Maskeliya

Maskeliya is a small, tranquil town known for its unique natural beauty and beautiful landscapes. It is most well known for its proximity to the sacred Adam's Peak. Despite its relatively quiet and unassuming nature, Maskeliya is quickly becoming a popular destination for local and foreign travelers alike. This travel guide will take you through everything you need to know about Maskeliya.

Overview of Maskeliya

Maskeliya is a small town located in the Nuwara Eliya District, about 150 kilometers from Colombo. It sits at an elevation of about 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) above sea level, making it a lot cooler than the most other areas of Sri Lanka.

The town's economy is mainly driven by tea plantations, and the surrounding hills are lined with green tea bushes that stretch as far as the eye can see. Maskeliya is also a key stopover for travelers on their way to Adam's Peak, one of Sri Lanka's most revered and iconic pilgrimage sites.

The centerpiece of Maskeliya's landscape is the vast Maussakelle Reservoir, also known as the Maskeliya Reservoir. This stunning reservoir supplies hydroelectric power to much of the region. The reservoir, surrounded by towering mountains and forests, offers a magnificent backdrop wherever you travel in the nearby area. The town itself is relatively quiet, with a peaceful atmosphere that makes it an excellent retreat from other busy tourist destinations.

History of Maskeliya

Maskeliya, like many towns in Sri Lanka's central highlands, has a history closely linked to the island's colonial past. During the British occupation in the 19th century, the region around Maskeliya was heavily developed for tea cultivation, transforming the local landscape and economy. British planters established vast tea estates, many of which still operate today, maintaining their colonial-era charm and architecture.

The construction of the Maussakelle Dam and reservoir in the 1980s further shaped the town's development. The reservoir, part of a larger hydroelectric power project, contributed to the economic growth of the area by providing electricity and supporting the tea industry.

In addition to its colonial heritage, Maskeliya has a long-held spiritual significance due to being close to Adam's Peak, which is a revered place by people of all four major religions in Sri Lanka—Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam.

Culture

Maskeliya's culture is a blend of traditional Sri Lankan highland customs, influenced by its colonial past and spiritual importance. The residents of the town are mostly Tamil, and their occupations mainly revolve around tea plantation. Their unique customs, festivals, and language add to the rich cultural mix of the town. Hindu festivals such as Thai Pongal and Deepavali are widely celebrated, along with Buddhist festivals like Vesak and Poson.

The influence of the British colonial era is still visible in the architecture of the old tea bungalows, churches, and schools. Many visitors are struck by the contrast between the colonial buildings and the surrounding tropical landscape, creating a unique fusion of cultures.

Pilgrimage is another important aspect of Maskeliya's cultural identity. During the pilgrimage season (typically from December to May), thousands of people pass through the town on their way to Adam's Peak. The town becomes very active during this time, with markets, guesthouses, and restaurants catering to the pilgrims.

Attractions and Things to Do in Maskeliya

Adam's Peak (Sri Pada)

The most famous attraction near Maskeliya is Adam's Peak, a 2,243-meter-high (7,359 feet) mountain that holds spiritual significance for multiple religions. Pilgrims ascend the peak to pay homage to the sacred footprint found at its summit, believed to be that of the Buddha, Lord Shiva, or Adam, depending on the faith.

The pilgrimage season runs from December to May, and it's customary to begin the climb in the early hours of the morning to reach the summit in time for the breathtaking sunrise. The trail to Adam's Peak begins at Nallathanniya, about 10 kilometers from Maskeliya.

Read more about Adam's Peak.

Maussakelle Reservoir

The Maussakelle Reservoir is another stunning attraction in the area. It's the defining attraction in Maskeliya and is visible almost everywhere close to the town. Its calm waters, surrounded by mountains and forests, offer a peaceful setting for relaxation and photography.

The reservoir is also an ideal spot for birdwatching, with many species of waterfowl and migratory birds frequenting the area. You might also spot birds like eagles and kingfishers, who have made the reservoir their hunting ground.

When booking accommodation in Maskeliya, it's a good idea to get a place on the shores of the reservoir. This will give you a magnificent view and a relaxing atmosphere throughout your stay. You can also go for a nice boat ride in a paddle boat or a canoe.

