Hawagala
A steep, rocky mountain near Belihuloya with a tricky climb and wide summit views at around 1,330 metres over the hills and plains around it.
Hawagala is a steep, rocky mountain near Belihuloya, reached from the road that leads towards Pahanthudawa Falls. Its summit, at around 1,330 metres, looks out over Belihuloya, the surrounding hills and the plains that stretch away towards the south, and on a clear day the view is one of the widest in the area.
The climb is short compared with some of the bigger hikes around here, but it is tricky in places. The path is steep, and near the top there is some scrambling over rock, so you will need both hands free and shoes with good grip. It is not a hike for wet weather, since the rock becomes slippery and the grass hides loose stones.
Go with someone who knows the route, or ask locals in Belihuloya before you set off, since paths branch and signposting is limited. Start in the early morning, when the air is cooler and the views are clearest, and bring water and sun protection, because the upper slopes have very little shade.
Hawagala combines well with a visit to Pahanthudawa Falls, which shares the same access road, so you can cool off by the river after the climb. The broader Belihuloya area also has Surathali Falls, Baker's Bend and Adara Kanda, so it is easy to spend a full day or two here. Please take all your rubbish back with you.
At a glance
- Entry fee: Free
- Opening hours: Daylight hours
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
- Best time: Early morning, in dry weather
How to get there
Near Belihuloya, off the road towards Pahanthudawa Falls. Ask locally for the trailhead or go with a guide.