It is a waterfall hunt around Maskeliya area, even though it was not the best time for it. We started at 5.00 am and the road towards Ruwanwella was through several rubber estates and it was a pleasant drive.

Early morning sun creeping

Road through rubber estates

After passing Yatiyanthota we stopped at Ingiriyawatte to see the hanging bridge. According to villagers this is the longest hanging bridge of the country with a length of 360 feet. There was another hanging bridge between Kalugala junction and Bodiragala junction.

Longest suspension bridge at Ingiriyawatte

Second one is smaller

From Bodiragala junction we turned left towards Lakshapana. After passing Laxapana power station we came to ‘Double cut junction’ where you can see the ‘Zero’ mile post.

Double cut junction

Zero Mile Post

Then we took the right turn along Sri Pada road about 4 KM to the turn off to Lakshapana fall. This road is very scenic along the seven virgins mountain range and you can also see Lakshapana fall along this road.

Lakshapana seen through CEB cables

On the way to Lakshapana

Scenic seven virgin mountain range

It’s tea on both sides of the road

Huge pipes across the road carrying water from Wimalasurendra Power station

We came across several ‘Peella’ along this road

From main road, you have to walk about 300 meters downhill to reach this fall. There are cement steps up to the base pool.

Steps down towards the base pool

Laxapana fall, was not in full flow

Then we came back to the main road and proceeded towards Nallathanniya through Maussakele.

Maussakele Junction

Maussakele Reservoir

After passing Maussakele reservoir we saw ‘Mohinie Ella’ just by the side of Nallathanniya road. Another two KM towards Nallathanniya we came to Moray estate.

Mohini Ella

Entrance to Moray estate

This road through Moray estate leads to few waterfalls and also to the famous ‘Fishing Hut’. You have to walk through a private land to reach these waterfalls and therefore you need to stick to certain days of the week.

Right turn will take you to Fishing Hut

Only on these days

There are three waterfalls on this route and even the locals were confused about the names of them. We took the left turn and witnessed the breathtaking view of the Gatmore fall falling into Maussakele reservoir.

Gatmore fall, falling into Maussakele reservoir, view from Moray estate

Moray estate tea factory

Gatmore fall

Gatmore fall zoomed

From Gatmore fall we walked further on a walking track for another 500 meters to reach Moray fall.

Walking track towards Moray fall

Moray fall seen from the walking track

Adam’s Peak fall was seen just next to the Moray fall.

Moray fall near the base pool

Adam’s peak fall

After enjoying these three beauties we came back to Nallathanniya road.

Tea collecting centre of Moray estate

Sri Pada seen from Moray estate

Our next destination was Aberdeen fall. We came back to Double cut junction and drove about 2 KM towards Norton Bridge. Just before the town we turned left along Kaluweldeniya road to reach this fall.

Observation deck of the aberdeen fall

Base pool seems very deep

Then we came to our hotel ‘Best life Adventure camp’ in Kithulgala. This place conducts training sessions for members of private firms and there was a group of about 50 people. Their last item for the day was a campfire and we also joined with them. There were few performances and finally we enjoyed a delicious BBQ to end the day.

Camp fire

Individual performances

Sing song

A magic show

Finally the BBQ

Next day morning when we got up there were some activities of the group going on.

Entrance to the hotel

Inside the hotel

Training sessions

Some adventures – Toddy tapping

After breakfast we went on white water rafting. We couldn’t take any pictures as we didn’t have a water proof camera. We were given life saving jackets and helmets and after a brief introduction we started the tour which is about 5 KM along Kelani River. My wife who didn’t join in this adventure captured few actions of our group, while we were passing the hotel.

Our group near the hotel

Just settled after passing the rapid

Stopped for a while near the hotel

Flat water rafting

It was a thrilling experience with full of fun and excitements. After several tumbles and collisions we reached the destination in about one hour. The last stretch of the river was flat and we were asked to jump out from the boat. We were freely floating with the flow of the river until we reached the end. Then we were taken back to the hotel in a lorry.

He was rowing alone

Coming back to the hotel, boat on top

Then I went on another adventure with my two sons. It is the confident jump and sliding. We had to walk about 2 KM from the hotel to reach this place. We were accompanied by Mr. Wanasingha and Mr.Pushpakumara as Guide/instructor

Crossing a stream

Getting ready, all fixed well

This place is called Kataran Oya which is a branch of Kelani river and there are several rock pools and several small cascades around this place.

The first rock pool

Another pool

There were many small cascades

Three of us jumped into the first pool

We had to slide on a rock with the water stream. You have to slide down and finally you will fall into the rock pool. Stream is only about 5 meters.

Instructions

and there you go

My younger son

Youngest out of all

It’s a real fun sliding down on a rock with the water flow. Then our guide said we must slide with the head down, which I refused vehemently, but my two sons wanted to do it.

With the head down

You must keep your head raised up

Then came the confident jump. There are several rock pools with varying diameters and depths. They have selected two basins for this adventure and first one is about 15 feet above water level. Second pool is more challenging and the height is more than 25 feet.

Confident jump

I was bit panic

My younger son straightway jumped without a second thought

After all these excitements and fun we came back to the hotel, fully drenched and straight away jumped into the natural pool and joined with the crowd there.

Had a cool dip with the crowd there

Other side of the river is a thick jungle, captured from the hotel

There were some acrobatics going on

very risky in between so many rocks

After all these fun and joy, we had a late lunch and came back home with some wonderful memories.

Peace in the country means that we can explore it at will and that was what took us to Mannar. Out of bounds until recently, exploring Mannar was an unforgettable experience as the area is steeped in both history and culture.

After a lovely lunch at Four Tees, the first day had us exploring Mannar. The Fort and some birding at the Vankalai Sanctuary was all what we could manage.

Mannar Fort – Fort was in very poor state compared to the other Forts of the same period

Memories are sacred…… – Click Image to Enlarge

A bit of history – the tomb stone of Mr Pierre de Salve, the Chief of Mannar

Click Image to Enlarge

Mannar lagoon from the Ramparts of the Fort

And the wild ponies of Mannar, no longer wild! – “Now do YOU also have to creep in?”

Vankalai was great for birding and we spent a quiet evening watching the feathered visitors……

Crab plovers, all in a row

Northern shovellers

Adam’s Bridge or Rama Setu of the Ramayana fame was our planned destination for the next day. There are 16 islets, 8 of which belong to Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka Navy operates a boat service that allows one to land on one of these – namely Island No 2. These islands are home to a whole heap of migrant shore birds and some would even build nests in these islands.

The next day saw us at the SLNS Gajaba by 6.30 am!! It was the perfect day for a trip to the Dancing Islets

The pier at SLNS Gajaba

Sunrise – as seen from the water jet

To the deep blue seas…..

මුහුද දෙබෑ කරන……….

The ride was great and it took us almost 1 hour to reach the Adam’s Bridge.

Adam’s Bridge – crossed by Adam, Rama and Hanuman…… among others!

Getting closer………..

And closer……….

……. And finally on Island No 2 of the Adam’s Bridge!

It was an amazing place – water all around with strips of sand in between. The salt water ponds in the islets are so shallow that one can walk across….. and walk on …….. and on…….

The place was almost surreal…………..

.

.

Despite the absence of trees, the landscape was truly amazing!

What the sea has washed ashore . Plastic, plastic and more plastic

The islets are the perfect place for two painters to create their masterpieces – the waves and the winds! The many patterns on the land were breathtaking.

Work of the masters – waves and the winds

Work of the masters – waves and the winds

What the usual inhabitants leave behind……

The place was home for many shore birds and one needs to take extra care when walking as the slightest movement could disturb them.

We first met these plovers…….

And then these gulls, watching the waves….

And then………

Caspian terns and brown headed gulls

Greater crested terns – jam packed!

No landing space

අපි යන්න යමු………………..

There were many other birds on the islet…..

Ruddy turnstones

Brown headed gull

Sanderlings ???? Not sure of the ID

Eurasian curlew

Waking around the islet is an amazing experience as the terrain and the landscape changes subtly.

The landscape in another part of the islet

Apparently made by a turtle

Although there were only a few plants, what was there was beautiful……. and the colours, amazing.

.

.

.

.

It was almost like being on another planet!!!

Me, on the Dancing Islet No 2

And one last look………

Dancing islet No 2 – A heaven with only sand, water, and wind …..

On the way back, we also visited the Talaimannar pier. The usual tours by the Navy to the Dancing Islets start from there.

A halted journey…..

The evening saw us birding again at Vankalai…..

Garganeys having a great time!

We made sure that we were at the Mannar causeway in time for one of the most spectacular shows on earth….

Thallady bridge – a stark reminder of what it was………

“What on earth are you hammering the keyboard so much for?” – One of my colleagues doesn’t approve my constant tapping.

“Just writing a report, you silly” – I retort.

“How many reports have you written so far?” – He’s trying to take the mickey out of me.

“Well, I don’t know. Why do you ask?” – I’m beginning to lose my cool.

“You don’t know? You’re constantly tapping on the darn keyboard but don’t even know how many reports have you done? What a funny thing?” – The bugger is relentless.

I quickly checked and found to my own amazement that there are 46 reports published under my name. Oh dear, have I seriously written that many? I asked myself.

“46” – I casually replied wanting this stupid conversation to be over.

“All of them on-line? You’re counting the ones you’ve not even written right?” – Dear God, I seriously wanna hammer this fella.

“No you snob, it’s 46 online and I’ve some unpublished ones as well” – I quickly checked and found there are 2 more to be published and 1 to be written.

“Seriously? Let’s have a look.” – God save me and my soul. I had to get this over with so decided to just let him have a peek at my desktop.

