Waulpane limestone cave | Rakwana

About this Attraction

The journey to Waulpane Limestone Cave was more than just a visit—it was an adventure into the heart of nature's mysteries. Nestled deep within the Bulutota Rakwana range near Udawalawa, this cave had long piqued my curiosity with its reputation for ancient fossils, countless bats, and the only known internal waterfall in Sri Lanka. As I laced up my hiking boots that morning, I had no idea how unforgettable this experience would become.

The Journey to the Cave: An Adventure in Itself

The road to Waulpane was rugged and unyielding. Driving along the narrow, unpaved paths lined with thick jungle, I could feel the anticipation building with every twist and turn. The distant sound of the Kumbukkan Oya River accompanied us as we finally reached the cave entrance. The sight before me was awe-inspiring: a towering rock face hiding an ancient world within its depths.

Stepping into the Darkness: Entering the Cave

As I stepped into the cave, the air immediately turned cooler. The sunlight disappeared behind me, replaced by an eerie darkness that heightened my senses. I turned on my flashlight and was instantly met with a surreal scene: thousands of bats hanging from the ceiling, their tiny eyes glinting in the dim light. The echo of their rustling wings created a symphony unique to this underground world.

The ground beneath me was slippery, covered in layers of bat droppings. I trod carefully, knowing this was part of Waulpane's untouched, raw nature.

Discovering the Fossils and Hidden History

Moving further into the cave, I noticed something remarkable: fossils embedded in the cavern walls. The guide explained that these fossils are believed to date back thousands of years, offering clues to this region's prehistoric past. I ran my fingers gently along the rough surfaces, imagining the ancient world these fossils had witnessed.

At this moment, the cave's connection to Balangoda Man hit me. Archaeological findings suggest this cave might share a historical link to the early human settlements at Batadomba Lena. The thought of walking where ancient humans once roamed was both humbling and exhilarating.

The Magnificent Internal Waterfall: Nature’s Masterpiece

The sound of rushing water grew louder with each step. As I turned a corner, I was greeted by a sight that took my breath away: the 60-foot-tall internal waterfall cascading from the cave's ceiling into the pool below. The sunlight filtering through a crack in the rock illuminated the water like a silver curtain, creating a magical, almost ethereal atmosphere.

Standing there, with the cool mist on my face and the thunder of water reverberating through the cave, I realized that this was the second-largest internal waterfall in the world—a hidden gem right here in Sri Lanka.

The Cave's Inhabitants: Life in the Darkness

Waulpane Cave isn't just about rocks and waterfalls; it’s a thriving ecosystem in pitch darkness. My flashlight revealed the glistening eyes of cave-dwelling lizards darting along the walls, frogs camouflaged in rocky crevices, and insects perfectly adapted to this sunless environment. The biodiversity within the cave was astounding, and I felt privileged to witness it firsthand.

The Threats to This Natural Wonder

While the cave’s natural beauty left me in awe, the damage caused by illegal gem mining was painfully evident. The once-clear stream at the cave's entrance now appeared murky, its bed scarred by relentless excavation. I saw areas where the delicate stalactite and stalagmite formations had been broken, disrupting nature's work of centuries.

The guide shared stories of how dynamite and haphazard gemming activities had destabilized the cave's structure. It saddened me to think that such a remarkable natural and archaeological site could be lost to greed and negligence.

A Call for Preservation

I couldn't shake the sense of urgency as I emerged from the cave, blinking against the bright sunlight. This cave, with its ancient fossils, unique wildlife, and stunning waterfall, is an irreplaceable part of our natural heritage. Conservation efforts must be prioritized to protect it from further damage.

I hope future visitors experience the raw beauty of Waulpane Limestone Cave without witnessing the scars of human exploitation. This cave is more than just a tourist attraction; it is a window into Sri Lanka's past and a living testament to nature’s incredible craftsmanship.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Waulpane Limestone Cave was a journey I will never forget. From the eerie presence of thousands of bats to the majestic sight of the internal waterfall, every moment was filled with wonder and excitement. If you’re an adventurer, add this destination to your list. But remember—tread lightly, respect the environment, and leave nothing behind but footprints. Nature's masterpieces, like Waulpane, deserve our utmost care.

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