Archeotrails

Ritigala Archaeological Complex is a captivating historical and ecological site located in the Anuradhapura District of Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst the Ritigala Mountain, the highest peak in the north-central plains, this ancient monastery holds immense cultural, spiritual, and natural significance. Dating back to the 1st century BCE, Ritigala served as a retreat for Buddhist monks practicing meditation and asceticism. The site is renowned for its unique monastic architecture, including stone pathways, meditation platforms, and ponds ingeniously integrated into the natural landscape. Unlike typical monasteries, there are no stupas or statues here, emphasizing its role as a secluded meditation center. Ritigalas mysterious aura is heightened by its association with folklore and mythology. It is believed to be connected to the Ramayana, where Hanuman is said to have dropped a part of the Dronagiri mountain while carrying medicinal herbs to Lanka. Surrounded by lush forests rich in biodiversity, Ritigala is also a haven for wildlife and rare medicinal plants. The combination of archaeological ruins, serene surroundings, and mythical allure makes the Ritigala Archaeological Complex a must-visit site for history buffs, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers alike.