Category: Travel

Sitting on one of the largest natural harbours in the world, Australia’s first city has great natural beauty, enhanced by the artifices of its denizens.

Sydney was founded, as the convict colony of Botany Bay, in 1788. Captain Cook, who came upon it in 1770 and been impressed by the lushness of the vegetation. The convicts who laboured there took a decidedly less upbeat view of the colony. Today, however, it is Cook’s rather than the convicts’ opinion that has stood the test of time. Sydney is without doubt one of the loveliest cities in the world. Built around the natural harbour known as Port Jackson (named by Cook for an obscure naval commissioner), it combines the magnificence of nature with the attractions of human-built edifices.  The soaring skyscrapers, captured in the Matrix film trilogy, of the Central Business District (the commercial heart of Sydney) make a modernist counterpoint to the low-rise residential areas, the parks and the harbour.

Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is the world’s most recognisable landmark, an icon of both Sydney and of Australia as a whole – its location on Bennelong Point making it a focal point of the harbour. The World Heritage site was built in the Expressionist style, as a multi-venue performing arts centre – host to Opera Australia, Sydney Symphony, Australian Chamber Orchestra, Australian Ballet and Sydney Theatre Company. It has a number of venues, such as the 2,700-seat Concert Hall, with its high vaulted ceiling and timber panelling, and the 1,500-seat Joan Sutherland Theatre. There is also a spectacular open-air forecourt, with fantastic views of the harbour and the Sydney Harbour Bridge (to which it is adjacent). It is Sydney’s most visited tourist site, and there are guided tours, some of them especially for children and families.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Until the Opera House was built, Sydney Harbour Bridge, crossing the harbour between Sydney and the North Shore, was the city’s major landmark. It provides remarkable views of the harbour, and the best are from the top of its arches – it has been climbed by three million people. The climbs are guided by experienced Climb Leaders, who prepare visitors for climbing and entertain them on the climb with informative tales.  There are a variety of tours available, including daytime, twilight and night-time ascents. Children are allowed and need pay slightly less than adults.

Parks

Hyde Park is quite different from its namesake in London. The oldest public park in Australia, it is conveniently situated for the city centre and a good place for walking, playing, meditating, viewing the bird life which flourishes there, or just sitting. At its centre is the Sandringham Garden, created to celebrate the intended visit of King George VI, and now a memorial to the death of that monarch on the eve of the visit. At the southern end are the ANZAC Memorial and the Pool of Reflection, flanked by poplar trees, reminders of the River Somme in France. At the north end is the Archibald Fountain, a water feature composed of a number of statues from the Greek myths.

North of Hyde Park is another vast urban park, the Domain, the major attraction of which is the Royal Botanical Gardens, founded in 1816, the oldest in the southern hemisphere.  The Cadi Jam Ora (Aboriginal garden and settler garden), Rainforest Walk, Rare and Threatened Plants Garden, Australian Native Rockery, Succulents Garden and the Fernery are must visits. Stroll along Mrs Macquarie’s  Bushland Walk, beside Woolloomoolo Bay, to Lady Macquarie’s Chair, which affords a wonderful view of the harbour.

Museums

Adjacent to the park is the Hyde Park Barracks Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where convicts were once boarded. It is a must-see for families with children, with its exhibits, reconstructions , and especially the stories of rats, which are sure to grab their imagination. The Powerhouse Museum, close to the centre of Sydney is part of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences.  Because of its unique internal arrangements (it is located in an old power station), it is possible to look from various directions at its 120,000 exhibits, providing a delightful educational experience.

Port Jackson

The biggest attraction in Sydney is of course its natural harbour. This can be seen from a number of vantage points around it. The best panorama is from Bradley’s Head, and close-by Taronga Zoo – where the cable cars provide superb vistas. The entrance to Port Jackson can be viewed from the Arabanoo Lookout or Middle Head. These are all contained within Sydney Harbour National Park, which is a great place for discovering bush wildlife, observing Aboriginal rock-drawings, exploring nature, walking or picnicking.  The best way to see Port Jackson at sea level is by the Sydney Ferry, by which it is also possible to get to a variety of destinations. During the Vivid festival, in May and June every year, the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and features in Darling Harbour and elsewhere are lit up with brilliant visual displays. Throughout the year, there are fantastic fireworks displays over Sydney Harbour. All of which make the Harbour City experience an unforgettable one.

