Yahangala
Situated on to the southeastern part of the Knuckles range, Yahangala stands out mainly because of its peculiar shape. Knuckles range is a world heritage forest land of approximately 2100 hectares connecting Kandy and Matale towns in Srilanka.
This region is ultra-rich in the biodiversity that is exclusive to the Knuckles range which can be conspicuously observed. Reminiscent of the other locales in the Knuckles region, there are a handful of isolated, remote villages found in this area too. There are quite a few unique massive grasslands in this locale. Appala Pathana, Ginikeliya Pathana, Rahanakotu Pathana, Komala Pathana, Labulassa Pathana, Pitawela Pathana, Gona Pathana, Belangolla Pathana, and Kotaganga Pathana. Yahangala is located in Welangolla Pathana.
Yahangala belongs to the Udadumbara secretariat in Kandy district. To reach this place you have to travel from Udadumbara to Kalugala post. Scenery in this area is breathtakingly beautiful. You will bump into two more exquisite waterfalls which comprises the plentiful waterfall family of the Knuckles range. They are Thalagune Ella and Garandi Ella. If you climb the Garandi gala hill, you will be dumbfounded by the stunning, surrounding vista. You can view a few peaks of the Knuckles range from this point too. Among them, Dumbanagala, Balalgira , Kehelpathdoruwa and Yahangala stand out. Our destination Yahagala can be clearly witnessed from here. Garandi Ella is exclusive among the waterfalls of the Knuckles range. Thalagune is another marvalous wonder of the nature. The column of water that is cascading down bathing the solid rocks suddenly taking an upward youturn before hitting the basin, looking like being blown backwards in high wind and thereon, appearing like a flimsy white shawl fluttering and dancing in the wind ; an awesome pirouette absolutely orchestrated by mother nature creates a wondrous sight .
Thalagune hamlet is the mouthpiece of the famed Dumbara weaving craftsmanship; the intangible heritage of Srilanka, as you may have heard. This village is the only place that produces such craftsmanship in the whole world. They are done in both cloth and reed. Saris, carpets and wall hangings using these traditional patterns are skilfully woven by the villagers.
Once you enter Kalugal hamlet it is not much of an effort to find the way to Yahangala. At the end point of Kalugala path, it turns into a dual track, out of which you have to take the way on to your left. Wellangola Pathana claims its trophy not only for its vastness but also due to the fact that it is a heaven for wild elephants. Yahangala can be viewed in varying shapes and contours from this location. The climb will be difficult and tedious but the tracks are clear and traceable. The distance you have to cover may not exceed 7 kms and this is an absolute paradise for adventure wanderlusts where they could indulge themselves in mountaineering, rock climbing, waterfall hunting, waterfall abseiling, cave exploring, exploring plains, night camping, hiking and trekking and you name it, all to their heart’s content. This is a bountiful wonderland rife with overwhelming natural resources suitable for such adventure.
Yahangala summit is approximately about 2 acres in area and the absence of any trees in this quarter is considered a marvel. You may notice the bits and pieces of fractured granite littered all over the place as lightening frequently strikes this place. The view from the top of the mountain will hold your breath. You may be able to see a picture-postcard view of Mahaveli River soporifically cruising towards Dehiaththakandiya, Rathkinda and Ulhitiya reservoirs and Lake Sorabora. As for hamlets, Udagaldebokka, Udaththawa, and Meemure would be evident among the shady villages burrowed in the deep bosom of Knuckles range. Also an ancient village called Galamuduna which belongs to Minipe secretariat will be on view. You will have a clear sight of Lakegala, Madamahanuwara, Dumbanagala and Garandigala mountains. Another famous mountain in this location is Kehelpathdoruwa. If you cross Welangolla Pathana you can easily reach there. The Yahangala view from Kehelpathdorua is a sight to behold.
The legend of King Rawana being woven into this territory makes Yahangala ever more sought -after. According to the folklore, this rock is said to contain the remains of King Rawana. He is said to have been laid to rest on this rock after being defeated in a duel by prince Rama and eventually assassinated by him. Gale Bandara,’ a local deity, is also claimed to protect ‘Yahangala.’At a later stage a mendicant hermit had said to have made this place his aboard and also a cave with inscriptions is said to be found in this area according to some folktales. Hence this is a setting of great significance not only in the perspective of tourism but even historically.
