Teardrop Adventure Trails - Nine Skies Demodara Village Loop 3.5 Km
near Gawarawela, Uva (Sri Lanka)
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Trail photos
Itinerary description
PLEASE HIKE RESPONSIBLY
Learn as much as possible about Sri Lanka and the Sri Lankan Tea Country – the different cultures and values. Learn some Tamil and Sinhala don’t be afraid to use them – a few words in the local language will make your interaction with the locals all the more enjoyable.
Learn what’s appropriate behavior and body language. If in doubt ask your guide or the hotel or accommodation staff. Dress respectfully with an awareness of local standards. Dont hike with your shirt off. Dress modestly at religious sites and check with us what swimwear is suitable for pools and rivers.
Always ask first before photographing or videoing people. Respect social distancing, especially in times like these. Avoid giving gifts or money to people you have just met. Never give money to children directly. Ask us if you would like to support a local initiative that helps children.
Supporting the community through a local school, clinic, or development project is more constructive. If you would like to donate to a local community project, we can help you channel the funds.
CLOTHING / WEATHER
Wear comfortable and light-weight clothes. The climate can change quickly so it is advisable to be prepared. Take an extra layer or a jumper as it can get quite chilly. The hotel can provide umbrellas if needed.
FOOTWEAR
The terrain can be unsteady sometimes, hence it is advisable to wear walking shoes if possible. The hotel can provide wellington boots and walking sticks.
CAMERA
The views are breathtaking, so it would be a good idea to take a camera to capture all the magnificent moments along the way.
FOOD / WATER
On longer walks, the hotel can provide refreshments if required. Kindly let us know in advance.
LEECHES
During or after rainy weather, you may encounter leeches, especially when walking ‘off road’. We have a few pairs of leech socks that you are welcome to borrow. If one attaches to you, try to resist the urge to pull it off; leech bites are not dangerous or painful, just annoying. If it hasn't attached to you yet, flick the leech away with your fingers.
Waypoints
Bamboo Tree
As you walk down from the bungalow you will see this huge bamboo tree to the right and the tea estate superintendent's bungalow to the left.
Demodara Train Station
You can carefully cross the train track and visit the station. Demodara station is most notable for its spiral rail line at this location, popularly known as the 'Demodara Loop'. The rail line passes under itself, going around the loop and emerging from a tunnel, which runs directly beneath the Demodara railway station. The rail loop is approximately 900 metres long and the tunnel is 320 m in length. It is considered the only loop in the world with a railway station situated exactly over a tunnel at spiral loop.
Tea Shop
Take the gradually descending concreted trail next to this tea shop and walk downhill.
Demodara Loop Tunnel
As you walk down hill you will see Demodara loop tunnel. We strongly advise you not to walk on the train track at this point.
Hindu Shrine
Demodara town's population is a mix of Sri Lankan Tamils and Sinhalese. You will see the village's Hindu shrine as you walk down passing the train track. It's colorful shrine with a small bell tower and statues. People in this village usually come and worship during morning and evening hours. If the shrine is open you can speak to the priest and go in to have a look at their rituals.
Village Houses
You will see a typical day of their life as you walk pass this busy village. Don't forget to greet these friendly villagers.
School and the view of Tea Factory
At this point you will see the village school, play ground and views of Demodara tea factory.
Demodara Town
Follow the pathways, leave this small village behind and get into the town. Turn left as you get into the main road.
Vintage Salon
You will see this vintage salon in the middle of Demodara town. You can speak to the barber and walk in to have a look.
Demodara Estate Tea Center
As you walk pass by this tea center, you will see a few steps made of stones to your right. Carefully cross the road and take that path.
Train Tracks
You will get to the train tracks. If a train is on the way you will hear it a long time before you see it. Carefully cross the train tracks and take the steep stairway.
Stairway Uphill
The next 50 meters are the most strenuous part of today’s walk as you climb steps amidst tea bushes.
Stairway Uphill
Take the small steep stairway to your right and get into the huge rock.
Viewpoint
You will finish your walk on this rock. The views from here are incredible.
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