Cuisine

Sydney is a town for eating out, from the bookshop cafes, where you can read while sipping your tea and eating your cake, to the best in fine dining and seafood on the abandoned jetties of the seafront. Australian cuisine has been influenced heavily by immigration and Sydney offers a fully representative menu. Meat pies were the traditional Australian dishes, but their popularity has declined. Traditional fish and chips are available, best at food outlets at the Sydney Fish Market, which serve seafood straight off the boat. For variation, try calamari and chips. There are cultural enclaves where ethnic cuisine may be had, for example Chinatown, where one may experience Yum Cha traditional tea-tasting with Dim Sum dumplings; Haberfield, where the best Italian food can be consumed; Marrickville for Greek and Vietnamese food; and Auburn for Turkish and traditional Iranian. Lebanese restaurants are ubiquitous and serve some of the best kebabs and pizzas.

… by Gopitha Kiribandara

 

The heritage of a mysterious past beckons from behind the curtains of Olcote in Ceylon… an old world order, long since forgotten, suddenly springs to mind as the writer feels its presence as soon as she steps through the large, framing gateway and into the courtyard. Glancing at its splendour, the place exudes a disarming taste of history… it’s as if she stepped through the sands of time to Sri Lanka 40 years ago. Olcote in Ceylon is Tess de Kretser’s gift to the world that is groaning and moaning under the pangs of fabrication. Speaking to Esteem Prime, Tess shares her views on appreciating Sri Lankan culture and preserving the knowledge of the days gone by…  

 

Brimming with enthusiasm, she rushes to greet the writer, who stands dumbfounded in the driveway, momentarily distracted by the astonishing beauty of the old mansion. The path, laden with beautiful flowering plants, makes the walk up to the walauwa a pleasant one indeed as we make our way to the sprawling lounge situated in the open area beside the pool.

“I bought the old mansion in 2014,” Tess affirms, adding that her manager Manoj was instrumental in her decision to purchase the property. Donning the mantle of tour guide and historian, Tess delves deep into the sombre history of the house; “The lady who lived here before was called Nandawathie. There was a sister, the older sister Kamalawathie, who lived in the house at the back. This was about 100 years ago. Their father Podi Singho (H. D. Cornelius Gunasekera) built this house and the one at the back for his daughters. This was their home,” she states, pausing to ponder at the sad plight of the owner of the house. “She had cancer. The villagers used to hear her scream. That story touched me.” Being a mother of eight children, Tess understands the deep bond that exists between parent and offspring; hence the story of Podi Singho, Nandawathie and their father who survived his two children has prompted her to do her best with the place in honour of the family that breathed their memories into the four walls of Olcote in Ceylon.

Born and bred in Sri Lanka, Tess is no stranger to rustic mysticism that the island’s culture has to offer. An alumnus of St. Bridget’s Convent, Tess’s German/ Sri Lankan lineage has given her the best of both worlds. “My mother (of German descent) is really integrated with the Sri Lankan culture. There was a watta where I grew up with a lot of poor children,” she reminisces adding that the calm tranquillity of the times enabled her to blend with children from all walks of life. Such an upbringing has allowed Tess to cultivate an acceptance for the uniqueness that is Sri Lankan culture. Olcote in Ceylon, as the name suggests, is her effort to portray all that is special of the culture that she has come to know and love.

