by Rochelle Palipane Gunaratne
Tucked away in the cool, misty climes of Hewaheta lies a hidden gem for nature lovers — Eastland. A cosy, secluded retreat surrounded by breathtaking vistas, majestic sunrises, pristine streams, and mysterious cave hideouts. The weather is ever-changing, with fog rolling in and out like a living veil, wrapping the hills in an ethereal silence. The soft hum of the breeze through the pine trees adds to the serenity, broken only by the occasional rustle of wildlife.
Our little adventure began when my children, their friends, and I set off to a friend’s bungalow nestled in this tranquil setting. The property only accommodates a limited number of guests, ensuring privacy and personalised attention. Upon arrival, we parked our vehicles at an old, weathered factory and transferred into three-wheelers. The journey was an adventure in itself — the path was rugged, marked by jagged rocks, deep potholes, and thick mud. Yet, the drivers handled the route with impressive skill, navigating like seasoned off-roaders.
Evenings were filled with laughter, good food, and uninterrupted sleep. The next morning greeted us with a resplendent sunrise, casting a kaleidoscope of colours across the sky. After breakfast, we ventured into a nearby paddy field and were treated to a rustic feast in a tiny wattle-and-daub hut. Tea brewed over a firewood stove and traditional sweetmeats made the experience even more special.
We then drove to Galaha for lunch with friends, enjoying a scenic one-hour journey that felt like we had stepped into the English countryside. As dusk approached, we decided to hike back to the bungalow, pausing once more to bathe in a natural stream crowned by a gentle waterfall. Darkness fell swiftly, but with the help of two phone torches and our ever-faithful guide — who could have found his way blindfolded — we continued. Singing loudly to ward off any lurking wildlife, our group of young adults and middle-agers trudged forward with energy and good cheer.
At last, the warm glow of the bungalow lights appeared in the distance — a comforting sight for our weary but exhilarated group. After hot baths and a hearty meal, we wrapped ourselves in blankets and headed to a deck nearby. Braving the chilly night air, we lay under the stars, the vastness of the sky stretched out above us. The Milky Way shimmered clearly against the darkened backdrop, its constellations sparkling like diamonds. Time stood still as we tried to name the patterns above, capturing photos and memories alike.
The following morning, the clouds danced across the sky while the sun gently kissed the mountain tops — a quiet farewell to a place that had embraced us with wonder and peace. We left Eastland with hearts full and minds refreshed, carrying with us the echoes of silence, laughter, and the beauty of a retreat that felt like a world apart.