After looking through them he asks “What are you gonna do about your Half Century?”

“What half-century?” – Since when this bugger started talking in Greek?

“Your 50th report buster, what else?” – Holy Moly Guacamole!!! That one. “I ain’t decided anything yet. But now that I know, gotta do something special”.

“Oh yeah, you gotta do something very special. I’ll be waiting for that report” – What about the other reports, I felt like asking but decided to get on with my work and with that finally the end of conversation.

Wow, 50 trip reports in just over 18 months is something I’d never dreamed of. That night at home while glancing through the news I heard a magical word. Baththalangunduwa!!!

Just managed to switch it over to the proper channel and got the news. There were people and reverends protesting against taking over Baththalangunduwa fishing island from the native villagers so that our power-greedy corruptive politicians can make money by selling it to some foreigner. B’Gunduwa has been a fishing village for generations and the people who stay there have migrated from the western coastal areas such as Negombo, Chilaw, Puttalam, Mannar, etc. They feel it’s their birthright to do fishing from this island located roughly 16 nautical miles from the mainland Kalpitiya.

B’Gunduwa was not a stranger to me thanks to the Beach Traveler Program which is one of my all-time-favorites. In his tour around SL along the coast, the beach traveler (Nishantha Kahawita), travels to B’Gunduwa and spend a night there. Since then, I always wanted to go there. His program had helped me in the recent past to find places to visit and I marked it under top-priority list. However, over time, other trips made it push further back in my list.

So when I heard this on TV, everything fell into place like a long lost jigsaw puzzle. Couldn’t think of a better time to go there like the present due to two reasons.

1. Need something special for the 50th episode.

2. If the powers-that-be decided to take over this island, then no amount of protest will save it. (Having a quick look of the recent past proves this point).

So I immediately called one of my long-standing travel partner Sheham and submitted the proposal. Sheham, being Sheham, jumped in the idea and said yes without even consulting his business calendar. Next in line was the Uncle Tony but he was having a difficult time with his job and said he might not be available. Hariya had also shown a keenness to visit the island but had to give up at the last minute co he had to do the watcher man at home. The other old fella, Athua agreed to come and I just called Kasun as well. I’m thankful I called him coz he saved the day by bringing one of his friends, Asitha as Athula had to pull back due to a personal problem at home. (Second time you missed out Atha).

Day 01

So on the 8th morning, around 2.00am Sheham picked me and we drove to Wennappuwa to pick Kasun and Asitha. E3 made it really quick and when I called Kasun somewhere in the middle of E3, he was still fast asleep. Our reaching soon his friend’s place put things in motion but we politely declined an offer of cuppa coffee from Asitha’s mother as reaching Kalpitiya ASAP was top priority. I’m now a bit worried about having to waste time for flat tires and other unpredictable problems after our delay in my Rail Hike Stage 5. The going was pretty good as the roads were isolated, no poisonous gases emitting from decades old engines. Our conversation was running wild with all the topics from Area 51 to Spies of Russia to the origin of Amazon River. It was so interesting as 4 different people talking in turns about various things. The night simply wore on and we found all of a sudden that we’d reached the Kalpitiya turn off.

It was 40km from there and the road is very wide nicely done passing the Puttalam Salt Factory and staff quarters of doomed Norochcholai power plant. At certain parts the road is still being constructed, especially the bridge about 1-2km off the turn off. We made good time and closer to Kalpitiya saw a statue of a donkey on the roadside. Gosh, not an actual statue but a very still donkey in the dark. Surprisingly those donkeys at Kalpitiya area seem to be too lazy even to move a hair on their body. Wonder how on earth they manage to stay like that.

We found ourselves at the Fishery Harbor of Kalpitiya. Our entering into the premises woke the security officer and he came running to see if a boat is coming along the road instead water. I’m sure he must’ve relieved to find it’s just a car. We told him that we were planning to go spend the weekend at Baththalangunduwa (refereed as BG hereafter) camping. He was very fascinated and gave us a lot of information about the island and Kalpitiya. It was lucky that we talked to him because we prevented a near catastrophic end to our magnificent journey.

We were planning to camp in BG and return on the afternoon ferry the following day, Sunday. However, we weren’t aware of the fact that the ferry is not functioning on Sun. Even when I called the Mark Boat and told them our plans, we weren’t told about this. I guess it was a miscommunication on both parties coz we emphasized on the dates 8 and 9 instead of Sat and Sun. Thanks to the security guy we got to know this before the journey and had to resort to abort the camping and spending the night somewhere else. I felt so down but thankfully Sheham came up with the idea of camping somewhere close by and doing the Puttalam-Mannar stretch on the following day.

None of us had done it before so it was a very welcome idea and we all embraced it with both hands. You know there’s a saying that “Everything happens for good” and we too thought as much and at the end of the journey figured it really happened for good as we managed to cover a whole lot of things in that 48 hours instead of only camping at BG. We had our breakfast of Tempered onions mixed with chilies, tomatoes and boiled eggs with sliced bread. The morning sun was creeping over the horizon and lit up the jetty full of different sized boats arrived in the night after a long stretch of fishing. Suddenly Kasun shouted and looking back I saw this glowing lava ball like Sun appearing at the edge of the horizon. What a sight it was!

I simply forgot the breakfast and Kasun ruined his hanky trying to wipe the curry-stained hands to get at the camera. We savored it to the max while the crows were coming in numbers sensing a free meal. There were a few dogs too and they had a rough time chasing the greedy crows. We shared the last bit of our bread with them coz the sunrise filled our heats and lifted our spirits. Finally we were ready to rock ‘n’ roll.

Tour Highlights:

1. 6-Hour ferry ride in total

2. Baththalangunduwa, a world of its own

3. Documentary on the Fight for Water in BG

4. Dutch Fort, Kalpitiya

5. Camping at Thalawila

6. Drive through the Wilpattu along Old Mannar Road

7. Doric House

8. Dutch Fort, Arippu

9. Portuguese & Dutch Fort, Mannar

10. Biggest Baobab Tree, Pallimunai

11. Pics of My Sister

12. Collection of Panos

We decided to visit the Kalpitiya Dutch Fort before the departure of ferry at 8.30am. When went to the entrance about 200m away from the jetty the navy officials informed us the visiting hours are from 09.00am till 5.00pm. Then we told them about our failed attempt at camping on BG and won’t be able to make it on time to see the fort. Then they said even till 5.30pm it would be ok so we left for the jetty yet again.

Longest Ferry Ride to date

I called Sujith and told him that we were at the jetty and he too was very confused about our miscommunication but could do nothing at the time. However he promised to inform the manager of the Ferry about us and give us a bit of breathing space in case we were a bit late on the return journey. Paul came and talked to us and the two helpers on the ferry were very cheerful and pointed us to sit on the shady side and took care of our 2 5-litre water bottles.

There were a lot of people waiting to get on board and many sacks of different kinds of goods were also being loaded into the cargo bay underneath. This ferry is the only connection between the island and the mainland. You could even say it’s the lifeline of those people. There are a plenty of small fishing craft that can run between the two but for those fishermen doing it between the island and the mainland is very costly, about Rs. 3500/- – Rs. 4000/- worth fuel which is way too much for their liking.

So the ferry is the only viable method of transporting people and goods in between. However we felt that there’s too much dependent on this single ferry giving a kind of monopoly to the owners. Just wondering what it would be like if the ferry stopped operating due to a malfunction for a few days. I hope they have replacement in place but didn’t see any sign of it. We boarded and sat along the shady edge. The layout is kinda funny coz the boat is three-tiered. The bottom (under the waterline) is the crew quarters, washroom and cargo bay. The mid-section above the water line is the passenger hold. Passengers sit on a wooden platform that provides little or no comfort (Beggars can’t be choosers, I guess) especially when the sea is rough. Thankfully it was nice and calm when we were on board. Above it is the roof-cum cargo-passenger hold without a shelter. I guess it’s a good viewing spot especially in the morning run but you’re bound to get sun burned due to direct exposure.

We were relieved to be on the shady side as the boat finally laden with so many essential items and about 50 people left the safety of the jetty into the Dutch Bay. It’s actually the extension of Puttalm lagoon along the arm of Kalpitiya Peninsula on the left and Eluwankulama and Wilpattu Jungle on the right. If you wanna look for BG on the map, just look right across the Kudiramale Point to the left about 5-6 nautical miles off. The navy boys look less busy now the terrorists are wiped off the face of our country. However, they have to stay vigilant as the stinking Indians continuously breaching our sea areas and the biggest threat for our youth, the illegal drug smuggling too seems to be happening across Negombo via Jaffna along the North Western coast.

About half hour into the journey somebody yelled “Dolphins” and we were so excited and forgot for a moment that we were sitting at the edge of the boat. There were about 5-6 dolphins jumping but we couldn’t take clear shots of them as the front of the ferry had a row of people sitting. I managed to get a quick pic of a dolphin but not prominent enough. Unfortunately our ferry wasn’t in the mood to hover about and see them and sadly we passed them behind. It was my first encounter with dolphins and what a sight it was.

There were a number of tiny islets full of Kadolana trees scattered along the arm of the peninsula and the mainland too. They looked green against a blue-grey-emerald green lagoon. I found the team talking to someone and found he’s a fisherman from Negombo located at BG returning to the island. His name was Nissanka and provided us with valuable information. There was plenty of time to kill and we kept chatting with him while shooting the odd picture. All of a sudden we saw a group of Pelicans flying towards us, they were not so big and we had difficulty identifying them at first. After that there was a single Pelican so skinny flying overhead that I named the Somali Pelican.

Video 01 – Just a short video of the ferry journey.

