bordering the Peak Wilderness Sanctuary. Built by tea planters many years ago as a Trout fishing location, this wonderful place is one of the best hideouts in Sri Lanka for the adventurous nature lovers.
Getting There
Journey to Fishing Huts from Colombo is also an exciting one. From Colombo reach Awissawella on High-level road (A4) and from Awissawella drive towards Hatton on A7 highway. This section of A7 winds though the beautiful Kelani Valley passing Kithulgala and then climbs up to Gingathehna pass and enters the central hills giving you an opportunity to enjoy some spectacular hill country landscapes.
After few kilometers passing Ginigathhena, take the right turn towards Norton Bridge (Sri-Pada road). You can enjoy the breath-taking views of Seven-Hill mountain range (SapthaKanya) on your way to Norton Bridge. Passing Norton Bridge town, drive towards Maskeliya. At Mausakelle on Norton Bridge – Maskeliya road, again turn right towards Nallathanni- Delhousie Bazaar. Few kilometers before Delhousie Bazaar, turn left towards Mooray estate.
Once you enter Mooray estate, the last and most exciting section of the journey begins. The estate road will quickly turn in to a dirt track which winds through the estate, with breath-taking views over the Mausakelle reservoir, spectacular Adam’s Peak waterfalls and the peak wilderness sanctuary. It may not be possible to tackle this track with a car. You will need something with a little bit more ground clearance (A van would do fine).
Weather and Season
Best time to visit fishing huts is Late December to April. July and August will also be ok. May-June, September through November there is a very high chance of raining in the area.
Attractions and activities
Hiking: There are several hiking trails in the area. You can climb Adams Peak, a hike of about two and a
Bird watching – If you are a keen bird watcher, peak wilderness sanctuary is one of the best areas in Sri Lanka to observe birds.
The Baththulu-Oyariver – The view all around is unbelievably beautiful, with the montane forest surrounding the area and the river below. Swimming is possible in the river if you can handle the temperatures. Rafting in the clear waters of Baththulu-Oya is also full of fun.
Waterfalls – On your way to Fishing Huts from Colombo, it is possible to visit three beautiful water falls. They are Aberdeen Falls (Turn right just before Ginigathhena town, a few kilometers drive and walk of about another kilometer), Laxapana falls (Turn right towards SevenHills farm, few kilometers from NortonBridge on Norton Bridge – Maskeliya road and then a 300m walk), Mohini falls (on the road side passing Mausakelle reservoir)
Accommodation Options
Two simple log cabins have been constructed in the banks of Buththulu-Oya, one of the main feeders of MaskeliOya which in turn forms Kelani River. Be prepared for the basic nature of the accommodation. Each log cabin has two bedrooms, with attached toilets, a dining area and a kitchen. A cook is available but provisions should be taken with you. Each hut can accommodate six to seven people. There is no electricity but hurricane lamps are provided.
Notes, Tips and Special Remarks:
Remember to wake up early in the morning and explore the surrounding. The best scenery can be witnessed as the first rays of the day hits the tea fields and the forest covered mountain peaks including Adam’s Peak.
Fishing huts is owned and managed by Maskeliya Plantations Limited. Reservation can be made at Maskeliya Plantations Limited office located in Arpico Complex, Navinna, Maharagama or contacting them on 011 4310500.