"Miss, did you come alone? Are you not afraid to travel alone? Don't you have any friends? You must be courageous, right?" These were the questions posed by nine different individuals, each with a unique tone and expression, as I shared my plans for a solo hike just 65km from my home. In june 2024, I embarked on an impromptu journey to explore the waterfalls inside Makandawa Rainforest in Kithulgala, guided only by Google and my adventurous spirit.

The adventure began smoothly; armed with information on bus schedules, I reached my destination without a hitch. However, as I enjoyed my breakfast at Kithulagla Rest House, I couldn't shake the feeling that curious eyes were fixed upon me. The unease persisted when I took a ferry boat (paruwa) to enter the forest, with even the ferryman expressing concern about my solo venture.

Upon purchasing a ticket, the forest ranger echoed the sentiments of others, questioning why I had chosen to come alone. Though I lacked a concrete explanation, internally, I pondered, "Why shouldn't I come alone?" Despite the advice to stick to the nearest waterfall and avoid venturing deep into the forest, I forged ahead.

Inside the forest reserve, a literal and metaphorical breath of fresh air awaited. I first explored Makulu Ella waterfall, where I encountered a family from Colombo. While they were friendly, there was an underlying concern for my safety. Assuring them of my seasoned traveler status, I continued on my own, delving deeper into the forest, from the bird-watching hut to the hidden Lenthrii Ella waterfall.

Amidst giant trees and the soothing sound of water, I found solace. Alone, yet completely comfortable, I reveled in the beauty of untouched nature. As the day progressed, and darkness loomed even at 12:30 pm, I decided to hike back. Both the forest ranger and the ferryman greeted me with relief, a sudden pride gleaming in their eyes.

Returning to the bus stop, I enjoyed a cup of plain tea with helapa, (sri lankan vegan delicacy). The shopkeeper gasped when she learned of my forest adventure. Taking the bus back home, I reflected on my day. Why share this seemingly ordinary adventure in such detail? Because it's not about the grandiosity; it's about normalizing the solo female hike.

In a society like Sri Lanka, where questions about solo female travel are often accompanied by skepticism, it's crucial to showcase that such adventures are not extraordinary feats but rather experiences to be embraced and normalized. My female friends in western society, would be talking about their plans to Antartica or to hike tall mountains, while I have felt like a coward, not daring to explore my own country alone. I would like to challenge stereotypes and taboos surrounding solo female exploration. Through my journey, I hope to inspire my fellow Sri Lankan women to venture into the unknown, unapologetically and fearlessly. Solo travel for girls should not be a rarity; it is no longer should be an act of heroism, it should be celebrated only as a testament to strength, independence, and the sheer joy of embracing the world on one's own terms. 

Photo :  (Lenthiri Ella, Makandawa Forest reserve, Kithulgala, 2024)