Moragolla - The village unknown

Fifteen kilometers from the bustling city of Kandy, the village of Moragolla lies along a winding, ascending road that leads to Galaha via Ampitiya and Thalathuoya, offering a scenic journey through Sri Lanka’s countryside.

In the spirit of adventure and discovery, my wife, two sons, daughter, and I ventured to this tranquil village, staying in a charming, well-equipped cottage far removed from the rush of daily life. The transition was remarkable—slowly shifting from the chaos of city life to the serene, untouched beauty of the mountains. The change was not only in the landscape but also in the relaxed, yet vibrant attitudes of the locals, making it a truly refreshing experience.

On our second day, feeling refreshed from the peaceful start, we decided to hike up to "Muthukeliya Wewa," a serene lake nestled in the mountains. This region, once known for its pristine, manicured tea estates, has now evolved into a landscape of thriving farms and expansive, wild green fields. The three-kilometer path leading to the lake is narrow but easily navigated by a tuk-tuk, adding to the charm of the journey.

Along the path to the lake stands an impeccably clean Buddhist temple, home to a solitary monk. From his simple dwelling, the panoramic view stretches from the Knuckles mountain range to the Hantane mountains, with the shimmering Victoria Reservoir peeking through in the distance—a sight that words can hardly capture. The monk, eager to converse, enthusiastically explains the area's geography while underscoring the meditative power of such breathtaking surroundings. Enchanted by both the landscape and his wisdom, we found ourselves instinctively agreeing with his thoughts. Further down the path, we encountered descendants of the tea-plucking community, hard at work in their fields. Though financially poor, they exuded a joyful richness, thriving in this landscape of abundant beauty and serenity.

The lake sits at 3,000 feet above sea level, encircled by towering mountains and lush, dense jungle. Even at noon, a crisp chill lingers in the air. The landscape, with the continuous murmur of flowing water, is reminiscent of England’s Sherwood Forest, as seen in photographs. Eagles soar overhead, and the forest's distant sounds are both captivating and enchanting. The crystal-clear water is not only visually stunning but also refreshingly cold and soothing after the ascent. The air is exceptionally pure, offering a profound sense of rejuvenation in this serene, nature-dominated sanctuary that commands deep respect.

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Back at the house, Janaka, a prematurely retired army soldier, welcomed us as our host, while his wife prepared the meals. Dinner was served on woven plates, lined with banana leaves. The highlight of the meal was the fried fish, marinated in natural spices and caught fresh from a nearby lake, accompanied by a vibrant array of vegetables. The cold night contrasted with the cozy warmth of the house and the hot, spicy, and delicious meal. By candlelight in the sitting area, Janaka shared stories about his life and surroundings until midnight. Their conversation was occasionally interrupted by the rustling presence of a civet cat in the garden and the barking of a dog chasing a wild boar.

In the morning, a soft mist envelops the house, and a monk is seen gracefully walking through the fog, seeking alms for the day. In Moragolla, where Buddhist traditions are deeply cherished, the community embraces this sacred ritual with great reverence and generosity. The people bow in respect, honoring the monk’s presence with heartfelt devotion.

As we depart, we make a promise to return. 

 

Contact details - 0711546233 (Sri Lanka)

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