Hey fellow adventurers! Ready to lace up those hiking boots and escape the daily grind? Today, we’re diving into the enchanting realm of Sri Lanka’s hidden gem – the Riverston Pitawala Pathana Trail. Get ready for a journey that combines breathtaking landscapes, a touch of mystery, and a whole lot of fresh air!
Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, the Riverston Pitawala Pathana Trail is a well-kept secret waiting to be explored. Located in the Knuckles mountain range near Matale this is one of the best places to visit near Kandy area, this trail offers a perfect blend of lush greenery, panoramic views, and a sprinkle of adrenaline.
The Knuckles Riverston area stands out as one of Sri Lanka’s most awe-inspiring yet undiscovered destinations. Despite its under-the-radar status, this remarkable locale offers a plethora of exploration opportunities. From challenging multi-day treks like the Duwili Ella hike through dense jungles to captivating Manigala, visits to picturesque villages and leisurely strolls leading to breathtaking viewpoints, the Riverston region caters to the desires of adventurous and independent travellers alike.
Let’s be upfront – while Mini World’s End may not leave you utterly amazed, the Riverston region, on the whole, is a treasure trove worthy of dedicating a few days of your precious time. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely post-trek amble in the Knuckles or opting for a breezy yet rewarding experience with epic vistas, a venture to the dizzying heights of Mini World’s End is a must-add to your list of Riverston destinations.
A Walk Through Nature’s Canvas
Mini World’s End is a steep cliff situated close to Pitawala village in the scenic Riverston region of Sri Lanka. To get to Pitawala Pathana from Kandy or Dambulla, you can easily reach Matale first. From there, it’s a 32 km drive. Rattota is the last significant town you’ll encounter when travelling from Matale to Pitawala Pathana. The Most beautiful road is travelling through Matale, Rattota and Riverston to Pitawala Pathana. From Rattota to Pitawala Pathana is about 23 km away but remember road condition is bit low.
The enchanting valley encircling the Knuckles is known as “Dumbara,” owing to the constant mist that envelops it (trust us, we’ve experienced it). This area boasts abundant wildlife and vibrant plant life, nurtured by rainfall and water flowing from nearby streams. Imagine lush, tropical jungle vibes.
Riverston stands out as an extraordinary part of the country, largely undiscovered by tourists. Our visit to this Sri Lankan gem was undoubtedly one of the highlights of our entire trip. If you’re seeking a Sri Lanka adventure and a chance to explore off the beaten track, your search ends here. Because of that, we added Pitawala Pathana to our “Knuckles Mountain Hiking List“.
Eemerald-green tea plantations, mist-kissed mountains, and the symphony of birds as your soundtrack. The Riverston Pitawala Pathana Trail unfolds like a living painting, each step revealing a new masterpiece of nature.
If you’re a nature enthusiast keen on observing native wildlife, the Pitawala Pathana area in Piatawala is a haven for discovering Sri Lanka’s indigenous species. Here, you can spot native butterflies, fish, and frogs thriving in their natural habitat.
Ralu Galpara Madiya (Frog)
This frog is originally from Sri Lanka and specifically from a place called Pitawala Pathana. It’s unique to this region and cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Additionally, in this area, you’ll also discover many native butterflies.
As you start your hike, the air becomes crisper, and the scent of wildflowers dances around you. The trail, well-marked and easy to follow, takes you through undulating hills and dense forests, creating an experience that feels almost otherworldly.
Mini World’s End Trail Location
Mini World’s End is situated in the captivating Riverston region in central Sri Lanka, making it a must-visit spot in Riverston.
The charming village of Pitawala is the nearest settlement, positioned 57 km north of Kandy. If you’re starting from Matale, the largest urban area, it’s just 33 km away. Dambulla, another notable location, is 67 km from this picturesque destination.
How to Start the Pitawala Pathana Falls Trail & Redbana Village Tour
Remember Anyone can explore the regular trail to Pitawala Mini World’s End with just a ticket, no need for a Knuckles guide. But, for the Pitawala Pathana Falls Trail & Redbana Village Tour, it’s strongly advised to have an experienced guide. We suggest reaching out to Knuckles Adventure to find the perfect guide for your Knuckles journey.
