Banner image of Sinharaja rainforest from the Ecolodge at sunset taken by the author (Maya Aluwihare)
The entire purpose of ‘Week Without Walls’ is to help grow and develop OSC students in a safe environment while exploring the wonders and vast variety of nature and environments in our home country Sri Lanka. This 5 day trip for me has always been a great way to develope and socialize away from my comfort zone (home). This was my last WWW as a DP1 student, and I participated in the Down South excursion. The aim of this ‘micro trip’ was to uncover and see the ecosystems in the South of Sri Lanka, while observing the differences between the dry and wet zones. We first lodged in Kahandamodara and then travelled to Sinharaja Rainforest.
The experience was really great, I enjoyed our Safari In Bundala, and observing all the different birds and reptiles in the dry zone was interesting. On Safaris that I usually go on, I would always be more focused on finding the larger animals. However while on this Safari, I learned that uncovering the smaller things, such as the tiny birds was equally as rewarding and special. Focusing and appreciating the smaller things in life is something I can carry out of this trip to strengthen my mindset when it comes to life and work and help me grow when tackling assignments and relationships. While in the dry zone, we also experienced a Green Turtle laying its eggs. Through our sleep deprivation and tired legs we walked across the Rakawa beach to watch the turtle go through the process of protecting its freshly laid eggs from the prey that threatened them. What amazed me was how even turtles have this sense of motherly instinct. We as a group remained well aware to not intrude and go into the turtles’ space. We all made ethical choices while keeping our distance and letting nature take its course without any disruption from our end.
However, my favorite experience was our time in the wet zone, in Sinharaja. ‘The Rainforest Ecolodge’ was a unique hotel, with rooms made out of old containers. The entire environment was so much more dense and the biodiversity was more too. The wet, humid, cold weather was what I enjoyed the most. Being able to get cozy and wear jumpers was the best. The most rewarding and astonishing adventure during this trip was our 3hr hike on the last full day in the Ecolodge. I loved going through the dark, luscious rainforest that was filled with moss that crept up the tall trees. The hike was strenuous at times only because of the overgrown roots and slippery rocks which was a slight challenge at times. Nevertheless, the end destination of our hike – the waterfall was amazing, taking a cold swim in the running, crystal clear water was so rewarding. I even overcame my slight fear of leeches.
Overall, I think I really utilised and experienced everything on this trip to its fullest. Taking advantage of the contrasting environments and soaking up all the new species I saw. I remained committed to trying everything and didn’t shy away from taking part in the activities that were a little uncomfortable. In conclusion, this trip fulfilled its goal and took me away from my comfort zone while helping me make new friends and try new things.
TRIP MAP (GOOGLE MY MAP)
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