Another
morning began with our customary hotel buffet breakfast (Negambo & Nuwara Eliya) before setting off
early along winding roads, surrounded by unfolding hilltop vistas and nature on
all sides. Our journey took an unexpected pause when we spotted a waterfall,
prompting us to request our driver to pull over, much to his initial reluctance
due to parking constraints. Undeterred, we insisted and made our way to Rawana
Ella Falls, discovering that we had ventured into the Ella district.
While most of our group seemed
disinterested, myself and a fellow traveler eagerly approached the fence
overlooking Rawana Waterfall. Standing there, I was captivated by the sight and
sound of the 82-foot cascade, known as one of Sri Lanka’s widest waterfalls. Nestled
within the Ravana Ella Wildlife Sanctuary, about six kilometers from the Ella
Railway Station. The experience offered breathtaking views of the falls and the
pristine surroundings of Ella.
Later, just the two of us stopped at a
temple situated on a hilltop within a small compound. Though the structure
appeared rundown and seemingly abandoned, it retained its significance with
sacred deities and an aura of holiness. We spent quiet moments praying and
admiring the serene surroundings, feeling deeply connected to the spiritual
essence of the place.
Around 11:00 am, we took a break at a cozy
café nestled amidst the mountains, offering a breathtaking backdrop of
mist-covered nature. Savoring hot beverages, we couldn't help but admire the
serene view.
Next, we headed for lunch at a
garden-setting resort, though I forgot to note its name. Despite a wait for the
food to be prepared, the meal turned out to be incredibly delicious, especially
the vegetable side dishes and the mouthwatering fish curry. The service, marked
by its humble and down-to-earth demeanor, added to the experience.
Upon arriving at Okrin Hotel, Kataragama, where
we would spend the night, we found our rooms weren't quite ready yet due to
ongoing housekeeping. After a half-hour wait, we finally settled into our
rooms. Curious to explore, we took the hotel staff's suggestion, we walked for 20
minutes, towards a nature path leading to "Vedasitikanda" Temple.
To be honest, I wasn't sure what awaited
me at Vedasitikanda Temple, but I soon learned that reaching it required a
thrilling jeep ride up to 2500 feet on Wadasiti Mountain, about 4 kilometers
southeast of Kataragama. Paying for the jeep ride, I found myself squeezed
among locals, packed tightly in the jeep. The bumpy ride kicked off with jolts
and bumps that could practically throw you out if you didn't hold on tight,
dust swirling around us for the next 20 minutes.
Upon reaching the hilltop temple, we
offered our prayers and then took in the expansive view from Wadasiti Hill. It
was a fulfilling experience, sharing our thoughts and reflections with each
other. The history shared about God Kataragama, who once lived on this
mountain, added to the sacred atmosphere of the place, known for its
significance among Buddhists and Hindus.
The bumpy downhill jeep ride was followed
by our arrival at Kataragama Temple, where we witnessed a lively crowd dancing.
It made me ponder: is this celebration rooted in religious gratitude or simply fun
and joy?
Kataragama Temple, dedicated to Kataragama
Dewiyo, draws reverence from Sinhala Buddhists, Hindu Sri Lankan Tamils, Sri
Lankan Moors, and Vedda people, symbolizing unity of faiths. Originally a
remote jungle shrine, it has evolved into a significant millennium-old
attraction. Spending nearly 2 hours exploring every section of the temple, we
later returned to Okrin Hotel.
I opted to have dinner delivered to my
room instead of joining my tour companions in the dining area. Though the meal
was delicious, my tiredness meant I could only manage to nibble on it. After a
brief rest, a shower, and some relaxation, I called it a night.
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