Pidurangala and Ritigala

Pidurangala

Avoid the crowds of tourists and go on this alternative hiking and national park visit. Hike the Pidurangala Rock for the amazing views towards the Sigiriya Rock.

Combine this hike with a visit to Kaudulla or Minneriya National Park or Sigiriya's Lion Rock or Dambulla's cave temple.

Ritigala

North of Habarana, the mysterious and seldon visited remains of the forest monestery of Ritigala lie scattered around the lower flanks of the striking Ritigala mountain.

Ritigala Sanctuary an ancient retreat of Buddhist hermits, where the ruins of a first-century BC monastery lie hidden in the forest. Its height and the local weather patterns create a microclimate difference from that of the surrounding plains, and Ritigala is home to a variety of rare species of plant and animal. Its biodiversity is now strictly protected.

On our half-day Ritigala excursion, you will climb through the orchid-festooned forest to take tea among the remains of ancient stone bathing-pools, bridges and courtyards while monkeys chatter at you from the treetops and forest birds flash their brilliant plumage.

Pidurangala

Time of departure – Best time to visit at 4 pm to see the sunset or 6 am to see the sunrise
Duration – 2 Hours hiking time and 1 hour relaxing time on the rock depending on the guest.

What to bring/wear – comfortable, cool clothes which are suitable for hiking and a temple visit, a sunhat, gym shoes, your camera.