After about 3 km, I reached the Kullu-Manali main road, which offered stunning views of the valleys below. My friend suggested I visit Sajla waterfall, so I continued on, passing through a picturesque village with traditional Himachali homes, their architecture reflecting the history and culture of the region. The locals were busy with their daily tasks, and the whole scene felt like stepping back in time.

The road led me deeper into the forest, this time into the Haripur Kullu range. I took a moment to sit and soak in the peaceful ambiance. From there, I found a shortcut that brought me closer to the Sajla waterfall. As I walked, the sound of water grew louder, guiding me through the cedar forest. I asked a local shopkeeper for directions, and she pointed me towards the right path. The way to the waterfall was well-marked, ensuring no one gets lost in the woods.

Finally, I arrived at the Sajla waterfall. It was breathtaking—there was no one else around, just me, the sun, and the mist from the cascading water. I spent some time exploring the area, climbing higher to get a better view of the water flowing between two mountains, framed by dense forest. The serenity of the place was otherworldly, but mindful of the wilderness and my safety, I decided to head back.

After descending from the waterfall, I drank from a government water storage area, as the water at the waterfall had some sand in it. I then found a restaurant nestled in an apple orchard, where I enjoyed a delicious meal of parathas and chai. Rested and satisfied, I continued walking, but as the afternoon sun grew stronger, I opted to catch a bus back to Manali.

The bus dropped me off at the Manali bus stand, and I spent some time exploring the Mall Road, soaking in the lively atmosphere before walking about 2 km to a local market to pick up some snacks. From there, it was a 3 km walk back to my room. I took my time, savoring the views and reflecting on the day’s adventure. Once back in my room, I whipped up some Maggi and tea, and with the magnificent view from my window as my backdrop, I couldn’t help but feel that today was truly an amazing experience exploring the beauty and culture around Manali.

In August, unexpectedly packing for an adventure to Himachal Pradesh . It wasn’t something I had planned, but somehow, everything aligned. By the time I reached the Kashmiri Gate bus station, rain had already started pouring down. I was hungry from the day’s journey, so I decided to grab a quick bite at McDonald’s. I ordered a cold coffee and a veg paneer wrap meal, which came with potato fries. The rain was relentless, so I took my time eating and waiting for it to stop.

When it became clear that the rain wasn’t going to let up, I decided to brave it. I packed my shoes in my bag and ran barefoot toward the bus stand. It was around 8 pm, and I was determined to catch my bus. After inquiring at the Himachal Pradesh bus counter, I headed over to the intercity Volvo bus section. There, I found out that the next bus to Manali was leaving in 30 minutes. I booked my ticket at the counter, but something caught my eye—although I had paid ₹700, the ticket showed a fare of ₹568. Curious, I asked about the discrepancy, only to be told that fares vary and that the counter price might differ. Even after checking online, where the fare was around ₹560, I didn’t get a satisfactory explanation. Frustrated, I let it go.

When it was time to board, we were led by a guy who was busy on his phone. As a result, a small group of us ended up waiting in the wrong spot. We eventually figured it out, but not without some frustration, especially since the rain was still pouring down and some of the passengers were senior citizens. The whole situation felt disorganized and added unnecessary stress to an already rainy night in Delhi.

Finally, I boarded the bus. It made a few stops to pick up more passengers along the way. I started watching a series to pass the time, but I was mostly waiting for a stop where I could use the restroom. We eventually stopped at a place called Rangoli, where old music played softly in the background. It was still raining. I ordered tea and packed some momos to take back to the bus. As I continued watching my series, I enjoyed the momos and eventually drifted off to sleep. The next day promised more adventures as I journeyed deeper into Himachal Pradesh.

This recount captures the spontaneity, the challenges, and the small joys that come with travel, especially when the weather and unexpected events add a twist to the experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh gotu kola leaves, chopped
• 1 red chili pepper, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt)
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the chopped gotu kola leaves, chili pepper, lime juice, salt, , garlic (if using), and onion (if using).
2. Mash: Use a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon to mash the ingredients together until well combined and slightly pasty.

Serving Suggestions:

Gotu kola sambol can be enjoyed in various ways:

• Accompaniment: Serve it as a side dish with rice and curry, hoppers, or string hoppers.
• Topping: Add it to vegetables for a flavorful boost.
• Ingredient: Incorporate it into other dishes like samosas, kottu roti, or stir-fries.

Tips:

• Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chili peppers.
• For a milder version, remove the seeds from the chili peppers before chopping.
• For a healthier option, use less or no oil when preparing the gotu kola leaves.

Enjoy your homemade gotu kola sambol with roti and other side dishes.

