Bread Rock, locally known as Paan Gala or Pan Gala, is a captivating rock formation located in the Ridigama Divisional Secretariat within the Kurunegala District of Sri Lanka. This viewpoint sits at the northern end of Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands, where the mountainous terrain gently fades into the lowlands.  How to Get There Head towards Weudahama Junction in the Gonamada Grama Niladhari Division to visit Bread Rock. Take a left turn from the junction and drive around 5 km through rural roads. The journey takes you across abandoned farmland, which was once cultivated but left idle after the time of Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike.…

Rock House – A Tranquil Holiday Home in Kurunegala Nestled amidst lush greenery, Rock House in Kurunegala offers a peaceful and comfortable escape ideal for families and small groups. This recently renovated two-bedroom holiday home blends modern convenience with homely charm, featuring a private bathroom, a cozy lounge, and a fully equipped kitchen. Guests can relax on the sun terrace, enjoy the serene garden views, or gather around the outdoor fireplace for a warm evening under the stars. Perfect for short or extended stays, Rock House includes thoughtful amenities such as a washing machine, free WiFi, and ample outdoor seating.…

ULPATHA Nature Resort – A Family-Friendly Nature Escape in Kurunegala Surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful scenery, ULPATHA Nature Resort in Kurunegala offers a relaxing and family-friendly getaway for those seeking a nature-inspired retreat. Whether you're traveling with children or looking for a serene break from city life, the resort delivers a blend of comfort, convenience, and outdoor charm. The resort features spacious family rooms equipped with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and balconies overlooking the garden or pool. Each room includes a work desk, seating area, and thoughtful touches that ensure a restful and rejuvenating stay. Guests can enjoy a wide…

Xotic Resort – A Stylish and Peaceful Escape in Kurunegala Tucked away in the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, Xotic Resort in Kurunegala offers a serene and comfortable stay for travelers seeking modern amenities, warm hospitality, and easy access to nearby attractions. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, the resort provides the perfect balance of relaxation and convenience. Each guest room is thoughtfully designed with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and contemporary amenities. Guests can unwind on their private balconies, which offer calming garden or pool views, adding a touch of nature to every stay. Free toiletries, tiled floors, and soundproofing…

Silver Hill Ecovillage – A Nature-Inspired Getaway in Kurunegala Tucked away in the serene landscapes of Kurunegala, Silver Hill Ecovillage offers an eco-conscious retreat designed for travelers seeking tranquility, sustainability, and outdoor adventure. This charming lodge is ideal for families, couples, and nature lovers looking to reconnect with the environment without sacrificing comfort. Guests are welcomed into a peaceful haven featuring a swimming pool, lush garden, sun terrace, and eco-friendly design throughout the property. The lodge includes family rooms equipped with modern conveniences, private balconies, outdoor dining areas, and private pools in select units. Each room includes free toiletries and…

Rivendell Twisted Tree – A Tranquil Farm Stay Retreat in Kurunegala Nestled amidst the natural beauty of Kurunegala, Rivendell Twisted Tree offers a unique farm stay experience that blends wellness, comfort, and outdoor adventure. This charming retreat is ideal for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape with scenic views and attentive service. Guests are welcomed into a serene environment featuring spa facilities, a swimming pool with a view, sun terrace, and free WiFi throughout the property. The lush garden, outdoor seating areas, restaurant, and bar add to the relaxed yet elegant ambiance. The property is designed for…

Mangala Lodge – A Comfortable and Culturally Rich Stay in Kurunegala Located in the heart of Kurunegala, Mangala Lodge offers a relaxing and comfortable escape for travelers looking to explore Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage while enjoying warm hospitality. This family-friendly lodge blends essential modern amenities with a peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for leisure, business, or spiritual retreats. Each room at Mangala Lodge is designed for comfort, featuring air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and balconies with garden or city views. Rooms include free toiletries and a refreshing shower, providing a restful environment after a day of sightseeing. Guests can unwind in the…

De Blue Marayan – A Scenic and Comfortable Retreat in Kurunegala Set against the tranquil backdrop of Kurunegala, De Blue Marayan offers a cozy and well-appointed escape for travelers seeking a peaceful yet convenient stay. Whether you're visiting for business, leisure, or a family getaway, this lakeside hotel blends modern comfort with warm hospitality. The hotel features spacious, air-conditioned family rooms equipped with private bathrooms, seating areas, work desks, free toiletries, and complimentary WiFi throughout the property. Guests can enjoy the calm ambiance from their private balconies or terraces, many of which offer serene lake views. On-site amenities are designed…

Hotel Blue Sky – A Comfortable Stay in Kurunegala Located in the heart of Kurunegala, Hotel Blue Sky offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for travelers seeking convenience, comfort, and easy access to central Sri Lanka’s key cultural attractions. The hotel is ideal for families, couples, and business travelers alike. Guests are accommodated in spacious, air-conditioned rooms that feature private bathrooms, free WiFi, and essential modern amenities to ensure a restful stay. The hotel also includes a lush garden, an on-site restaurant, and free private parking, providing a blend of tranquility and practicality for every guest. Dining at Hotel Blue…

