DAY TRIP FROM NUWARA ELIYA

Maskeliya

Journey together to the enchanting embrace of Maskeliya, Sri Lanka’s hidden gem in the central hills. Towering 4,100 feet above sea level, Maskeliya is a mountain haven of breathtaking nature steeped in history and cultural charm. It is the perfect escape on a magical day trip from Nuwara Eliya.

The town and its surroundings first flourished as a tea plantation in the 1860s, established by British planters. Today, lush greenery and hints of colonial-era history intertwine, creating a picturesque backdrop for your romantic getaway. Often overlooked by tourists, Maskeliya promises an unforgettable experience for couples seeking adventure and a connection with nature.

Highlights

Warleigh Church
Laxapana Waterfall
Garthmore and Moray Twin Waterfalls
Mlesna Tea Castle
Maskeliya and Castlereigh Lakes
Gateway to Adams Peak
Gurulupotha (Sita Kotuwa Ruins)
Hike Seven Virgins Mountain Range

Location and Best Times to Visit

Situated 59 km from Nuwara Eliya, Maskeliya can be easily reached by car in under two hours. The ideal times to visit are from April to May and November to December when the waterfalls are at their peak volume.

Maskeliya is a land brimming with cultural diversity. Hindu-dominated shops and religious sites create a vibrant picture, while charming colonial bungalows and churches testify to a bygone era. Some of these bungalows still serve as boutique hotels, residences, or holiday retreats, offering the perfect opportunity for a quiet and relaxing escape with your loved one. A land of enchanting waterfalls, sunken cities, and tranquil mountain lakes, Maskeliya welcomes visitors throughout the year; the months from December to April provide a wonderful experience. During this period, dry skies and comfortable temperatures prevail, which is ideal for outdoor adventures and exploration.

Beyond the sights, you’ll treasure the warmth of the Sri Lankan people and the unique experiences Maskeliya offers. From its awe-inspiring waterfalls to serene natural beauty, Maskeliya provides an incredible adventure off the beaten path. Nestled amidst Sri Lanka’s central hills, this haven will forever hold a special place in your love story.

Laxapana Falls

Maskeliya's beauty extends beyond its rolling hills and verdant tea estates. Nestled amidst this captivating landscape are cascading waterfalls, each offering a unique spectacle. One of these wonders is Laxapana Falls, one hour away from Maskeliya. This majestic giant is a couple’s favourite.

At a staggering 413 feet, Laxapana Falls is Maskeliya's crown jewel and the eighth-tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka. This magnificent sight is set against the backdrop of the majestic peaks of the Seven Virgins Mountain Range. A breathtaking display of nature's raw power, Laxapana Falls is sure to leave you speechless.

Garthmore and Moray Falls

Maskeliya boasts not just one but three captivating waterfalls, collectively known as Gartmore Falls. Due to their proximity to Adam's Peak, these waterfalls are known as Sri Pada Falls. Nestled within Gartmore Estate, a 30-minute journey from Maskeliya's town centre, this cascading trio offers a breathtaking spectacle for you and your loved one.

Strewn along a scenic path lined with viewing booths, as you arrive, witness the majesty of the 82-foot Gartmore Falls, its waters fed by two merging streams. But the wonder doesn't stop there. Gartmore Falls separates into two distinct cascades – the Upper Gartmore Falls and Lower Gartmore Falls. Nearby, Moray Falls joins the symphony, creating a mesmerising triad of cascading beauty.

Gartmore Falls promises a romantic escape amidst the embrace of nature's grandeur. Capture breathtaking photos, listen to the calming sounds of cascading water, or soak in the beauty of this enchanting trio.

Devon Falls

Venture beyond Maskeliya and discover another cascading wonder: Devon Falls. Just an hour's journey away, this 318-foot giant awaits, beckoning you and your partner for a romantic escape. Witness the mesmerising sight of Devon Falls, its water cascading down three distinct tiers to create a symphony of sound and movement. The surrounding landscape bursts with vibrant colours, offering breathtaking panoramic views that will leave you spellbound. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and photography lovers alike, Devon Falls promises an unforgettable adventure for couples seeking a touch of exploration and a stunning display of nature's power.

Aberdeen Falls

Aberdeen Falls is a stunning 321-foot waterfall about an hour’s drive from Maskeliya. It is one of the tallest iconic waterfalls in Sri Lanka and was named after Aberdeen, the third-largest city in Scotland. This gorgeous waterfall is located amidst lush forests in a surreal landscape. Large granite boulders are behind the waterfall. The Observation platform at the end of the path provides a magnificent view of the fall. During the dry season, swimming in this large pool is possible.

St. Clair's Falls

Just an hour's journey from Maskeliya, St. Clair's Falls is Sri Lanka's widest waterfall, often called "Little Niagara." Set amidst a picturesque backdrop of rolling hills and lush tea plantations, St. Clair’s Falls emerges beautifully. This two-part masterpiece is 260 feet high and 165 feet wide. The powerful Maha Ella, known as the "greater fall," and the graceful Kuda Ella, referred to as the "lesser fall," combine to create a mesmerising spectacle.