Ingredients:

For the Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 4 cups water
• Salt to taste

For the Curries:

• 1 pound mixed vegetables (e.g., potatoes, carrots, green beans, pumpkin)
• 1 pound chicken or fish (optional)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 can coconut milk
• Salt to taste
• Vegetable oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Cook the Rice:
   • Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear.
   • In a pot, combine the rice, water, and salt.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water has evaporated.
   • Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
2. Prepare the Curries:
   • Heat oil in a large pot or wok over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
   • Stir in the garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
   • Add the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
   • Introduce the mixed vegetables and chicken or fish to the curry. Simmer until the vegetables are tender and the meat is cooked through.
   • Season with salt to taste.
3. Serve:
   • Spoon the cooked rice onto plates.
   • Top with the various curries.
   • Serve immediately with additional condiments like sambol (a spicy relish) and pickles.

Tips:

• Experiment with different vegetables and proteins to create your own unique rice and curry dish.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder.
• For a more authentic flavor, use Sri Lankan curry powder, which typically includes a blend of spices like coriander, fenugreek, cinnamon, and cloves.
• Serve with poppadums (crispy lentil wafers) as a side dish.

Enjoy your delicious Sri Lankan rice and curry !

Ingredients:

• 500g young jackfruit ( fresh)
• 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or coconut oil)
• 1 onion, finely sliced
• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 2 green chilies, sliced
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp fenugreek seeds
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp curry powder
• 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp roasted curry powder (available at Sri Lankan stores or homemade)
• 1 tbsp tamarind paste or a small ball of tamarind soaked in water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4-5 curry leaves
• 400ml coconut milk(homemade)
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Jackfruit:
   • If using fresh young jackfruit, peel and cut the jackfruit into bite-sized cubes. Parboil them in salted water for about 15-20 minutes, or until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
   • If using canned young jackfruit, rinse and drain the jackfruit well.
2. Tempering Spices:
   • Heat oil in a large pot or pan over medium heat.
   • Add mustard seeds and let them pop. Then, add cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, curry leaves, and the cinnamon stick. Sauté for a few seconds until aromatic.
3. Sauté Vegetables:
   • Add the sliced onions, green chilies, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the onions turn golden brown and softened.
4. Add Spices:
   • Stir in the turmeric powder, curry powder, chili powder, and roasted curry powder. Sauté the spices for a minute until fragrant.
5. Cook the Jackfruit:
   • Add the parboiled or canned young jackfruit pieces to the pan. Stir well, ensuring the jackfruit is coated with the spices and onions.
   • Add tamarind paste and a little water, then cover and cook on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
6. Add Coconut Milk:
   • Pour in the coconut milk and season with salt. Stir well and let the curry simmer for another 15-20 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally. Cook until the jackfruit is tender and the curry has thickened. Add more water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve:
   • Serve the Polos Curry with steamed rice, string hoppers, or roti.

Tips:

• Roasted curry powder can be made by dry-roasting spices like cumin, coriander, fennel seeds, cloves, and curry leaves until dark and fragrant, then grinding them into a powder.
• This curry can be made a day in advance for a deeper flavor.

Types of Jackfruit Dishes Based on Maturity

1. Young Jackfruit (Polos):
   • When the jackfruit is young, tender, and unripe, it is used in savory dishes like Polos Curry. At this stage, the fruit has a neutral flavor but a fibrous, meat-like texture that absorbs the spices well. Young jackfruit is often slow-cooked with a blend of spices, tamarind, and coconut milk to create a rich curry with a texture similar to pulled pork or meat.
2. Mature Jackfruit (Kos):
   • As the jackfruit matures but is not yet fully ripe, it is used in dishes like Kos Mallum or jackfruit stir-fry. The flesh is slightly firmer and is shredded or cut into small pieces. This form is cooked with spices, coconut, and other vegetables, often served as a side dish with rice.
3. Ripe Jackfruit:
   • When fully ripe, jackfruit becomes sweet, fragrant, and juicy. It is consumed as a fresh fruit or used in sweet preparations such as jackfruit roti or desserts. The flesh turns a golden yellow color, and the fruit exudes a sweet, tropical flavor reminiscent of a mix between mango, pineapple, and banana.
4. Jackfruit Seeds (Kos Ata):
   • The seeds inside the jackfruit are also edible and are used in curries or boiled and eaten as a snack. They have a nutty flavor and a creamy texture when cooked. Jackfruit seed curry is a common dish made with coconut milk, spices, and sometimes vegetables.

Cultural Significance

• Jackfruit is considered a “miracle” food in Sri Lanka due to its ability to feed many people, especially during times of scarcity or economic hardship. It is seen as an inexpensive, yet highly nutritious food source.
• In Sri Lanka, every part of the jackfruit is used, from the young flesh to the seeds, making it a symbol of sustainability and resourcefulness in Sri Lankan cuisine.

Jackfruit continues to be a staple in traditional Sri Lankan meals, enjoyed by both rural and urban communities across the country.

