Uncover the hidden beauty of Maskeliya, Sri Lanka, tucked away among verdant foliage and foggy mountains. A picturesque village in the heart of the Central Province, this place is a treasure trove of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. The allure of Maskeliya, with its ancient temples and gushing waterfalls, invites visitors to escape the fast pace of city life and lose themselves in its beauty. Here are the best things to do in Maskeliya.
Top Things to Do in Maskeliya
1. Take pleasure in Maskeliya’s natural beauty
The breathtaking waterfalls are an absolute must-see for ecotourists. Hidden in the peaceful hills, this hypnotic waterfall is a spectacular sight. The falls are accessible on foot, so visitors can get a good look at them up close while enjoying the refreshing mist that envelops them.
Hiking through the lush tea estates also gives you a close look at the abundant wildlife in the area and some breathtaking vistas.
2. Learn history
An impressive technical feat and monument to the region’s illustrious past, the Maskeliya Reservoir is sure to enthrall history aficionados. Constructed during the time of British colonization, this feat of engineering shows how far humanity has come.
Visitors may soak up its tranquil atmosphere and learn about its interesting history as they meander about the reservoir.
3. Devon Falls
Devon Falls, an impressive 97-meter waterfall on the Kotmale Oya River, is a popular tourist destination because of the mesmerizing sight of its three levels plunging among verdant vegetation. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the waterfalls from a famous vantage point nearby.
If you want to see the most impressive natural features, you should go during the rainy season (April–May and November–December). People still go to the region often when it rains a lot, even though it might cause landslides and flash floods.
4. Learning traditional crafts from local craftsmen
Meet talented craftspeople and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Maskeliya to become a part of the lively local community. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural traditions of Maskeliya, where you may learn complicated weaving methods and pottery-making skills.
5. St. Clair Falls
Some visitors to St. Clairs also take advantage of the opportunity to see the surrounding tea plantations. Although getting to this waterfall inside the Peak Wilderness Sanctuary isn’t exactly a picnic, the vistas are well worth the effort. As a bonus, hikers of all skill levels will love the area because of the network of paths that lead to the falls.
6. Culinary Exploration
Enjoying the traditional Sri Lankan food is an essential part of any trip to Maskeliya. Sample a variety of mouth-watering curries, as well as regional specialties like hoppers and kottu, on a gastronomic excursion. You won’t be able to resist the irresistible aromas and vivid flavors of these delicacies.
7. Maskeliya’s Gartmore Falls
Upper and Lower Gartmore Falls work together to form what is officially known as Gartmore Falls. Overflowing into the Maskeliya Reservoir, Upper Gartmore Falls creates a natural infinity pool.
You can’t get to Lower Gartmore Falls from the road, but you have to climb through tea plantations to get to Upper Gartmore Falls. The powerful currents make swimming unsafe, even though it’s simpler to access. On the other hand, the Upper Gartmore is perfect for a soothing swim.
8. The Sunken City
Building the Maussakele Reservoir in 2016 completely drowned a community, which reemerged unexpectedly as a result of drought-related water level drops. We were able to see our ancestors’ architectural styles and lifestyles in a new light because of this discovery.
See the colonial-era Seated Buddha statue, the Bodhigaraya (Bo-tree shrine), the Sri Kathiresan Hindu Kovil, a mosque, Ganesh Kovil, and the most fascinating stone bridge—partially submerged—when you visit the sunken village.
9. The Seven Virgins Mountain Range
The mysteries surrounding Seven Virgins Mountain are among the most fascinating. The story goes like this: There was a mountain village where seven lovely maidens dwelt. They were famous devout Christians who refused to tie the knot in pursuit of enlightenment. Their beauty captivated a strong monarch, who insisted they marry him. They sought sanctuary in the mountains, running away from danger.
The infuriated monarch sent his armies to apprehend them. Standing hemmed in between two mountain peaks, the seven virgins prayed for help from on high. As a result, the mountain range quivered and the ground parted, carving up distinct peaks and casting the virgins into eternal obscurity.
In the narrative, there are seven young women, and each mountain peak represents one of them. In terms of challenge and beauty, every mountain is different. These key differences between the mountains can help you choose the right one for your fitness level:
10. The Mlesna Tea Castle
The British tea grower Thomas Lipton built this fortress in 1932. The building has transformed from its former roles as a processing plant and Lipton’s home into a museum and tea center, showcasing the region’s tea manufacturing heritage. You may take a tour, see some old machines, and find out why tea is vital to Sri Lanka’s economy and culture.
In Maskeliya, you may also see Laxapana Falls, the Pedro Tea Center and Factory, and Adisham Estate. Maskeliya is a fantastic location that has not yet attracted many tourists because of how little is known about it. Time will perhaps reveal this buried gem.
Accommodation options in Maskeliya
In order to have a vacation to remember, it is important to choose a good location to stay, and Maskeliya has many possibilities for all types of travelers. Maskeliya is home to a wide range of hotels and resorts, each with its own unique style of accommodation, breathtaking scenery, and first-rate facilities. Everyone may find an ideal accommodation, whether they are looking for a small, intimate boutique or a five-star resort.
Staying in a guesthouse or homestay in Maskeliya will provide you with a more personal experience. Take in the sights and sounds of the place, meet welcoming locals who can show you the ropes, and fully immerse yourself in the culture.
When to Visit Maskeliya for the Best Weather
The lowest hotel rates in Maskeliya are in March–May, so if you’re trying to save money, go then. The months of September through November tend to be the most expensive for hotels.
Wrapping up
Natural beauty, fascinating history, exciting adventures, and cultural experiences all come together in Maskeliya to make it an enticing destination for tourists. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, explore history, experience thrilling adventures, or just enjoy the local delicacies, Maskeliya guarantees an amazing trip. To make memories that will last a lifetime, gather your belongings and prepare to enter this magical paradise.
Photo credits go to the respective owners.