The Geograohical Centre of Sri Lanka is marked by a 10 century building -the Nalanda Gedige. Situated in Matale, some 150km from Colombo is also a one of the most ambitious restoration projects carried out in Sri lanka The building itsself is a Buddhist image house with distinct Hindu influence in its design. Its thought to be the only building with fusion of Hindu and Buddhist architecture in the country. Built at a time of turmoil in the country with invasion of South Indian King’s, this is thought to be an attempt to bring harmony to the two races. The building was originally in the middle of paddy fields amidst low hills and wooded hamlets. This was however threatened with flooding in 1980 with the creation of the Bowatanne tank. A new island was built on the bunt of the reservoir and the completely dismantled building was re- esembled in its original form at the new location. Its a nice place to drop in to when visiting Matale. Make sure to visit the small museum as well at the entrance.
Manigala is situated in Riverstone, knuckles. Legend has it that Ravana landed his ‘plane’ on this rock. Top of the rock is a large plain covered with short shrubbery trees common this type of altitude and weather. It is not uncommon to see herds of buffalo at the top. These fellows stray from the village to the rock when it is not harvesting season. The climb to the top is moderately difficult. The area is infested with leeches and is advisable to wear socks soaked in dettol and coconut oil mixture and have some ‘siddhaleppa’ balm handy. Carry plenty of water and some food especially food like Chocolates and dates. The whole hike take upto 5 hours. One way is to climb up from Atanwala village and climb down from Thelgamu Oya near the Forestry Bungalow. Path at the Thelgamu Oya end is rather steep, hence might be a good place to start. At Atanwala end its not so steep by graded slope. It is advisable to take a guide with you from the village.
On the way it is a good idea to stop at the Mini Worlds end at Pitawalapatana.
Kalu Diya Pokuna in Kandalama is not to be confused with a place with a similar name in Mihintale, Anuradhapura. The name of the place, again is derived from the the shadow of the forest and hills falling on the lake rendering the water to appear black. This place is an amazing example of cave architecture. The use of the boulders to build cave dewellings with multiple floors. The finishing used in the ancient structure are still visible in places. The whole area is reputed to contain more that 90 caves. The forest is inhabited by leopards and wild elephants who frequent the site and leave their mark on the trees.
Pidurangala is a rock out crop next to the famed 8th wonder of the ancient world, Sigiriya Rock Fotress. It is said that the Sigirya rock was inhabited by Monks, when King Kashyapa discovered it and wanted to convert it to his citadel. Hence he made arrangements for the monks to be moved to Pidurangala rock. The caves bear evidence of separate units for monks which even now is fantastically cool. The giant sleeping buddha statue further points to the religious inhabitants and royal patronage. The Climb to the top is not difficult but not a cake walk either. The best part is creeping under a giant boulder to reach the top.
The entrance is through the Pidurangala viharaya. Tickets needs to be obtained prior to the climb. The Cave temple with its ancient script etched into the rock is worth a visit. The best time to climb is before dawn to witness the sunrise. Ensure you carry a torch with you, if its wearable its better since at certain place you need both hands to navigate over boulders. There is no paved path, but judiciously placed arrows are tricky places helps. Better not to climb alone, however at most times there are others who are climbing, one can go along with them.
People come to witness in the awesomeness of the sunrise in solitude, hence please dont make noice.
Urban Gypsy Sri Lanka 