Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve: A Hidden Gem of Nature and History
Discover the breathtaking natural beauty and ancient history of Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve, a hidden gem in the heart of Sri Lanka.
Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, the Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve offers a unique blend of rich biodiversity and fascinating historical ruins. This tranquil sanctuary is perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike, providing an immersive experience in one of the country's most significant natural landscapes.
A brief summary to Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve
- 4J8X+MX9, Palugaswewa, LK
- +94112421151
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the trails can be uneven and steep in some areas.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
- Visit early in the morning for cooler temperatures and to avoid crowds.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and historical ruins.
- Respect the wildlife by maintaining a safe distance and not feeding the animals.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Minneriya National Park, start by exiting the park through the main entrance. Head towards the town of Habarana on the A11 road. Continue on the A11 for about 10 kilometers until you reach the junction to the A6 road. Turn right onto the A6 road and drive for approximately 30 kilometers. Look for the signs pointing towards Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve. Follow the signs to Palugaswewa, where the reserve is located. The entire journey takes about 1 hour depending on traffic.
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Public Transportation
To reach Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve via public transportation, take a bus from Habarana to Palugaswewa. You may need to take a bus from Minneriya to Habarana first. Buses run frequently between these locations. Once you reach Palugaswewa, you will need to take a tuk-tuk or a local taxi to the entrance of Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve. Make sure to confirm the fare with the driver before you depart. The entire trip may take around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on connections and waiting times.
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Taxi
Hiring a taxi is a convenient option for reaching Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve from Minneriya National Park. You can book a taxi from your hotel or find one in the area. The taxi will take you directly to the reserve's entrance. The journey will take approximately 1 hour, and fares may vary, so it's best to negotiate the price beforehand or ask the driver to use the meter.
Discover more about Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ritigala Archaeological Site & Strict Natural Reserve
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Habarana Village by Cinnamon
14.1 km
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Cinnamon Lodge Habarana
14.2 km
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Habarana Roundabout
14.4 km
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Oak Ray Elephant Lake
15.9 km
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SigiriyaJungles
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Minneriya Safari Tours
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Avudangawa Lake Sigiriya Rock View Point
17.0 km
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Sigiriya Forest Edge By Marino Leisure
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Water Garden Sigiriya
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Thalkote Lake View Point Sigiriya
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Avukana Buddha Statue
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WAWE
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Kuwera Eco Lodge
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Buddhist Temple - Sigiriya
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ritigala
1.0 km
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Ritigala Andiyakanda Aranya Senasanaya | රිටිගල ආඬියකන්ද ආරණ්ය සේනාසනය
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Thanthirimale Temple
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Ceylonicus Adventure
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Thalakola Wewa
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Panweliyaya Wewa
9.3 km
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Habarana lake
13.6 km
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Habarana Lake Boat Tours
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Kalawewa National Park
13.8 km
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Habarana Elephant Safari
14.0 km
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Sri Bhodiraja Aranya Senasanaya - Hiriwadunna
14.0 km
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Wijerathna jeep Safari Habarana
14.1 km
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Gami Gedara - Village Home (Village Walk)
14.2 km
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Hiriwadunna Village and Lake Adventure
14.2 km
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Kalpa Jeep Safari & Village Safari
14.4 km
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Essential places to dine
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14.4 km
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Mom’s Kitchen Restaurant
14.5 km
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KELAYA Restaurant
15.1 km
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Aliya Resort & Spa | Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
16.1 km
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Restaurant
17.3 km
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Araliya Army Welfare Restaurant
20.1 km
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Sigiriya Strikers Bay
20.1 km
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Nature's nook restaurant
20.6 km
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Chill N Chill Restaurant
20.9 km
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Kaluwara Restaurant (Ishy Restaurent) SIGIRIYA
21.0 km
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Cinty Restaurant & guest house
21.0 km
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Nature view Restaurant
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Come & Taste Restaurant Sigiriya
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Sajee’s Place Cooking Class sigiriya
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Ranithu Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Nimala Wansha Stors
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Local crafts
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Nilini cafe
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DOLF TATTOO
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Espresso Italiano
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Sigiri Art Gallery
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Shop On
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Wood Carving Work Shop
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Jathika Namal Uyana
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Unique Fashion Collection
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Sadaru Palace
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City Fancy
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N O Wjesinghe DAress Point
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nandana Wine Store
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Liyanage Wine Stores (Gamini Wine Stores)
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Kurumba Bay. Weligama
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Machan - Habarana
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Visu Villa BAR & Restaurant
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The Lion Kingdom Restaurant & Bar
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Island Vibes Lounge
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Samarakoon Hotel Sigiriya
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La Dolce Vita
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Gala Addara Cafe Sigiriya
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Sigiriya Wew Thawulla Restaurant
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The Downtown Gastropub
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