Golumale, Nildandahinna.

Golumale is a remarkably unique geological formation located within Nuwara Eliya District in the Central Province of Sri Lanka.

Situated on a tributary of Uma Oya, it consists of a series of rock pools on the riverbed created by millions of years of erosion. When at the correct water level, you could witness the river disappears swirling into a circular pit, then reappears from another, and goes back to a third pool. Furthermore, there are numerous natural rock carvings and ravines of different shapes and sizes.

"Golumale stream"

To see the rock pools, one must cross the river which serves as the boundary of the Victoria-Randenigala-Rantambe Sanctuary. Unless the water level is really low, this could be a very challenging and daring experience. In addition, you are treading on “elephants’ backyard”! Therefore, it is very important that you seek assistance from villagers to avoid any surprises.

According to folklore, a treasure has been hidden within a close by cave.

Getting There…

Golumale is situated about 15 km away from the town of Nildandahinna. This is how you can reach Golumale.

1. To reach Golumale, you must first come to Dambagolla from Walapane or Udu Pussellawa.
2. Travel nearly 3 km to Paragaha Arawa.
3. Continue further 6 km towards Yatimadura Temple along a narrow remote road.
4. Another 700 m passing the Temple, will bring you to a location with a small name board to the right with a footpath leading towards the paddy fields. You have to park you vehicles around here.
5. Walking about 200 m through the paddy fileds passing the electric fence, you will reach the stream.
6. You have to cross the stream and walk at least another 200 m, to see the 3 circular pits of Golumale.

Travel Notes

Following are based on the visit to Golumale on 2018-12-17.

• Road condition of the last stretch (from the Yatimadura Temple) was a bit rough. Therefore, vehicles with low ground-clearence could face issues.
• Mr. Mahathun and family from a nearby village were extremely helpful to us when showing us around and specially getting us across the stream.
• Even with their help, it was very challenging to cross the stream, since the water level was a bit high.
• Be prepared to get wet, and be mindful about the safety of your electronic equipment.

Daring the rapids...

Rock pools of interesting shapes

Last of the three circular pits