A 3 hour, 50km road journey of Deniyaya – Rakwana is one of the greatest scenic vehicle journey route in Sri Lanka. Narrow roads, waterfalls, ranges of mountains will give you a priceless value to the time you spend.
The route from Deniyaya to Rakwana in Sri Lanka is a scenic drive through the lush countryside, taking you through the southern region’s beautiful hills and tea estates. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of the route:
Route Overview
- Starting Point: Deniyaya (located near Sinharaja Rainforest)
- Destination: Rakwana
- Distance: Approximately 50 kilometers (around 3 hour drive, depending on road conditions)
Starting from Deniyaya:
- From the town center of Deniyaya, take the Deniyaya – Rakwana Road (A17). This is the most direct route and offers stunning views of the mountains and tea estates.
- As you leave Deniyaya, you will drive through the edge of the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The area is known for its dense tropical rainforest and biodiversity.
Driving through Tea Estates:
- The road will wind through hilly terrain, passing through various small villages and tea plantations.
- Keep an eye out for beautiful tea estates and small waterfalls along the way, as this region is known for its lush greenery and cooler climate.
Through Morning Side Estate at Rakwana :
As you continue, you’ll pass the Morning Side Estate, which is a popular stop for nature lovers, known for its cool climate and scenic views.
Handapana Ella Falls, Rakwana
Rakwana
Rakwana is located in the Sabaragamuwa Province and serves as a hub for travelers heading further north toward Ratnapura or east toward Udawalawe National Park.
Ten Bends in Rakwana
Points of Interest:
Sinharaja Rainforest:
Near Deniyaya, you can explore hiking trails, birdwatching, and rare plant species.
Tea Estates:
The drive offers excellent views of Sri Lanka’s famous tea-growing region, where you might see workers harvesting tea.
Morning Side Nature Resort
A good place for birdwatching and experiencing the cool, misty mountain air.
This route is popular for its natural beauty and offers a peaceful and scenic journey through some of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque landscapes.