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When two friends on a pilgrimage to
the sacred site of Kataragama, went exploring off the beaten track
in south east Sri Lanka, they discovered two large rocks with a
natural pool and a waterfall on the banks of the Menik Ganga (Gem
River) – and Galapita (on a rock) was born.
They began by visiting, sleeping on mats under the stars.
Eventually they built a hut, so that their families could join
them for the weekends. Then they rebuilt it bigger and better, so
that friends could join them for weekend escapes.
Now they are proud owners of this Eco-Retreat that can accommodate
up to 12 people, depending on how cosy you want to be. Now for the
first time, they are allowing paying guests to cross the bridge.
Ideal for a group of friends or families with a sense of
adventure.
There is no direct route to
Galapita, you must drive down the south coast from Colombo, more
than a quarter way around the island, then turn north or else
follow the old Arab trader’s route up to Ratnapura (City of Gems)
in the hills, then down again crossing forested plains rich in
precious stones, mind expanding herbs, exotic birds and descend to
Uva Province, home of Sri Lanka’s aboriginal people, the veddhas;
and the legendary nittavos very much earlier pygmies.
But Uva was not always back of
beyond. There is a wealth of archeological monuments to prove that
Uva was a wealthy and highly populated region before Christ.The
last leg of the journey to Galapita is through thick jungle. Wild
elephants are often seen crossing the road especially at dusk and
dawn.
Further AField :
Arugam Bay - Surfer’s
Paradise
Arugam Bay is well-known among
the serious surfing community, but the perfect wave is only one of
its attractions. Sasthrawela, Kudumbigala, Muhudu Maha Vihara,
Magul Maha Vihara and Tarulengala are ancient Buddhist ruins in
the vicinity from the timeless past. Nearby Okanda, an important
(though isolated) Hindu shrine, is on the pilgrim route from
Jaffna in the north to Kataragama. Okanda is also the gateway to
famous Kumana Villu, where water birds nest and the Yala east
national park with miles of unexplored golden beaches.
Kumana
Kumana ornithological reserve
lies south of Arugam Bay and is notable for flamingoes, who turn
the marshy areas and reserviors into a riot of brilliant pinks and
peach hues.Apart from birds (brilliant hued peacocks are so common
at Kumana one ceases even to notice them). The reserve is also
famous for the same kind of wildlife as Yala,futher south. Kumana
is a 2-3 hour drive from Galapita depending on your time of
departure.We will happily arrange overnight camping on the beach
or a sumptuous seafood lunch; you should also take the opportunity
to visit the nearby ruins one cave monasteries.
Room View
 
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