Gongala Hike | Misty Views & Wild Trails

Hello Steemers,

Gongala is one of the most underrated mountain hikes on the island. Gongala is located on the border of the Sabaragamuwa and Southern Provinces, near the city of Deniyaya. Deniyaya is widely famous for its epic climate. Although it is located near the southern part of the island, it offers a climate similar to that of Badulla or Nuwara Eliya.

Gongala is most famous among telecommunication sector professionals because all the major telecommunication towers are located on this mountain. All the internet service providers and digital media networks use this spot to spread their frequencies across the Sabaragamuwa and Southern Provinces.

Gongala also has an established Doppler radar system, which was installed to predict weather forecasts for the region. However, it is currently non-functional. Visitors can still see the buildings and the equipment there.

This hike can be completed in one day. Up to the last 2 km, the route is accessible by bike or a 4x4 jeep. We personally used a bike to get there. The starting point is located near a tea factory. If you are traveling by car, you can park at the tea factory and begin the hike. The security guard at the tea factory is very helpful. Along the way, you’ll pass a few Tamil villages, which add a unique charm to the journey. The road is stunningly beautiful, often covered in misty views, as the photos prove.

The 1 km hiking route is truly a wild adventure. While it doesn’t involve a significant elevation gain, it’s a walk through a lush forest. Along the way, there are several viewpoints. The final viewpoint, located at the end of the trail, is truly breathtaking. The path is well-trodden, and as a precaution, it’s a good idea to track your hike using a suitable app like Wikiloc. The area is full of leeches, so it’s wise to take necessary precautions.

If you’re living around Galle, Matara, or other nearby southern areas, Gongala is a perfect one-day hike that is easily accessible. Public transport is also available in the area. I hope this article will help you explore this wonderful place.

Thank you!