There were an endless number of sea gulls crashing like a stone and catching fish and at times floating on the water with the waves like ducks. We got fooled at first they were real ducks. The average speed of the ferry was about 8-10km an hour. It recorded a highest speed of around 20km according to Sheham’s GPS. Time wore on and all of a sudden Nissanka showed us a distant communications tower which was at BG Navy Camp. Without even knowing we had moved from Dutch Bay to Portugal Bay but for me it was the same lagoon or rather the sea. However the water looks more clean and clear than it was close to the mainland. We could clearly see the ocean floor and the depth can’t have been more than 10ft. The water looked a gorgeous emerald green too.

There was thing that happened on the ferry I found so hilarious that I couldn’t resist laughing out loud. There was a group of travelers going to BG for a reason they didn’t know. Most of them were middle age fellas with pot bellies and a few kids with their mothers too. They were staring at us as if we’d descended that very moon from the mighty Jupiter. While we were talking among ourselves and with Nissanka, they looked at us open-mouthed as if we spoke Greek. The ladies (as usual) were very curious about what’s going on around and kept asking odd question from whoever was close to them. However, one lady found it too irresistible to wait any longer with her question and asked one of the ferrymen. I couldn’t help overhearing the most hilarious conversation in 2014.

The lady: “Meke Saththuth Innawada” – “Are there animals on the island?”

The ferry worker: “Apo Innawa” – “Of course, there are”

The lady: “Mokkuda Inne” – “What kind of animals?”

The ferry worker: “Ballo, Harak” – “Dogs and Cow”

I can assure you the real conversation in Sinhalese was far better than my sloppy translation. The lady was very serious about the question and the worker very sincerely replied to her. I couldn’t help laughing nonstop and soon had to divulge it to my team mates who couldn’t control their hysterical laughs.

The lagoon was too shallow so we kept going in an arc to reach the island coz the heavily laden ferry couldn’t risk of running aground. We kept sipping the lime and mint drink brought by Sheham and it was a godsend as we felt the heat taking its toll. There are two islands joined by a narrow sand strip which are Palliya Watta and BG. At times they get separated when the sandy bank is submerged in the tide. There’d been another island named Karathivu but now it rests peacefully under water. When the tide is out the sand banks might appear but the rising sea levels have taken care of it.

We saw just off BG some divers with face masks on as if they were snorkeling. Looking at the sea didn’t reveal anything to go snorkeling for and one of the fishermen on board solved that mystery to us. He said that those were fishermen doing a part-time job of collecting “Sangu”. It’s the Tamil name for “Hakgediya” or “Conch Shell” in English. Apparently those are a sign of good luck and sell like hot cakes among superstitious rich folks.

The sun is appearing in the horizon

Navy boat returning to the camp after a night patrol

Busy at work early in the morning

Just appearing

Wow	Fiery looking lava ball

Parked along the jetty

Very important notice

This craft (Sudu Duwa) was freed by the Indian Authorities after the agreement

1 million fine? Oh dear

Cubes of ice is being taken to the waiting fishing craft

Captured Indian vessels illegally fishing in our waters

Done a good job of building this

The Ferry

Another boat that carries tourists around

Team ready to rock ‘n’ roll

Peering at the Navy camp

Paul, the manager is overseeing things

Being loaded onto the ferry

Crowded

Leaving the jetty

Another Navy craft returning to the jetty, they moved dangerously close to us

The lush greenery islands

Another large fishing craft

Cheerful worker on the bow

Nissanka on the left

Trying to reach to the roof

First-ever Dolphin sighting

The sea gulls like sitting ducks

Cargo hold is providing shelters for workers and their close friends

Getting their catch to the boat

The mother ship with the Conch Shell collectors

Got you

Portugal bay water is more clean and emerald green

The comms tower in sight

Got there

Climbing down the ladder

The Uniquely Placed Fishing Island – Baththalangunduwa

After it felt like an eternity, we reached the BG but there was no jetty. Instead they had improvised a ladder along which you have climb down and jump to the sandy beach. I had to jump a bit further to avoid getting my shoes wet. The strong smell of fish hit us in waves but not so bad. I guess those fishermen might not be able to take that off them for a long time, might even be lasting a lifetime. There was a row of fishing huts where the 15hp-engined craft were parked under the shade of woven coconut leaves. The whole island looked less busy coz the fishing is done for the day and most of the folks were dozing after a hard run at sea from the early morning.

There were people inside those huts sorting out fish (mainly small one such as Hurulla, Salaya, Karalla, Keeramin and a new kind called Kohombaya which sounded funny), cutting them and adding salt to prepare for dried fish. To be honest I don’t think they welcome the outsiders but stay quiet. So should you ever go there, be sure to stay out of their way as much as possible. However we found some of the keen ones inviting us to take pics of their catch. The people at BG speak mainly Tamil and Sinhalese, however there’s some strange dialect unique to them but no name. It’s a mixture of Sinhalese and Tamil. The Sinhalese and Tamil speakers of the mainland find it difficult to understand this.

E.g. They’d say “Enge Yanne?” – Enge is a Tamil word meaning “Where” and Yanne is a Sinhalese word meaning “Going”. So they are asking “Where are you going?” in a mixture of Tamil and Sinhalese. Uncle Tony knows this a lot better, so should you ever come across him, do ask. He has some very interesting things to say.

So many interesting things and we enjoyed this unprecedented journey even though the sun was up and running full blast sending scorching rays mercilessly as if to fend us off. Walking along the fishing huts didn’t provide us with many landscape shots and we decided to go to the other side. We saw the makeshift wells made by digging holes in the sand burying plastic cans about 3-4 feet deep. No doubt the water is salty but they’re using that water to do cleaning pots and other utensils. The water off the beach is not so good due to garbage and rotting fish. I even saw a couple of toilets too. Wonder how they manage to dig holes without them collapsing on their own in the sand.

Crossing all this we reached the other side of the island which is about half a kilo meter and devoid of any construction. It’s a crystal clear beach but about 50ft off the beach is their main toilet too. So watch your step folks. Funnily enough it also doubles as their waterhole where they dig holes in the sand about 2ft deep looking for less brackish water. They use it to drink and bathe. The beach was however clear of the garbage save for a group of travelers who came with us in the ferry started drinking. Can you imagine the length people go just to get drunk? I was aghast.

Avoiding the drinking party we kept exploring the beach and saw a navy water jet hovering about 3-4 nautical miles off. All of a sudden we came across a Star fish but a dead one. Never seen one before except on TV so this was a very nice encounter. There were plenty of them along the beach so we took pics of them both sides. Sea shells were very common and there were very artistic ones too which didn’t escape our exploring eyes and lens. Sheham kept reminding us about the time so we decided to walk about half a kilo meter further and take a sharp turn back to where we got off.

All of a sudden one guy materialized out of nowhere and was heading towards the beach. About half way back he squatted down and we knew what he was up to. After a few minutes he got up and left; no water or tissue. That’s the way they’re living with no hygienic facilities yet making a living and sending hundreds of tons of fish to feed us Sri Lankans. Then there were 3 guys coming towards us and we saw dug holes in the sand marking their waterhole. They were very cheerful guys and chatted with us while one of them dug the sand looking for water.

Digging water out of those sandy areas is such a cumbersome thing in a way yet very simple in another aspect. They just choose a spot clear of garbage or anything else and dig a hole in a circular way about 2 feet deep and another 2 feet in diameter. You have to do it very systematically so as not to have the walls collapsing on you. The water will slowly come up as if from a spring. Then using a small plastic cup they’d fill a larger container. According to those guys you can fill about 2-3 fairly large containers with a volume of roughly 10-20 liters.

Video 02 – The struggle to dig water at Baththalangunduwa.

They told us how difficult their lives were due to the lack of water and do switch on your headphones and listen to their story. However on the ferry Nissanka claimed that it’s so surprising that they even have this kind of drinkable water in BG coz it’s practically very small and nowhere to get fresh water. They gave us a clear cup of water to taste which Asitha sampled. He claimed it was not so bad. So it shows that miracles do happen. It’s very costly to bring water from Kalpitiya costing about Rs. 500/- for a gallon of water including all the transport costs. Just imagine how lucky we really are. Therefore please by all means save water and electricity. We offered them some of the mineral water carried with us and they very hungrily took it and gulped it down. Wish we had more water with us. They’re supposed to close the waterhole after as dogs and crows will feed on it dirtying it.

After witnessing this we decided to call it a day and head back to where we got off. It was so hot and sun was very much unforgiving. Nonetheless we were very much content deep down coz this was a life-time experience. There were many solar panels in their houses along with a few TV antennas as well. We then saw a generator near one house and the secret behind the TVs was solved finally. There were plenty of kids too playing around and can’t imagine their lives being stuck in a tiny island with nothing more than sea and fish. There were plenty of cows and dogs as well. I’d never seen such bored dogs coz they simply stared at fish and dried fish as if they didn’t give a toss. The dried fish was drying in the open as none of the dogs would bother stealing them.

Cats were no different. They too look fed up of fish and dried fish. I just imagine taking a few hundred dogs and cats from mainland and dropping them there for a few hours. They’d have a field day and need to be hospitalized for over eating. There was one shop selling the day to day items but we didn’t have time to venture into it. Having reached back where we were well before the ferry departure time gave us time to recollect our thoughts. The ferry wasn’t there which gave us a jolt but around 1.30pm it was coming towards us having toured around couple of other places dropping and taking cargo and people. The stop we got off is called Sinna Gunduwa (small Gunduwa).

