Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve: A Journey into Nature and History
Explore the enchanting Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve, where nature meets history in a stunning national park filled with ancient ruins and diverse wildlife.
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers unparalleled hiking experiences, ancient ruins, and diverse wildlife. This national park is a paradise for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike, providing a unique glimpse into Sri Lanka's past amidst stunning natural landscapes.
A brief summary to Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve
- 4J8X+MX9, Palugaswewa, LK
- +94112421151
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as trails can be steep and challenging.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy cooler temperatures while hiking.
- Don't forget your camera! The views from the top are breathtaking and make for great photos.
- Respect the wildlife; maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding animals.
- Take time to explore the ancient ruins and read about their historical significance.
Getting There
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Car
From Yala National Park, head northwest towards Tissamaharama. Take the A2 road and drive for about 15 km until you reach the junction for Palugaswewa. Turn left onto the road leading to Palugaswewa. Continue driving for approximately 20 km, following signs for Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve. Keep an eye out for the entrance, which is marked and should be on your right.
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Public Transportation
From Yala National Park, take a bus or a shared taxi to Tissamaharama. Buses leave frequently from the main bus stand. Upon reaching Tissamaharama, catch a bus heading towards Palugaswewa. Inform the driver that you want to go to Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve. The bus ride will take about 1 hour. Once you arrive at Palugaswewa, you may need to hire a tuk-tuk or taxi to cover the remaining distance to the entrance of the reserve, which is approximately 5 km away.
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Combination (Car and Walking)
If you have access to a car, drive from Yala National Park to Palugaswewa. Once you reach the area, park your vehicle at the designated parking area near the entrance of Ritigala Strict Natural Reserve. From there, you will need to walk approximately 1 km to the main area of interest within the reserve. Be prepared for uneven terrain, so wear comfortable walking shoes.
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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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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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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Kalawewa National Park
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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)
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Hiriwadunna Village and Lake Adventure
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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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Araliya Army Welfare Restaurant
20.1 km
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Sigiriya Strikers Bay
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Nature's nook restaurant
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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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Ranithu Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Sigiri Art Gallery
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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 Downtown Gastropub
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