Athugala and Silver Temple Tour from Habarana

The Wayamba province was the capital of Sri Lanka from the 12th and14th centuries of our history. Where a tourist sees a totally different side of history and nature, where the entire province is based on coconut and paddy cultivation. Kurunegala is an ancient royal capital located in the north western province of the country. The picturesque town is surrounded by coconut plantations, marshy paddy fields and dense rubber estates and there are eight large rocky outcrops that encircle and dominate the city. The rocks rise from the plain below and characteristically resemble the form of various animals. According to folklore legend, when the animals threatened the city’s water supply during a period of severe drought, they were magically turned into stone by an old woman. The largest among them is Ethagala or the ‘Elephant Rock’ from which Kurunegala got its name. Nearby are three archeological cities with remains of an ancient moated palace and monasteries from the 12th century.

Ethagala or elephant rock Is surrounded by rocks and the Ethagala or elephant rock is the largest among them. The rock is 325meters high and resembles the gigantic shape of an elephant. According to myths, the area around the elephant rock experienced a severe drought which resulted in scarcity of water for animals and those endangered animals later turned into large rocks. The myth was designed to suit the meaning of Athugala, the large elephant. The way along the rock path is very eco friendly. At the top of the rock there is an 88ft Buddha statue. The Kurunegala town is very scenic to view from the top of the rock.

Ridivihara is located at Ridigama village in Kurunegala district. The name "Ridigama'' means "silver village". If you are coming from Colombo, take the Kandy road from Kurunegala and travel around 4km. From the Mallawapitiya Junction take the left turn and travel along with the Keppetipola road. This is not a carpeted road, but road condition is not bad. You have to travel around 15 km then you will reach Ridigama. You can get help from the villages to find the directions. The by road from the Ridigama main road to Ridi Viharaya is a well maintained and, you have to travel around 1 km more. Ridi Viharaya is at your left hand side and you get a enough parking area opposite to the temple.