The mansion is perfectly located for an idyllic getaway; situated in the sleepy village of Jambureliya off Madapatha, it boasts of an old school feel that is fast dying out amidst the city scrapers of modernism. “I love the old school, the old Sri Lankan architecture, and I hate losing that,” she articulates with sincerity. Aiming to marry the old with the new, Tess declares that Olcote in Ceylon is an old mansion which carries just the right touch of modernism; the interior décor gives off a pleasant woody smell, the furnishings are elegant and the fixtures are state of the art; in addition to the bedrooms, there is also the latest in entertainment, with television, four different Wi-Fi connections and a well fitted sound system, ensuring that its clients are not completely cut off from the outside world. Walking across the lawn, one cannot help but notice the beautiful landscaping and admire the lounge area that opens up at the pool and a little tea patch behind the front entrance.

Since its inauguration, Olcote in Ceylon has indeed been a popular resort, with constant inquiries being made for weddings in particular. “We are planning to expand to that side. There is a Poruwa built under the tree, and people have asked us to have weddings here.” Speaking of the facilities on offer, Tess reveals, “I have arranged transport from the airport, and we have a welcoming band with dancers. There is a spa, a place for clients to relax, barbeque facilities, a spot to do some yoga breathing exercises… and I have a well here which I honour. It is filtered water and everything is taken from the well, even for drinking.”  Addressing the topic further, Tess further adds that her staff is well equipped in the art of Sri Lankan cuisine. “We don’t look at menus; through experience Kavita, who has now been with me for 20 years, knows what is good for diabetes, cholesterol etc. and we are bringing that aspect of Sri Lankan culture in as well.” As an added bonus, Tess has further arranged to have a special day care service for the young ones, so that their parents may travel the countryside and enjoy all that Jambureliya and Olcote in Ceylon has to offer. That all important task is entrusted to Kavita, her maid of 20 years, whom she trusts implicitly.

The conversation veers towards her plans to launch Olcote in Ceylon in Ireland and it is with evident satisfaction that Tess unveils her aim of promoting Sri Lankan culture in Ireland. Charting the success of her venture, Tess believes that the Irish love to embracing new cultures, but adds that both societies are rooted in similarity. “Ireland is very similar to Sri Lanka; it is laid back, and the sense of family and the sense of humour is all very much the same,” she utters with delight. “Manoj is coming with us to Ireland because we are having a launch there. They are fascinated by this whole idea that the two of us could work together, something that I don’t think has ever been done before. I trust him and he trusts me completely.”

 

Observing the manner in which she treats her staff inspires one to treat people with kindness; she is truly a caring employer who spares no expense in ensuring the security and wellbeing of the people behind the scenes. “Kavita has been with me for 20 years and looked after my children. We are showing trust in people, and that way we have changed the way business should be done,” she asserts with conviction.  “Whoever has come in through that door, we welcome. Yes, we have our feet on the ground, but we believe in the trust system and in that way the spiritual journey has been amazing.” Stressing further, Tess admits that the relationship between employer employee is a two way road that needs to profit and assure both parties. A strong advocate of the give-to-get principle, Tess has been a generous heart that wants to ease the concerns of her staff. She shares a positive, spiritual bond with all her staff and treats them with respect; they, in return, put their heart and soul into their work, and do not allow such trifles as time constraints to get in their way.

A philanthropist by nature, Tess also believes in sharing with the less fortunate; and it is with doting eyes that she speaks of a certain Montessori in the neighbourhood, which is run by a young teacher with meagre facilities. “There is this Montessori that we help. The teacher does a labour of love. There is nothing; they are very, very poor… They didn’t even have water and were going next door to the toilet,” she voices with compassion. “Out of his own money Manoj fixed the mains in, and we are going to take it up. We try to help her buy food for the children.” Her heart is to give, to be a soothing balm to a world that is fraught with inequality.  She doesn’t expect anything for her kindness; only the assurance of making the world a better place.

“Relationships bred in positivity last forever; betrayal attracts more of its kind… nonetheless there is good in every human soul that yearns to be acknowledged…” this is what Tess aims to cultivate through her effort. A gamble in itself, she nonetheless has faith in providence and believes that the universe guides her cause. Marrying the charm of old-world Ceylon with new-world positivity, Tess de Kretser’s Olcote in Ceylon is truly a place of sun, light and laughter. Her vision edifies the soul and adds to the soothing aura of the mansion; thus enriched with a blissful experience, the heart of the wanderer will find itself drawn to Olcote in Ceylon and the rich cultural heritage it has to offer.

