The 17 km Drive to Ritigala – Your Journey Into Sri Lanka’s Ancient Wilderness
Your Ritigala adventure begins in a 4WD open jeep, leaving the main road behind and entering the wild, untouched heart of this mysterious mountain range. The 17-kilometre approach is an experience on its own—a rugged jungle track filled with bird calls, rustling leaves, and the occasional flash of wildlife moving between the trees.
As the jeep makes its gentle climb toward the mountains, the scenery shifts from dry forest to the cooler, mist-kissed vegetation that makes Ritigala unlike any other place in Sri Lanka.
Along the way, you might spot:
Sambar deer grazing quietly in the underbrush
Troops of purple-faced langur monkeys
Colourful endemic bird species
Still forest ponds reflecting the emerald canopy above
With the open-air jeep, you’ll feel the breeze, breathe in the earthy scent of the jungle, and enjoy sweeping views of ancient wilderness from every angle.
After about 45–60 minutes, you will reach the entrance of the Ritigala Archaeological Site, just before the stone pathway that leads into the forest monastery.
From this point, your journey continues gently on foot. A centuries-old stone pathway, built by ancient monks, guides you deeper into the tranquil heart of Ritigala.
The walk is peaceful, shaded, and cool—thanks to the mountain’s unique microclimate. As you make your way along the trail, you’ll encounter:
Ancient stone bridges
Meditation platforms hidden beneath towering trees
Ruins of monastic dwellings (padhanagharas)
Moss-covered stones that echo stories of long-forgotten eras
The trail is not strenuous, making it accessible for most visitors, while still offering a rich sense of exploration and mystery.
Why Visit Ritigala?
Ritigala stands apart from every other destination in Sri Lanka. It is a place where nature, history, spirituality, and legend come together to create an atmosphere both serene and mysterious.
You visit Ritigala because:
It is peaceful, uncrowded, and deeply spiritual
The forest is home to rare plants and a refreshing cool climate
The ancient monastery reveals the disciplined lives of forest monks
It feels untouched, sacred, and wonderfully mysterious