Discription
Nestled deep within the North Central Province of Sri Lanka lies Ritigala Forest, a place of mystery, history, and breathtaking natural beauty. Rising majestically above the dry plains of Anuradhapura, the Ritigala mountain range is both a natural reserve and a sacred archaeological site. It is home to rare flora and fauna, ancient Buddhist ruins, and captivating legends that blend nature, spirituality, and history into one remarkable destination.
The Geography and Climate of Ritigala
Ritigala Mountain is another beautiful mountain peak in Sri Lanka. This mountain peak is about 6.5 kilometers long. It is located at an altitude of 2513 feet (766 meters) above sea level and 2000 feet (600 meters) above the plains.Ritigala Mountain, also known as Aritta Pabbata, is the highest mountain in the northern part of Sri Lanka. The area receives about 150 mm of rainfall during the northeast monsoon season (December to February).
A Glimpse into History
The history of Ritigala dates back to the Anuradhapura-Polonnaru Kingdom period, which is more than 2000 years old. It also existed as a meditation monastery for monks for a time.Inscriptions and archaeological evidence have been found in this area, which indicate that these monastery complexes were improved by King Sena I.
Architecture and Archaeological Marvels
The Ritigala Monastery Complex showcases ancient Sri Lankan architecture at its finest. The site is built into the mountain’s natural contours, blending seamlessly with the forest environment. Visitors walking along the stone pathways can witness the remains of bathing ponds, meditation halls, and stone bridges, all constructed using massive stone slabs meticulously placed without mortar.
One of the most striking features is the “double-platform meditation complex”, consisting of two raised stone platforms connected by a short bridge. Historians believe that monks used one platform for meditation and the other for ritualistic activities or instruction. The engineering precision and simplicity of these structures highlight .
Myths and Legends
Ritigala’s aura of mystery is magnified by the legends surrounding it. According to Sri Lankan folklore, Ritigala was once connected to the epic tale of Ramayana. It is believed that when the monkey-god Hanuman carried a piece of the Himalayan mountain with medicinal herbs to heal the wounded Lakshmana, a part of that mountain fell on Sri Lanka
No comments:
Post a Comment