 

For more information please visit http://www.olcoteinceylon.com/

 

 

Less than 30 minutes away from the bustle of the city of Colombo, on the pristine sandy shores of Uswetakeiyawa lies Reefs Edge Hotel, a luxurious 23-roomed property. Managed by LAHRC Management Services the hotel is nestled in the fishing village known for its coral reefs teeming with exotic reef fish, colourful corals, marine mammals and shellfish.

All 23 rooms have direct panoramic views of the Indian Ocean with spacious balconies with chic swivel wicker chairs to enjoy the view (except the standard rooms). Interiors are inspired by the colour schemes of nature and by the namesake reef with open air bathrooms, rain showers and the exotic aromas of the sea emanating from the luxurious and alluring Spa Ceylon products. One of the most interesting features of the room is the interactive television system with satellite channels, latest movies on demand, room billing details, weather, exchange rates, activities and in-room dining on a flat LED 42” television. This in itself is enough to make guests want to spend all of their time indoors just relaxing on the plush and comfy beds.

For those who prefer the great outdoors, Reefs Edge arranges special tours for guests to interesting sites scattered in close proximity to the property. Beach volleyball, and beach cricket are popular among the young ones, while there is certainly no age restriction for those who wish to take a Colombo City Tour, Boat Ride on Hamilton Canal, Tour of Negombo, Dolphin Watching in Kalpitiya or a drive to the Muturajawela Sanctuary.

When all the exercise has worked up a healthy appetite Reefs Edge has various options to choose from in terms of dining. The exclusive restaurant at Reefs Edge, The Snapper, specializes in an appealing array of seafood symphonies including many dishes featuring the restaurants namesake, the red snapper fish. Head Chef, Rizvie Ameer is a passionate chef whose creativity for cooking and years of experience is nothing short of outstanding – as a skim-through of the restaurant’s menu will reveal. Dishes are presented with a master artiste’s touch – a true treat for the senses. Service and efficiency could definitely be more in line with the great food on offer which is the only downside of the whole offering. The hotel’s High Tide Bar is well-stocked and an experienced mixologist is on hand to prepare signature cocktails and mocktails. The Plunge Pool Bar is also open for those who wish to indulge in a sip of a drink or a bite to eat while swimming a few laps in a unique pool. The High Tide Deck & Garden offers outdoor dining options and the space for small functions while the Ocean Deck is ideal for more intimate and romantic dinners under the stars.

There really is so much to do and experience with an in-house spa run by Spa Ceylon and a well-equipped gym, and the wonder is that Reefs Edge is in such close proximity to Colombo that a weekend getaway was never this easy.

It was indeed a surprise when I got to know of the Garrison Church of St. Peter’s, crouching next to its most prestigious Grand Oriental Hotel (GOH) opposite the Colombo Port. From outside it doesn’t look much as it was built in the 1700’s to serve as the Dutch Governor’s mansion which was then taken possession by the British and thus turned into a temple to express their Anglican faith.  Being part of the choir at the Cathedral of Christ the Living Saviour indeed gave me the opportunity to sing praises to Him and also in reverence to those of the Sea farers mission at the Church of St. Peter’s. Given its sensitive location, the Church had been effectively sealed off for decades for tourists and non-sailors other than its parishioners. Its sensitive location opposite the harbour, was only accessible via countless checkpoints, thus making it a tedious task to visit this beautiful and peaceful structure.