A Sea of Green: The Tea Gardens of Maskeliya

The defining feature of Maskeliya is its breathtaking tea gardens, which stretch out across the rolling hills like a vast green carpet. The air is crisp and fresh, filled with the scent of dew-soaked leaves and the earthy aroma of the tea bushes. As far as the eye can see, the land undulates in soft curves, with neatly arranged rows of tea plants creating a pattern that is both soothing and rhythmic. These gardens are the heart and soul of Maskeliya, giving the town a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere.

“The tea gardens seemed to stretch on forever, a verdant sea of green leaves swaying gently in the cool breeze. Every step through the garden felt like walking through a dreamscape, where time slowed down, and nature’s beauty took center stage.”

The tea estates in Maskeliya, with their neatly manicured rows of bushes, create a stunning contrast against the towering mountains that form the backdrop. The Haputale Mountain Range and Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak) loom in the distance, their peaks often shrouded in mist, adding an ethereal quality to the landscape. This unique combination of emerald-green tea fields set against the dark, rugged mountains creates a breathtaking scene, especially during sunrise when the light gently spills over the peaks and bathes the gardens in a golden glow.

The Serenity of Maskeliya Lake

At the heart of this picturesque region lies Maskeliya Lake, a serene body of water that reflects the surrounding hills and tea gardens like a mirror. The lake, also known as Castlereagh Reservoir, is fed by mountain streams and is bordered by lush greenery. Its tranquil waters provide a perfect contrast to the vibrancy of the tea gardens, offering a peaceful retreat for anyone looking to lose themselves in the beauty of nature.

“As I stood by the shore of Maskeliya Lake, the water was so still that it seemed like a perfect reflection of the sky above. The tea gardens in the distance framed the scene with their soft green waves, and the mountains, bathed in early morning mist, added a touch of magic to the landscape.”

Whether viewed from the shore or from the winding roads that hug the hillsides above, the lake is a stunning feature of Maskeliya, offering a sense of serenity and calm that perfectly complements the surrounding tea estates.

Walking Through the Tea Estates

Walking through the tea gardens in Maskeliya is an experience like no other. The paths, lined with tea bushes, invite you to take leisurely strolls while enjoying the cool mountain air and the sound of birds chirping in the trees. The workers in the fields, often dressed in bright saris or traditional attire, move with practiced ease as they pluck tea leaves with nimble fingers. Their presence adds a sense of life and history to the gardens, reminding visitors that these estates are not just beautiful landscapes but also the livelihood of many.

“The workers in the tea gardens moved gracefully through the rows of bushes, their hands a blur as they harvested the tender leaves. There was something timeless about the scene—a connection to the land that stretched back generations, rooted in the soil beneath their feet.”

The gentle slopes of the tea gardens invite exploration, with every turn in the path revealing a new perspective on the landscape. From high up on the hills, the view of the gardens stretching out below, interspersed with streams and shaded by tall trees, is nothing short of mesmerizing. The combination of the lush tea plants, the distant mountains, and the still waters of Maskeliya Lake creates a perfect harmony that feels almost otherworldly.

The Mist and Magic of Maskeliya

One of the most enchanting features of Maskeliya is the way the mist rolls in over the hills, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon. The mist blankets the tea gardens in a soft, ethereal glow, giving the landscape a magical quality. It moves slowly through the valleys, swirling around the tea plants and creating an atmosphere that is both mysterious and peaceful.

“As the mist rolled in, the world around me seemed to blur at the edges, becoming softer and more dreamlike. The tea gardens, once sharp and vibrant, now appeared as though they were part of a distant memory—half-real, half-imagined.”

The ever-changing light, combined with the mist, makes Maskeliya a photographer’s dream. Whether bathed in the warm hues of sunset or softened by the cool, silver tones of the mist, the tea gardens and surrounding landscape constantly shift in appearance, offering new and beautiful perspectives at every moment.

A Quiet Haven

Despite its natural beauty and proximity to Adam’s Peak, Maskeliya remains a relatively quiet and peaceful town, untouched by the hustle and bustle of larger tourist destinations. This tranquility is part of what makes it so special. The winding roads that lead through the tea estates are often empty, save for the occasional tea-laden truck or group of hikers making their way toward Adam’s Peak.

“In Maskeliya, time seems to slow down. The pace of life is gentle, like the breeze that moves through the tea gardens. The quiet is broken only by the occasional chirp of a bird or the rustle of leaves in the wind. It’s a place where you can simply be—lost in the beauty of nature, far from the worries of the world.”

Conclusion

Maskeliya is a place where nature reigns supreme—a tranquil retreat of tea gardens, misty mountains, and serene lakes. The beauty of the landscape, combined with the quiet charm of the town and its people, makes Maskeliya a true hidden gem in Sri Lanka’s hill country. It’s a place where you can walk through tea-scented gardens, watch the mist roll in over the hills, and feel completely at peace with the world around you.

