Lakdasun - Images of Sri Lanka » Waterfalls 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
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

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 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
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