It is evident that several years of closure has taken its toll on the construction, despite its original beauty remains unaltered. The church interior is absolutely stunning with a high ceiling supported by steel beams. The rich marble floor and the layers of red clay tiles, keeps the interior of the structure cooler providing a calm environment for its starved parishioners. The foundations of the structure are thought to have been dated from the Portuguese era, although the edifice began its functions as an Anglican Church somewhere in 1804, thus making this one of the oldest continuously functioning religious structures in Colombo; making it also an important part of the heritage of Colombo city and evidence of its history. In line with its background as a Garrison Church the, building houses many Military Plaques as well as regimental colours of British regiments (now defunct). Even if you are not of the Anglican faith, the church provides indeed a place to gather your thoughts and a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle of its city functions.

Given its port-side location, historically this Church has served as a chapel for sailors. It is known to be the Seafarers church, where the International Mission to the Seafarers maintains its mission next door. Celebrating their 160^th Anniversary, this year’s Sea Sunday (every second Sunday in July) befell on a special occasion. Thus it was this occasion that stirred the curiosity on finding more about the Church as well as the Seafares Mission itself.

The Mission to the Seafarers began back in 1830 by the Young Anglican clergyman John Ashley, who was encouraged by his son’s questioning as to where seafarers went to Church[1]. Turning back on his parish appointment he began his ministry in the Bristol Channel, spending 15 years visiting ships anchored awaiting favourable winds, where he held services, providing motivation and taking the church to  seaborne devotees who had no opportunity for worship. Thus inspired by this ministry in 1856 the Mission to the Seafarers was officially constituted with mission stations growing in number of British ports and harbours. Soon the ‘Flying Angel’ flag, inspired by the verse in Book of Revelations 14:6 “And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.’ was soaring over stations world-wide, making the ‘the vast parish of the waters’ no longer neglected.

The Mission began its journey in Colombo over 65 years ago, with the Sri Lankan President as its patron and the Arch Bishop of Colombo the President of the Society[2]. It is supported in Sri Lanka by the Ministry of Shipping, Sri Lanka Ports Authority, South Asia Gateway Terminal, Colombo Dockyard Ltd, Ceylon Association of Shipping Agents, Colombo Nautical and Engineering College, Company of Master Mariners, Nautical Institute, National Seafarers Welfare board and International workers Federation as well as the Sister Society Apostleship of the Sea and the British High Commission.

160 years later the mission still flourishes despite facing countless hardships. Extracts from journals of the chaplains over the years provides accounts of insight into their daily work with devout sea borne parishioners and the ever changing waves of the shipping industry. In each port where the Mission was established there would be spiritual welfare freely available to all seafarers regardless of race, colour and creed. The two World Wars placed heavy responsibility upon the Mission where its activities enormously surrounded in ministering to armed forces, and Merchant Navy suffering in ports devastated by air raids. Despite the pressure on the Mission was intense during this era, queues of unemployed seamen outside Flying Angel clubs looking for food, accommodation and care were seldom turned away. Throughout its life the Mission has changed and adjusted with the industry to cater to the needs of seafarers, with now over a network of chaplains, staff and volunteers in over 200 ports world-wide in over 50 Countries catering to the needs of those at Sea. Thus the rich history behind the Church and its current Mission to the Seafarers is indeed a great value to our heritage and culture.

[1] The Mission to Seafarers at 160 by Michael Grey

[2] Leaflet provided during the Mission Service

 

 

 

“Solitude is such a potential thing. We hear voices in solitude, we never hear in the hurry and turmoil of life; we receive counsels and comforts, we get under no other condition …”

– Amelia E. Barr

 

If you are planning a memorable holiday where tranquility, privacy and relaxation are essential ingredients, Wild Grass Nature Resort, in the unassuming village of Kumbukkadanwala located between Sigirya and Dambulla, will tick the boxes for you.

Wild Grass is blessed with exceptional natural beauty — surrounded by undulating hills, extravagant foliage, even a little lake — and tranquility, disturbed only by the sounds of the forest, the twitter of birds and the call of the peacock. Life unfolds here at your pace, and we can assure you, this pace will slow down the longer you stay here, as you take in the clean fresh air, and begin to unwind and relax.