Gartmore Falls

Located about 13km from Maskeliya, Gartmore Falls is a stunning waterfall surrounded by tea plantations and mountains. This beautiful waterfall, which is also known as Sri Pada Falls, cascades gracefully from the Gartmore Estate down to the Maussakelle Reservoir. The falls are about 25 meters high and create a picturesque scene, with the surrounding greenery and the reservoir in the background.

There are two points in the waterfall that you can visit: Upper Gartmore Falls and Lower Gartmore Falls. Upper Gartmore Falls is where the waterfall begins to fall, and you can swim in its natural infinity pool.

From Lower Gartmore Falls, you can view the cascading waters in all their glory. The path to the falls offers breathtaking views of tea estates and distant mountains

Gartmore Falls is also an excellent spot for photography, swimming, or simply enjoying the scenic surroundings.

Find out more about Gartmore Falls.

Moray Falls

Moray Falls, located within the Moray Estate near Maskeliya, is a stunning waterfall that is right next to Gartmore Falls. With a height of about 40 meters, this waterfall cascades in three separate segments before falling into the Maskeliya Reservoir. Along with Gartmore Falls, Moray Falls creates the only place in Sri Lanka where you can witness two waterfalls falling side by side. The journey to Moray Falls is scenic, taking you through tea estates and offering beautiful views of the surrounding hills.

Tea Plantations

A trip to Maskeliya wouldn't be complete without a visit to one of the local tea plantations. Many of these estates offer guided tours where you can learn about the tea-making process, from picking the leaves to processing and packaging. Some estates also have tea-tasting rooms where you can sample the region's finest teas. The scenic beauty of the tea plantations, with their terraced fields and mist-covered hills, makes for excellent photo opportunities.

Laxapana Falls

Located just a short drive from Maskeliya, Laxapana Falls is one of Sri Lanka's most impressive and famous waterfalls, plunging 126 meters (413 feet) into a deep gorge. Fed by the Maskeliya Oya River, Laxapana Falls holds great significance, as it was once the site of a hydroelectric power plant that helped power the country since the early 20th century. It is a popular spot for nature lovers and an excellent site to take some fantastic photos.

Mohini Falls

Another waterfall worth visiting is Mohini Ella, located near the base of Adam's Peak. It is named after a famous female ghost in Sri Lankan folklore who is said to appear dressed in white and carrying a baby.

Mohini Ella is surrounded by hills with tea plantations and tall trees. It offers an intimate and secluded atmosphere. The falls are at their most beautiful during the rainy season when the water flow is at its strongest. It is right by the road, so you can stop and enjoy the view.

Hiking and Nature Walks

Maskeliya offers renowned hiking experiences such as the challenging Adam's Peak Trail, with its 5000 steps, as well as scenic waterfall hikes to Gartmore Falls, Moray Falls, and Laxapana Falls, which are mentioned above.

Beyond these popular hikes, the Maskeliya Reservoir Circuit provides a more relaxed hiking experience around the reservoir, perfect for those who want to enjoy birdwatching or photography amidst peaceful surroundings.

For seasoned hikers, the Seven Virgin Hills Trail presents a tougher adventure, taking trekkers across seven rugged mountain peaks with amazing views of the surrounding highlands. These diverse trails offer opportunities for hikers of all levels.

Castlereagh Reservoir

In addition to the vast Maussakelle Reservoir in Maskeliya, there's another scenic body of water just 6 km away—Castlereagh Reservoir. As part of the Laxapana Hydro Power Complex, this stunning reservoir offers a peaceful setting, ideal for photography and relaxing activities like boating, canoeing, and birdwatching. The calm waters, surrounded by misty hills, make it an ideal retreat.

The area also contains several luxury bungalows and lodges, perfect for unwinding with breathtaking views. You can even fly directly to the Castlereagh Water Airport from several locations in Sri Lanka.

Where to Stay in Maskeliya

When it comes to accommodation in Maskeliya, you won't find luxury options like five-star hotels in the town itself. But there are a few upscale choices around Castlereigh Reservoir, about 6 kilometers away, if you're looking for something more refined.

In Maskeliya, most accommodations are budget-friendly, with several low-cost lodgings near Maussakelle Reservoir, which is ideal for those seeking simple, no-frills stays. If your main goal is to climb Adam's Peak, staying in Nallathanniya, the nearby village, is a convenient choice, with plenty of budget guesthouses and homestays available. There are also numerous homestays in Maskeliya itself, offering a more local experience with warm hospitality.

