The mysterious heritage of nature, Waulpane Limestone cave- The largest and the oldest limestone cave in Sri Lanka.

Is it just a coincidence or do certain laws of nature lie behind this ancient mystical cave at Wavulpane, near the Buluthota hills in the Rakwana mountain range? It is the only geological structure that has an interior cascade (Su-terrainerian waterfall) in the world. That mysterious discovery adds more value to the Waulpane limestone cave. The tracking of Wuvulpane will be an unforgettable adventurous memory to anyone who loves to travel and explore nature.

 

 

 

Photo courtesy Sathya Danusekara

 

 

Around 160km from the capital city, lies this beautiful limestone cave. This enigmatic yet magnificent cavern is situated in a beautiful environment around 160 species of flora. When entering this mysterious cave, it is always surrounded by darkness. The burble of water will always be a part of this journey into the cave. 

 

 

 

Photo courtesy Chalani Madara

 

 

The waterfall inside the cave is the only waterfall that could be found inside a cave in Sri Lanka. This will never be an easy journey. The path to this wonderful waterfall is slippery and hazardous. Fossils dated back to 500 million years are bearing witness for its long history.  Large stalactites hanging from the top make the cavern look like a felicitous mansion engraved by nature. These natural rock structures enhance the interior aesthetic of this splendid cave. The marble wall which is naturally formed in the cave still shines magically. Apart from the main cave, twelve more grottos are located inside the limestone rock. Above the right side of the exit, another mysterious cave with flutter sounds of bats will make you frightened for a while. This is a home of more than millions of bats. In this bats’ colony, seven species of bats can be identified. Not only bats, but this cave also gives shelter to thousands of cockroaches and pests. Albini cockroaches on the walls around the cave make this place more mystic. Top of the limestone rock, a yellowish spring is streaming down. In ancient times, people believed that bathing the amber water of the yellowish spring would heal all the skin diseases.

Waulpane cave is a threat to anyone’s eyes as this natural heritage has its own charisma around it. It is hidden from the world but by today, many eyes are searching the beauty of it. Come and enjoy the wonder of nature and leave only footprints behind as Waulpane is actually a world heritage that should be treated with love and care.

 

Photo courtesy Kaweesha Gamage 

 

 

Photo courtesy Chalani Madara