Exploring Knuckles on the Duwili Ella Trail - Kandy | Matale | Rattota | Riverston | Pitawala | Atanwala

A Two-Day Adventure from Kandy | One Night Camping | Infinity Pool Experience

Some journeys do not need weeks to leave a mark. Sometimes, two days and one night in the heart of nature are enough to create memories that stay forever.

This short but powerful journey to Duwili Ella, deep inside the Knuckles Mountain Range, took place in 2020. Even after five years, the experience remains vivid — the misty trails, the silence of the forest, and the raw beauty of Sri Lanka’s central highlands.

 Knuckles Mountain Range – The Mist-Laden Highlands

The Knuckles Mountain Range,
spread across the Matale and Kandy districts, is one of Sri Lanka’s most ecologically rich regions.

While the English name comes from British surveyors who noticed the knuckle-like shape of the peaks, the Sinhala name “දුම්බර කදුවැටිය (Dumbara Kaduwetiya)” — meaning mist-laden mountain range — describes it far better.

More than 34% of Sri Lanka’s endemic plants, trees, and animals are found here, which is why Knuckles has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 Journey to Atanwala – From Kandy by Our Own Vehicles

We began our journey from Kandy, driving towards Matale, which marked the transition from city roads to mountain terrain.

From Matale, we followed the route:

Kandy → Matale → Rattota → Riverston → Pitawala → Atanwala

After Riverston, the road becomes narrow, steep, and extremely rough. A high ground clearance vehicle is essential. We safely reached Atanwala village and parked our vehicle there, using it as our base for the hike.

 Atanwala Village – A Quiet Mountain Settlement

Atanwala is a small, isolated village surrounded by mountains, forests, and streams. Life here is simple and deeply connected to nature.

Morning mist, bird calls, and fresh mountain air define the village atmosphere. The villagers are welcoming and calm, offering a glimpse into a lifestyle untouched by modern rush.

This village is also home to our guide.

Guided by Experience – Ekanayake Uncle

Our journey was guided by Ekanayake Uncle, a local guide with over 15 years of experience leading hikers through Knuckles.

In his early 60s, he knows every trail, stream, and hidden danger of the region. Before starting the hike, he performed a small traditional ritual — a simple act asking protection from the forest and regional deities.

Walking behind him felt safe and reassuring, especially for those experiencing Knuckles for the first time.

 Walpolagama – Where Nature Reclaims Human Space

Along the trail, we passed through Walpolagama, a once-inhabited village now largely abandoned due to frequent elephant movement.

• Old houses surrounded by vegetation
• Abandoned paddy fields turning into grasslands
• Forest wildlife freely roaming

Walpolagama stands as a powerful reminder of how fragile human settlements are in the presence of nature.

 Wildlife Encounters Along the Trail

One of the most beautiful aspects of this hike was observing small animals and forest life in their natural environment.

• Colorful forest birds
• Frogs and reptiles near streams
• Butterflies and insects unique to Knuckles
• A village dog that accompanied us part of the journey

These small encounters added life and character to the trail.

Day 1 – Hiking & Camping Near the Infinity Pool

We began hiking from Atanwala with light backpacks carrying only essentials. The trail passed through forest paths, open clearings, and streams.

By evening, we reached a stunning camping spot near Dumbara Falls, close to a natural rock formation where water flows gently over the edge — forming a natural infinity-pool-like cascade.

As night fell, we set up camp. No phone signal. No artificial lights. Only flowing water, forest sounds, and a sky full of stars.

It was a single camping night, but deeply peaceful and grounding.

 Day 2 – Morning Hike to Duwili Ella & Return

We woke up early, had a simple breakfast, and started the morning hike to Duwili Ella.

 Duwili Ella Waterfall

The name “Duwili Ella” comes from the way water scatters into fine droplets as it cascades down.

The waterfall is powerful yet graceful, surrounded by dense forest. With caution, it is possible to walk behind the waterfall, though the rocks are extremely slippery.

After spending time enjoying the scenery and resting, we began our return journey along the same trail.

By evening, we were back at Atanwala village, collected our vehicle, and headed home — tired, fulfilled, and grateful.

This was not a long expedition. It was two days and one night.