It was time to go and we bid our farewell to this unique place and got on board the less crowded ferry. Once again we were lucky to get the seating on the shady side facing Wilpattu and Eluwankulama. Funny thing was there were quite a few small fishing boats catching up with the ferry bringing more passengers and cargo, mainly fish or dried fish packed tightly in cardboard or rigifoam boxes. It was so fun to listen to the exchange between boats and their dialect was completely off my limits. The going was more or less easier compared to the morning one as the waves were rolling along with us instead of towards us. I could figure out the beloved Gange Wadiya in the distance with the Navy RABS (Rapid Action Boat Squadron) camp clearly visible. You can read our Gange Wadiya Adventure over here if interested.

The Kala Oya and the Kumburawa River where the Elephant Tree (allegedly the second largest Baobab tree in SL) located were easy to distinguish. Aruwakkalu Limestone Quarry was also there and the destruction is clearly visible from the ferry. There’s a stretch about 4km all looking reddish at places among replanted trees. This is where they’ve dug deep and extracted the limestone for producing cement. This area is a frequent living place for the Camalian but this kinda destruction doesn’t help their well-being. It won’t be long before they’ll be extinct from this are. This exploration keeps on going at a more devastatingly speed. Repercussions of privatization are clear for all to see.

We got a big fright when I saw one of the workers unloading bucket after bucket of oily water from the below deck and went to inspect. To my horror water was leaking inside and the worker was working furiously to get them out of the boat as quickly as possible. The mainland was looming closer so we felt somewhat subdued. It was a back-breaking task but he kept at it.

Video 03 – Back breaking task of unloading water of the BG ferry on return journey.

We got back at the jetty around 4.30pm and said our thanks to Paul and his assistants. Got back to the car and had a long pull on the lemon and mint drink and headed towards the Kalpitiya Dutch Fort.

The fishing huts are all along the beach

Yet another fishing raft

That day’s cache

It’s the season of small fish such as Salaya, Hurulla, Karalla and Keeramin

Temporary shelters for the boats and people sorting out the fish

Few big ones too

Getting the dried fish ready

Imagine the taste of fried Karalla

Dogs and cats are nowhere near. They’re bored to death of the sight of these

Here’s the Kohombaya

Temporary well for washing the crockery

They are playing

Not many trees like these

Long stretch with plenty of coconut leaf roofed houses

Water buffalo? Up close it’s actually a dog in the water coz it’s too hot even for them

During the high tide all these areas get flooded with sea water

Very beautiful

Never thought she’d look this nice when I took it

One of the waterholes

Yet another waterhole but I initially thought it’s croc

The team

One of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen

Sea shell X’mas tree, made by Sri

Colorful shells all around

Eroded by the continues lapping of sea water

Black Pearl?

Here’s the star of the day – Starfish

Belly of it

Looked nice through the lens

Some life on the unforgiving soil

If they were in dark fatigues, you’d mistake them for a group of soldiers

Just beginning the ordeal of water digging

Eurekhaaaaaaaaa!!!

Managed to fill two containers, one of which is a rigifoam box

This one is poisonous I think. Name is Puffer fish if I’m not mistaken

Pack of sea gulls disturbed by our presence

Stunning colors

They must be leading a pretty difficult life with barely any grass and drinking water

Taken some measures to make sure they’re not exposed to dogs and cats

Getting ready to pack and send to the mainland

Plenty of these all around

Sigh of relief, here she comes to pick us up

They kept coming in boats like this and catching up with the ferry

After the cargo and passengers are on board back to work

How on earth can they sleep here?

Not for long coz he had to get busy with water leaking

Back breaking task

Bored

The pilot maneuvering the craft with his left foot. Look closely

Looking at the back

Navy on constant patrols

Navy jetty

Here we are and the carts are already waiting for goods unloading

Waiting to jump out

Time to go

Kalpitiya Dutch Fort and Camping at Thalawila

There are no pics to show you of the Kalpitiya Fort which is so much irritating. We went to the gate and Navy people took about 15 mins making up their minds and getting someone to escort us inside. “No Cameras or Phones” was their motto and we felt so frustrated having gone there all the way not being able to take a pic of this piece of wonderful creation. The soldier who took us gave a running commentary as if replaying a recorded cassette. I’m sure he’s done it hundreds of times and now it’s more like listening to a computer operated robot. However he was very friendly and answered our questions as best as he could. Inside it was a disaster as Navy had added numerous structures and using the interior open area as their playground.

However on a previous visit Sheham and his team had been given the permission to take pics by their escort but they’d left all their camera equipment in the cars. So it looks different messages are being conveyed at different times. There were two tunnels inside but now blocked by the earth and one was barricaded by a brick wall due to terror attacks. That soldier had tried to venture into them without success. Apparently this tunnel leads to a nearby church and the home of the commander of that time. The church is still there about 500m away from the fort complex.

It was a pity to see the current status of the fort due to the negligence by the archaeological department and additions by the navy. True they (Navy) did an outstanding job of protecting our coastal line but I think it’s time they moved out of this place and let the visitors enjoy it and take pics without all this hustle and bustle. We didn’t even have this much hassle at the top of Piduruthalagala where they have the most sensitive radar installations.

Out of sheer frustration, I asked when the Navy was planning to move and the soldier said that the archaeological department had inspected the place and will soon take over. Finally some good news but it means another trip to Kalpitiya too. After that we decided to camp around Kalpitiya and do the Mannar tour on the following morning. Having talked to numerous people about an ideal camping slot and came up with two options. 1. Kandakuli, 2. Thalawila. We, after a lot of thinking, decided on the latter. It turned out to be a wise decision and we hurried on hoping to catch the sunset. Passing “Ali Rani Palace” notice put up by the archaeological department made me wanna go there too but Kasun said that there’s hardly anything to look, just a bare unexplored area so abandoned that notion.

First- Ever Camping on the Beach, Thalawila

We reached Thalawila church around 5.40pm, well in time for the sunset and found a grassy patch just off the beach devoid of any thick bushes for camping. Doomed Norochcholai was looming in the distance and for a change working. It was belching a streak of black fumes towards the Indian Ocean signaling that it was doing something worthwhile for the money spent. From what I’ve heard, it’s been out of commission more than 50% of the time it’s been installed here. Some record.

There were wind mills too about 2km away from us. Thalawila is a very popular church among Catholics who come in large numbers during the festival season. However this being a quiet time, not many were there. Rows of houses roused my curiosity and found out they’re available for rent and get full very quickly during the festival. “For 2014 festival, already all the houses are booked”, one of the caretakers told us. We set about putting up the tent which was the biggest I’ve ever slept in. It was a massive 7-man tent but we managed to set it up in a record 20 mins. The sun was setting and we managed to shoot on and off while setting up the tent. The sandy ground made it difficult to hold the tent with 8-inch guy pins. (Those are the ones buried into the ground to hold the tent together, funny name nevertheless).

We had to use a few stones too to keep it in place. In the meantime Kassa and Asitha had gone and sweet talked one of the caretakers and arranged a washroom in one of the houses for us to have a wash. It was a very welcome thing as we badly needed to have a shower and was wondering where to go. After the camp setup we took the gas cooker and started boiling instant noodles packets and heating the pre-cooked canned chicken meat balls. The dark enveloped us quickly but a half moon lit the whole open area beautifully. Moon rays were reflecting on the still ocean surface and it was a night good for a poet.

We gobbled up the hot noodles mixed with steaming chicken meatballs, left over tempered onions and boiled eggs from breakfast. To top things off, there was a loaf of bread too. What a feast! We badly needed this kinda meal coz we were without lunch. After a sumptuous meal, we decided to turn in for the night. The tent was more spacious and we had ample room to sleep. We settled in for the night, listening for the rustle the wind made by disturbing the flaps of our tent. The waves kissed the beach in small waves making very little noise as if not to disturb us. I fell asleep and slept like a log till 5.00am.

Moored at sea off Thalawila

No light house but the statue of St. Anne’s on top of that tower

Hiya	One of the dumbest projects, Norochcholai finally belching black smoke

Ready to set

Getting redder

Almost sunk

The biggest tent I’ve slept to date

Chicken meat balls and eggs are ready

6 packs of noodles to go with it

The tent in the torch light and the blue light is coming from the tower

Day 02

Getting up, after a very good night’s sleep was a blessing and we boiled water and had Nescafe 3 in 1. It revived our bodies and we went back for our borrowed washroom to wash and get ready. By 7am, we were ready to go and bid our farewell to the friendly caretaker and were on our way merrily.

Good Morning! everyone

Busily folding the tent

Here he comes

Look at the halo

Sweet

Still there where it was

Busy at work in the morning

Laying the nets

Another ready to get going

Puttalam lagoon, one of the biggest in SL

These are a familiar sight for me

Going towards Eluwankulam

Old Mannar Road via Wilpattu, Doric House and Arippu Fort

We left Thalawila and headed towards Kalpitiya turn off. Reaching Puttalam starving wasn’t an easy thing to do. So we stopped to buy some buns and headed back towards Eluwankulama. The road is under construction but done quite a lot since our last visit to Gange Wadiya in Oct 2013. Passing Eluwankulama junction where the turn off for Gange Wadiya we headed further up towards the Navy camp where the Kala Oya borders the southernmost boundary of legendary Wilpattu. There was a barrier across the road with a navy soldier on guard. You don’t need any permission to go on this road but they’re checking the vehicles for any smuggling goods or taking animals too.

I hope they’re doing the same thing for the vehicles coming out of the park too coz the chances are very high for people to smuggle animals or plants out. He explicitly asked us not to photograph around their camp. Ban the photographers is the theme for them. We reached the Sapaththu Palama and Kala Oya was gushing not over but underneath, almost touching the top. It was a super duper place for camping as there’s plenty of fresh water and scores of Kumbuk Trees are providing cool shade throughout. No chance of getting permission I guess.