The beauty of St. Clair's Falls lies in its accessibility. You can glimpse its gushing waters and vibrant surroundings even as you pass by on a train! For a closer look, follow a scenic trail that winds through the heart of the St. Clair Tea Estate. Although access to the base of the falls is restricted, the walk is an unforgettable experience. Surrounded by lush vegetation, you'll be treated to a breathtaking display of St. Clair's Falls in all its glory.

The Maskeliya Reservoir

Also known as the Maussakelle Reservoir, it is a large lake created in 1968 by submerging the old town of Maskeliya. During droughts, the Moussekelle Reservoir dries up, revealing this ancient town from the lake's depths. This rare occurrence happens once every few years when the water recedes, attracting large crowds to the area and exposing colonial-era structures, including a Buddha statue, a Hindu Kovil, and a mosque.

Castlereagh Reservoir

This reservoir is a breathtaking mountain lake just twenty minutes from Maskeliya. Couples can rent a kayak, enjoy a scenic boat ride with a local fisherman, or hike around the reservoir, capturing panoramic mountain views. It also serves as a lakeside landing strip for those arriving by seaplane to the area!

The Mlesna Tea Castle

Step back in time at this castle built by a British tea magnate. Located an hour from Maskeliya, it is now a museum that showcases the rich history and cultural significance of tea production in Sri Lanka. Broaden your understanding, history, and knowledge of the world’s favourite cup!

Conquering the Seven Virgins of Maskeliya

The Seven Virgins Mountain, known as Saptha Kanya in Sinhalese, is a significant attraction in the Maskeliya area. Comprising seven peaks, this mountain range is popular with hiking enthusiasts in Sri Lanka. The breathtaking sunrise view from the peak will leave a lasting impression.

Legend has it that seven beautiful maidens sought a spiritual path, rejecting the advances of a mighty king. Cornered on the mountain peaks, they prayed for divine intervention, causing the earth to split and separate them forever. Each peak represents one of these maidens, presenting a unique challenge and reward.

Choosing Your Virgin: A Climber's Guide
The difficulty and scenery vary across the seven peaks. Here's a glimpse to help you choose your adventure:

First Virgin (Northmost Peak): The gentlest climb, perfect for beginners.

Second Virgin: Moderate difficulty with scenic views of tea plantations and valleys.

Third Virgin: A challenging climb rewarded by panoramic vistas of the entire range.

Fourth Virgin: Rocky terrain and breathtaking views of Adam's Peak for experienced hikers.

Fifth Virgin: The least climbed, requiring technical skills and local expertise.

Sixth Virgin: Moderately strenuous, known for waterfalls and diverse flora.

Seventh Virgin: The ultimate challenge, demanding advanced skills and endurance

Adam’s Peak (Siri Pada)

Imbued with an otherworldly presence, Adam's Peak, also known as Siri Pada, is a beacon for pilgrims of all faiths. Towering 7,200 feet above sea level, this sacred peak is the second-highest mountain in Sri Lanka and a famous pilgrimage destination for Buddhists, Christians, Hindus, and Muslims.

Legends and mystique surround Adam's Peak, but for many, the valid reward lies in witnessing the island's most breathtaking sunrise from its summit.

Maskeliya and the nearby town of Nallanthaniya (Dalhousie) serve as popular base camps for those embarking on the Adam's Peak pilgrimage. Here, you can soak in the enchanting scenery of the Maskeliya region, with the majestic peak serving as a dramatic backdrop to the picturesque Moussekelle reservoir. A trek to Adam's Peak is a must-do for adventurous couples seeking a spiritual and physically challenging experience to add to their Maskeliya adventure.

Warleigh Church

Christ Church Warleigh is a small church on a hill overlooking the Castlereagh Reservoir, just a 45-minute drive from Maskeliya. Built in 1878 for British planters, this Anglican church features a typical colonial-style stone exterior. The well-preserved interior is cosy, with worn timber pews. A trio of beautifully positioned 19th-century stained glass windows sits above a carved wooden altar. In addition to an ancient pipe organ that is still functional, the church’s most cherished possession is its intact 140-year-old Bible.

The church is set within a lush garden beneath towering cypress trees, and its graveyard offers a fascinating insight into the country's history. The church still conducts English services at 8:00 a.m. on each month's first, third, and fifth Sundays.

Surrounding the church are lush tea plantations and picturesque landscapes, creating a serene atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

All Saints Church, Maskeliya

This small church of the Anglican Diocese is among the oldest in the country, consecrated in 1876 (two years before Warleigh Church). Its elegant stone exterior continues to stand, and although it plays second fiddle to Warleigh Church in visitors' eyes, it remains a charming must-see in Maskeliya.

Maskeliya

Location and Best Times to Visit

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