NAMAL UYANA NATURE TRAIL

The oldest garden in the country, the Na mal Uyana located near Dambulla has the largest Rose Quartz mountain in South Asia consists of 972 hectares. It is said to have been declared a Human Sanctuary by King Dappula in the 10th century AD, as inscribed at the entrance to the forest. The forest also offers a fascinating nature trails through the deep Naa Tree jungle. It has more than 100 species of tropical plants including herbal plants; about 20 bird species and a number of mammals including elephants, leopards, monkeys and deer also dwell in the park and the jungles bordering it. Na mal Uyana is oriented with a variety of important values such as, historical; geographical; artistic and blessed with abundant natural resources.

In addition to the unique biodiversity of the forest, it is also geologically significant due to the Rose Quartz mountain range, believed to be over 500 million years old. Quartz deposits in the shades of rose, violet and white can be found here.

Na mal Uyana had been a shelter for Buddhist monks during the period of King Devanamplyatissa in the 3rd Century BC. Archaeological researches show that, during certain periods of history, Na mal Uyana had also been used as a centre of meditation by Buddhist monks. Ruins of an ancient Dagoba, huge stone pillars, a Buddha statue and a moonstone confirm had been a place of religious worship and meditation. This unique natural treasure was brought to the attention of the world about 22 years ago, by an environmentalist Buddhist monk named Venerable Wanawasi RahulaThero.

According to legend, Emperor Shah Jahan had used pink quartz from this mountain for his masterpiece, the Taj Mahal.

The trail to reach the rose quartz mountain is serene and calm, but quiet challenging. Direct sunlight barely hits the paths, thanks to the thick canopy of trees that overshadow a very well maintained walk-way and there are vines, insects, and mammals sneaking around. If you're an outdoorsy person, keep an eye out for wildlife: there are some stunning pigeons and insects. The pathway eventually tapers out and you're left at the foot of a dusty mountain. It looks barren, with nothing but rock, but don't be deceived. The rocks are all quartz.

If you think it's going to be hard climbing that, don't worry, really. The surface isn't slippery and provides a really firm grip, especially if your footwear has rubber soles. The climb (actually more of an upward walk, to be honest) is not exhausting, and it won't take you more than half an hour to ascend any of the peaks.

The view from the top though, is quite unexpected. You're greeted with miles of green, with a large lake dotting the centre. With gusts of wind strong enough to topple you off the peak, it's an exhilarating experience. At an overall view the top portion appears like misty clouded and with its pink color mixed with the white mist, it will give you a stunning look which differentiates this mountain from others. And if you go deeper to explore the diversities this range of mountains are having it will be an amazing experience.

Just a head's up, this is also a popular Buddhist site. There's a massive Buddha statue at the top of one of the peaks, and pilgrims start pouring in towards late morning/ noon onwards. If you want to be the first there and miss the crowds, go early!