A Pilgrimage of Faith

The peak’s most striking feature is the sacred footprint embedded in a rock at its summit. This footprint is believed to be a divine imprint, with different religions interpreting it differently. Buddhists see it as the footprint of Buddha, Hindus associate it with Lord Rama, while Muslims and Christians believe it to be the footprint of Adam after his expulsion from Eden. This shared belief has made Adam’s Peak a significant pilgrimage site for people of various faiths.

A Trek of Natural Beauty

The journey to the summit is a rewarding experience in itself. The ascent is a challenging yet exhilarating hike that takes you through lush forests, tea plantations, and breathtaking vistas. As you climb higher, the views become more panoramic, offering stunning panoramas of the surrounding countryside. The early morning hours are particularly magical, as the mist often creates a mystical atmosphere and the sunrise paints the sky in hues of pink, orange, and purple.

A Sacred Sunrise

Witnessing the sunrise from Adam’s Peak is a truly unforgettable experience. As the first rays of sunlight touch the mountain, the surrounding landscape is bathed in a golden glow. The clouds below seem to be at your feet, and the feeling of being on top of the world is overwhelming. The sight of the sacred footprint bathed in the morning light is a powerful and humbling experience for many.

A Symbol of Unity

Adam’s Peak serves as a symbol of unity and tolerance, as it attracts people from different faiths and backgrounds. The shared belief in the sacred footprint has fostered a sense of camaraderie and respect among pilgrims. The mountain’s spiritual significance and natural beauty make it a truly special place that is worth visiting.

Rose apples (jambu) are commonly found in Sri Lanka, which has a tropical climate. As mentioned earlier, Sri Lanka’s average temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). This warm and humid climate is ideal for the growth of rose apple trees.

Here’s a brief overview of Sri Lankan rose apples:

• Appearance: Rose apples are typically green or reddish-green in color, with a smooth, waxy skin.
• Taste: The fruit has a sweet-tart flavor with a hint of astringency, especially when unripe.
• Texture: The flesh is crisp and juicy, with a slightly grainy texture.
• Uses: Rose apples are often eaten fresh, but they can also be used in various dishes, such as salads, jams, and juices.

Benefits of Sri Lankan Rose Apples (Jambu)

Sri Lankan rose apples offer various health benefits, including:

• Rich in nutrients: They are a good source of vitamins A, C, and B complex, as well as minerals like potassium and iron.
• Antioxidant properties: The antioxidants in rose apples help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Digestive health: The fiber content in rose apples promotes healthy digestion and prevents constipation.
• Weight management: Rose apples are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great addition to a balanced diet.
• Hydration: The high water content of rose apples helps keep you hydrated.

Culinary Applications:

• Jam: Rose apples can be used to make a delicious and tangy jam.
• Juice: Blend rose apples with other fruits to create refreshing juices.
• Pickles: Rose apples can be pickled for a tangy and crunchy treat.
• Smoothies: Incorporate rose apples into smoothies for a healthy and refreshing drink.
• Desserts: Use rose apple slices as a topping for cakes, pies, or ice cream.

Enjoy delicious Rose apple while in Srilanka.

Atmosphere:
Nallathanniya offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere, particularly during the off-season. Surrounded by lush green hills, tea plantations, and rivers, the village has a peaceful, almost otherworldly charm. In the peak season, the village becomes lively with pilgrims, but in the off-season, it is quiet and nearly deserted, with only a handful of tourists staying in the local guesthouses.

Climate:
The village often experiences cool, misty mornings, frequent rain showers, and occasional heavy winds due to its mountainous location. The rainy weather adds to the mystical ambiance of the place, making it feel like a village perpetually nestled in the clouds.

Accessibility:
Nallathanniya is the most common base camp for those wishing to climb Adam’s Peak. It can be reached by road from cities like Kandy or Hatton, and the journey itself is a scenic experience, passing through tea estates and winding mountain roads.

Pilgrimage:
The highlight of Nallathanniya is its proximity to Adam’s Peak. The climb to the summit usually begins at night so that pilgrims can reach the top by dawn to witness the breathtaking sunrise. The Sri Pada pilgrimage season typically runs from December to May, during which the village is crowded with visitors. Outside of this season, the village becomes a quiet haven for nature lovers.

Waterfalls:
The village is also near several stunning waterfalls, including Mohini Falls, a small yet beautiful waterfall situated close to the road. Its misty waters are a peaceful sight, and the area is often quiet, with very few visitors.

Local Life:
Nallathanniya has a few small shops, guesthouses, and family-run restaurants. The locals are friendly and welcoming, often sharing stories about the spiritual significance of Adam’s Peak and their experiences with the waves of pilgrims. Despite being a small village, Nallathanniya’s rich culture and the breathtaking natural surroundings make it a place of quiet beauty and reflection.