KODI ARA KANDA

Kodi Ara Kanda, also known as “Flag Rock,” stands as a formidable sentinel in the heart of Sri Lanka. It’s the crowning glory of the northern spurs of the Piduruthalagala Mountain range, accessible only from the enigmatic Mandaram Nuwara valley. The valley, aptly named “misty town,” nestles between the towering peaks, forming a captivating yet daunting natural amphitheatre. At one end of this colossal rock wall looms Kodi Ara Kanda, a peak that beckons adventurers and leaves an indelible mark on their memories.

The journey begins in the valley, tracing the course of a crystal-clear stream born from a cascading waterfall that carves its path through a deep canyon alongside Kodi Ara Kanda. As you embark on this hike, you’ll witness verdant foothills adorned with lush vegetable gardens, a testament to the locals’ strong connection to agriculture. Here, the warm sun bathes the landscape, offering a brief respite. But as you leave the cultivated patches behind and venture deeper into the jungle, a mystical transformation occurs. The mist and fog envelop you, shrouding the hike in an aura of enchantment.

The summit awaits, crowned by the stark silhouette of a solitary tree branch, often adorned with fluttering flags. It stands as a haunting, ethereal marker at the journey’s end. Luck may grant you a glimpse of the valley below through parting clouds or perhaps a mesmerizing view of Sri Lanka’s tallest mountain’s rocky visage.

The unforgiving beauty of Kodi Ara Kanda rewards those who dare to conquer its mystique with an unforgettable adventure etched into their very souls.