Four of us Started on an exciting camping trip to Wangedigala, chosen as the backdrop for my engagement celebration. The day after the engagement, our journey began.
At 7 am, two bikes set off from the Malinda area. Our first stop was a friend’s house to gather camping essentials, and the route, known as the Mithirigala Nissarana Road, was nothing short of breathtaking. It wound its way through the Nissarana forest, providing an awe-inspiring backdrop. The feeling of riding through that lush forest was indescribable.
After gathering our camping gear, we continued through Awissawella town. Following the journey, we searched for a place to have breakfast. We were fortunate to stumble upon an incredible hotel near Parakaduwa, aptly named the Red Lotus Hotel. The variety of fresh and delicious food options, including string hoppers, bread, rice, and paratha, was astounding. What’s more, for just Rs. 300 per person, we could eat to our heart’s content. We indulged in a hearty meal before resuming our journey.
As we progressed towards the Weli Oya bridge, the scenery became even more spectacular, with mountains enveloping the road. Upon arrival at the Weli Oya bridge, we faced the task of finding a secure parking spot for our bikes. Thankfully, the Double Bridge Hotel, conveniently located near the bridge, came to our rescue. The accommodating hotel owner granted us permission to park our bikes in their back yard, assuring us of their overnight security measures.
With our bikes safely stowed, we indulged in a delightful lunch at the Double Bridge Hotel. This charming establishment, despite its modest size, offered us an incredible dining experience with its breathtaking views and delectable fare. The prices were reasonable, and the staff’s warmth and excellent service added to the overall experience. Having savored our meal, we eagerly resumed our journey from the Double Bridge Hotel to the Wangedigala camping site, our spirits buoyed by the anticipation of the adventure that lay ahead.
Around 1:30 pm, we backtracked about a kilometer along the main road to find the trail leading to “Dammagiri Ashramaya”. The first stage of the hike involved following a newly constructed, winding path through a pine forest. Even in the middle of the day, the forest exuded a tranquil darkness. The incline was manageable, and we encountered a clean natural water source, offering a refreshing break. We replenished our water bottles and washed the meat we had brought for dinner. After a short rest, we continued our ascent.
After an hour and a half of hiking, we reached a junction where we encountered a Buddha statue. Here, we paused to make wishes for a smooth journey ahead. At the junction, we discovered a small hut labeled “take anything you want and leave something useful.” This communal sharing spot was a heartwarming touch, reliant on everyone’s honesty.
Turning left at the junction, we found ourselves on a path less defined. We chose to forge ahead in the absence of a clear trail. The steepness increased to about 70 degrees, making the climb more challenging. Pine nuts gently fell around us, creating a unique atmosphere. The path was somewhat slippery due to the abundance of pine needles. Caution was paramount.
Taking regular breaks, we navigated the ascent. At one point, two of our companions opted for a quick boost of energy with a couple of shots of brandy. We let them proceed and continued our climb at a steady pace. It seemed their tactic was proving successful.
We encountered other hikers descending from Wangedigala, who informed us that there was much more to the trail. It became apparent that the hike was more demanding than anticipated. Nonetheless, we persevered, staying hydrated along the way.
Around 5:30 pm, we arrived at the camping site. The surroundings grew darker and cooler. We quickly set out to find a suitable camping spot. The prime location at the edge of the mountain had already been claimed by a couple, so we settled in the middle. Attempts to gather firewood proved challenging, so we give up the bonfire and proceeded to prepare dinner using a small gas cooker.
We had a delightful dinner of chicken curry, Maggi noodles, and grilled sausages, accompanied by singing and dancing under the midnight sky. The tranquility of the night was unparalleled. With the clear sky, we could even slept soundly without the need for a tent. It was an experience beyond words.
I awoke early the next morning to witness the breathtaking sunrise. The sight was simply mesmerizing. We ventured to the first peak of Wangedigala, capturing some stunning photographs before returning to our camp. A shortage of water prompted a search for a fresh source. Eventually, we located a natural spring with crystal-clear water, refreshing our faces and replenishing our bottles.
After refreshing ourselves and preparing a hearty breakfast of soup, bread, and meatball curry, we set off to conquer the second peak. The path was captivating, and the cool atmosphere at noon was a pleasant surprise.
Reaching the peak, we were rewarded with a panoramic 360-degree view. Sri Lanka’s beauty was on full display, and we even felt as though we could touch the clouds.
After snapping numerous photos and soaking in the scenery, we made our way back to camp. Once there, we tidied up the area, leaving nothing behind but footprints. On our descent, we encountered many fellow hikers, most of them couples.
Our return journey included a stop at a pine forest for a well-deserved tea break. We then made our way to the Double Bridge Hotel for lunch, as hunger had set in. Afterward, we sought a place to bathe beneath the Wali Oya bridge, but it was too crowded at the time.
We hopped on our bikes and scouted for a suitable spot. After some searching, we stumbled upon “Hirikatu Oya Outdoor Bath,” a fantastic and secure spot for a wash and swim. We parked our bikes, walked to the water spot, and enjoyed a refreshing break before continuing our journey back.
The Wangedigala adventure was nothing short of extraordinary. It was a journey filled with camaraderie, breathtaking views, and unforgettable moments. We left with hearts full of gratitude, cherishing the memories we created.
Feeling inspired? Don’t let the adventure end here! Explore more of Sri Lanka’s wonders and plan your next getaway. Whether it’s the lush green landscapes, historic sites, or vibrant culture, there’s always more to discover. Ready for your next journey? Click here to read more about Sri Lanka and start planning your visit: Visit Ceylon 🌟✈️ #VisitCeylon #TravelDreams”