Yet it offered:

• A deep connection with nature
• Physical challenge and mental clarity
• Respect for village life and local knowledge
• Appre
  ciation for experienced local guides

As many hikers say:
“Knuckles doesn’t impress you — it humbles you.”

Until the Next Trail

There are many waterfalls and hidden paths inside Knuckles still waiting to be explored. One day, I will return — not to rush, but to listen again.

Stay tuned for the next adventure on TravelDailyVK.

Knuckles Mountain Range, Duwili Ella hike, Atanwala village trek, Walpolagama village, Knuckles camping night, Infinity pool Knuckles, Short hikes Sri Lanka, Knuckles wildlife, Ekanayake Uncle guide, TravelDailyVK

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India to Kathmandu by Jeep – Epic Road Journey

Crossing Birgunj Border, Rivers, Landslides & Himalayan Roads | Nepal Tour 

Join me on an epic and adventurous journey from the Raxaul border in India to the heart of Nepal – the beautiful city of Kathmandu! 🇮🇳➡️🇳🇵

This is my second vlog of the Nepal tour, and it’s packed with excitement, local culture, stunning landscapes, and unexpected challenges along the way.

🚧 Starting from Raxaul – Crossing Into Nepal

The day began at the Raxaul–Birgunj border, one of the busiest Indo-Nepal gateways.
The border crossing was smooth — a quick ID check, vehicle papers, and we entered Nepal officially.

Before moving ahead, I visited the iconic Gateway of Nepal and took a quick walk around the vibrant Birgunj markets, filled with local shops, busy streets, and Nepali culture.

🚙 The Real Adventure Begins – 180 KM Jeep Ride to Kathmandu

After exploring Birgunj, the real adventure started!
We left early in the morning in a Tata Sumo jeep, ready for a thrilling road trip to Kathmandu. The full journey covers around 180 km, but trust me — it’s not just a ride, it’s an experience.

🌊 Crossing Rivers

One of the most unique moments was driving straight through a river.
Cold water splashing, mountains in the distance — it felt like a scene from a travel movie.

🪨 Landslide Zones

As we moved deeper into the hills, we passed through active landslide zones.
Bulldozers clearing rocks, narrow paths, and steep cliffs made the journey intense but unforgettable.

🏞️ Raw Natural Beauty

Nepal’s terrain is wild, beautiful, and raw.
Forests, hills, terraced fields, roadside tea stalls — every turn brought something new.

🌄 Reaching Kathmandu – A Reward After the Ride

After more than 5 long hours of driving through rivers, mud paths, hills, and dusty roads, we finally reached Kathmandu — tired, dusty, but filled with memories that will last forever ✨

The cool weather, mountain breeze, and the first view of the valley felt like a perfect welcome.

🎥 What’s Coming in the Next Episode

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe because in the next episode, I explore Kathmandu city itself — temples, food, culture, and the stunning views of the valley!

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Under the Sacred Tree at Mayadevi Temple, Lumbini

 Today, I sit quietly under the shade of the ancient sal trees at Mayadevi Temple in Lumbini, Nepal—the very place where our Blessed Teacher, Prince Siddhartha Gautama, was born more than 2,600 years ago. The air here is calm, the birds sing softly, and there is a peace that words can hardly describe.

As a Buddhist, to be here is not just a journey across distance, but a pilgrimage into the heart of my faith.

The Sacred Dream of Queen Mayadevi

While reflecting under this tree, I remember the story of Queen Mayadevi. Long before the Buddha’s birth, she had a most extraordinary dream. Four celestial beings carried her to the Himalayas, where she bathed in the pure waters of Anotatta Lake. Afterwards, she was dressed in divine garments, and a white elephant carrying a white lotus entered her right side.

Wise Brahmins later interpreted this dream, telling King Suddhodana that his queen would give birth to a noble prince—one destined for greatness.

The Birth in Lumbini

Ten months later, on a Vesak full moon day in 623 BCE, Queen Mayadevi was traveling to her parents’ home. On the way, she stopped to rest in this very garden—Lumbini, a place filled with blooming sal trees and singing birds.

It was here, while holding onto the branch of a sal tree, that she gave birth without pain to a son: Prince Siddhartha.

