Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve: A Journey Through Nature and History
Explore the serene Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve, where ancient history meets breathtaking natural beauty in the heart of Sri Lanka.
Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve, a national park located in Sri Lanka, offers an immersive experience for tourists seeking both natural beauty and historical significance. This serene reserve is known for its lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and ancient ruins that date back to the 1st century BC, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views, all while discovering the remnants of an ancient monastery that once thrived in harmony with nature.
A brief summary to Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve
- 4J8X+MX9, Palugaswewa, LK
- +94112421151
- Visit website
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trails can be steep and rocky.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and enjoy birdwatching.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the reserve.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enrich your understanding of the historical significance.
- Don't forget your camera; the views and wildlife are breathtaking!
Getting There
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Car
From your location in Wilpattu National Park, head south on the A12 road towards Puttalam. After approximately 20 km, look for the sign for Palugaswewa. Turn onto the road leading to Palugaswewa and continue for about 10 km. Follow the signs to Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve. There may be an entrance fee, so be prepared with cash or local currency.
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Public Transportation
From Wilpattu National Park, you can take a bus to Puttalam from the nearest bus station. The bus ride will take about 30-45 minutes. Once in Puttalam, you will need to catch a local bus heading towards Palugaswewa. The local bus may take around 1 hour. Make sure to ask the conductor to drop you off at the nearest stop to Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve. Be aware that you may need to walk a bit from the bus stop to the entrance.
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Taxi or Ride-Sharing
If you prefer more comfort, you can hire a taxi from your location in Wilpattu National Park to Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve. This option is more expensive but will take you directly to the entrance without the hassle of public transport. Agree on the fare beforehand, and expect to pay around 3000-5000 LKR depending on your negotiation skills and the distance.
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
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Cinnamon Lodge Habarana
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Habarana Roundabout
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Oak Ray Elephant Lake
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SigiriyaJungles
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Minneriya Safari Tours
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Avudangawa Lake Sigiriya Rock View Point
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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
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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
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Habarana lake
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Habarana Lake Boat Tours
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Habarana Elephant Safari
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Sri Bhodiraja Aranya Senasanaya - Hiriwadunna
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Wijerathna jeep Safari Habarana
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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
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Essential places to dine
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KELAYA Restaurant
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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
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Kaluwara Restaurant (Ishy Restaurent) SIGIRIYA
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Cinty Restaurant & guest house
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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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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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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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Machan - Habarana
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Visu Villa BAR & Restaurant
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The Lion Kingdom Restaurant & Bar
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The Downtown Gastropub
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