Kandyan Reach Hotel – A Relaxing Stay in Kurunegala Nestled in the heart of Kurunegala, Kandyan Reach Hotel offers a welcoming retreat that combines comfort, convenience, and a touch of elegance. Perfect for families, business travelers, or those exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, the hotel provides a restful atmosphere with easy access to nearby attractions like Kandy Royal Botanic Gardens and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), both just 41 km away. The hotel features spacious, air-conditioned family rooms equipped with private bathrooms, balconies, minibars, work desks, and complimentary WiFi. Designed with guest comfort in mind,…

Kayaking in Deduru Oya, located in Sri Lanka's tranquil northwestern region, offers paddlers an idyllic escape into nature's embrace. Flowing gracefully through lush greenery and rural landscapes, Deduru Oya creates an ideal environment for both novices and experienced kayakers. As you glide gently along the river's calm waters, you'll be captivated by the scenic beauty of coconut groves, verdant rice paddies, and vibrant local wildlife. Birdwatchers can revel in sightings of herons, kingfishers, and egrets, while occasional encounters with playful otters and monitor lizards excite the journey. Early morning or late afternoon excursions provide the most enchanting experiences, as soft…

As I arrived at Panduwasnuwara, the air was thick with history. Unlike the grand and bustling ruins of Anuradhapura or Polonnaruwa, this ancient city had a quiet, almost mystical charm. Surrounded by lush greenery, the scattered ruins stood as silent witnesses to a once-thriving kingdom. Walking through the site, I could almost hear the echoes of an era long gone, where King Parakramabahu ruled and the Sacred Tooth Relic was once housed. The Journey to Panduwasnuwara The drive from Kurunegala to Panduwasnuwara, about 19 km from Wariyapola, was a scenic one. The winding roads took me through quaint villages, golden…

Stepping into Dambadeniya, I felt like I had entered a forgotten chapter of Sri Lanka’s royal history. The remnants of this once-thriving capital whispered stories of grandeur, resilience, and artistry. Nestled atop a rock fortress, this ancient city—Sri Lanka’s third kingdom (1233-1283 A.D.)—was once a stronghold of power and culture, yet today, it remains one of the island’s lesser-explored historical sites. The climb to the top of the Dambadeniya Rock was thrilling and insightful. As I ascended along the trodden path, I noticed the stepped pathway—partially modern, yet mostly following the ancient stone route. I could still see the massive…

The moment I arrived at Siri Gautama Sambuddharaja Maligawa, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace and serenity. The temple’s tranquil surroundings, combined with the soft rustle of leaves and the rhythmic chants of prayers, created a spiritual atmosphere that was truly uplifting. It felt like stepping into a sanctuary where time slows down, allowing one to connect deeply with oneself. Discovering the Temple’s Magnificent Architecture Walking through the temple, I couldn’t help but marvel at its architectural splendour. The intricate carvings, golden embellishments, and towering structures stood as a testament to Sri Lankan artisanship. One of the most captivating…

Nestled in the serene village of Rambodagalla in the Kurunegala District, the Rambodagalla Buddha Statue is a marvel of craftsmanship and devotion. At 67.5 feet tall, this is the world’s largest rock-carved Samadhi Buddha statue, entirely hewn from a single massive granite rock. Standing before it, I was awestruck by its size and the intricate artistry that brought it to life. The Journey to Rambodagalla The drive to Rambodagalla Monaragala Temple, where the statue is located, was an experience. Surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills, and tranquil rural landscapes, the journey felt like a gradual escape from the busyness of…

Stepping into Arankele Monastery was like entering a world frozen in time. Nestled amidst the serene greenery of the Ganewatta Divisional Secretariat in the Kurunegala District, this ancient site offers a unique glimpse into the meditative lifestyle of Buddhist monks from centuries ago. Known as Sri Lanka's premier forest hermitage, Arankele was once a haven for Bhikkhus and was dedicated to deep meditation and spiritual practices. A Journey into Tranquility Walking through the forested hillside, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace. The towering hardwood trees formed a natural canopy, shading the ruins scattered across the hillside. The air was…

My visit to Yapahuwa Rock Fortress was like stepping back to an era of kings, battles, and ancient splendour. Tucked away in the Wayamba region, a short distance from the Kurunegala-Anuradhapura road, Yapahuwa isn’t as famous as its counterpart Sigiriya, but it more than makes up for it with its unique charm, rich history, and breathtaking views. First Impressions: A Fortress in the Sky The towering 300-foot rock of Yapahuwa greeted me with its imposing presence as I approached the site. It felt like the rock was guarding its secrets, surrounded by lush greenery, just as it once guarded the…

When I first heard about Ridi Viharaya Temple, or the "Silver Temple," I was intrigued by its unique connection to Sri Lanka’s history. Located in the serene hills near Kurunegala, the temple is said to have been built on the site where silver ore was discovered, which funded the construction of the iconic Ruwanweli Dagoba in Anuradhapura during King Dutugemunu’s reign. As someone who loves exploring places rich in history and spirituality, I knew this was a must-visit. Exploring the History As I walked into the temple complex, I couldn’t help but marvel at the stories etched into its very…

The Athugala Rock Temple, also known as the Elephant Rock Temple, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kurunegala. Towering 325 meters above the city, the rock is named after its elephant-like shape, which has sparked local legends and myths. As I made my way to this unique destination, I was intrigued by the stories surrounding it and the promise of breathtaking views and spiritual tranquillity at the summit. The History and Significance of Athugala Rock Temple Locals shared an ancient myth about the rock’s origin: it is said that animals turned to stone during a period of extreme…