Pitawala Pathana

This grassland is located within the Knuckles Mountain Range and is situated along the Rattota- Illukkumbura road; in close proximity to Riverstone. It spreads out over an expanse of about 10 hectares of a gently sloping slab of rock. It is a biodiversity hotspot. A variety of plants and animals endemic to our country can be found along with scattered and isolated shrubs and trees. There is a rare species of frog by the name of ‘Kirtisinghe’s Rock Frog’ which is a semi-aquatic frog that is found only in the Knuckles Mountain Range. It is generally found by mountain streams with fast flowing water, on wet rocks and under boulders to name a few places. The frog has been listed as critically endangered. The air here is fresh, chilly and refreshing with its cold climate and thick fog. Hence it is one of the known places for hiking and camping in the country. The walk to Pitawala Pathana is an easy task. This grassland holds a considerable ecological value and as claimed by the international Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), it is an unusual sort of grassland that has developed and adapted according to a particular ecological condition. The plants growing here have adapted through insects due to the fact that the soil is not very nutritious. The Pitawala Pathana ends in a steep cliff which is similar to the world renowned World’s End in Horton Plains. The serene and peaceful environment and surroundings elevates this place in a nature lovers mind and allows them to connect with Pitawala Patana on a deeper level.