Your Travel Experience with Finest Journeys
Ritigala Forest Monastery
Rithigala is a strict nature reserve and an ancient Buddhist monastery dating back to the 1st century BC. The road leading up to the ruins of the monastery is in a poor condition; however it is a bumpy but exciting drive through lush tropical forest, with monkeys swinging on the branches of tall trees, and also teeming with a large variety of birdlife and butterfly species. When you reach the ruins, which is about an hour’s walk from the entrance, through the forest you get a real sense of the peaceful, tranquil surroundings of the ancient monastery.
Discover the elegant simplicity of Sri Lankan village life on this 6 km, two-hour guided bicycle excursion. Keep an eye open for exotic birds and small wildlife along the route – expect surprises! Your destination is Veheragalla, a traditional farming village not far from the hotel. You’ll meet the inhabitants and be welcomed at the home of the village headman. On your way back through the countryside, savour the tranquil prospect from the local ‘meditation rock’, where Buddhist monks and villagers gather for spiritual practice on full moon nights.