Legend has it that Rumassala, the hill overlooking Unawatuna bay and the Galle harbour is really a piece of a mountain from the Himalayas that fell off here when Hanuman (of Ramayana fame) was carrying it over Sri Lanka. There is even a statue of Hanuman carrying a piece of mountain on the hill to lend credence to the legend. Another story about the hill is that a meteor strike long ago left the area with a magnetic anomaly. Whatever it may be it is indeed surprising to find a bit of hill with an ecosystem different from the surrounding area right by the sea.
In addition to the stories circulating about it, the 25 hectare hill seems to have had various uses through the ages. The Portuguese certainly were familiar with it as they named it Buena Vista. The Dutch had a lighthouse built here from which they are believed to have had sent out signals to lure passing ships of competing traders onto the rocks below. The British on the other hand built look out posts on the hill during World War II. The remains of the lighthouse tower and the lookout posts can still be seen today.
Take a trip up the hill on the narrow winding road through the cool forest and perhaps you will come across the much talked about life giving herb “Sanjeevani” said to be growing amidst the plants here. You may also catch glimpses of the wildlife endemic to the area. Several varieties of butterflies, birds, small reptiles and mammals such as purple faced leaf monkeys can be seen by careful observers. Take in the views of Galle Fort and town, Unawatuna beach and the Indian Ocean with fishing boats bobbing in the water from the Peace Pagoda atop the hill. On a hot day go down the hill to the sandy cove below and enjoy the peace of a private space and swim in the ocean to cool off or snorkel to view the amazing coral formations beneath the waves. Visit the Rumassala Nature Field Centre to know more about the biodiversity of the area.
Stay at Galle Heritage Villa by Jetwing to get acquainted with the ancient city of Galle. Located in the heart of the fort, it is an ideal place from which to explore the fort itself and its historic buildings walking along enchanting narrow roadways. As one of the most elegant boutique hotels in Galle guests get to experience grand colonial architecture and a relaxed way of life in quiet private surroundings. Enjoy the city and the many attractions nearby as you stay at one of its aesthetically pleasing Galle villas.
