Wangedigala — Local services in Uva Province

Wangedigala Mountain hiking expedition.

We had a team of about 22 travel, adventure and nature lovers who took this journey last weekend on Sunday, February 17th 2019 in an air-conditioned comfortable mini coach with a friendly safe driver. First pickup and final drop off point was Colombo Fort Railway Station while some were picked up and dropped off along the route.

Wangedigala Mountain is situated in the beautiful city of Belihuloya, where you can see and visit many waterfalls, mountains, ancient caves and rocks and experience windy cool chimes.

We had a sumptuous buffet spread of food for breakfast at the lovely scenic Kebab Restaurant with very courteous friendly staff, with clean restroom facility and outdoor garden with nice landscaping with a swing to relax while watching the scenic mountain range views. The restaurant is located by the main road and easy to find. We returned here for our pre-booked late lunch after the hike to Wangedigala Mountain too.

Wangedigala Mountain has a lot of beautiful scenic views while climbing. There are different types of varieties of both small and large, short and tall trees with a diverse range of wild flora and fauna to see while climbing. Can reach summit by taking different hiking tracks. Ideal for camping as there are many flat land areas in between.

Can see the tallest waterfall Bambarakanda very clearly below the summit and another smaller waterfall parallel to Bambarakanda which is spectacular, mesmerizing and out of this world. Beautiful areal views around from the summit with chilly winds. Don't feel like climbing down once seated on the huge standing rocks at the summit as Wangedigala is one of the highest and tallest mountain peaks in Belihuloya where you can experience panoramic views below whichever side you turn.

Most areas are leeches free but depends on the track you choose to climb. We climbed from one route which was muddy where we encountered leeches up to the Buddha statue location where there was flowing water and very narrow footpaths we had to take to avoid muddy areas at some points.

After cleaning ourselves of the leeches near the Buddha statue and taking a small break to rest, we started the actual long climb which was very steep with some challenging steep climbing areas which I felt is not ideal for the faint hearted. But with a bit of team motivation and group dynamics such as playing some music and songs on your JBL which actually boosted me up with a new found energy to get going with occasional resting breaks to stop panting it is absolutely possible to accomplish to reach up to the summit. The good news is from the point of the Buddha statue it was leech free totally till we reached the summit.

When we climbed down we took a different footpath from the point of the Buddha statue to avoid leeches and try a different route as well which was mostly washed off but a broad easy to walk sandy pathway.

Both footpaths had lovely sceneries especially the flatland areas full of tall pine trees with amazing views and ideal for camping and resting to take a break and rest in between the hike. Some parts had got burned probably by insensitive night campers ignorance or natural forest fires.

A must visit mountain for the daring adventurer and nature lover. This mountain connects to many other mountains through different paths including Gonmoliya Mountain.

On our return journey after having a quite late sumptuous buffet lunch at the Kebab Restaurant, we stopped over to have a refreshing bath at the Belihuloya waterfall which was easy to reach as the access and entry point was by the roadside and just a few meters away next to a hotel with outside changing area and outside toilet too.

It was a totally fantastic fulfilling one day trip we made to Wangedigala in Belihuloya and the best part is even though we had a diverse range of age groups both males and females in our team we all mingled so well together and finally most importantly, none of us got sick in any form throughout the journey and returned safely back to our...

Wangedigala is an absolute gem for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts! The journey begins near the Kalupahana duel bridge on the Colombo side. After walking about 100 meters, you’ll find the trailhead marked by a serene pine tree forest. Walking through this forest feels magical—it’s peaceful, quiet, and sets the perfect tone for the adventure ahead.

As you continue, you’ll come across a Buddha statue, which adds a spiritual touch to the hike. From there, the trail splits: one path leads down to Babarakanda Ella (the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka), and the other leads up to Wangedigala. If you’re up for it, take the upward trail—it’s worth every step!

During the hike, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Babarakanda Ella and Lanka Ella waterfalls. Both are visible from the top, and the sight is absolutely mesmerizing. The hike itself takes about 2-4 hours, depending on your fitness level, but the views and the sense of accomplishment make it all worthwhile.

Once you reach the top, you’ll find a water path on the left side, which leads to a camping site. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also climb up to Wangedikanda, and from there, trek through the forest to reach Balathuduwa Peak, Gommoliya Peak, and even Parawiyangala Peak on the other side. The panoramic views from these peaks are simply unforgettable.

Camping at Wangedigala is a fantastic experience, but make sure to get proper permission beforehand. While many camp without permission, it’s always better to follow the rules to preserve the beauty of this place.

Tips for future hikers: Wear proper hiking shoes as the trail can be slippery, especially near the waterfalls. Start early to avoid the midday heat and to enjoy the best views. If camping, bring all necessary gear and leave no trace behind. Wangedigala is more than just a hike—it’s an experience that combines nature, adventure, and spirituality. Highly recommended for anyone looking to explore the untouched beauty of Sri...

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Cool and Hard place for a hike.Its freakin awsm.😎 Be sure that you follow a right way or make your hike harder and a unforgettable nightmare!(Still awsm though)

Best case scenario:You know the right way up.No raining.(You carry water+ tents).Can find dry sticks/wood(Pines).[ගල් තුනේ ලිප is already there.]Cook yourself.etc.

Worst case scenario:You have no idea about the way.RainingNo dry wood.hard to cook 😯.Cold.Tents get wet 😶.Freeze at night.Wet floor.

However its easy to dryer clothes due to dry wind. (Somtimes totally misty)

There s a water stream up there( only in rainy days).(You can drink)

The trail way is actually unsafe.(You can die🙄) Better having deck shoes with fine grip. (Wet pine leaves make your step slipery.Then roll 😯)

Leaches (කූඩැල්ලා) will give you a great welcome. Dont forget sidhdhaalepa or salt or soap. (Dont kill them.Be eco -friendly.I mean it.)

Gasoline:for cooking /camp fire / burn up your waste. Toilet paper would be useful.😀

Theres a big water flow at the beginning(@Kalupahana) . Only place if you want to swim or bath. Very cold water.(~10°C).(Rocks are slipery:dont die at the beginning 🙏 )

Photography : Cool sorounding and nice Pine forrests. Sun rise and sun down also so cool. Photos in the pine will give you amozon sense.

No wolves,tigers,elephants,pigs and mosquitoes but leaches. Only creature we found wer two pupies.In the forest.❤

About 3h climb up 2h climb down

Thats all. We went there without knowing the way and raining started just as we make it.But it's cool experience and i d never forget. I highly recommend you this place.Dont miss the...