Video 04 – The Southernmost boundary of Wilpattu, Kala Oya

There was park office near the Kala Oya to enter the Wilpattu but looked isolated. The gravel path is uneven making it very hard for low clearance vehicles to maneuver. There’s very little traffic mainly the people either side (Silavathura and Eluwankulama) of the jungle moving from one area to the other. We saw motorbikes, small Lorries and even passenger buses going in this road. Puttalam-Mannar buses use this road. It must be noted that the bus drivers are very reckless in this road. They travel at high speeds putting both passengers and animals lives in danger.

There was one CTB bus of Mannar Depot (WP NA – 7032) travelling as if this was the Expressway about 60-70kmph. It was crazy driving totally unacceptable. There were a couple of Navy checkpoints inside the jungle taking down the vehicle numbers. I wonder why they don’t do something about these maniac drivers. There were quite a few tanks we passed along the way. Periya Villu, Periya Naga Villu, Malai Villu, Mailanganmotte and Karanchiuttan are a few of them. After a very scenic drive on a slippery gravel road, we reached the northernmost boundary of Wilpattu which is the Modara River (Modara Gan Maruwa). There was a checkpoint at Marichchukkadi the first village after the jungle. There too and those soldiers were fascinated to hear what we were doing and gonna do.

From there the road was in good condition but still under construction at most parts. Passing Mullikulam and Silavathura where the SL Army’s first offensive into the northern terror-held areas was bringing back the memories of valiant sacrifices made by our soldiers. Our first stop was Doric House which just by the road. There’s a tall white pyramid shaped monument close by. 2 Navy officers were on guard duty and talked to us were very friendly.

Doric House is nearly crumpling to the beach below. If I’m not mistaken the entire top floor is fallen off and the majority of the ground floor too is in pieces on the beach below. It was clear that nobody had taken any effort to restore this place other than putting up some sign postings. The walls are crumbling down and our Archeological Department gotta do something real soon to avoid this being fallen completely to the beach. There was color poster showing how it looked in 1804 and in 2012. The difference is heart breaking. Apparently this is where the first British Governor of Ceylon, Fredrick North resided while overseeing the pearls fishery in the North West Coast. The Arippu fort was built to safeguard the collected pearls with a garrison placed.

From Doric House, it was a short drive to the Arippu Fort. Not so difficult to find with well-placed signage. It too was crumbling down and nearby farmer had tied a calf inside showing that authorities don’t get there often enough. It was only the mere Archeological Notice going rusty that tried to fend these trespassers off. The funniest part was the name of the Pradeshiya Sabha in this area. It’s called “Musali Pradeshiya Sabha” and you all know what it means in Sinhala.

Just before the barrier entering the jungle road

The Sapaththu Palama through the shady Kumbuk Trees

What a nice place for a bath

Lovely

Imagine what it’d be like when the water levels are too high

Towards the Navy camp. Wonder what those summer huts are for?

Here’s the isolated Entrance office

(Click image to enlarge)

Managed to get only him out of plenty of birds

Reaching to the infinity

Oh dear, so far to go

This is the culprit bus who was driving like a bullet out of the gun

Doric Bungalow is just by the road

The monument like tower about 50m away from the house

Dilapidated house

Only the bare bones

Those skinny pillars won’t stand long.

More than 50% of the bungalow is down at the beach due to negligence and 3 decades of war

What it was like 2 centuries ago

In 2009 but now it’s worse

Sheham on the steps to the first floor but nothing to see

Only the skeletal structures of the ground floor to see

Just like a tank, no waves. Very still

Trying to get down to the beach

Very sad looking state

Gotta do something very soon

On the left are the two navy personnel

From the beach below

Huge chunks had fallen to the beach

Artistic sea plants on the beach

Making sand houses

Don’t get many like these in the dry zone

200m to the left from the main road

The story behind

Protected by a fence but no guard

Being used to keep cattle I suppose

Nothing has been done to restore it

The front is like a church. This is a tactic used by all of them Portuguese, Dutch and the English to fool the SL kings

Not much left standing

Plenty of these white flowers

Leaving

Well, no words to explain the hilariousness of the name

Pooh…

The long causeway joining the Mannar Island to the mainland

Mannar Fort and the Biggest Baobab Tree in SL

Then we crossed the famous Malwathu Oya and entered Nananttan Area. From there it was pretty straight forward journey to Mannar through world famous bird sanctuary, Vankalai. However in Nananttan, the roads can be a bit confusing, so don’t forget to ask for directions. The road joins the Mannar-Medawachchiya main road just before the causeway. Along the causeway we saw two white lines in the distance lagoon. We were anyway looking for the gorgeous looking flamingoes and looking through Sheham’s 500mm lens proved they really were flamingoes. Such beautiful looking pinkish birds were my first encounter with them. Wish we had a small raft to get close to them and take a closer look.

Just passing the bridge that connects the causeway to the Mannar Island we saw the Mannar fort to our right. It’s so close and we got the first right hand turn and travelled for about 400m towards it. This fort like Galle and Jaffna are in a better condition. The complex is huge with plenty of buildings bordering the perimeter. One special place inside is the Church inside with gravestones along the floor of it. I think the same thing can be witnessed at the Church inside the Galle Fort which is still functioning.

We walked along the perimeter wall and noticed the man-made moat like thing using the water from lagoon. Pretty smart move huh! After a thorough inspection we went searching for the Baobab tree and got directions from the Army checkpoint. It’s about 600-800m away from the Fort along Pallimunai Road which is the second right from the bridge.

Reaching and looking at this mammoth tree was something wonderful. Its bark is so thick and charcoal grey in color, exactly like an elephant’s. It’s even got parts of the trunk popping out like an elephant’s foot with their big toes. What a gigantic piece of creation by the Mother Nature. Time was in short supply so we hurried up and got back on the road and reach a shop called “Rice Bowl” near the Giant’s Tank maintained by the Army. The food was tasty and very reasonable. We even got the info about one of their Holiday Bungalows called “Kamatha” in the area. I’ve put a pic of their poster on the report.

After a hearty lunch and directions to shorten our journey we reached Settikulam and took a turn towards Oyamaduwa via Thanthirimale. Ultimately this joins the Nochchiyagama Junction on Puttalam-A’Pura Road. We stopped for a quick cup of tea at Pelpatha (Remember My Short Report with lots of birds). There is a giant squirrel there called “Nangi” and she’s a darling I can tell you. She’d been injured and treated by the hotel’s staff and now nestles in the Tamarind Tree inside the hotel itself. If you call her “Nangi”, she’ll come running and even let me stroke her fur. Such an adorable darling! She got frightened when Kasun tried to come near her (don’t ask me why) and Asitha managed to give her a cheese cracker. She grabbed and ran up the tree and settled onto eat it dearly.

Video 05 – Nangi having a Cheese Cracker

I could’ve spent the whole evening with her bus others were adamant on leaving. So we left for Colombo but managed to stop for another breathtaking sunset along the Puttalam-Colombo road.

Video 06 – Sunset on Puttalam-Colombo Road

After a heartfelt journey of 700+km and 48 hours of joy and fun we got back home while dropping Asitha at Wennappuwa and for the second time declining an offer for dinner.

50 Trip Reports!!! Who would’ve thought of this when I first sent in my first one in July 2012? Even I can’t believe I’ve written so much during the past 18+ months. Lakdasun has provided a great platform not only for travelers, but for writers too like me to horn their writing skills. I’ve seen so much of this paradise island in the past 18 months but compared to what’s more to do, it’s nothing.

Thank you all my friends who’d been there encouraging me to travel more and write more and more. Hopefully there’ll be more from me.

Will see you in the next episode and this is Sri signing off for now.

Take care

P.S. Numerous attempts by me to find how the Baththalangunduwa name came by went without success. Therefore I came up with my own conclusion in the end.

Baththalangunduwa could mean “Bathalayekuta Dun Gunduwa” which means Cheating a Rotund Fella. Just trying to add my mockery into this. Don’t get it serious folks.

The lagoon along the causeway

Drinking milk from the mother

The last bridge joining the Mannar Island to the causeway

The fort is just there

Signs of the moat

The entrance is there

Still lagoon to the right. Wish we could take this boat and close in on the flamingoes

One of the buildings inside

Massive rooms

Archaeological signs going rusty. This could be a symbol or a gravestone

Huge courtyard too

One of the biggest forts in SL

Initial thought was a dungeon or a tunnel

But very abruptly ended here

Going to the top where the guards roamed along the wall

Bell tower

The entrance and part of the lagoon from the top

Old church inside the fort

Signs of moat

Guard rooms

Must’ve been like a small village inside

Caught her inside

Here’s that church we saw from the top

Gravestones

Must’ve been a helluva thing to carve these on solid rocks

Must be some sort of a symbol

Another grave

This was on a side wall

Coming out of the fort

The front wall of the fort with gaps for the riflemen

The biggest in SL

19.51m in circumference = 64 feet

We’re here

Like a huge elephant

Here’s the foot of the elephant

The bark is very similar to the skin of an elephant

She was exhausted and resting her old bones

Placid Giants’ Tank

Wonder if this is allowed.

Where we had lunch

You can check call the number given

The giant Nuga Tree at the restaurant

Something was wrong with this fella coz he won’t fly away. I took him to a leaf and kept by the Nuga tree

Here’s my sister and me patting her for being a good girl

She was very possessive of her biccie

She’s a darling

Close up of her

Sunset is about to happen

A flock of birds going home

Windmills looking gorgeous in the setting sun

Wow	He’s gone home and so we are

Enjoy the collection of Panos now.