The chronicles tell us that the newborn prince immediately took seven steps upon the earth and declared:

"I am supreme in this world.

This is my final birth.

There will be no rebirth for me."

My Reflection as a Buddhist

Sitting here, I imagine that sacred moment. I feel the gentle breeze that must have touched Queen Mayadevi, the songs of birds that must have echoed through this garden, and the serenity that surrounded the miraculous birth.

For us Buddhists, this is not just a story from history—it is the beginning of the path to enlightenment. From this very spot, the life of the Buddha unfolded, a life that would later gift the world with wisdom, compassion, and the Four Noble Truths.

A Living Pilgrimage Site

Today, the Mayadevi Temple preserves these sacred ruins. Inside, the marker stone and ancient relics signify the exact birthplace of the Buddha. The Ashokan Pillar, erected in the 3rd century BCE, still stands as witness to Emperor Ashoka’s devotion. Nearby, the sacred pond reminds us where Queen Mayadevi bathed before giving birth.

Pilgrims from all corners of the world walk silently here, some in prayer, some in meditation, all united in reverence.

Closing Thoughts

As I sit under the tree in this holy garden, I feel deeply grateful. Lumbini is not just the birthplace of the Buddha—it is the birthplace of peace itself. To be here is to remember that each of us carries within the same potential for wisdom and compassion that began with Prince Siddhartha’s first breath.

Lumbini is not the end of a journey—it is the beginning. 🌸 

Dananjaya Vimukthi Karunarathne 

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A Day at Swayambhunath Temple, Kathmandu

 A Day at Swayambhunath Temple, Kathmandu 

Nestled on a hilltop in the Kathmandu Valley, the Swayambhunath Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple, is one of the most iconic landmarks of Nepal. I had the privilege to spend an entire day exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the experience is something I will never forget.

Morning Arrival 

I reached the base of the hill early in the morning, just as the sun was rising over the valley. The climb of 365 stone steps to the stupa was both challenging and spiritual. Along the way, I was greeted by playful monkeys, colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and the distant sounds of prayer chants. The air felt pure and calming, filled with the aroma of incense.

First Impressions of the Stupa

When I finally reached the top, the sight was breathtaking. The massive white dome, crowned by a golden spire painted with the watchful eyes of the Buddha, stood majestically against the backdrop of the valley. The prayer wheels surrounding the stupa spun continuously as devotees and travelers walked clockwise in reverence.

Immersing in Spirituality

I spent time observing local devotees lighting butter lamps, monks chanting prayers, and pilgrims circling the stupa with deep devotion. The rhythmic sounds of the prayer wheels and bells created a serene atmosphere. I joined in by spinning the wheels and felt a sense of peace and connection.

Exploring the Surroundings

Beyond the stupa, I wandered into smaller shrines, monasteries, and courtyards. Each corner revealed intricate carvings, statues of deities, and walls adorned with ancient art. I was fascinated by how Buddhism and Hinduism coexist here, with temples dedicated to both traditions.

Panoramic Views

One of the highlights was standing on the viewing platforms and soaking in the panoramic view of Kathmandu Valley. The city stretched endlessly below, a mix of tradition and modernity, with the Himalayas faintly visible in the distance.

Midday Moments

I decided to pause for lunch at a small café nearby, where I enjoyed momos and sweet milk tea while overlooking the stupa. It was the perfect break, giving me time to reflect on the spiritual and cultural richness of the place.

Evening Vibes

As evening approached, the temple glowed with the soft golden light of the setting sun. The atmosphere became even more magical as devotees lit butter lamps, and the chants grew stronger. The sight of the stupa illuminated against the twilight sky felt timeless and sacred.

Final Thoughts

Spending a full day at Swayambhunath Temple allowed me to slow down and truly absorb its beauty, spirituality, and history. It’s not just a monument; it’s a living space of faith, culture, and community. For travelers visiting Nepal, I would say—don’t just stop by for a quick photo. Stay longer, breathe it in, and let the energy of Swayambhunath touch your soul.

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Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the climb, respect the local traditions, and carry a water bottle. And don’t forget to keep an eye on your belongings—the monkeys can be mischievous!

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