A remote village located in Knuckles Mountain Range of Sri Lanka ‘ Meemure ‘ – By Malsha – eLanka
Meemure is a remote village located in the Knuckles Mountain Range of Sri Lanka. It is known for its natural beauty, traditional lifestyle, and cultural heritage. Meemure is situated in the Kandy District, approximately 180 kilometers away from Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka.
Due to its isolated location, Meemure has retained its traditional way of life, and it provides a glimpse into the rural and indigenous lifestyle of Sri Lanka. The village is surrounded by lush green mountains, waterfalls, rivers, and forests, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
To reach Meemure, visitors usually have to travel through rough terrain, which adds to the adventurous nature of the journey. The village is accessible by a four-wheel-drive vehicle or by trekking through the scenic landscapes. It’s important to note that the road conditions can be challenging, especially during the rainy season.
The inhabitants of Meemure are mainly engaged in agriculture, cultivating crops such as rice, vegetables, and spices. They also practice traditional crafts and are known for their expertise in making handicrafts using natural materials. The villagers live in simple homes and lead a self-sufficient lifestyle, relying on the natural resources around them.
Meemure offers a variety of activities for visitors. Trekking and hiking are popular pursuits, as the area is blessed with numerous trails that take you through picturesque landscapes, including waterfalls, tea estates, and dense forests. The village is also a starting point for exploring the Knuckles Conservation Forest, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Another highlight of Meemure is its cultural festivals and rituals. The villagers celebrate traditional events such as the “Perahera,” a religious procession with drummers, dancers, and decorated elephants. Visitors can witness these festivities and experience the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Accommodation options in Meemure are limited, with a few guesthouses and eco-lodges available for overnight stays. It’s advisable to make prior arrangements and carry essential supplies since the village has limited facilities and services.
Overall, Meemure offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, experience rural Sri Lankan life, and discover the rich cultural traditions of the region.
Best Places to Visit in Meemure
When visiting Meemure, there are several notable places you can explore to make the most of your experience. Here are some of the best places to visit in and around Meemure:
- Knuckles Conservation Forest: Meemure serves as a gateway to the breathtaking Knuckles Mountain Range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the diverse flora and fauna, go trekking, and enjoy the stunning panoramic views of mist-covered mountains and cascading waterfalls.
- Mini World’s End: This scenic viewpoint offers a mesmerizing view of the surrounding valleys and mountains. It’s a great spot to witness the sunrise or sunset and take in the serene beauty of the landscape.
- Lakegala Mountain: Lakegala is a prominent mountain peak located near Meemure. It is a challenging yet rewarding trekking destination, offering stunning views from the summit. The hike to Lakegala requires experience and proper guidance, so it’s advisable to go with a local guide.
- Hulu Ganga Waterfall: This picturesque waterfall is located near Meemure and offers a refreshing retreat. You can take a dip in the cool waters or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
- Riverston: Riverston is a nearby area known for its scenic beauty and breathtaking viewpoints. Visit the Pitawala Pathana, a vast plain with panoramic views, or hike to the Sera Ella waterfall for a refreshing experience.
- Traditional Village Experience: Immerse yourself in the local culture by spending time in the Meemure village itself. Interact with the friendly villagers, learn about their traditional way of life, and witness their customs and rituals.
- Bathalegala: Located close to Meemure, Bathalegala is a rocky outcrop that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. It’s a popular spot for hiking and nature enthusiasts.
- Dothalugala Nature Reserve: Explore this nature reserve, located in the vicinity of Meemure, to discover diverse wildlife and vegetation. You can enjoy bird watching, nature walks, and wildlife spotting in this pristine environment.
Remember to plan your visit well in advance, arrange for necessary permits and guides for certain hikes, and be prepared for the rugged terrain and limited facilities in the area.
Meemure is known for its unique specialties that highlight the village’s traditional lifestyle, natural surroundings, and cultural heritage. Here are some of the specialties of Meemure:
- Traditional Crafts: Meemure is famous for its traditional craftsmanship. The villagers are skilled in making handicrafts using natural materials such as bamboo, rattan, and clay. You can find a variety of handmade products like baskets, mats, utensils, and pottery, showcasing the village’s traditional artistry.
