Steeped in a web of legends from Sri Lanka’s vibrant past, Ritigala is one of those picturesque off the beaten track sites. If you’re staying in one the eco-friendly hotels in Sigiriya on your sojourn to north central Sri Lanka, like Cinnamon Lodge Habarana, a drive to this secluded spot will be worth your while.
The Ritigala mountaintop beckons visitors with its distinctive cool climate and lush vegetation at odds with the rest of the flat and dry landscape. However, it is the uncommonly serene atmosphere that retains the curiosity and makes one wants to explore.
Travellers can start the ascent towards the ruins of the main monastery with a visit to the massive bathing pool intricately lined with stone steps. On the way to the summit lies numerous natural caves painstakingly turned into meditation ‘Kutis’ by laypeople and donated to monks of long ago. The stone path that leads to the ruinous monastic complex is shaded by a canopy of low-hanging branches that filters sunshine creating a soothing atmosphere. The stone path bears the hallmarks of exquisite craftsmanship with square-cut stones laid out in proportionate patterns. The wooded ruins of the ancient monastic complex may have been used as a hospital facility as well, given the remnants of stone oil-baths alongside the walking meditation paths.
According to legend, Ritigala was the battleground where legendary King Pandukabhaya killed all his uncles but one and won the throne. Another legend relates the tale of ‘Hanuman’ who dropped a piece of the Himalayan plateau on top of Ritigala, creating the lush and cool climate of the summit.
The pronounced peaceful vibes and the ruins at the summit relate the tale of King Sena who built a monastery in the 9th century and donated it to a group of contemplative monks set on strict meditation practices and a frugal lifestyle.
Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+