Food and Dining

Food and dining in Maskeliya is a simple yet flavorful experience, with a strong emphasis on Tamil cuisine due to the region's local population. You'll find small eateries and shops scattered throughout the town, where you can enjoy traditional Tamil dishes such as dosa, idli, and paratha. For quick bites, these shops often serve short eats like samosas, wadei, and egg and fish rolls.

Maskeliya is also known for its tea, as it's a prominent tea-producing area in Sri Lanka, so enjoying a cup of fresh, local Ceylon tea is a must. Additionally, you can try Upcot Dairy products, a local yogurt brand sourced from a nearby estate. The yogurt here has a distinctive flavor, different from popular brands, and you can enjoy it as a set yogurt or a refreshing, ice-cold yogurt drink.

If you're staying at a guesthouse or hotel, you'll likely encounter Sri Lankan staples like string hoppers, roti, hoppers, and the ever-popular kottu. Western dishes such as toast, pasta, sandwiches, and pizza are often available in guest accommodations, providing a mix of local and familiar options.

While the town caters mainly to budget travelers, the food scene reflects a hearty, home-cooked style that's both authentic and satisfying.

Location and How to Get There

Maskeliya is located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, about 150 kilometers from Colombo and 19 kilometers from the town of Hatton, which is the closest major transportation hub.

1. By Train:

The most scenic way to reach Maskeliya is by taking a train from Colombo to Hatton which will take about 5 hours. It is part of the famous Kandy-to-Ella train route. The journey offers stunning views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and mist-covered mountains. From Hatton, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Maskeliya, which is about another 45-minutes away.

2. By Bus:

If you prefer to travel by bus, there are regular services from Colombo to Hatton, as well as direct buses from Hatton to Maskeliya. The bus takes longer than the train ride but offers a more affordable option for budget travelers.

3. By Private Vehicle or Rental:

If you're looking for a more flexible and comfortable way to travel, renting a car, hiring a private driver, or driving yourself is a great choice. This option allows you to stop along the way for meals and refreshments and to take in some incredible views. One ideal spot to pause is Ginigathhena, which offers stunning scenery and is perfect for a meal break.

The drive from Colombo to Maskeliya takes roughly 4 hours, not counting stops. It's well worth taking your time to enjoy the journey, with plenty of scenic spots to relax and stretch along the way.

4. By Plane:

For a unique and faster option, you can fly directly to Castlereagh Water Airport, located in Castlereagh Reservoir, just 6 km from Maskeliya. Flights are available from Colombo and other locations in Sri Lanka, offering a stunning aerial view of the highlands and an exciting water landing.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Maskeliya depends on your travel purpose. If you're planning to hike Adam's Peak, the pilgrimage season from December to May is the ideal time to visit. During these months, the weather is drier, making the climb more comfortable, and the path is illuminated for pilgrims climbing in the dark.

While Maskeliya can be visited year-round, the rainy season (from May to September) brings heavy showers that can make hiking trails slippery and less accessible. However, this is also when the waterfalls are at their most dramatic, offering spectacular sights for adventurous travelers who don't mind the rain​.

Tips and Advice

• Weather: Maskeliya is very cold, especially in the mornings and evenings, so pack warm layers and prepare for rain during the wet season.
• Footwear: Sturdy footwear is essential. Hiking boots or comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the uneven and sometimes slippery terrain.
• Leeches: If you're hiking through forests or wet areas, use leech spray and wear long socks. Keep salt or lime handy to remove leeches.
• Cash: Many small shops and guesthouses in Maskeliya don't accept card payments, so carry enough cash as ATMs may not be available.
• Local Guidelines: Always follow safety guidelines, especially near waterfalls and hiking trails, and avoid swimming in strong currents at waterfalls.
• Food: Small eateries serve local dishes, but it's smart to carry snacks and water, especially when visiting remote areas.
• Photography: Maskeliya's landscapes are perfect for photography, so bring waterproof gear when visiting waterfalls to protect your camera from mist.

Maskeliya offers a peaceful escape into Sri Lanka's central highlands, where its cool climate and striking landscapes create a refreshing contrast to the island's busier tourist spots. This destination has an ethereal charm that feels worlds apart from other locations in Sri Lanka.

As you explore, you'll be captivated by stunning tea plantations, majestic waterfalls, and the serene beauty of the reservoir, all set against a peaceful backdrop. Be sure to include this hidden gem in your travels through Sri Lanka for a truly unique experience.