Katagarama, Sri Lanka

 Katagarama

From Monoragala bus station I bus to Buttala 75SLR and then continue with another bus to Katagarama 110 SLR. From Buttala to Sella Katagarama road is a very interesting road to travel cause it certain stretch of the road it directly cut through Lunugamvehera National Park. Those tuk-tuk man at Buttala bus station takes advantages of this fact, if ever they notice any foreigner they will keep tailing and pestering you to hire them to Katagarama 2000 SLR of a 43KM. Their selling points is free Safari tour. Sure can see Elephant on the road, Peacock , Black Naped Hare, Egrets, wild water buffalo etc.. All this are very near for you. This is their statement . 

Actually if are traveling on this route in the morning session and nearly dusk, you will able to see animals at the fringe of this forest. If you use Bus the only time it need to stop or slowdown is when elephant or any animal standing in the middle f the road. Three wheeler, motorcyclist, car and lorry will drive through with care not the irritate the elephant.

Katagarama in sihala language is village in the dessert, due to is it is located in a dry zone. It has a lot of shrines and temple.

I used to overnight at Nilmini Rest, Sella Road, Milagama, Kataragama, Kataragama.  Rooms are very basic, however is clean. Food need to get in town or nearby restaurant.

For birdwatching, there is a big patch of paddy fields opposite the road of Nilmini Rest.