Lakegala

Description

Lakegala is an awe-inspiring mountain in Meemure village, Sri Lanka, approximately 175 km from Colombo's capital. The rock, also known as the "Rock of Lanka" in Sinhala, is near the border between Kandy and Matale districts. It is about 1310m high, one of the highest mountains in Sri Lanka's Knuckles mountain range, also known as "Dumbara Mitiyawatha." Lakegala is a favourite destination among local and international visitors due to its unique triangular shape and challenging rock-climbing trails.

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The Knuckles mountain range, containing Lakegala, has shaped Sri Lanka's culture and history for ages. Local kings exploited the mountain range as a natural fortification to defend their domains. The locals have also worshipped at Lakegala for generations. Kings prayed and sought blessings on the mountain. Ilakkagala, Lanka Pabbatha, Lakgala, Lankagiri, Sumudumalaya, and Samudragiri are its names. E.T. Dison, a British governor, was the first to climb King Rawana and Lakegala, which is famous.

This triangular shape makes Lakegala stand out from miles away. It's also the only Knuckles peak that requires rock climbing to the summit. Experienced climbers and adventurers flock to Lakegala's steep inclines.

Before ascending Lakegala, you should have rock climbing experience. The mountain's safest and most popular access road is from Meemure hamlet, where climbers can hire local guides. The Narangamuwa side requires about 70 degrees of climbing and ropes to reach the peak. Climbers must bring or tie ropes to the summit because no strings are attached to the mountain. In addition, climbers avoid it in the wind and only climb it from March to April and August to September. Some ways to find a Lakegala walk guide.

Arrange a local tour operator: Many Sri Lankan tour firms offer Lakegala hikes. They can arrange your guide. Search online for local tour providers and call or email them.

Get suggestions: Ask the personnel at your local hotel or guesthouse for recommendations. They can suggest a reliable guide.

The summit of Lakegala offers breathtaking views. The Knuckles mountain range, Dumbara forest, and villages are visible to climbers. Garadigala Falls, Bambaragath Oya Falls, Dust Falls, Hasalaka Oya Falls, and Huluganga Falls are among the 50 nearby waterfalls and streams. From the centre of Meemure village, visitors may observe the mountain's triangle shape.

Matale visitors can follow the Rattota Road past Rivaston and Pitawala to Pallegama via Laggala, cross the Narangamuwa Road, pass Ranamure hamlet, and stop at the temple. The Narangamuwa side needs specific rock climbing skills. Thus, only experienced climbers should try.

Knuckles mountain range includes Lakegala and several more trekking and mountaineering summits. Velangala Kanda, Yahangala, Kehelpathdoruwa, Garadigala, Dumbanagala, Selva Kanda, Aluthgal Kanda, Knuckles Mountain Range, Aliya Watunu Ella, Rilagala Kanda, Yakungehela, Gombaniya, Yakungegala, and Kirigalpota.

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