shared by the people of the area. Please make sure that you do not disturb them just as you would not disturb the flora and fauna of the area. Follow this thread on Lakdasun forum for more practical ideas and experiences.

Image Gallery
Misty mountains at Knuckles
Misty Mountains – One of the mountain peaks of Knuckles seen through a veil of clouds. In Sinhalese these mountains are called “Dumbara” which means “Misty Mountains” due to this obvious reason.
Mountain view and sunrise at Corbett's Gap at Knuckles
Sunrise on a clod, clear morning. This view is from Corbett’s gap area at around 6.30 in the morning
Paddy fields in Kobonilla village at Knuckles Traditional farmer Kaykawela at Knuckles
Paddy fields of Kobonilla village making its way up from the valley in steps and a traditional farmer working in a paddy field at Kayikawela village. These are common sights in the region where traditional villages such as Meemure, Kayikawela, Kumbukgolla and Kobinilla are sandwiched between hills.
Sunrise at Kalupahana in Knuckles Waterfall at Knuckles
Sunrise at Kalupahana a unique high altitude plain located at the heart of knuckles range A stream peacefully flowing through the forest. Sights like this are quite common in this area of Knuckles
Early morning scenic view of the east plains from Knuckles.
Endless view from Kobonilla Village. You can see up to the east coast including the famous “Barron’s cap” on a clear morning like this
Frog found in Knuckles Crestless Lizard(Calotes liocephalus) found in Knuckles
Some of the rarest and strange life forms on earth find refuge in the Knuckles range
Clouds, Mountains, Blue sky and a tree creating a beautiful composition at Knuckles View from the Nitro cave at Knuckles
Clouds, Mountains, Blue sky and a tree creating a beautiful composition. View from the Nitro-cave, the destination of one of the hikes you can do in the area.
Mushroom found at Knuckles trails Water droplets hanging in flower buds at Knuckles
Make sure that you carefully look for these wonders hidden in the forest when ever you walk though the unique eco-system of knuckles
scenic outlook at mini-world's end at knuckles
View from the Mini World’s end as storm clouds approach from the distant mountains
]]> http://www.lakdasun.org/attractions/attraction-06-knuckles-south-deanston.htm/feed 0 Bambarakanda – Waterfalls, Mountains, adventure and scenic beauty http://www.lakdasun.org/attractions/attraction-05-bambarakanda-waterfalls-mountains-adventure-and-scenic-beauty.htm http://www.lakdasun.org/attractions/attraction-05-bambarakanda-waterfalls-mountains-adventure-and-scenic-beauty.htm#comments Mon, 06 Apr 2009 17:17:44 +0000 lakdasun http://www.lakdasun.com/wp/?p=316
Directions to Horton Plains Activities possible at Horton Plains Accommodation close to Horton Plains Horton Plains Weather Pictures of Horton Plains Tips, Notes and Special Remarks
Bambarakanda waterfall is the highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. Situated in the hill town of Kalupahana near Haldumulla in the south eastern slopes of central hills. The area around Bambarakanda is rich with scenic beauty, rugged terrain, waterfalls, tea fields and cool climate making it an attractive destination for nature lovers.

Getting There
Colombo -> Ratnapura -> Balangoda -> Kalupahana (left turn from Colombo – Badulla highway [A4] at Kalupahana, between 172nd and 173rd km post & Drive 5km) -> Bambarakanda RestLast 500m after passing Bambarakanda falls is an unpaved rough road which will need some ground clearance to tackle. Road construction work is underway and hopefully the road will become better soon.

View Google Earth Trail Map

Weather and Season
Best months to visit Bambarakanda are from March through May. During this period the chance of rain is very low but water is plentiful in streams and waterfalls. From June to September it will be very dry and windy. From November through February chances of rain is very high.

