The mountain is a favorite among tourists. Although Sri Lanka is a small island, we have many mountains to cross. Riding the Great Western is a new experience. The Great Western rises from the mountain forest adjoining the Samanala Reserve overlooking the famous Lakshapana Falls.
There is a by-pass from the Norton Bridge to Lakshapana Falls on the Adams peak access road to Nallathani. It is also known as Kothtalena. Buses are also available from Norton Bridge to this area. The Lakshapana Falls can be seen on this trip, and if there is not much water, it is possible to take a bath.
Great Western, however, is the sixth highest mountain in Sri Lanka. It is said that the height is 2216 meters above sea level. The Great Western Railway Station is located between Ratagalle and Watagoda on the famous Badulla Railway. The mountain range is also the main source of water in the area.
There are two ways to climb this mountain. Most of the mountain trails, such as the devil's staircase, the siripa climb, the Namunukula, are clearly visible. One of its most convenient access points is the road overlooking Lakshapana Falls. However, even along that route, there are many slippery places.
Part of the slope of the mountain is seen as it continues through the forest among the pine trees. Climbing over the pine trees that crumble down the road, you have to go through the harsh paths of shrubbery. It is about 400 meters away, but the mountain is tedious. On the left are the faces of the saptakanya, and beyond that are the clusters of mist. About 300 meters you have to go through many difficulties.
As you go up, you will have to climb up a large boulder and a rock. For this purpose, the trees have to be replaced. There is no place to spend the night, but you can make a tent. The variety of mushrooms and flowers that make up the variety add to the beauty of the forest. When going out in the jungle, be very careful of the wind. Similarly, one must be very careful when crossing over fallen trees. Near the top of the mountain, you can see the uniqueness of the surrounding environment.
Since this is not an easy journey, it is definitely a must for a guide who knows the best routes. But going with them is also likely to get lost. However, they have their own opportunities. It is best to use the non-rainy season for this mountain hike. Because leeches can break free from slippery, foggy haze.
Caution should be exercised in cases such as flame burning. A forest full of reeds and dry scrub can catch a single spark and burn the entire forest. This mountain class was named as a virgin because of the difficulty of climbing it. Therefore, it is best to organize to cross the mountain to reduce the risk.
The cooling of the mountains and the waterfall of the Lakshapana Falls flowing from the top of the Samanala mountain in the distance is a beautiful sight as the fog clears. Mountains of Ginigathena can be seen through Maskeliya, Bogawantalawa and Lakshapana-Norton Bridge. A 360-degree warp can be seen and the fog occasionally interrupts. This mountain is the only mountain in the area that is over 1200 meters high. That is because of the space around the four. Sometimes you can see low-lying village houses and roads. But the edge of the mountain is not visible.
There are many vines covered with sunflower, bovitia, croton and big trees, as well as unknown flowers. Wild boar, introverted leopard and deer are some of the most valuable animals in the environment. What we do not know is that the leopard, the most powerful carnivore inhabiting the Butterfly site and the Horton Plains, may also be in the forest. Climbing is a brand new experience.
This charming area that goes to the siripa site is a wonderful creation of nature. The lush tea gardens and the green surroundings make for a spectacular view of the fog.
The underwater flow of the road drops to about thirty meters. When you go down the canal you will see the entire waterfall. Three small arches flowing down the middle of the water, pouring tea leaves. Lakshapana Falls, which is about 200 feet [129 m] high, can be reached first. It was a fantastic view.
Thanks for reading. See you again.
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