Pano 1

Pano 2

Pano 3

Pano 4

Pano 5

Pano 6

Pano 7

Pano 8

Pano 9

Pano 10

Pano 11

Pano 12

Pano 13

Pano 14

Pano 15

Pano 16

Pano 17

The route map – Green first part, Purple second part

This was a once in a life time trip and I wanted it to be a spectacular one. When one is in a romantic mood its always best to stay close to mother nature and far away from the busy world. This is what we did in our little paradise nation within 10 days. So let the pictures say our story. Our first and second day of relaxation was at Back of beyond Kahandamodara. This was absolutely the paradise we searched for. Two days of perfect harmony with many activities to pass ones time like boat rides in lagoons, cycling and etc. Thanks Yohan for building such a lovely place. The staff was simply the best; you don’t get good guys like them at 5 start hotels.

our paradise at Kahandamodara

Beautifuly blended with nature

The new Sandy at Kahandamodara

we took a cycle tour to the beach on the evening after arrival and it was rewarding

day 2 we took a boat ride in Kalamatiya lagoon which was full

these guys charge Rs 2500 for a full tour

lovely

the largest king fisher in SL

few Indian darters

plenty of LW ducks

great hide out for birds

next we visited Wehera 9 dhageba

BOB Kalametiya was round the corner so paid a visit there too

View from BOB Kalametiya

the lovely beach

ha ha we rode bicycles and also trishaws

that evening we took another boat ride in Kahandamodara lagoon

Keran koku which we had as lunch

this is fed by urubokka oya

lagoon flora

endless scenery

looking back towards gongala

where salt water meets fresh water

back to routine

here it goes

the huge grass land near BOB Kahandamodara adjoining the lagoon, this is a nice place to explore

plenty of these guys

yummy

a BBQ night

these two were wonderful chaps

After a two night stay we left towards Hambanthota and after going in circles we reached the newly opened dry zone botanical garden at Mirijjawela. Since the walk was a 5Km one we decided to hire a golf cart for 500/=(per hr) and wonder around. This ride was an interesting one and our knowledgeable driver did his best to explain us about all the different kind of plants. For me the best section was the plant house with hundreds of cactus plants. From here we took the road through Mattala to Thanamalwila.

Newly opened dry zone botanical garden

the herbal section

inside these there are many orchids

they come in white

and purple

dried out artificial lake

imitating Peradeniya walking path

these were blooming everywhere

a lake with water

the driver took the pic

landscaped

oh my god

so many varieties

Our next stop was Buduruwagala and from there we went towards Maligawila. After hanging around Maligawila we had a nice orange juice and took an unplanned visit to ancient Galtemmandiya temple. To reach Galtemmandiya one needs to go along Okkampitiya road and just before Maligawila there is a board put up by Uva tourist board on the left hand side. That day we ended our tour at my luxurious resting place at Monaragala.

main statue at Buduruwagala

some paint and plaster still remains

appreciating ancient sculpture

path towards Maligawila

the large Dhambegoda bodhisatva statue

a guard stone

tallest ancient buddha statue in SL

he has learned how to open a tap

Flower alter

all these sculptures were done by crystallized lime stone

a serpent eagle

Galtemmandiya ancient temple

a korawak stone

siripatula

Paddyfilds of Okkampitiya

On day 4 we left Monaragala early in the morning and reached Dehigaha Ela at around 12pm. This again like Kahandamodara was another paradise and we were going to stay there for two awesome nights. After having a quick tour around we hired a safari jeep to take us to Minneriya park where we were greeted by hundreds of elephants who were grazing around. We were also lucky enough to note Enigma the tusker in action.

our destination

Sepalika cottage at dehigaha ela

In the wilderness

off we go in search of elephants

this one scared us

dried out reservoir

they were busy

majestic Enigma

playful

running to mama

milk time

minneri tank

few open bills

three musketeers

flying pelican

we got some help

view from Pahala thilkote lake while returning back

a mugger we noticed at Sigiriya Diya agala

On day 5 we left towards Pidurangala and climbed on top of the windy rock. Most of the time we were crawling around to prevent been blown away. After returning back from Pidurangala we had a nice bath at Dehigaha ela and did some archeology and bat cave exploration that evening. Day 6 we returned back to Chilaw and day 7 was the rest day.

Good morning at Dehigaha ela

the pink lotus

many species were hunting for honey

husband on duty

a common Lora

what beautiful tree house

Steps at Pidurangala

Pagoda at Pidurangala

a kutiya

buddha statue just before the summit

Summit of pidurangala with two pagodas

what a scenery

towards Ritigala

endless view

Minneriya reservoir

the minneriya national park

the colours were superb

framed rock

many travelers climbing the rock

it was windy

towards arangala and menikdena

I love this one

Pano towards Ritigala

Pano towards Sigiriya

another frame

We stayed at the family cottage on the next day

spacious place

Kiri oya

Dehigaha ela meeting kiri oya

endemic

I call this fellow the dry zone crow because they are so common

view from the top of bat cave

on the way to the bat cave

the bat cave where once monks meditated

he was busy

found some time to spend at the natural fish spa

Gal Pandiyas loving my feet

On day 8 both of us wanted to do some trekking so we took a bus to Kalupahana. But it was a day with continuous rain and we were kept indoors at Bambarakanda rest for most of the day. Finally we got a window of 2hours without showers so we walked along the Ohiya road and descended to the top of the full flowing Bambarakanda falls. From there we visited Lanka ella and returned back to the cottage in pouring rain

a gloomy day at kalupahana

wow full flow during the dry season lucky us

on the way scenery along ohiya road

playful doggy

Idalgasinna covered in mist

scenery just before V cut

view from the pines plot

plunging down

Top of Bambarakanda fall

side view

on the way to lanka ella

lower lanka ella cascade

lanka ella

Bambarakanda while raining

splendid view from bambarakanda rest

Next day morning the sun shined brightly and we asked Mrs Mayakaduwa to arrange a guide to take us to Uduwara and Nagadowa falls. Thanks to the previous days shower the cascades were decent in water levels. After returning to Bambarakanda rest Mrs. Mayakaduwa arranged us some lunch and a trishaw to Horton plains via Haputhale.

next day scenery from Lampuwatta while trekking to nagadowa falls

towards lower ohiya

both falls together

met it by chance

Uduwara falls

Nagadow falls blessed with the previous day showers

lower part of nagadowa

wow

view from haputhale while traveling on trishaw

cascade found close to boralanda

We reached Horton plains at around 2pm and we completed the circular trail in 2 ½ hours. We were blessed with the weather and the windy nature kept the worlds end clear. From Horton plains we went towards Nuwara eliya and on the 10^th day we returned back home to end our memorable trip. Within few days with plenty of time to relax we did manage to visit different types of geographical locations like beeches, national parks, waterfalls, mountains etc. This was a perfect trip for us and was just the type of outing both of us expected.

we reached the plains

the friendly guy

one of those shots

ashoka

chimmney pool

and it flows

it was bit lonely

leg of mutton pool

Slab rock falls

Bakers in full flow

close up

plenty of these

Young belihul oya

love the colours

the famous drop

non perial estate

the not so fascinating view

Samanala wewa and the mountain with mana is Adara kanda

Gommolli and balathoduwa peaks

a darker version

not my beard

I always love the view from Mini worlds end rather than the greater one

flower of seetha pera

in to the forest

reaching the end of the circular trail which took only 2 and a half hours

finally met a pack of them

good bye misty plains

the route we took in dark line – click to enlarge

Sailing on a yacht was once a fantasy but out of nowhere I got a wonderful opportunity which I couldn’t resist. The Dolphin season at Trincomalee was coming to an end so the whale watching luxury yacht was migrating towards Mirissa. Amila called me and gave me the news but I had to take 3 days of leave in middle of the week and getting to Trincomallee or Passikudha was not feasible. I didn’t want to let this opportunity fly by so I decided to join them from Arugam bay.

It was a gloomy morning at Arugam bay, but the overcast skies were not enough to demotivate me this time. Until 10 in the morning I was wondering on the beach in anticipation of the yacht. While the inflatable boat arrived to pick me up from the shore two beech patrol police guys were having a conversation with me and they were talking in a very friendly manner. When they inquired I told them about my journey and said adios to them to board the yacht. We were sailing slowly towards down south and at around Okanda a Navy Dora came roaming towards us. They did order us to come to a halt and said they have been ordered to arrest me by the Potuvil police. But after giving them the details and informing few higher officials we were given permission to proceed. The friendly navy chaps did go back to their base at Oluvil while we started sailing towards Kumana. With all of these incidents the Hate towards Sri Lankan police department seems to blossoming in my mind . If they had any concern they should have questioned me in detail before I got in to the boat since I told them all about my journey. It seems they just wanted to get some plus points by filing a case and troubling the Sri Lankan Navy. (Btw there are good officers too in the police).

gloomy morning at arugam bay

empty’s

had plenty of time to snap these

new life

arugam bay

a fisherman’s hut

my luxurious ride

getting ready to get me

amila spotted me

good bye main land

Water Sprite 2

towards the ocean

interior

cooking on the yacht

window view

passing ulla

pirates of Sri lanka… lol

maragalakanda seen from the ocean

Kudumbigala

finally clear sky

the blue i love

the loose knot

Bagure gala kumana

peaks in kumana

fishing boats

he didnt catch those (bought from fisherman)

attempting to catch something

seagulls

a Dora looking peaceful

no they were here to arrest me… damn

front view of the Dora

getting back after the negotiation

and they left finally

lonely beaches

After all that “ha hoo” we were back on track. On our way we noted all the mountain peaks around Monaragala and mondaknocks in Kumana plus Yala. Our next main at traction was Little bass (also known as Kuda Ravana). The Great and Little basses were once part of King Ravanas kingdom which submerged and the coral reef around this area is one of the bestplaces for diving. There are some ships buried in these reefs too. We did put up the sails at this point and got the added advantage of the wind. The evening was spent on the front deck while enjoying the sinking sun.

