Ratnapura District

Located in the picturesque Ratnapura District of Sri Lanka, Ganegama Rajamaha Viharaya, also known as Aramanapola Viharaya, is a peaceful and historically rich Buddhist temple that attracts visitors seeking tranquillity and spiritual reflection. The temple’s serene atmosphere and lush surroundings make it an ideal destination for those looking to connect with Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage. The temple is renowned for its exquisite architectural beauty, with intricate carvings and statues that showcase the artistic craftsmanship of ancient Sri Lankan artisans. Notably, the temple features replicas of the famous Polonnaruwa Gal Viharaya statues, providing visitors a chance to admire these monumental…

Hunugal Pokuna, also known as the Limestone Pond, is a stunning natural wonder nestled within the Rajawaka Forest Reserve, near Kalthota in Sri Lanka’s Sabaragamuwa Province. To reach this tranquil site, visitors must embark on a scenic trek of about 1.5 kilometers through lush forest trails rich with biodiversity. The journey itself is an adventure, offering sightings of endemic flora and a peaceful escape into nature. Entry into the forest reserve requires prior permission from the Sri Lanka Forest Department, as the area is a protected ecological zone. This ensures the preservation of the unique limestone ecosystem surrounding Hunugal Pokuna.…

Located within Sri Lanka's lush landscapes and historical tapestry near Pallebadda, the Bambaragala Forest Monastery emerges as a beacon of serenity and spiritual significance. Less known yet profoundly captivating, this secluded haven invites visitors into a world where nature and history intertwine gracefully. This article delves into the geological marvels, historical depth, and rich biodiversity that define Bambaragala, showcasing why it remains an essential visit for those drawn to the mysteries of history and the tranquillity of nature.

The Batadomba Lena Cave Temple, also known as Diva Guhava archaeological site, holds testimony of occupancy from as early as 8,000 years BCE. It is one of the sites whose discoveries support the "Out of Africa" hypothesis, according to Professor Paul Mellars, a Cambridge University paleontologist. Among the evidence of Balangoda Man he unearthed at the site were stone accessories defined as arrow - or spearheads and nicely shaped and perforated pebbles made from ostrich eggshell fragments. One particular piece of an ostrich eggshell, carved with a distinctive criss-cross motif, has also been discovered. Batadombalena Cave has an area of…

Kalthota intersection can be approached by wending 30 km from Balangoda town. After that, travelling about 45 km along Diyavinna road determines the southern area Budugala Rajamaha Vihara, which has a historical significance and the archaeological main–house land can be sighted in a short distance. This sacred land is located in Budugala ancient village alias Budugale Katuwa that lies adjacent to Mahawalathenna plateau. This old Buddhist sanctuary which is considered to have been erected during the Anuradhapura period, has been under the local governance of kalathiththa (Kalthota Kingdom), situated at the terminal border of Rohana domain in the days of…

The Pahanthudawa Falls has located about 2 km from the town of Belihuloya in 19 km off Balangoda on the A4 road. This is the ultimate one of a series of waterfalls formulated by Belihul Oya ere waters into Samanala wewa Reservoir. This waterfall creates a tiny but deep pool at the bottom, which is of considerable depth and is in the shape of the wick of a lamp- helps deriving its title (pahana – a light). To reach the falls, one should go about 1.5 km on Ihala Galagama road, starting from the famous Belihuloya Resthouse and follow the…

Hawagala, a stunning mountain near Belihuloya in the Sabaragamuwa Province, is surrounded by renowned landmarks such as Adara Kanda, NonPareil Estate, and Horton Plains. Hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Sabaragamuwa's lush greenery, making the challenging climb more worthwhile. This picturesque destination has become a hotspot for both locals and tourists alike.

Bakers Bend is a hidden gem in the heart of the stunning Belihuloya Nanperial Estate in the Ratnapura District of the Sabaragamuwa Province, Sri Lanka. This picturesque tourist spot, situated at the foothills of the Horton Plains, offers a mesmerizing experience to those who venture to its breathtaking location. With an elevation of approximately 5,000 feet above sea level, Bakers Bend treats visitors to awe-inspiring views of its surroundings.

Samanala Mountains, which is pretty explained in central highlands, is about 2243 meters high. Among all the sacred Buddhist sites in Sabaragamuwa, Adam’s Peak is earlier as it is believed that Lord Buddha’s sacred left footprint is imprinted thereon peak. About Mahawanshaya (a celebrated history of the dynasties of the kings of Ceylon), during his third visit to Sri Lanka, Lord Buddha has set the sacred footprint on top of Adam’s Peak by Sumana Deva’s (God Saman) invitation who fell from spiritual lineage to be the mayor of the region at that time. He achieved an excellent state of fruition…

The Samanalawewa Dam, known as the "Samanalawewa Reservoir Project," is a significant hydroelectric dam in Sri Lanka. Commissioned in 1992, it is crucial in generating hydroelectric power and supporting the country's energy needs. This article delves into the construction, specifications, and operational aspects of the Samanala Dam, highlighting the challenges posed by a significant leakage and its implications for power production and downstream agriculture.