GREEN MOUNTAIN PARADISE IN SRI LANKA

 

                                           Maskeliya can be described as a beautiful place where those who use the Hatton Road for Sri Pada Karuna pass by.  Located on the grounds of the Maussakelle Reservoir, this area has attracted the attention of local and foreign tourists alike due to its unique natural beauty.

                                                One of the most striking features of that beauty is the majestic 'Gatmore and Murray' waterfalls that cascade down into the Maussakelle Reservoir.Located at a distance of about 140 km from Colombo, the easiest way to reach this waterfall is from Colombo via the Maskeliya Norton Road.

                               If you come to Maskeliya and can't find your way from there, ask someone and they won't say no.

The Maussakelle Reservoir is fed by these two waterfalls, and from a height of about 45 feet, you can enjoy the view of the falls from different angles, creating a spectacular view during the rainy season.  But to experience the beauty of the pair of waterfalls from the same angle, you have to go to the middle of the lake with the help of a boat or watch from the air.

                               Gatmore Falls is also known as 'Sri Pada Falls' as it is located close to the top of Sri Pada Hill.  To see this waterfall you have to travel from Maskeliya to Gatmore Estate and your journey will be easier if you travel by private vehicle like motorbike even though public transport services are active from Maskeliya.

                              The road in the middle of the estate is a bit slippery and the precipice is on the side so be careful before traveling.  Although there are viewing booths set up to see Gatmore, many tourists are eager to visit the falls to experience its true beauty and adventure.  You can reach the waterfall after traveling about 6km on a tractor trail that runs through the middle of the tea estate.

                              Murray Falls is formed by a stream of water that starts from the Butterfly Range and joins the Maussakelle Reservoir, breaking into three parts and creating spectacular views.  This waterfall is not hard to find as it is located in one corner of the Murray Estate.  But you have to be careful as you can reach the waterfall through the footpaths near the estate but it is at a somewhat difficult boundary to reach.

 If you visit the Maskeliya area during the rainy season, you can see the beauty of some other beautiful waterfalls and it is wise to avoid bathing or going to the reservoir from unknown places, no matter how beautiful. CLICK FOR MORE DETAILS ABOUT SRI LANKA