Quote

Great Basses reef and the Little Basses reef are two rock formations on the south-east coast of Sri Lanka. Locals call these ‘Maha Ravana’ and Kuda Ravana’ reefs respectively. With Sri Lanka being on major shipping route connecting China with the rest of the world, and these rocks located 12-13 kilometres off the shore, the ancient sea fairers found navigating these rocks a formidable challenge and the large number of ships which have wrecked close to these rocks have made this area a popular diving attraction.

Both the lighthouses on these two rocks were designed by James Douglass and constructed by his brother William Douglass of the Imperial Lighthouse Service. The 34 metre high Great Basses was commissioned in 1873 and was made with massive stone blocks which were shipped from Scotland and England. The Small Basses Reef was completed five years later in 1878. Both these light houses survived the great tsunami of 2004 with only damages to the bases. These damages were repaired and the lighthouses were made operational again in 2007 with the aid from UK.

The underwater treasures surrounding the Basses reefs were exposed to the world through the 1961 publication called ‘The Treasure of the Reef’ written by Sir Arthur C Clarke based on his experience on the diving expedition to the reefs. He discovered a wreck of a 24 gun ship which belonged to the Mogul Emperor Aurangzeb (1658 – 1707) which contained thousands of silver rupees dated 1702.

The night was spent under the stars while watching thunder storms lightning up the mother land like it was New Year’s Eve. I was indeed lucky to capture few thundering lightning’s too. I had a good night sleep only to be waken up by the rough sea at around 5am.

yala

Seals

putting up the sails

need some muscle

sails are up

wind doing its work

modern day sailor

wow

sailing in the blue

captain always on the alert

got some sailing practice

the maker

chimney rock

Little bass also known as kuda ravana

the light of it

passing it

fishing boats from kirinda

barometer

cabins

more to go

keeping up

the reel

bright sky

the only Bryde whale we saw

bringing down the sail

evening snack

relaxing

evening chat

setting sun

sun set on the plate

lit up

patterned clouds

lucky indeed to capture such an event in my life time

navigator

wind meter and depth meter

time for a good night sleep

It was raining and there was no sun rise for us. We did note the light of the Dondra light house for miles. After tackling the rough sea we reached Mirissa harbor around 10am to end our ride. During this voyage we saw a small pack of Dolphines and a Bryde whale. If the weather was perfect we would have been much luckier. It was sad that this journey ended but I’m hoping to get back in to the great oceans once again and sail below the stars.

gloomy morning close to tangalle

going through a international one way passage

rough sea

raining on both ends

shipping line

closing on to mirissa

entering the bay

docking yard

mirissa bay

the map – click to enlarge

So this was my second visit (previous visit) to Jaffna this year and I would re visit this lovely land at any given time because there is so much to see. This time my main objectives were to visit two populated islands in Jaffna and also to show around my wife the beauty I experienced during my previous visits. On the way to Jaffna we did stop at Iranamadu to have some tea. We reached Jaffna at around 9am and refreshed ourselves before exploring the peninsula.

First we visited the fort then headed straight away towards Casurina beach of Karainagar and returned back to Jaffna for lunch! After lunch and a small nap we headed towards Chunnakam and we visited Keerimalai pond, Dambakola patuna & Kadurugoda temple (Please visit this link to get directions of above stated locations). From Chunnakam we headed towards Chankanai. Once one proceeds few hundred meters towards Karainagar, one would come across an Old Dutch church on the left hand side of the road. This is now an archeological site. From here onwards we returned to Jaffna through Manipay. We also came across an ambalama by the side of the road. This is called Aarukaal Madam at Annaikkoddai. These sought of resting places could be found around Jaffna by the side of the road. To learn all about the components of these “madams” please refer this link. At Jaffna we reached the district secretariat office. Opposite it by the side of A9 one could see the old DS office which is now an archeology site.

misty morning at Kilinochchi

the blazing sun

Iranamadu reservoir

the bund

hard life

close to elephant pass

the fort

a pelican

my favourite board

Keerimalai pond

Dambakola patuna

the shores of dambakola patuna

very busy

frequent sightings

Kandaroadai

in good condition

Chankanai church

remains of the church

outer view

Aarukaal madam

old DS office

dutch architecture

in ruins

window to heaven

what an evening

bye bye

the sun set

and she went

couldn’t resist clicking

Day two was the day I was looking forward too. Yes the sun was shining bright and inviting us to go ahead and explore the unseen. Amila also joined us for this island expedition. We reached Karampan jetty of Kaytes at around 9am and got on to an Eluvaitivu boat. After a 20 minute ride we reached the island of Eluvaitivu. This is a small island with 150 families. There were no trishaws or any other vehicles. But there was a small tractor with its owner who offered to take us on an island tour for 500/= bucks. He took us from one end to the other end and made sure we returned back on time for the ferry. We did note many government institutes like the hospital, school, post office and few more. The coastal shores were lonely but there weren’t any good bathing sites. Our tractor guy was kind enough to offer us some king coconut and boiled Palmyra shoots. After a 1 and a half hour island tour we returned to Karampan jetty for our next adventure.

goats heating up there butts

pied kingfisher

welcome to kaytes

Gods children

love and comfort

boarding the Eluvaitivu boat

island of Eluvaitivu

returning boat from the island

passengers on the deck

reaching Eluvaitivu

awaiting to receive us

calm beech of Eluvaitivu

fisihing is their livelihood

Analaitivu

lovely house

the path we took

health reaches the extremes

poverty

the post office

the school bell

fresh water pond

our BMW ride

indian rollar

the chap who followed us

lovely path

the coast of Eluvaitivu

young palmyra plants

playing cricket at Eluvaitivu

only in jaffna

livelihood

leaving the jetty

friendly faces

After an one hour brake at Karampan we got on to the ferry which took us towards Analaitivu. It was a 40 minute ride under the blazing sun. Analaitivu is one of those huge islands just like Delft. It has many administrative buildings and few Kovils. We hired a trishaw guy to show us a around the island for 1000/= bucks and he was a supersonic guy. The trishaw was racing along the B grade road but within no time he understood that going so fast is not possible with our frequent stops. Our first stop was the old light house where Parititivu which is an extension of Analaitivu could be seen. This island resembled Delft in many ways but to our surprise this island had paddy fields. It is said that this island has the best drinking water in Jaffna. More than Eluvaitivu Analaitivu is worth visiting. On the other side of the island there was a small stretch of land connecting Analaitivu and Puliyathivu which was another extension of the island. The beach around this point was good for a calm swim. After an one and a half hour high speed trishaw ride we returned back to the jetty and took off towards Kaytes. We took our jeep across the ocean from Kaytes to Karainagar with the aid of the ferry and that was a new experience to me. The wonderful evening ended with a bicycle ride to Rio ice cream stall at Nallur (customer service is not good). The 10km up and down bicycle ride with my wife was a great way to end a memorable day.

leaving karampan jetty for the second time

on the way to analaithivu

amila having a chat

island of Ellvaitivu

reaching Analaitivu

welcome to Analaitivu

mini tanks at Analaitivu

health services

a saloon

main mode of transport

never seen an Alpha goat like this

the light house of Analaitivu

beauties on the floor

love to walk along this

lonely tree

towards Parititivu

beautiful roads

halted

cemetry

a church

coral blocked walls

coastal road

komarika were found everywhere

komarika flower

chilies (main cultivation)

a hut

open land

calm and quiet

lovely beach

fresh water pond

coral-ed shores

Nainathivu seen from Analaitivu

abandoned jetty at Puliyanthivu

B grade road

yes there were paddyfields

the main kovil

road side chatting

back to the jetty

ice cream man

ferry which took our jeep from kayts to Karaeinagar

on the ferry

another sun set

Day 3 was all about returning back along the coastal road. We took the A32 Mannar road and crossed the beautiful lagoon via the Sanguppiddy Bridge. We came across few stretches which were under construction but other than that the whole road was in superb condition up to Mannar. On our way we had a stop at Pooneryn junction to visit the Old Dutch fort. From Mannar to Marichchukkaddi the road was in good condition except few small stretches. We entered the Wilpattu Park crossing Modara gan aru and found out that the road was in bad condition. Now only 4WD vehicles go across this road because of  broken bridges and etc. when we exited Kala oya causeway we were surprised to see that the Eluwankulama – Puttalam road which was also almost completely finished. At around 4pm we reached chilaw to end a magical journey to the north of our pearl island.

paddyfields of Pooneryn

shores of Pooneryn

towards salty ocean

A 32

life	Sangupiddy

here we come

silvery oceans

Pooneryn fort

view from the watch post

the fort

traffic along A 32

lonely road

passing mulankavil

plenty of marshy lands

bird life

closing to mannar

the rice bowl

crossing modara gan aru

entering wilpaththu

muddy roads

Black winged . Stilt

passing many villus

lonely ride

final hurdle

“This area which known as “Kalmunai” or “K point” is an area which completely sandy and depopulated. An army camp is situated on there and a land way also consists from “Navathkuli”. Besides from that a sea way also situated from Manniththalai jetty. Manniththalai has populated areas. And also it has very beautiful beach in k point and its surrounding. The sweet memories which we get from the sea journey from “Ariyalei” are shared with you like this.”