Attractions and activities

  1. Hiking – There are plenty of trails to waterfalls and mountain peaks. They are Trail to Lanka Ella waterfall, Trail to the top of Bambarakanda waterfall, Trail to Uduwara and Nagadowa waterfalls and Wangedigala and Gonamale rocky mountain peak hike.
  2. Beautiful Landscape – The view all around is pretty beautiful including the mighty Bambarakanda falls and the surrounding hills
  3. 4WD - Jeep track to Horton Plain via Devil’s Staircase
  4. Natural Bath – Cool Bath in the Natural Pool complex known as “Seven Basins” or the natural pools at top and bottom of Bambarakanda falls

View Google Earth Trail Map

Accommodation Options
  1. Bambarakanda Rest – A basic eco-Lodge

Look for more accommodation options in the area at Lakdasun forum accommodation options board

Notes, Tips and Special Remarks
1. Some of the trails in the area requires you to climb on steep mountain slopes covered with pines needles. Extra care should be exercised as this can become slippery when dry.

Image Gallery
Bambarakanda falls and surrounding hills in a clear cold morning
“On top of the world” the view from the top of Bambrakanda Falls. Trail to this point from the Bambarakanda rest is short climb along pines covered mountain side
Fountains of the area. These four waterfalls are fairly easy to trek. Lanka ella falls, Uduwara falls, waterfall on top of Bambarakanda falls and Nagadowa falls
Mist covered Bambarkanda Falls. The weather in the area is quite dynamic and thick mist is not uncommon in the afternoons Base pool of Lanka Ella falls. The water is crystal clear and is in its purest form
Nothing can be compared to trekking through beautiful landscapes. Scenic outlook on Lanka Ella trail from Bambarakanda rest
4wd trail to Horton plains from Bambarakanda gives you the opportunity to enjoy some of the best hill country landscapes of Sri Lanka and will push your vehicle to the limits as you pass hair pin bends exceeding 15 degrees gradient. On right: Landcruiser negotiating hairpin bends of devil’s staircase
The moon about to hide behind mountains: pictured on a early morning at Bambarakanda
Natures glory at its best. Clouds hang over mountain top This view from mountain top spans all the way up to the south-east coasts of Sri Lanka
“Trekking close to clouds” Captured on the trail to Uduwara and Nagadowa falls
Bambarakanda rest – Windows opening to the breath-taking view of Bambarakanda falls. Even with basic facilities the location makes it the most attractive accommodation option Not to forget one of the frequent visitors to Bambarakanda rest. You can get quite close to these giant squirrels as they are so used to the visitors
]]> http://www.lakdasun.org/attractions/attraction-05-bambarakanda-waterfalls-mountains-adventure-and-scenic-beauty.htm/feed 0 Explore Sinharaja from Kudawa Conservation Centre http://www.lakdasun.org/attractions/attraction-03-explore-sinharaja-from-kudawa.htm http://www.lakdasun.org/attractions/attraction-03-explore-sinharaja-from-kudawa.htm#comments Fri, 23 Jan 2009 17:13:08 +0000 lakdasun http://www.lakdasun.com/wp/?p=292
Directions to Horton Plains Activities possible at Horton Plains Accommodation close to Horton Plains Horton Plains Weather Pictures of Horton Plains Tips, Notes and Special Remarks
Sinharaja rainforest is one of the most important natural wonders of the world. It’s one of the few sites in Sri lanka to get international recognition as a world heritage site.Sinharaja is a place steaming with life. Every where you look, its living and breathing! Plants, butterflies, bugs, birds, snakes, lizard, mammals, fish, frogs, mushroom and many other forms of life occupy every inch of this amazing rain forest. Forest covered mountains, flowing streams and fountains, green landscapes and cool and clean breath are simply unforgettable.

The easiest way to explore this wonderful place is to visit Kudawa Conservation Centre (KCC) managed by the department of forest conservation.

Getting There
It’s just 125km from Colombo (Route: Colombo-> Kalutara -> Nagoda -> Mathugama -> Agalawatta -> Baduraliya -> Kalwana(Manana) -> Weddagala(South) -> KCC ). You do not need a four-wheel drive to go there. It takes approximately 3.5 hours to KCC from Colombo.From KCC, there are two jeep track to the protected area of the forest. Distance from KCC to the entrance of the protected area is 2.5 km on one of the tracks and 3.2km on the other. You can chose to walk this trail or you can hire a 4WD from KCC.

