Visiting the Mahiyangana Raja Maha Vihara was an incredibly meaningful experience for me. I had always heard of its importance in Sri Lankan Buddhist history, but being there in person, standing in front of one of the Solosmasthana (the 16 most sacred religious sites in Sri Lanka), felt surreal. The temple holds a profound significance — it’s believed to be the site of Gautama Buddha's first visit to Sri Lanka. I could feel the spiritual energy and serenity surrounding this ancient sanctuary when I entered the temple grounds. Walking in Buddha’s Footsteps: The Story of His First Visit As I explored the site, I couldn’t help…

Visiting the Loggal Oya Reservoir was like stepping into a hidden paradise near the Uva and Central Provinces border. The vast expanse of water reflected in the clear blue sky immediately caught my attention as I approached. The reservoir’s calm, glassy surface was dotted with small islands, creating a picture-perfect scene that felt serene and untouched. The Scenic Drive The drive along Mahaweli Raja Mawatha from Kandy to Loggal Oya was an adventure. The road meandered through lush greenery, and as I got closer, the gentle breeze from the reservoir greeted me, carrying with it the earthy scent of the…

The adventure to Rathna Ella Waterfall began with an exhilarating drive through the charming Hasalaka town. The closer we got, the more the landscape transformed, with lush greenery and the distant sound of cascading water setting the tone for an unforgettable trek. Knowing this was the tallest waterfall in the Kandy district and the widest in Sri Lanka only heightened my anticipation. The Thrilling 4 km Trek The journey to the falls was nothing short of magical. The 4 km trail, hidden within the dense forest of the Victoria, Randenigala, and Rantambe sanctuary, blended thrill and tranquillity. The jungle teemed…

My journey to Sorabora Wewa in Mahiyangana began with an eagerness to witness the legacy of an ancient engineering marvel. According to local lore, this massive reservoir was built in 120 BC by Bulatha, a giant known for his unmatched strength and dedication to King Dutugemunu. The tale of Bulatha chewing betel leaves while constructing the dam added a layer of charm to this already fascinating destination. A Scenic Drive to Tranquility The 30-minute drive from Mahiyangana town to Sorabora Wewa was delightful. Lush greenery framed the roads, and the occasional sight of villagers going about their daily routines gave…

Visiting the Vedda Village in Dambana was like stepping back to experience a unique slice of Sri Lanka’s heritage. Nestled near Mahiyanganaya, this iconic village introduced me to one of the country’s most ancient and proud communities—the Veddas, Sri Lanka’s indigenous tribe. Their rich history dates back to a period far older than Prince Vijaya’s arrival in the 5th century BC. Archaeological evidence suggests their ancestors have inhabited the island since 18,000 BC, making them an essential part of Sri Lanka’s cultural tapestry. A Glimpse into the Vedda Way of Life What struck me most was how deeply rooted the…

Sri Lanka’s Daha Ata Wanguwa, or the 18 Bends Road, is an exhilarating drive that has earned its place as one of the most thrilling roads in the Central Province. During my recent journey from Kandy to Mahiyanganaya, I had the chance to experience this renowned stretch of asphalt that promises both breathtaking views and an unforgettable adventure. A Journey Through Hairpin Curves Despite its name, Daha Ata Wanguwa technically has 17 bends, as one of the original hairpin turns was eliminated during a road expansion project. These 17 curves offer a driving challenge like no other, testing the skills…

Nestled amidst Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, my visit to Maduru Oya National Park was a mesmerising experience connecting me to nature's untouched beauty. Known for its stunning biodiversity and tranquil landscapes, this park offered an immersive glimpse into the wild heart of Sri Lanka. Exploring the Park's Natural Beauty Upon entering the park via the Ambagaswewa Wildlife Conservation Office, I was immediately struck by the serene blend of dry, evergreen forests and grasslands. The rolling hills and the gentle flow of the Maduru Oya River painted a picture-perfect scene while the large reservoir glimmered under the tropical sun. The eight km-long rocky…