Stretching across the spine of the Kondanagala mountain range in the Central Highlands, The Chariot Path (known locally as Ratha Gala or Ratha Mawatha) is one of the most enigmatic geographical landmarks in Sri Lanka. It consists of a broad, distinct strip of barren montane grassland where large trees refuse to take root, despite being surrounded on all flanks by dense sub-tropical cloud forest and dwarf mountain bamboo.
The Legend of the Aerial Chariot
According to folk chronicles preserved in the hill country, this grassy mountain highway marks the flight trajectory along which King Ravana steered his aerial chariot, the Pushpaka Vimana or Dandu Monara, while transporting Princess Seetha from his western fortresses toward the highland retreat of Ashoka Vatika in Nuwara Eliya.
Villagers recount that the intense terrestrial energy and weight of the ancient craft scorched the mountaintop corridor, leaving a permanent track across the granite ridge where only short tussock grasses and rare montane herbs can sprout.
The Seetha Tear Pond (Seetha Pokuna)
At the summit of the ridge lies a small, perennial freshwater tarn known as Seetha Tear Pond (Seetha Pokuna). Folklore records that as the captive princess gazed down at the sheer isolation of the mountain wilderness, she wept in anguish. A depression in the bedrock gathered her tears, giving birth to this high-altitude spring.
Remarkably, this pool never dries up even during severe highland dry spells, and during blooming seasons it is blanketed by delicate miniature endemic red water lilies (Nymphaea species), which locals revere as living symbols of sorrow and devotion.
Trekker & Field Guide Essentials
- Trailhead: Starts from the upper divisions of the Frotoft Tea Estate near Pussellawa (accessible via Gampola).
- Trek Distance: Roughly 4 to 5 kilometers uphill each way (approx. 2 to 3 hours steady climbing).
- Terrain: Rocky estate paths transitioning into steep montane forest trails with wet roots and misty ridges. Leeches are common during damp mornings.
- Weather Warning: The mountain ridge is prone to sudden dense fog and temperature drops below 10°C in the afternoon. Early morning departures are critical.
Flora and Montane Botany
Ecologists note that the plateau exhibits pygmy forest ecology and montane savanna characteristics, shaped by high wind shear, shallow soil over bedrock, and periodic frost. For both outdoor trekkers and cultural mythologists, the sweeping panoramic vista overlooking Kothmale Valley and Pidurutalagala makes this one of the most memorable treks in the island.