View Google Earth Trail Map

Weather and Season
The possibility of rain is quite high through out the year. From December to April and July to August, the chances of rain will be lesser compared to the rest of the year. Particularly December through April is considered the best time to visit this area because of the presence of migrating birds.

Attractions and activities

  1. Hiking – There are several exciting nature trails starting from KCC. If you are looking for a brief walk in the forest, attempt the “Giant Navada Tree Trail”. Mulawella NatureTrail will be little more difficult but will definitely be more rewarding. If you are ready for an adventure hike and want to venture deep in to the forest you can attempt the Sinhagala Nature Trail
  2. Birds watching – KCC is one of the best areas to watch colorful rain forest birds. Sinharaja is home to many species of birds including more than 20 species endemic to Sri Lanka. This area is best known amongst birdwatcher for what they call “mixed species feeding bird flocks”. As the name implies, these are large flocks of birds, belonging to many different species, traveling through the forest looking for food. Sometimes there can be as many as 150 individuals in a single flock. An encounter with a large feeding flock will sure become an unforgettable moment in your life.
  3. River Bath – You can take a dip in the clear waters of “Koskulana” river flowing beside KCC

View Google Earth Trail Map

If you plan to hike, any time during the day would be ok. KCC is open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 12 hours is enough for you to complete any of the nature trails. If you are specifically behind birds, the best time to be in the forest is 7 to 9 in the morning and 4 to 6 in the evening. A forest department’s guide / Naturalist will accompany you.

Accommodation Options
  1. Cabins/dormitory managed by the department of forest conservation, located near KCC
  2. Famous “Martin’s Lodge” located at a unique place at the edge of the forest

Look for more accommodation options in the area at Lakdasun forum accommodation options board

Notes, Tips and Special Remarks
1. Please do not talk loudly while on a nature trail. Nature is peaceful and quiet. Do not disturb the rhythm of Mother Nature and its silent observers. Unless you maintain silence you will not be able to see the birds and other wonderful creature that inhabit this mighty forest.

Image Gallery
Trekking through the rain forest on Mulawella nature trail. If you start your hike early enough, you can witness the beauty of the evergreen forest in early morning light.Photos: Dinusha (left) | Sanjaka (right)
A tree fern bud glistening in light (left) and a pitcher plant (right)
Sinharaja is one of the hot spots in Sri Lanka to observe butterflies. Not only butterflies, there are many colorful creatures hiding in the forest, like the colorful grass-hopper pictured here (second from Left)
Colorful Giant wood spiders (right), one of the largest spider species found in Sri Lanka, can grow up to 6-8 inches. Their giant webs add to the beauty of the landscape even after they are abandoned (left). If you visit KCC you are almost guaranteed to see these giant spiders
No need to say, a rain forest is full of plants and trees. Interestingly some of them create eye catching frames in the forest. Above is a selection of few such moments captured on camera when right light falls on the right object (from left: a “Benduru” leaf, moss in light, a hanging dead leaf and a Bovitiya flower)
A rain forest is a place full of small wonders, like these tiny mushrooms found on a dead tree bark
Sinharaja is world famous for its bird life. The four pictured here (from left: spot-winged thrush, yellow fronted barbet, Sri lanka flower pecker, Asian brown fly-catcher) are just a tiny sub-set of the colorful bird-life of Sinharaja
View of forest covered mountains of Sinharaja. This view from the Mulawella peak is arguably the best view from any of the mountain peaks in Sinharaja. Trail to Mulawella peak is not-too-hard which a 2.4 km climb from the Sinharaja entrance(Photo: Sanjaka )
Exciting lizards of Sinharaja. Colorful forest lizard (left) and an endemic Kangaroo Lizard (Right)
Martin’s lodge is my favorite accommodation option at KCC. View from the dining area over looking Sinharaja (right) is so relaxing. Who knows? You may be lucky enough to be there when a flock of endemic blue magpies (left) occasionally decide to invade the lodge looking for some variety in what they eat.Photo: Mithila (left) | Nalaka (right)
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