Things to do in Kurunegala
Kurunegala District has 7 attractions worth your time. Highlights include Arankele Forest Monastery, Ethagala (Athugala Elephant Rock), Kurunegala Lake (Kurunegala Wewa). Here's what to see and do in Kurunegala, Sri Lanka.
Arankele Forest Monastery
The atmospheric ruins of an ancient forest hermitage of meditating monks, set in cool woodland north of Kurunegala.
Ethagala (Athugala Elephant Rock)
The largest of Kurunegala's animal-shaped rocks, a 300 m granite dome shaped like a crouching elephant, crowned by a temple and giant Buddha statue.
Kurunegala Lake (Kurunegala Wewa)
A large ancient reservoir on the edge of the town centre, with a lakeside path and views across the water to the elephant rock.
Padeniya Raja Maha Vihara
A pretty Kandyan-style temple at a road junction north-west of Kurunegala, famous for its carved wooden pillars and huge ornate doorway.
Panduwasnuwara Ancient City
The overgrown ruins of a 12th-century royal capital, with a moated citadel, palace foundations, stupas and a restored tooth-relic shrine.
Ridi Viharaya (Silver Temple)
A 2nd-century BCE cave temple near Ridigama, named for the silver ore discovered here, with fine Kandyan murals and Dutch-tile decoration.
Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
A dramatic medieval rock citadel crowned by an ornate ceremonial staircase, once a royal capital and home of the sacred Tooth Relic.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the top things to do in Kurunegala?
- Popular attractions in Kurunegala include Arankele Forest Monastery, Ethagala (Athugala Elephant Rock), Kurunegala Lake (Kurunegala Wewa).
- How many attractions are there in Kurunegala?
- We currently list 7 attractions in Kurunegala District.