Rock climbing is a great way to test the limits of your strength. It requires a lot of physical, and mental strength, and will also be beneficial in both of those sectors. You will need the power to ascend, as well as the power to not give up.
Although it’s not very popular in the country, Sri Lanka is a good place for rock climbing, as it has a lot of rock formations around the country varying in levels of difficulty. There’s going to be something for you whether you’re a beginner or an expert.
Anything you need to know
As this is quite the extreme sport you would need to be moderately fit to do it. You will also have to be geared up in some well fitted shoes, gloves, and have harnesses, helmets, ropes, chalk powder, and a pouch as well. If you don’t have any of these; you may be able to rent them, or they may be provided for you if you are going through a hotel or any other company.
This activity can be dangerous, which is why it is suggested that you take a well trained guide along with you in order to ensure your safety. For the same reason, it is also better if you don’t do this alone, but with a group instead.
It’s best to go early in the morning so that you can avoid the harsh sun during the day, and it would also be safer to avoid going during the rainy seasons.
There are 2 types of rock climbing; aid climbing, and free climbing. The first is done with devices that are made purely to make sure that you get up and down the rocks safely, and the latter involves less devices, and requires a lot more of your own physical and mental effort.
Where to go
There aren’t many places where this activity is available, but given below are a few areas where rock climbing is known to be done.
Bambarakanda falls is situated in the Badulla district, and is the highest waterfall in the island. This is a great spot for both the experienced and inexperienced, as there is 1 professional path that is around 100 m high, and then 2 beginners paths for those who can’t conquer the other. The best time to do this would be between March and May, as the water flow is at its best, and also safe. The waters would either be too rough or too dry at any other time. Once you get to the top, you will be rewarded with a great view of the Eastern plains. After you descend, you can rest close to the refreshingly cool sprays of the falls.
The Kodigahakanda Sanctuary is in the district of Kalutara, and has 8 different routes for rock climbing. Each route is of a varying level of difficulty; ranging from 5C to 7B. It takes around 1 ½ hours to complete, and is one of the popular climbs done in the island due to its natural formation that makes it quite easy to get a grip on, and ascend.
Even though this activity can be extremely hard, but results in an incredible view. It’s beneficial healthwise, and it shows you just how much you can conquer; making it an overall empowering experience.
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