We came to Chundukuli jetty at about 2pm. Then friend of Nishsnathan name as fernando is joined with us and we park the bikes nearby home and waiting for other partners for fernando. After some moment they came and ready the boat for our journey. After that we get on to the boat to start the journey. It’s not much easy as we think so it was oscillating too much. It’s taking some time to convert it.

All of our valuable things like mobile phones were gathered by Fernando and he told me smiley that I couldn’t bring the camera much further. (I understood that quickly why he said like that)

At first they carried the boat by the assist of timber stick to the deep zone of the sea. The sea is calm at the first few miles then it became barbaric orderly. Though we went boat journey earlier, this was a novel for us.

Our route – Click Map to Enlarge

Sandy land Kalmunai (K point shown in the circle)

Colorful

Many of fishing boats

Hey guys… We can go

Ready to launch

Carry on to deep sea

Not much familiar yet

Leave in Chundukuli jetty

Here we go

Freedom

Some of our gang

Useful for fishermen

When came forward like that it arose a hard situation to bring the camera. So I had put it into the bag involuntarily. We came so far by now & our main Island viewed like a horizon. The only disturbance is the hard sunlight but it is not feel when looking others’ faces.

Came too far

Another Fishing Boat

Passing K point

After came like these we pass the k point. The tower is which situated on there is very helpful to identify the k Point. There was a NAVI camp & they provide the security of Sri Lankan Sea boarder and fishermen.

There are many fishermen trap on this area & also there are two of Fernandos’ traps. Then we stop the boat to reach that places & one guy jump to the sea & connect the boat by rod.

After that they starting the fishing hunting & also we didn’t see that method earlier. Two of them enter to the net & fishing by using the steel rod. And they search the target by dive & a little time is spent to them to do that. We wondered their attempt. They were fishing like this both two traps. After that we went to the beach.

The shore which we seek

Trusty jump

Like a home to him

Conversant Swimmer

Holding the boat

Start the hunt

He looks like a good hunter

Ohh… What a shot…

Ready to go forward

We came to another trap

Waiting…

That one used to fishing

OMG… It Still alive

Lonely beach

What can we do..? It’s their job.

King of the blue Ocean

Fishing is over

Take on the anchor

Waiting welcome for us

When we got down from the boat we feel a very freedom because of that there are no any sign of human. Some of our gang ready for BBQ & others was roaming in the beach side. However we could get many deferent experiences from that journey. We were swimming, sea bathing, enjoying & doing stupid things as our wish…

Relaxing moment

Finally we reach it

White sand shore

Crystal water

Modern fisherman

Nice Crab

Ready to party

It’s burn

Looking not god

don’t say anything…

Commencement to swim

Brighten Ocean

It’s in good condition (Because of crowd less)

Sandy Island

There are only Palmira tree

Nice scenery

Not a Marble

Crazy guys…

Not enough

Float well

Just click

Go back to childhood

He tries to become fair

Sleep in heaven

We didn’t feel the spending of time finally time is come to leave the dream Island.  So we come back again with sorrowful modes but many of tremendous experiences.

It’s time to leave

Team work

He is the main role

Traveling again

Evening sunset

Enjoy well

Navy camp on K point

We have to go more (Towers of Main Island indicate in the circle)

Little bit close now

Dusk is coming little by little

Sky painting

Life struggle

Seeking the pabulum even the last moment

Aloneness

Calm evening

Waterman

Great ending

Though this day was a great experienced day which added to our memory books, it is crystal clear that the fishermen who were in life struggle of there had another tough day. I give my heartiest thanks to Nishanthan, Arunjan & their gang to give us like worth experience.

Thanks for reading my report.

Have a safe & Joyful journey!!

Map around Vakare – click to enlarge

Map of Mantheevu- click to enlarge

Arial view of Sallitivu(taken from www.anilana.com )

Attractions

• Sallitivu coral island – Vakare
• Mantheevu Leper Asylum – Batticaloa

Ah I was just back after a long awaited visit to Trinco and was scanning through Google earth in and around Trinco area when I suddenly noticed an island close to Vakare and immediately I fell in love with it. The desire was so much that I decided to visit it during the coming weekend and Amila & Nalinda agreed on that idea. Our plan was to camp on this island but after some inquiries we got to know that things weren’t easy as we thought. This island is been controlled by the Army and there are some ownership issues of this. Currently according to the law no one owns this island and anyone could visit it but there are some issues. Currently only foreigners do visit this island (because they can’t argue with them and stop the foreigners but civil people are denied their right to visit this island). My personal opinion is that this island should be taken over by the DWC since there is a coral reef around it just like Pigeon Island. Somehow after soughting out the permission issue we decided to go ahead.

Next day when we left Bibile it was around 1pm and Amila joined us at Valachchena. At around 4pm we reached Sallitivu beach and the first sight of it was a big wow. There were no waves at all and the bay of Vakare was one of those beaches I would revisit. Initially we were disappointed with not been able to camp on the island but later we were pleased with how things turned out. As you can see in the Google image the island is connected to the main land with a sand strip but since it was still the high tide season the sand strip was completely missing. We were said that the water level was over the waist height and indeed it was. We were up to the challenge and we decided to pay a visit. The crossing was a unique experience which we had never experienced of. We were been pushed over by waves from both sides and our waste region started aching while crossing. When we set foot on the island we were so relieved.

It was a coral island and the shore of the island was covered up by piled up dead corals creating a unique landscape. The whole walk around the island was close to 750m and walking on dead coral made it bit difficult and out of all of us Amila suffered a lot because he didn’t bring his slippers. And finally he gave up and made a pair of slippers out of some washed off debris. In this mini island there was a small lake with plenty of bird life. We were also told that there are some Saw scaled vipers on this island. We were happy that how things turned out because camping on this was not possible at all considering the above facts (no sandy shore even). After getting back to the mainland we had a long dip in the bay of Vakare. For me this is one of the most peaceful and calm beaches in SL. That night was spent watching millions of hermit crabs running around and observing oysters digging holes.

Google earth image – click to enlarge

first sight of the island

when the tied is low there is a sand strip connecting the main land

Sallitivu island

Army resort on the beach

halted

time to cross the ocean

we crossed like this

stepped on Sallitivu

Amila’s smile didnt last long

plenty of empty shells

and more

clear water

while walking along the coast

lake	Pointed point

growing through the coral

just washed to the shore

more to walk

layers and layers of corals

not easy to walk on these

finally he had to improvise

common sight

a beauty

life	great thick knee

wow	One of those hermit crabs

time to get back

ah we were there

friendly dogs

here we go

so calm

where we stayed

the old couple who go fishing daily

he did catch some fish

ha ha way to go

Next day morning was a gloomy one and it indeed sabotaged a beautiful sun rise. After revisiting the island and thanking the army guys at the resort we took off towards Kayankerni. Amila and Nalinda insisted on visiting the Kayankerni ancient bridge across the lagoon which I had visited one week back. While I stayed back they got on to a one man boat and headed towards the bridge with smiles on their faces. In few minutes with a big splash they were in the lagoon trying to salvage their electronic equipment. Fortunately the water level was only up to their waist. They did see the bridge but did not photograph it. And I been the lucky guy was been accused for their miss happening ha ha ha..

gloomy morning

mosquito’s forced us to sleep here

old couple with their catch

sun rise over Sallitivu

running away

dead shells

ah beach dogs

returning back

here they come

with some help

while revisiting the island

beautiful isnt it

it was a live urchin

flowers on an island

fishing boat which crashed on to the coral reef

nice

calm shore

lonely island

forest cover

not many tall trees

the lake

some mangroves

a place to camp

pointed point

difficult to have a dip

sea weed

crabs

and more

one last shot

tamed guy

used over generations

creative people

smiling faces

and then smiles went away

his face

drying purse contents

Though we decided to cut short the trip later we decided to go ahead and visit the Leprosy Island at Batticaloa. We reached Batticaloa and took off towards Vavunatheevu. Just before the long bridge across the lagoon there was a Navy check point and the marines who were there helped us by calling the boatman of the hospital. After 15 minutes the boatman arrived and took us towards the Leprosy Island. Nalinda and I been doctors we were somewhat curious about this island hospital which was once an asylum to Leprosy patients in SL. This was initially declared and opened in the early 19 hundreds with five hundred patients. It had been functioned as a mini town in the past. There were a police post, post office, kovil, temple, church and many other buildings. Some patients even had individual two roomed cabins. Except two wards few minor staff quarters and the main Admin building rest is been sacrificed to the forest. There were 3 friendly patients living their life within this containment. We felt sorry for them because they haven’t seen anything in this world other than the island and Batticaloa town for many years despite been disease free. The unwanted social stigmata around some disease like Leprosy and Tuberculosis is so unacceptable. Currently there are few minor staff guys and a nurse to care to them and they are taken to Batticaloa teaching hospital monthly for clinics (And when ill). This island has its own stories, if one is interested in listening to them I recommend the boat guy who has been here since 1981. My kind request is please don’t go here with big groups since this is a hospital and respect the patients’ rights. The visit to the Leprosy island of Mantheevu was indeed a shocker but we were happy that we did visit it (For detailed information on Mantheevu click this). From Batticaloa we took the beautiful route through Samanthure and reached Amapara where we had lunch. From there onwards we took the Nilgala road towards Bibile where we dropped Nalinda and ended our journey at Monaragala where Amila took a Jaffna bound bus. This was indeed a relaxing journey to our tired soles and as usual it was something out of ordinary.

tasting Palmyra

Mantheevu Leprosy island

here we go

closing on

belongs to the line ministry

this was once a road

taken from the link given in resources section – click to enlarge

with its catch

old church

post office

current wards

one patient could be seen at the backdrop