The Jeep Club of Sri Lanka (JCSL) recently embarked on its much-anticipated annual expedition, ‘Odyssey Through the Wild,’ taking 18 Jeep enthusiasts and their families deep into some of Sri Lanka’s less patronised national parks.
Spanning four days and over 1,000 kms, this adventure celebrated the Jeep spirit—embracing nature, wildlife, and camaraderie while always ensuring responsible exploration and adherence to park regulations. The convoy, featuring Jeep Wranglers, Grand Cherokees, and Cherokees, began its journey at the DIMO Kurunegala Branch, where members gathered for a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast and briefing before setting off.
As JCSL members ventured through Minneriya, Gal Oya, and Kumana National Parks over the 4 days, they encountered the raw beauty of Sri Lanka’s wilderness, including elusive leopards, majestic bears, elephants, and a diverse array of bird species. Their journey was enriched by collaboration with the DIMO Nature Club, whose insightful knowledge deepened participants’ understanding of Sri Lanka’s ecosystems and the importance of conservation during the journey.
Prashan Wijayanayake, President of JCSL, stated, “JCSL is about responsible exploration, not just adventure. Every expedition strengthens our resolve to preserve Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and cultivates a deeper appreciation of our biodiversity.”
Gahanath Pandithage, Group Managing Director/CEO of DIMO, added, “As the general distributor for Jeep in Sri Lanka, DIMO takes pride in fostering a community that values responsibility and adventure. The Jeep Club’s annual expedition exemplifies this philosophy by combining conservation with exploration. Our support aligns with DIMO’s commitment to sustainable mobility and environmental responsibility.”
On day one, the convoy passed the Moragahakanda Reservoir en route to Giritale Hotel for lunch before exploring the Minneriya National Park, renowned for its large elephant herds. Later, a vibrant cocktail event provided the perfect setting for members to unwind and deepen their bonds in a warm and lively atmosphere.
Day two took the group to the lesser-travelled yet breathtaking Gal Oya National Park, where they experienced the beauty of wildlife thriving undisturbed in their natural habitat. The journey, highlighted by the spectacular views of Senanayake Samudraya, concluded at the Blue Wave Hotel in Arugam Bay, where participants reflected on the day’s experiences.
On the third day, the expedition reached Kumana National Park, home to leopards, bears, and diverse birdlife, showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity beyond elephants. The day ended with a grand Gala Dinner at the Blue Wave Hotel, unwinding after three eventful days of exploration whilst celebrating the club’s shared passion for adventure.
The final day saw members and their families returning to their destinations leisurely, carrying unforgettable memories of their journey and further strengthening bonds over the years. Dilan Fernando, a JCSL member, said, “This was more than just a road trip; it was a transformative experience. The natural beauty, shared enthusiasm, and flawless organization made it truly remarkable.”
The Jeep Club of Sri Lanka embodies the brand’s four pillars—Freedom, Adventure, Authenticity, and Passion. Its annual expedition unites a community deeply connected to the outdoors.
The commitment and expertise of the DIMO Workshop team have played a pivotal role in maintaining the comfort and safety of the JCSL members throughout the journey by being with them right through the expedition.
