Wild and Wonderful. Wasgamuwa Sri Lanka

The journey from Atenwala to Wasgamuwa brings us through some amazing countryside. The roads are almost deserted with the majority of people beginning to observe the age-old rituals that define this auspicious week. We will be spending the (Sinhala and Tamil) New Year weekend in Wasgamuwa. It is time to visit the Wasgamuwa National Park. …

Trekking to Asia’s Smallest Village. Walpolamulla Sri Lanka

In the heart of Sri Lanka’s untamed wilderness lies a secret waiting to be uncovered – the enigmatic village of Walpolamulla, better known as the smallest village in Asia. Having heard about this village nearly two years ago, my curiosity is piqued, and I embark on a trek to visit this village.  Venturing off the…

Where Shadows Tell Time. Manigala Sri Lanka

Nestled near Pitawala Gama, along the road to Illukkumbura, lies Manigala, a popular hill station located within the Knuckles Range. The journey to this haven of natural splendor begins from Riverston, winding its way from the Knuckles Conservation Center through mountains, plains, and parks, offering a glimpse into the biodiversity-rich ecosystem of the Dumbara or…

Devil’s Staircase Dare. Ohiya Sri Lanka

It’s Easter Sunday, and a beautiful day here in Ohiya. We awake to the promise of another challenge and adventure. Today, we’re taking on the Devil’s Staircase, a spur-of-the-moment plan! Needless to say, we are excited to descend this legendary trail, starting from the top and winding our way down to Kalupahana. After a hearty…

Mist-ifying Beauty. Pekoe Trail 11. Horton Plains Sri Lanka 

The cold morning air wraps around us like a comforting embrace as we gather outside the Acacia Inn, our starting point for the day’s adventure on stage 11 of the Pekoe Trail, from Horton Plains to Udaveriya.  With temperatures hovering around 14 degrees Celsius, we layer up, eager to embark on the journey that lies ahead….

Tale of Two Landscapes. Pekoe Trail 10. Horton Plains Sri Lanka

Setting off on the Pekoe Trail 10 in reverse, we commence our adventure at 8 a.m., starting with a 4-km trek through the enchanting landscapes of Horton Plains. The crisp morning air greets us as the seven of us set foot on the trail, eager for the adventures that lie ahead. It is mandatory to…

Sacred Rock Sanctuary. Dambulla Sri Lanka

As I ascend the gentle slope of the Dambulla rock, I look forward to yet another visit to this amazing temple complex. The name itself, Dambulla, resonates with significance – a fusion of “Damba,” meaning rock, and “Ulla,” meaning fountain. Fueled by tales that echo with centuries of history, the Dambulla Cave Temple, commonly referred to as the Royal Rock…

Discovering Delft. Palk Strait Sri Lanka

As the ferry approaches the small island of Nedunthivu in the northern stretch of the Palk Strait, I can’t help but feel the anticipation of exploring a place with such a rich history. The island, named Delft on the Admiralty Chart, stands out from its Tamil-named counterparts, showcasing its unique blend of colonial influences and…

Kala Oya Night Safari. Eluvankulama Sri Lanka

As an unapologetic repeat guest to the Backwaters Lodge, I’m back for the fifth time! This time, the thrill of the night safari along the mystic Kala Oya awaits, and I can hardly contain my excitement. As the sun dips below the horizon, and after savoring yet another fabulous meal, I make my way to the mooring…

Taking on Pekoe Trail 12. Udaveriya  Sri Lanka

Today, unlike yesterday, finds us eager and prepared to tackle the formidable Pekoe Trail 12 early. This 14.8-kilometer trail, notorious for its difficulty, commences in Udaveriya and will ultimately lead us to Haputale. Along the way, we’ll navigate through overgrown paths, traverse enchanting pine forests, wander through tea estates, and flirt with the edges of precipices, all of which…