Most of the 25-acre resort is untouched jungle –the entrance to the resort is alongside a sentinel hill, and a small jungle path brings you to a natural clearing which houses an open sided, two storey pavilion which functions as a reception, bar area, lounge and restaurant, which offers a fabulous view of the magnificent Kandalama hills.

The ‘hotel’ as it were comprises of 7 spacious villas occupying a small carbon footprint, and as a result, the resort is regularly visited  by rabbits, deer, wild boar, monkeys and over 40 species of birds as well as the occasional wild elephant.

Life at Wild Grass is uncomplicated; perfect for those seeking escape from the busy life. For those who take relaxation to the extreme, take a dip in the pool, read a book or simply stay indoors. Others might want to explore the property and the environs, or go off on an adventurous nature trail; or explore the cultural triangle and other lesser known historical sites nearby.

Wild Grass is also sought after as a honeymoon location as privacy and discretion are not just words but a philosophy practiced by the Wild Grass team.

Wild Grass follows strict nature conservation methods and much is being done to preserve the natural eco-systems. Some of the produce used in the kitchen comes from our own garden, though sometimes it appears to be a losing battle to the monkeys and peacocks that help themselves with impunity to the vegetables! We also source some of the items from the village which also uses eco-friendly methods to grow food. Solar power provides for hot water and for partial lighting, and plans are underway to power the entire resort using solar energy. The kitchen also practices environment-friendly methods in the way it disposes of waste.

 

Accommodation

There are 7 individual villas – two family villas that sleep between 4 and 6 people each, and five one bedroom villas for double or triple occupancy. Each villa is adequately spaced out to make privacy the ultimate luxury, and have all the comforts of modern-day living, with super-comfortable bedding, air conditioning, satellite TV channels, free wifi, minibar and fridge, coffee/tea making facilities and reading materials. Electronic safes and hairdryers are available in each villa. . Bicycles are provided on request to cycle up to the dining pavilion or explore the village.

The villas are contemporary in design with timber ceilings, floors in timber and polished cement, and glass sliding doors/windows that opens out to the magnificent natural surroundings.  Villas come in two types – on a single raised level where bedroom and living are in one seamless space, or on two levels, with bedroom upstairs and a living room downstairs. The unique specialty family villas also comes in 2 formats to give our guests a different holiday experience – one is more suitable for families with smaller children, while the second is great for families with older children, or for friends travelling together. The family villas have two bedrooms in each unit, each with its own bathroom. Open air rain showers are another feature found in all villa types and a perfect antidote to a hot sultry day.

Wild Grass is an ideal holiday retreat for those who enjoy nature, good food, and privacy. The resort is child friendly and safe; children are very welcome.

Food & Beverages

The menu includes both international and local cuisine. Special food requests (including vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free meals) and other personal preferences are accommodated by the chef.

There are no set timings for the meals, which are decided exclusively by the guest, who can also choose to dine in different locations – the main restaurant, under the stars in the main restaurant’s roof terrace or even in the villa.

What is more, our sentinel hill at the entrance of the resort is an ‘on the rock’ venue of choice for breakfasts, picnics or champagne sky dinners for the romantic couple, the honeymooner or even for family and friends.  Not to mention the fantastic views of the surrounding countryside.

The resort also has a fully licensed bar and offers a good range of wines, alcoholic beverages and cocktails including the signature Wild Grasshopper!

 

Facilities

A resident naturalist is available to conduct nature tours, by day or night.

Cycles are available on request to move about within the property or for rides into the village and beyond.

The resort has a large swimming pool and sundeck for relaxation, trails for walking, cycling and/or jogging within the resort.

Board and card games are available on request.

 

Excursions

There is plenty to do just around Wild Grass Nature Resort including visits to the cultural sites of the mystical Sigiriya Rock (15 minutes away) and the culturally rich Dambulla cave temples (20 minutes away), Kaludiya Pokuna archeological site (15 minutes away), Ritigala Reserve and Kandalama tank, nature walks, photography, bird watching, cycling etc.

