Pitawala Pathana, similar to the Horton Plains National Park, is a unique grassland situated in Riverstone, Matale. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Pathana is a unique grassland found only in Sri Lanka. This grassland is located alongside the Rattota-Illukkumbura Road. It has spread over an area of 10 hectares approximately. The region has amazing biodiversity, filled with unique and endangered flora and fauna. And also, the area is home to some isolated and dispersed trees, shrubs, and rocks. You can hike around the grassland, but some parts are prohibited since they are home to extremely rare animal species.
Please be aware of following the rules. You can experience different varieties of birds chirping around while you enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding area. Amphibians, small mammals, lizards, tree frogs are the most visible animals. There has been no record of an animal hazard. However, be cautious while dealing with wild animals. Pitawala Pathana is one of the main access points to the Knuckles Mountain Range and is regarded as the northern entry point to the Knuckles Reserve. In addition, the Mini World's End, a smaller version of the popular Worlds' End in Horton Plains, is the major attraction in the Pitawala Pathana.
Mini World's End
It is a massive sheer cliff, about 90 degrees lies at one end of the Pitawala Pathana. You can see breathtaking panoramic views of the spectacular surroundings here. The weather changes very quickly, and the area is vulnerable to powerful winds. You must walk carefully and avoid risky activities. It is just only 700 meters from the entrance stage.
Pitawala Pathana Timing and Entry Fee
Pitawala Pathana is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and the entry fee for locals is 25 LKR. You can find the ticket counter, toilets, canteen is right opposite the entrance.
Best time to visit Pitawala Pathana
Most of the year, the area is covered by mist, and the weather is often cool and breezy. The best time to visit Pitawala Pathana is from December to April, and you can expect less rain and mist during this time.
How to get to Pitawala Pathana
It is only 33.7Km to Pitawala Pathana from Mathale. The trip will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes.. Although there are three major approaches to this location, Matale-Rattota Route is the most popular. From Mathale-travel along the Matale- Giradurukotte Road passing Rattota until Riverstone to reach the Pitawala Pathana. You can also get here by car from Dambulla or Mahiyanganaya (through the Dambulla-Mahiyangana road).. As the vehicle is not allowed to enter, you have to park your cars at the entrance and start the walkthrough a pigmy-type woodland to reach Pitawala Pathana. It's a short walk from the main entrance, and it takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour to cover the 250-hectare area over a 750-meter track.
