Kurulu Kale | Kegalle

About this Attraction

Sri Lanka is often celebrated for its lush greenery and abundant wildlife, but my visit to the Kurulukele Forest Reserve in Kegalle was a truly immersive experience. This Man and Biosphere Reserve, though small in size, offers an extraordinary glimpse into the island's rich biodiversity.

The Journey to Kurulukele

Reaching Kurulukele was straightforward. The reserve sits close to Kegalle town, with its borders extending toward the Colombo-Kandy Road and Bandaranaike Mawatha. The proximity to the town made it easily accessible, but as I approached the forest entrance, the urban sounds faded into the background, replaced by birdsong and rustling leaves.

The moment I arrived, I was greeted by the sight of the Happy Garden at the entrance. The garden, true to its name, felt inviting with colourful flowers, shaded benches, and a calming atmosphere—an ideal starting point for anyone looking to relax before venturing into the forest.

First Impressions: A Natural Wonderland

Stepping into the Kurulukele Forest felt like entering a living, breathing laboratory. The cool, fresh air and the gentle sounds of nature immediately made me forget the busy world just outside the tree line. Towering trees, some with medicinal value, formed a green canopy overhead, filtering the sunlight into a soft, golden glow.

Exploring the Forest Trails

As I walked deeper into the reserve, I followed narrow, leaf-strewn paths winding through the trees. The Tapovana Aranya Senasana, a tranquil Buddhist hermitage, appeared nestled in the middle of the forest. The simple structure and the sight of meditating monks added an element of spiritual serenity to the natural surroundings.

I paused for a moment, absorbing the tranquillity. The only sounds were the occasional crackle of leaves beneath my feet and the distant cooing of birds hidden among the branches.

Birdwatching: A Haven for Bird Lovers

Kurulukele is renowned for its bird diversity, and it didn’t disappoint. I had read that 33 of Sri Lanka’s endemic bird species could be found here, but seeing them firsthand was magical.

Some birds I was lucky enough to spot include:

• The Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill with its distinctive beak.
• The vibrant Layard’s Parakeet, darting between branches.
• The Crimson-backed Flameback, whose vivid colours stood out against the muted greens of the forest.

The thrill of spotting these birds through the gaps in the foliage made me appreciate the reserve's ecological significance even more.

Butterflies and Reptiles: Nature’s Hidden Gems

As I ventured further, the butterflies became impossible to ignore. Bright blue Blue Mormon butterflies fluttered past me, while smaller, patterned ones rested on nearby leaves. I later learned that 81 different butterfly species call Kurulukele home, and it certainly felt like they were everywhere.

Reptiles, though more elusive, made their presence known. A green garden lizard darted across my path, and further along, I spotted a snake basking on a sunlit rock—most likely a harmless variety common to the area. The diversity was astounding for such a relatively small forest.

Medicinal Plants: A Natural Pharmacy

Kurulukele isn’t just about birds and butterflies; it also serves as a natural repository of medicinal plants. As I explored, my guide pointed out Peyawa, a plant traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat digestive issues. The forest, he explained, contains several species known locally for their healing properties.

It was humbling to realize that beyond its scenic beauty, Kurulukele plays a crucial role in preserving Sri Lanka’s botanical heritage.

Tapovana Aranya Senasana: A Place of Peace

Midway through the forest, I visited the Tapovana Aranya Senasana, a meditation retreat used by Buddhist monks. The stillness here was almost tangible. I took a few moments to sit quietly, listening to the subtle sounds of nature. The peacefulness reminded me of the deep connection between spirituality and nature in Sri Lankan culture.

Moments of Tranquility and Wonder

As the afternoon sun began to dip, the light filtered through the canopy in a magical dance of shadows. I stood still for a moment, simply absorbing the ambience. The symphony of birdsong, the flutter of butterfly wings, and the whisper of leaves in the breeze combined into a moment of perfect tranquillity.

I couldn’t help but think how Kurulukele had transformed a simple afternoon into an experience of connection with nature.

Practical Tips for Future Visitors

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon when birds and butterflies are most active.
• What to Bring: Binoculars for birdwatching, a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
• Respect the Space: If you encounter meditating monks, maintain silence and avoid disturbing the wildlife.
• Accessibility: The forest is easily accessible from Kegalle town, and the Happy Garden at the entrance makes for a nice resting spot.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Kurulukele Forest Reserve felt like stepping into nature’s classroom. From spotting rare endemic birds to learning about medicinal plants and experiencing the spiritual calm of the Tapovana Aranya Senasana, every moment was filled with discovery.

For anyone seeking a break from the usual tourist trails or hoping to connect with Sri Lanka's natural heritage, Kurulukele is a must-visit. It’s more than just a forest; it’s a living ecosystem that reminds us of the delicate balance between humans and nature.

As I left the reserve and returned to the hum of Kegalle town, I carried with me the peace of the forest, the memory of vibrant wings, and a renewed appreciation for Sri Lanka's biodiversity.

Weather in next three days near this attraction

KEGALLE WEATHER