Kurunegala | Sri Lanka

Kurunegala: A Historical and Cultural Gateway in Sri Lanka

Kurunegala, located in the North Western Province of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant city rich in history and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Known as the "City of Kings," Kurunegala has a deep connection with the island's ancient kingdoms, and it serves as an important cultural, commercial, and administrative center.

Geography and Climate

• Location: Approximately 94 km northeast of Colombo and 42 km from Kandy.
• Geography: The city is situated on the edge of a large basin surrounded by granite mountains, providing a stunning natural backdrop. Notable hills, such as the "Kurunegala Rock" (also called the "Sri Pada" or "Siri Pada Rock"), are landmarks.
• Climate: Tropical climate, with average temperatures ranging from 27°C to 32°C (81°F to 90°F). The region experiences moderate rainfall.
  • Best Time to Visit: November to April for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.

History

• Ancient Capital: Kurunegala served as the capital of Sri Lanka for several kings during the 13th and 14th centuries, especially during the reign of King Bhuvanaikabahu I.
• Colonial Period: The area was also a point of interest for the Portuguese and Dutch during colonial times.
• Modern Significance: Today, Kurunegala is an important administrative and commercial hub in the Northwestern region of Sri Lanka.

Key Attractions

1. Kurunegala Rock (Sri Pada Rock)

• A large granite rock towering over the city, offering panoramic views of Kurunegala and the surrounding countryside.
• It is a popular hiking spot for both locals and tourists. The climb up the rock involves a series of stairs and offers beautiful views of the town, the nearby reservoirs, and the lush landscape.
• On top of the rock is a small shrine, adding a spiritual element to the experience.

2. Ridi Vihara

• A significant Buddhist temple located 20 km from Kurunegala, famous for its historical and religious importance.
• The temple is known for its cave complex, intricate carvings, and frescoes that date back to the 2nd century BCE.
• Ridi Vihara is associated with the legend of King Dutugemunu, who is said to have donated his treasure to build this temple.

3. Athugala Rock

• Another prominent hill near Kurunegala, known for its resemblance to the profile of a sleeping Buddha.
• It is a key site for Buddhist pilgrims and provides excellent panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

4. Wijaya Giri Vihara

• A serene Buddhist temple with a large stupa and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Located in the outskirts of Kurunegala, it is a popular site for meditation and Buddhist rituals.

5. Kala Wewa

• A large, historic reservoir built by King Dhatusena in the 5th century.
• It’s a tranquil spot for a boat ride or a peaceful walk along the shores.
• The area is surrounded by lush greenery, making it ideal for nature lovers and birdwatching.

6. Panduwasnuwara

• A ruined ancient city and royal capital that predates Kurunegala’s reign as the capital.
• Located about 25 km from Kurunegala, the city offers fascinating archaeological ruins, including the remnants of royal palaces, temples, and ponds.
• It’s a historically rich site associated with the reigns of several kings, including King Pandukabhaya.

7. Parakrama Samudra

• A large, man-made reservoir situated near Kurunegala, believed to have been constructed by King Parakramabahu.
• The reservoir is surrounded by forests and offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to relax or take in the scenic views.

Activities

1. Hiking: Explore Kurunegala Rock, Athugala Rock, and other surrounding hills for scenic hikes.
2. Cultural Exploration: Visit temples like Ridi Vihara and Wijaya Giri Vihara to immerse in Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage.
3. Boat Ride: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride at Kala Wewa or Parakrama Samudra.
4. Photography: Capture stunning views from the top of Kurunegala Rock, with its breathtaking vistas of the town and nearby hills.
5. Archaeological Tours: Discover the ancient ruins of Panduwasnuwara and learn about the history of Sri Lanka’s early kingdoms.

Transportation

• Getting There:
  • By Road: Kurunegala is well-connected by road to Colombo (about 1.5-2 hours) and Kandy (about 1 hour).
  • By Train: Trains from Colombo to Kurunegala are available, though they may require a transfer at a nearby station.
  • By Bus: Regular buses from Colombo, Kandy, and other towns serve the city.
• Getting Around:
  • Tuk-tuks are readily available for short-distance travel.
  • Renting a car or motorcycle is a convenient way to explore the city and surrounding areas.

Cuisine

Kurunegala is known for its delicious Sri Lankan cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients:

• Rice and Curry: Traditional Sri Lankan rice served with various vegetable, fish, or meat curries.
• Kottu Roti: A popular street food made with chopped roti, vegetables, meat, and spices, all stir-fried together.
• Fish Curry: As a coastal town, Kurunegala offers fresh fish, typically prepared in rich, aromatic curries.
• Hoppers: Bowl-shaped pancakes made from rice flour, served with curries or sweet treacle.
• Sweets: Enjoy local sweets such as “Kiri Toffee” (a milk-based dessert) or “Dodol.”

Accommodation

Kurunegala offers various accommodation options for visitors:

• Luxury: Upscale hotels with modern amenities and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
• Mid-Range: Comfortable hotels and guesthouses offering easy access to city attractions.
• Budget: Affordable options including homestays and basic guesthouses.

Festivals

• Esala Perahera: A grand procession in Kurunegala celebrating Buddhist traditions, featuring elephants, dancers, and drummers.
• Vesak: Celebrated to mark the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha, with temples in Kurunegala hosting elaborate ceremonies and lantern displays.
• New Year (Sinhala and Tamil): Celebrated in April with traditional games, feasts, and rituals.

Nearby Attractions

1. Dambulla (40 km): Known for the famous Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
2. Anuradhapura (75 km): One of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, home to sacred sites such as the Sri Maha Bodhi tree.
3. Habarana (70 km): A gateway to the cultural triangle, close to attractions like Sigiriya and Minneriya National Park.

Interesting Facts

1. City of Kings: Kurunegala’s title as the "City of Kings" stems from its role as the capital of several ancient Sinhalese kings.
2. Cultural Significance: The region is rich in archaeological sites, with numerous temples and ruins from Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdoms.
3. Strategic Location: Kurunegala’s location between the central highlands and the coastal plains made it a historically significant trade and administrative center.

Challenges

• Traffic: Being an important commercial town, Kurunegala can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
• Climate: The hot tropical climate may not be ideal for those unaccustomed to warm weather.

Conclusion

Kurunegala is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, hiking scenic hills, or experiencing local traditions, Kurunegala offers a fulfilling travel experience. It is an excellent base for exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural heartland and provides a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.