The National Parks of Minneriya, Kaudulla and Wasgamuwa are also located nearby and Wild Grass organizes safaris starting from the resort itself, as well as hot air ballooning expeditions (during the season). Mountain bikes are offered for those wishing to explore the local area and surrounding countryside.

Many guests choose to base themselves at Wild Grass as it is perfectly located not only for the shorter trips around Sigiriya and Dambulla but also for day trips to the ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kandy.

Since it was registered with TripAdvisor four years ago, Wild Grass has consistently obtained TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence award. We have had many guests return, including some from overseas.

 

But I’ll tell you what hermits realize. If you go off into a far, far forest and get very quiet,

You’ll come to understand that you’re connected with everything.

– Alan Watts

 

For more information and for inquiries, contact wildgrasslk@gmail.com or visit www.wildgrass.lk  or call us on 0664935577, 0662286866 or 0773965577

Situated not very far from the heart of Colombo, about six kilometres from the Miriswatta junction is the infamous rock temple Maligathenna. It took us about one and half hours to reach our destination and as sign boards are very limited asking for directions might not be a bad idea to avoid misdirection. As they have renovated the area recently a few meters away from the original entrance is another concreted road, through which you could take your vehicle somewhat closer to the temple premises.

According to historic evidences, the Maligatenne temple runs back as far as the Anuradhapura kingdom up until the Kotte period, where ancient ministers and kings sought sanctuary from time to time. However looking at various stories that which takes prominence is of King Walagamba, who seeked refuge during the invasion of the Indian Chola Army. Thus the drip ledges carved into the caves within the temple premises and en route to the dagoba atop the mountain are regarded as that which had been done during this era.

In addition the temple is also shrouded in many legends related to the Tooth relic, where it was brought to be hidden from both Magha, an Indian Invader and during the Portuguese invasion. During the era of King Don Juan Dharmapala, who embraced Christianity, other Kings of the era such as King Mayadunna conspired to conceal the Tooth Relic in the Maligathenna Temple. When the Diyawadana Nilame of Hiripitiya was given the message to bring the Tooth Relic to the Central area of the country. The Tooth Relic rested here before being carried to Delgamuwa and then to Kandy. Thus the name of Maligathenna was derived because the premises provided a haven for the Tooth Relic.

We didn’t spend much time exploring the temple premises, as much interest was given to hiking through to the Uda Maluwa. However just before you enter the temple premises, as it was renovated recently you can’t miss the pre-historic carvings of a dog, a bird and of the sun on either side of the stairway leading up. Unfortunately as they have been painted, it has lost its original appearance. An untarnished carving could be found just before you enter the path way that leads to the Uda Maluwa as well.

The hike up to the Uda Maluwa, situated atop the mountain is what I was indeed looking forward to during this trip. It was a tedious one especially as it had rained the previous night. Therefore we encountered a few slippery areas as well as a kithul tree which thankfully had fallen atop a cave and did not bar our path upward. Ensure to take enough water and sun screen and bug spray. Also beware of snakes and meditating couples, who seems to be at every nook and corner of the place. According to many this is considered to be the highest point of the Gampaha District. At times resting, or pushing our way up grabbing on to rocks and vines, we continued our journey upward which was bordered by a few caves and stone steps at certain points.

On our journey upward, we came across a wind gap which was called Old Degaldoru Kurubil Stone steps. According to folk lore, a monk named Mittasabha, attained nirvana here. The path to the top is adorned by beautiful wild flowers. The greenery surrounding the path is definitely breath taking, thus ensure to take as less plastic and other pollutants on your journey, ensuring that we safeguard and leave unharmed the natural beauty and bio diversity of the premises.

Closer to the summit we were greeted by a panoramic view which was beautiful. Etched in stone, a flight of steps led us up to the Uda Malwa, where the scenic view was filled with every colour and more of green on a colour palatte. Situated atop is a small Dagoba and the infamous ancient rock pond. It is said that despite the any form of dry weather the pond never runs dry. We also encountered colourful and rare butterflies some as big as your hand fluttering by. Although it was a strenuous climb the panoramic vista was indeed completely worth it.