By Jeevan Dananjaya
Nestled within the lush highlands of Sri Lanka, Haritha Kanda, meaning The Green Mountain, is fast becoming a must-visit destination for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers. Rising to an elevation of approximately 1,800 meters, this striking peak sits between the scenic plains of Agarapathana and Bopaththalawa, offering breathtaking views and a truly immersive experience in Sri Lanka’s mountain ecosystem.
The journey to Haritha Kanda begins in the world-renowned tea-growing region of Bogawanthalawa, often referred to as the “Golden Valley of Tea.” This area is famous for producing high-quality Ceylon tea, and its rolling hills are blanketed with vibrant green plantations. The valley is also part of the iconic Pekoe Trail, making it a hub for trekking and outdoor exploration.
There are two main routes to reach Haritha Kanda from Colombo. The first route travels through Hatton, Norwood, and Bogawanthalawa before reaching Bogawana Tea Estate. The second route passes through Hatton, Talawakelle, and Agarapathana before arriving at Bopaththalawa Farm. Both routes offer scenic drives through misty mountains and endless tea fields, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.
Our journey began early in the morning from the Theresia Tea Estate in Bogawanthalawa. Along with my friend Chandana Weerasekara, we walked through the tranquil tea gardens for nearly an hour. The cool morning air, combined with the rhythmic pattern of tea bushes stretching across the hills, created a peaceful start to our hike.
Reaching the starting point near the Lynsted Bungalow of Bogawana Tea Estate, we began our ascent. The trail initially winds through tea fields before transitioning into a rocky path covered with moss, grasses, and delicate wildflowers. After about 30 minutes of climbing, we arrived at a beautiful grassland plateau, a landscape reminiscent of the nearby Horton Plains National Park, known for its unique wet grassland ecosystem.
From this junction, a trail leads toward Bopaththalawa Farm, while another steeper path ascends Haritha Kanda. Taking a short rest, we admired the panoramic views of the surrounding grasslands, with clouds slowly drifting over the mountain peaks. Although the sky was mostly clear, the summit of Haritha Kanda remained hidden beneath a blanket of mist.
Continuing our climb, the terrain became increasingly steep. The trail led us across several slippery rock surfaces, requiring careful footing, especially during wet conditions. The landscape was alive with vibrant wildflowers emerging from the grasslands, adding splashes of color to the green surroundings. Looking down, the valley unfolded in spectacular fashion, revealing the vast tea estates and distant mountain ridges.
As we approached the summit, the weather took a dramatic turn. A light drizzle quickly intensified into heavy rain, accompanied by strong winds. The rocky surface became dangerously slippery, and we had to take extra precautions to maintain our balance. At the summit, visibility was almost zero due to thick mist, forcing us to wait patiently for the weather to clear.
After about 30 minutes, the rain subsided and the clouds gradually parted, revealing one of the most breathtaking views imaginable. To the east, the expansive lands of Bopaththalawa Farm stretched into the distance, with the iconic plateau of Horton Plains visible far beyond. To the right, the charming town of Bogawanthalawa appeared nestled among the rolling tea hills. The panoramic view from the summit of Haritha Kanda was nothing short of magical, a reward well worth the challenging climb.
For those interested in camping, Haritha Kanda offers several scenic campsites accessible from both the Bogawanthalawa and Bopaththalawa sides. Each location provides a unique experience, from sheltered spots near tea estates to open grassland areas with uninterrupted views of the horizon. However, hikers are strongly encouraged to plan responsibly and respect the fragile ecosystem.
As tourism to lesser-known destinations like Haritha Kanda continues to grow, conservation becomes increasingly important. Visitors are urged not to leave behind any waste and to protect the delicate balance of this natural environment. Preserving these landscapes ensures that future generations can also experience the beauty of Sri Lanka’s highlands.
Haritha Kanda is more than just a hike, it is a journey through some of Sri Lanka’s most stunning and untouched landscapes. From the emerald tea valleys of Bogawanthalawa to the misty grasslands near the summit, every step offers a new perspective and a deeper connection with nature.
For a full visual experience of this adventure, viewers can explore the Haritha Kanda documentary on the Speed Birds Adventures YouTube channel, capturing every moment of this unforgettable journey into Sri Lanka’s Green Mountain.
Sri Lanka - Wonders of biodiversity 