Pitawala Mini World’s End Trail
Embark on the Mini World’s End adventure starting from the Knuckles visitor’s centre, conveniently located off the main road and marked with a clear sign. Follow the well-kept path for around 750 meters, a leisurely 15 to 20-minute stroll.
As you progress, you’ll encounter an opening where the Pitawala Plains escarpment unveils itself in a sheer drop, offering expansive views of the Knuckles Mountain Range. Behold Lakegaka, Thunhisgala, Manigala, and numerous peaks of the Knuckles forest range.
Two viewpoints await, each delivering breathtaking panoramic views of the Thelgamuwa Valley and the surrounding highlands. Take your time to explore both, but be cautious – the terrain is steep, so mind your step as you savour the vistas.
Pitawala Pathana Falls Trail & Redbana Village Tour
After you’ve visited Pitawala Pathana, you can embark on the Pitawala Pathana Waterfall Tour and explore Redbana Village. To reach the waterfall, you’ll need to descend from Pitawala Pathana. The path takes you through the historic Redbana Village, which has been deserted for some time. All that remains are the ruins of an old school and stadium. Only two families still reside in the village, and their homes are located on the opposite side.
In this remote area, two noteworthy waterfalls are formed by Pathana Dola. Yet, they remain nameless due to their rarely visited status.
Pitawala Pathana Ella 1 is concealed deep within the jungle, boasting a height of approximately 75 meters. To reach this secluded waterfall, a hike is required; during this journey, you will meet the abandoned village of Pathana Gama, which is now home to only two houses. Established in the 1960s-70s by the Redbana Company for cardamom cultivation, the village was eventually abandoned, with only two residents left to recount its history.
Meanwhile, Pitawala Patana Ella 2 is about 150 meters below the first fall on Pathana Dola. It descends in cascades over protruding rocks, creating a wider waterfall with a misty allure.
After enjoying the waterfall, you can reach Redbana Village by trekking through the forest. This village is another hidden gem in the Knuckles Range. You have the opportunity to stay here and experience village life. Don’t forget to book your accommodation in advance if you plan to stay overnight. No need to worry; you can book your accommodation and arrange these beautiful hikes through Knuckles Adventure.
How To Get To Pitawala Pathana Trail
Exploring Riverston from either Kandy or Dambulla is a breeze, and nestled along this route is the must-visit Pitawala Pathana. Should you wish to embark on this scenic hike, contact Knuckles Travel Coordinator Suranga at +94704001404 or connect with Knuckles Adventure.
As a traveller, you have the flexibility to plan this hike over 1 or 2 days. While completing the hike in a day is entirely feasible, some travellers prefer an extended experience to immerse themselves in nature truly. For those looking to extend the adventure to 2 days, consider spending a night at the Redbana Gama village. Knuckles’ most beautiful and main hike, “Duwili Ella” provider “Knuckles Adventure“, facilitates this hike, offering experienced guides tailored to your preferences and choices. Whether you’re a swift explorer or one who savours every moment in the great outdoors, Riverston and Pitawala Pathana await your discovery.
As we revel in the beauty of the Riverston Pitawala Pathana Trail, let’s remember the golden rule of hiking – leave no trace. Respect the environment, stay on the marked trail, and be mindful of the flora and fauna. After all, we’re just guests in this vibrant ecosystem.
As our adventure comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on the wonders you’ve witnessed along the Riverston Pitawala Pathana Trail. From misty peaks to hidden waterfalls, this trail is a testament to the untamed beauty of Sri Lanka.
So, fellow explorers, when the mundane calls and you yearn for a taste of the extraordinary, lace up those boots and head to the Riverston Pitawala Pathana Trail. Your next great adventure awaits, and it’s bound to be a story worth telling.
Remember, life is short, but the memories from a hike like this last a lifetime. Happy trails!
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