- Organic Agriculture: The people of Meemure practice organic agriculture, cultivating crops such as rice, vegetables, fruits, and spices without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides. The agricultural practices in Meemure emphasize sustainability and harmony with nature, resulting in fresh and flavorful produce.
- Herbal Medicine: Meemure is home to a rich diversity of medicinal plants and herbs. The villagers have deep knowledge of traditional herbal medicine and use various plants for healing purposes. You can learn about the medicinal properties of different plants and herbs from the locals and even try traditional remedies.
- Cultural Festivals: Meemure celebrates traditional cultural festivals and rituals throughout the year. The most significant event is the “Perahera,” a grand procession featuring drummers, dancers, and beautifully adorned elephants. The festivals provide a glimpse into the village’s cultural heritage, allowing visitors to experience traditional music, dance, and religious customs.
- Rural Lifestyle: Meemure offers a chance to experience a genuine rural lifestyle. The villagers live in simple homes and lead a self-sufficient life, relying on agriculture and natural resources. Visitors can observe and participate in daily activities like farming, cooking traditional meals, and engaging in community life, providing a unique insight into rural Sri Lankan culture.
- Scenic Natural Beauty: Meemure is blessed with stunning natural landscapes. From mist-covered mountains and dense forests to cascading waterfalls and serene rivers, the village offers breathtaking views at every turn. The untouched beauty of Meemure’s surroundings provides opportunities for trekking, hiking, wildlife spotting, and simply enjoying the tranquility of nature.
- Knuckles Conservation Forest: Meemure serves as a gateway to the Knuckles Conservation Forest, which is renowned for its biodiversity. The forest is home to numerous species of flora and fauna, including endemic and endangered ones. Exploring this pristine wilderness is a remarkable experience for nature enthusiasts and conservationists.
Visiting Meemure allows you to immerse yourself in a world where traditional customs, sustainable practices, and natural beauty blend harmoniously, offering a unique and enriching experience.
Meemure is a remote village located in the central part of Sri Lanka, specifically in the Kandy District. It is nestled in the picturesque Knuckles Mountain Range, which is part of the Hill Country region of the country. Here are some details about the geography of Meemure:
- Location: Meemure is situated approximately 180 kilometers east of Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. It is located at an elevation of around 550 meters (1,800 feet) above sea level.
- Mountain Range: Meemure is surrounded by the Knuckles Mountain Range, also known as the Knuckles Conservation Forest or Knuckles Massif. This mountainous area is named after its peaks, which resemble the knuckles of a clenched fist. The range spans across an area of about 155 square kilometers (60 square miles) and is characterized by rugged terrain, deep valleys, and diverse ecosystems.
- Rivers and Waterfalls: Meemure is blessed with several rivers and waterfalls that enhance its natural beauty. The Hulu Ganga and Kalu Ganga are two prominent rivers that flow through the village, providing water for agriculture and adding to the scenic charm. Additionally, there are numerous waterfalls in the area, including the famous Hulu Ganga Waterfall, which attracts visitors with its cascading beauty.
- Forests and Biodiversity: Meemure is surrounded by lush forests and diverse vegetation. The village serves as a gateway to the Knuckles Conservation Forest, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The forest is known for its rich biodiversity, including a wide variety of endemic plant and animal species. It is also an important watershed area, contributing to the water supply of several rivers in the region.
- Climate: Meemure experiences a moderate climate, influenced by its elevation and the surrounding mountains. The area enjoys cooler temperatures compared to the lowlands, with average annual temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). The region receives a significant amount of rainfall, particularly during the monsoon seasons.
The geography of Meemure is characterized by its mountainous landscape, verdant forests, pristine rivers, and waterfalls. This natural setting makes it a haven for nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and those seeking to explore the beauty of rural Sri Lanka.
